Hello everyone. I am German and live now in china for 13 years but want to relocate to Thailand. I would have a job offer in Bangkok, but it would be paid very badly and I rather would live in Chiangmai and start my own import/export business (still in clarification). What options I have to stay legally in Thailand for long term without a job? I am 39 years old and would need to leave to china every two month for a few days, but I have read in the group that a tourist visa can be used max for 180 days. I hope you guys can help me figure things out and give me some advise to stay permanently in Thailand.
The own company would be the dream but just living here first would be also fine.
TLDR : Answer Summary
A German expat is considering relocating from China to Thailand, specifically Chiang Mai, to start an import/export business but is unsure about legal long-term residency options without a job. Various responses suggest options such as applying for an LTR visa or creating a Thai company to obtain a Non-B visa, or teaching English if qualified. There are also mentions of tourist visas and the Elite visa as alternatives, though some caution against the viability of living in Thailand due to current economic conditions.
LONG TERM RESIDENT (LTR) VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES