Whether an interview or meeting is required for DTV cannot be stated as a blanket rule. Depending on the embassy and individual case, in-person visits, online calls, and language differences are all possible. Rather than focusing on whether an interview will happen, the practical approach is to reach a state where you can explain your application in any format.
This article organizes why these format differences arise and how to think about preparation.
Interviews Are Not Mandatory for All Applicants
DTV applications do not universally require an interview (in-person meeting or online call). In some cases, the review is completed based on documents alone.
However, some embassies or officers may conduct an interview or additional verification as part of the review process. This determination is at the discretion of the reviewing embassy or officer.
Interview Format Differences: Patterns from Applicant Accounts
Applicant accounts suggest the following format variations may occur. These can differ depending on the embassy, case, and timing.
| Format | Description |
|---|---|
| In-person visit | Required to visit the embassy in person for a direct meeting with an officer |
| Zoom / online | Video call interview requested |
| Phone | Phone-based verification in some cases |
| Additional documents only | Documents requested without any interview |
Note: Definitive claims such as "this embassy always requires in-person" or "that country uses Zoom" may change based on timing and officer. Treat these as fixed rules at your own risk.
Language Differences
When interviews do take place, applicant accounts also show variation in the language used.
| Language Pattern | Description |
|---|---|
| Japanese | Some cases conducted in Japanese |
| English | Some cases required English |
| Mixed | Some cases involved both Japanese and English |
Since the interview language is not predetermined, preparing to give basic explanations in both Japanese and English is advisable.
The Core Preparation Is the Same Regardless of Format
Whether the format is in-person, online, or in a different language, the substance of what you need to prepare remains unchanged.
| Preparation Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Application purpose | Able to explain why DTV and why the chosen activity (golf, freelance, etc.) |
| Activity details | Content, duration, continuity of Soft Power activities, or the reality of your work |
| Financial plan | Source of living expenses, consistency with bank balance certificate |
| Stay plan | Initial accommodation, expected duration of stay |
| Document consistency | No contradictions between submitted documents and verbal statements |
What to Confirm Before an Interview
If an interview is requested, confirming the following in advance makes the experience easier:
- What to bring for an in-person visit (copies of submitted documents, etc.)
- Internet connection and tools for online interviews
- Record of the interview date and time (in case of cancellation or changes)
- Whether accompanying family members are expected to attend
FAQ
Q. Is an interview required for DTV? A. It cannot be stated as a blanket rule. Whether an interview occurs depends on the embassy and individual case.
Q. Will the interview be online or in-person? A. Applicant accounts include both in-person and online cases. Which format is requested may vary by embassy and officer.
Q. Can the interview be conducted in Japanese? A. There are accounts of Japanese-language interviews as well as English-only interviews. Since this cannot be confirmed as a fixed rule, preparing to give basic explanations in English as well is advisable.
Q. Does having an interview mean my application is disadvantaged? A. An interview is not a question of advantage or disadvantage. When one occurs, it is simply part of the review process for the officer to clarify certain points. Adequate preparation to explain your case is what matters.
Q. What should I prepare if I'm anxious about an interview? A. The most practical preparation is organizing your application content — purpose, activities, finances, stay plan — so you can explain it in one to two minutes.
Related Articles
- DTV Application Steps
- DTV Interview: Common Questions to Prepare For
- Where to Apply for DTV
- DTV Required Documents Checklist
Based on applicant accounts and Thai embassy official guidance. Last updated: May 2026