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Answered3 years ago

What do expats think about the recent Thai election results and their impact on foreigners?

Christopher *******
asked May 15, 2023
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I'm clueless on THAI politics. What does everyone (experienced) think of election results? Favorable results for farang?
Answer summary
The discussion around the recent Thai election results reflects a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism among expats. While some believe the military remains an influential power that could disrupt any changes, others see potential benefits, especially for foreigners in same-sex relationships. Concerns were raised regarding the two major winners' stance against marijuana and the potential for increased protests. Historical context about immigration policies was also mentioned, indicating that changes may not be significant for expats regardless of the election's outcome. Overall, the sentiment implies that while results may appear favorable, the military's grip on power complicates the situation.
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Richard ******
Richard ******
Doesn't mean anything apart from the rich and powerful have a renegotiation and a meeting how they sell that to the masses.
Joe ******
Joe ******
I think, we didn't have a military coup for a while 😜

Under the current constitution it doesn't really matter who won, overall, the army still stays in power.
Todd *********
Todd *********
It’s a POTENTIALLY favourable result. But much to play out as the military still retains significant power. It’s a positive step though towards more openness
Paul *******
Paul *******
I think the government will continue to build on the outgoing administration's policies of attracting high income, high net value individuals while cracking down on border runners.

We've seen this already many times before, irrespective of which administration was in power.

In 2012, Yingluck imposed the 4 times per year land border entry limit without a visa. Since 2008, these visa free entries were limited to 15 days. Only once the military came to power was this changed back to 30 days BUT land visa-free land border entries were now limited to 2 entries per year.
Frank **********
Frank **********
@Paul ******
I doubt the military is going anywhere.
Paul *******
Paul *******
@Frank *********
Well, that remains to be seen. The point though is that it's silly to assume the junta can't be progressive while at the same time the pro western parties would be pro foreigner. In a certain sense, I wouldn't be surprised if it was the opposite! After all, most of the clamp downs on immigration occurred during the red shirt years. The military simply continued what was started before them.
Sarick **********
Sarick **********
The lastest person who stirred Immigration was Mr. Big Joke. US embassy stop issuing certificate of incomes, the 5 month 800K minimum balance was introduced when he was in charge.
Paul *******
Paul *******
@Sarick *********
Thaksin imposed the 90 day reporting requirement. As far as the retirement visa seasoning requirements are concerned, prior to Big Joke coming along it was 2 months in the account and then can't let it fall below 400K. Same as now except that an additional 3 months after the extension must be maintained at 800K.
Bob **********
Bob **********
Don’t think the outcome will change anything as he doesn’t have to accept the results if he doesn’t want too
David ********
David ********
Nothing aint gon change for no foreigner, mate. Only the bogans who cant live without a spliff maybe aint so lucky
Frank **********
Frank **********
I seriously doubt the military is going to give up any power.
Brandon ************
Brandon ************
Bad news if you are into marijuana as both of the big winners are completely against it.

Potentially good news if you are in a same sex relationship with a Thai and can't get a visa because you can't get married.

Potential disruptions to traffic and other things in the city if the military senators decide to ignore the election results and put Prayut back as PM, as there will be a lot of protests.
Roger ********
Roger ********
Nothing appears likely to change. The army are still in charge.
Roger ********
Roger ********
@Brandon ***********
too late on the pot, it's everywhere.
Christopher *******
Christopher *******
OP
@Brandon ***********
well I'm leaving Friday. So hopefully the airport isn't affected like a decade ago. Ideally, im just looking at easier steps for immigration. But of course, we can't all get everything we want
Brandon ************
Brandon ************
@Christopher ******
it'll be months until a government is formed so I wouldn't expect anything any time soon

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