@Jeffrey ********

all my calls with them were in the last two weeks. Perhaps that have become more efficient and knowledgeable over time? To be fair, the answer we normally got what “I will pass your question on”, which would trigger an email within a few hours. The email would then request more information, or show some type of approval, leading us to the next phase. There were indeed multiple “approval” phases. Just when you thought you were done, a new phase would begin. But still, for a bureaucracy, I’ll take it! Way more effective that calling a Canadian government department (and I worked for the Canadian government for 18 years 😂).

@Tulip *******

wow, I am not sure why you are responding like this. If the Elite visa is right for you, by all means go that route. My husband and I do not have pensions at all, only dividend derived income, and we were able to use last year’s tax return to prove the $ personal income. So clearly this works and what

@Todd ********

says is accurate. Maybe Canadians are a law abiding bunch. Not sure that makes us naïve…

@Jeffrey ********

I do mention above in my post that I had to call them on several occasions to ask for a status update, after not hearing from them. As soon as I would do that, the file would start moving again. I was impressed that they picked up the phone, answered my questions, and moved things along. I was comparing it with other visa application processes (such as the Non-OA where I couldn’t get anyone to speak to me on the phone, return my messages or respond by email). To me, the LTR process was fantastic in comparison.

@Giovanni ***************

there is absolutely no need to transfer any amount of money to Thailand. You also do not need any Thai bank account.

@Jeffrey ********

yea, thank you! I couldn’t remember! 😁

@Eri ***********

they will not hold your passport. You will receive your stamp on your appointment day. It will take about 1.5 hours at the BOI office from start to finish.

@Eri ***********

from the time you apply, it will take 5 weeks at minimum. There is a lot of back and forth required. At some point, you will be told that the BOI has approved your application, but that Immigration must now approve it. A few days later, you will get a message from Immigration asking for a copy of your passport. After this, you will receive another email saying you are approved and that you can proceed with filling out a few more questions on their website (entry day into Thailand, address in Thailand, etc). About a day later, you will be prompted to book an appointment with the BOI. At this point, you know you are finally at the end. 😁. Lots of appointment dates were available, as early as the following day.

@Ant****

no. You do not pay taxes in Thailand on foreign income. You pay taxes as you normally do, probably in your home country.

@Wanda ***************

yes, there was a minimum coverage requirement but can’t remember off the top of my head. The website will tell you.

@Paul *******

you can try to show investment accounts.

Worse case they will ask you to present something else. In our case, they were very specific with what they wanted to see. As there is no fee to pay until the end, there is no harm in trying.