Applying non-o visa in home country before arrival is much easier (using cash deposit or prove of income based on home country bank statements). Possible to open a bank account with a 90 day visa and “season” 800k deposit for 60 days before 1 year extension. Probably a property rental agreement needed (for the duration of the extension? Or OK shorter? and TM30 registration. The 800k deposit is most important. I assume gets easier with further extensions but i was surprised how easy it was to obtain the non-o initial 90 day visa (London embassy but applied all online).

If they want more info they will write to you.

I do understand your questions as some people have been brought up with very little opportunities and aspirations and never even considered a passport. I find civil servants in Thailand very helpful and as long as you find a passport office they will guide and help her.

@David ********

transferred 800,000 baht yesterday onto thai account - £17,200 through wise

There is a need to start discussing taxation if you intend to or will become a tax resident in this fiscal year (183 days of more physically present in Thailand 1st Jan - 31st Dec 2024). If not by default or plan to manage not to there is no need to worry about tax. Next step is how black and white the new changes are … or just grey.

@Jon *******

oh ok … been avoiding it since 2000 … closest i ventured finaly in 2024 was Jomtien. Still not met anyone you are describing above …

@Jon *******

wow… that’s an assumption of the century…. Luckily i do not call myself an expat as i do not recognise any of the characteristics you stated.

I do not know which bit you are referring to however this group compared to some others i follow (Bali, Mexico ..) is super civilised and friendly.

Short term rental (less than a month) is illegal in Thailand and has always been but everybody including the condo owners are paying lip service to it even when installing the shiny threatening notices in their lobbies; we all know without short term rentals the already oversupllied condo market would collapse. Building even more condos is fuelled by short term demand (yet full legalisation would never be allowed by the hotel association lobby). My understanding of the status quo … all is a grey area, nothing black and white.

@Rogerio *****

yes - entry requirements. 99% never asked but they will be used if the immigration officer does not want you to enter the country.