Back in 2010, no, you couldn’t get a visa to China in Thailand if you’re on a tourist visa. Non-B or Non-O visa holders were allowed to apply. However, rules have been changing everywhere so it’s probably best to call the Chinese embassy in Bkk to confirm.

If you’re planning to stay on a tourist visa, it’s not long term. You’ll be doing costly and tiresome border runs every three months. If you have a degree, you can work as an English teacher there which gives you a Non B visa and work permit which would allow you to stay in Thailand for a year. Both are renewable but depends on whether your employer wants to keep you. The job also gives you extra money to top up your monthly allowance. Thailand is getting more and more expensive.

If you’re into big city life, Bangkok is the place to be. If you’re into a more laid back lifestyle then look at Issan-the Northeastern part of Thailand ( look up Udon Thani, Khon Khaen, Nongkhai, etc) or up North (Phrae, Nan, Lampang, Chiangrai and Chiangmai)

If you wanna spend more time at the beaches then look at the Southern places such as Samui or Phuket, etc.

However, I do agree with the other commenters saying you should travel around Thailand first to see what it’s like. Doing that for a few month you’ll be fully informed and prepared when you finally move there.

@James *******

thank you very much for being very informative and helpful. I’ll be sure to contact the DC Thai embassy ASAP. Have a good day in the land of smiles, sir🙂🙏

@James *******

thank you very much. I’ll contact the Thai Embassy in DC as soon as I can.

My work permit is expiring this month too. Would it still be considered?

@James *******

thanks a lot for the response. I did contact the nearest Thai embassy but got a recorded message saying the embassy isn’t open due to Covid 19. I guess I just have to wait for added information as you said.

Yes, I do have a Thai work permit under my Non B.