The Surin immigration office has been “up and down” through the years. Some years they seem friendly and helpful and other years they would be happier if the foreigners just all went home. If my wife and daughter come in on a visa exempt 30-day stamp, I would be at the mercy of Surin immigration. I don’t think Surin immigration knows the meaning of “mercy.” I think the best bet would be to seek the 90 day visa from Chicago consulate and then find out how to convert that into a follower visa.