@Wannikea ********

I do wonder if, by touting the ability to "squeeze" an additional 3 months from the METV, we might invite closer scrutiny of this otherwise very useful visa. We might be advised to keep that feature on the down low.

The METV is ideal for those wishing a stay of up to 180 days. The requirements are quite simple and obtainable. If one is looking for a friction-free visa allowing them to travel the region while based in Thailand it's ideal. I come to Thailand for 4-5 months annually and it suits me perfectly.

METV!

The METV is activated at the moment it is issued. Not upon your arrival in Thailand. The clock starts ticking once the visa is approved, making it prudent to time the submission of the visa application to as close to your departure as possible.

Graeme Mort This is not quite accurate. The visa is active immediately upon approval, not upon entry.

@Umer *************

Three months of statements in one file

John Hampton That's news to me. I travel yearly to Thailand for 4-6 months and have had travel insurance cover for the entirety of every visit I've made.

@Dawn *******

Hi highly recommend the METV. I've used in several times over the past number of years and have found it the least troublesome means of staying in Thailand for an extended period. I've never desired to stay in Thailand for longer than 4-5 months but while here I do study Thai and travel around the country a bit. Two exit/re-entries (every 60 days) are the only requirements. I've not once been challenged or questioned by immigration at any air or land border. Good luck.

To the question of "TSL". I asked them specifically about the success rate of DTV applicants from the US and was told it was zero. Evidently all three consulates/embassy in the US will instruct you to apply for an Education visa to attend a language school, irrespective of TSL's effort to meet the requirements of the DTV. Possibly a US student attending TSL on a DTV will respond differently here.

@Derek ****

I use Google Wallet extensively in Thailand and elsewhere in SE Asia. Credit card, boarding passes, etc, they all work.