@True *****

He lives in Bangkok. Doesn't need most of the things you've listed. You have an expensive lifestyle, he cuts corners. It's like I've said elsewhere - you can choose your own budget, especially in Bangkok.

@Darren ******

My lady is a PA to a director of a large company. She's on a very good salary. In the eight years we've been together, she's obtained visas for UK, Schengen, Australia and USA without the blink of an eyelid, such is the respect for her position. We generally split everything 50-50, although as I live in her condo (which she owns outright) rent free, I now pay for her overseas airfares. She's happy with the arrangement

@Brad *********

It's potentially as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. Go to the street food markets and you'll get your meals for 50-60-70 baht and your 60 baht Chang if that's what you want. Some people want to "live" their retirement, not just exist. You can get half-decent condo for 10,000 baht (or less if you're not so picky). It's the choice of the individual how they want to live

@J *************

It's the Thai government which call it "wealthy". You only have to show $6600 passive income per month. Tell Musk or Bezos that $6600 is the wealthy category!

@Gerry *****

I've been here over 15 years but I travel a lot, so travel insurance is my best option, and it comes free with a credit card!

@Gerry *****

I use the free travel insurance associated with my AMEX credit card. Similarly never get turned down.....and doesn't cost me a single cent! 😂😂😂

@Gerry *****

It's to demonstrate your liquidity. It's not for medical emergencies, that's why you have medical insurance

@Kirill *********

You got the advice. You can't open a bank account, and it's not discrimination. What more do you want?

@Luit ****************

I was on non-O before switching to DTV. I didn't keep 800k in the bank. I transferred 65k each month, which I still do, I need money to live on, and it also allows me to switch back easily if I wish. My bank account is unaffected as I opened it legally whilst on an OA visa many years ago. Unfortunately many DTV holders believe they're a cut above the rest, which they're not. Most "digital nomads" sit in coffee shops every day sucking the free WiFi to upload their "content" creations onto the web. Fact remains, Elite Visa is looked on as a more permanent and stable situation than the DTV. And you're spot on - most DTV holders will cost banks more than they make

@Kirill *********

A whole year? Interesting considering the DTV was only introduced 11 months ago. The problem is, accounts could only be opened with the help of an agent (ie. Paying a bribe to a bank manager). Surely that tells you something?