@Wylie ******

It seems that what they want is a verification that the passport is genuine, which isn't the same thing as providing a certified copy (although arguably, the Embassy won't provide a certified copy of a fake passport) 🤔

@Bob ********

People have been known to build their own houses. The police pass me regularly when I'm sweeping leaves or something outside my house. It's a myth. Doing work for others is the problem and where people come unstuck as they think doing a mate a favour is ok. Legally, it's not, even with a work permit

Examination costs are negligible here and UK. If you need glasses, then get them wherever is most convenient. The point is that there isn't a massive cost difference for most people in most circumstances between UK and Thailand. For me, it was a bit cheaper to get at Specsavers overall because I was taking advantage of their promotions and got a spare pair

I have a complex prescription which makes a big difference in cost. For me, I found that something like the buy 1 get 1 free offer from Specsavers in the UK was about the same cost as a single set of glasses here.

@Ken **********

same here for several years...2.01pm on the dot the next working day. I suspect the OP has an account with one of the non preferred banks (i.e.not BKK bank or Kasikorn etc.which can accept direct international transfers)

@Mike *****

I agree. Why bother with all the hassle of a DTV if they only want a trial period, and if they want to retire here (and are over 50), a retirement visa makes vastly more sense (and more security long-term). Arguably, the only real disadvantage of having a retirement visa over a DTV is if that person is still working (remotely), but the reality is that if someone is working remotely, the chances of there being an actual problem with immigration are next to zero (if that). I think that I saw something about those on DTV being exempt from Thai tax if they have foreign income, but I don't know if that is a universal exemption or for non-tax residents only

@Mike *****

It would be suitable if they're coming to Thailand for a trial period, or they're only snow-bird retirees, but otherwise, not great as a long-term option (nor is it meant to be).

@Jan *****************

The article specifically mentions Thai DLs

@Kuan *****

Don't need a letter. Can just fill out a form at immigration. I did last month

@Riaan *********

who told you that your insurance is only valid for 3 months or the IDP for that matter? Neither assumptions are correct