Hi all.

I've currently in Thailand on a Non-Imm O (Retirement) on yearly extensions. I have my eye on a smallish business to keep me occupied. And yes, I'm fully aware of the strong likelihood of losing my initial capital. I have researched this page for similar questions and must admit that there is a wealth of information. Nevertheless, I pose the following questions/answers to ensure I understood all I've read. I defer to the experts and business owners who have jumped through the myriad of steps. For simplicity, I'm using the terms "Retirement" and "Business" visa.

1. I can not convert my Retirement into a Business visa whilst in Thailand.

2. I must leave the country without a re-entry permit which would void my Retirement visa.

3. I must apply for a Business visa in a neighbouring country. This visa costs approx 2,000 baht and is valid for 90 days upon entry into Thailand.

4. Upon entry into Thailand, if I wish, I can extend by 90 days Business visa into a Long Stay (i.e. one year). Cost 1900 Baht (+ single or multiple entry fee). If not, I must do visa run.

5. I can not apply for a Business visa/Work Permit unless I have all the necessary paperwork from a lawyer. (Yes, my next step is to consult with a lawyer).

6. I must register a Limited Liability Company and employ a minimum of 4 Thai employees. I can not do any physical work whatsoever in the business?

7. If I were to visit a neighbouring country Thai embassy, how long would it take them to process my Business Visa?

8. What are the professional (lawyers) and government fees to set this up? I simply want a sense of the approximate cost before I jump into the abyss.

9. Estimate of time frame to set up from agreement to purchase to its resolution (i.e. initial registration/paperwork by lawyer, Business Visa etc).

And most importantly:

10. What options do I have if I don't have a Thai Partner (wife/GF nor BF :). TBH, I don't know any ONE person that I can entrust an unearned 51% majority ownership? This could very well be a deal breaker for me. My other option is two have two unrelated Thais own 25.50% each which would protect me, however limited.

I'm sorry if the steps above are out of sequence.......... and so long winded. I would appreciate if you would reference the number to which you are answering.

Your expert advice and personal experience is very much appreciated.