Was actually looking into a similar thing too. From what I understood (reading, not doing) the legit way to do it is start a company (you do NOT need a Thai partner - it just makes it cheaper if you do). If I understand correctly you'd need 2mil Thai baht "registered" capital if it's a Thai-owned company or 3mil if it's foreign-owned - this gives you quota for work permit for ONE foreign worker who would need to enter on a Non-immigrant B visa, get the work permit, then extend the visa based on the work permit. Basically it's all doable - if you have the money. "Registered capital" is basically the amount of liability the company will accept in case of debts/lawsuits/etc - I am not sure what the rules are about how much (or all) of it needs to be paid upfront or whether you have to maintain the balance later.

When I asked an embassy about that they told me they need a letter with company letterhead stating that I work there. I'd bring extra proof like certificate of incorporation etc just in case, but as long as you have the money I doubt they care...

@James *****

Oh awesome! That would be perfect for me then.

@James *****

How long was each session? did you pick the day/time or it was set?

@James *****

Thanks. I'm not sure if it's the same because language classes are a minimum of 12 hours a week, but Chakrit website says minimum 2 days a week (not sure how many hours per lesson/day).

What's the minimum amount of hours per week for muay thai/hand-to-hand?

You don't need to convince anyone unless and until they start asking questions, which won't be anytime soon. Just have proof of funds (cash!), residence/hotel, and onward flight ticket. Beyond that just tell the truth and he'll be fine.

Not sure why some people here are so hellbent on SETV. Either way will work, and either way will be about the same amount of hassle. If anything my personal experience with extending was no hassle at all- in and out in under two hours typically.

No. AFAIK it must be within 30 days.