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

I'm in Chanuman mostly. Speak only basic Thai. Just enough to get by. Just barely. Actually where I went wrong is the first 22 years living in Thailand I worked offshore so learning Thai was never a priority. So the last 12 years after stop working, I hit the books pretty hard for about 3 years. Mostly learning by myself. Advice to others. If you are only part time in Thailand, try to prioritize learning the language. Don't make the same mistake I made.

@Andy ***********

Poor selection of words on my part. Where I live, Lao is the predominate dialect. I wish I could understand it better to fit in with society better.

@John ******

Isaan as well. Some nice small cities along the Mekong and Mun rivers. Experience the real Thailand, not only tourist areas.

@Brandon ***********

I would like to add one more thing. Maybe I'm a little slow, but before joining this group, I'd never heard of a visa agent. But I live in a rural area so I guess not much demand. Guess this is how it's meant to be.

Yes, I agree with what you are saying. But there are instances, especially for long term expats where applying for visa locally inside Thailand or neighboring country needs to be used. For instance lets say an expat lost his marriage visa or retirement visa status due to a financial situation that may be out of their control. Yes, it does happen. So they need to start over. Maybe they go to a neighboring country an apply for a new non-o, maybe reenter visa exempt. Most likely they already have the bank account so no need for agents. But as many people mention, if you simply want to cut corners, visit an agent. I also do not agree with shortcuts.

@Brandon ***********

I'm not talking about an agent. I think it is possible to change from visa exempt to marriage or retirement from within Thailand. Maybe I misunderstand this. But if it is possible, why bother traveling to another country to apply for these types of visas.

@Brandon ***********

In many cases it may be easier for people to change from visa exempt to their desired visa inside Thailand. I think for many visa types this is possible if qualifications are met.

@Bob *********

I don't think that is possible. I'm sure access to their system would not be allowed over vpn connection. And I think you must show proof of location at time of application.

That's good to hear. Basically the same as a walk in application. Hopefully that will be consistent for all locations.

I would imagine it is not possible to return to Thailand visa exempt while waiting for visa approval. However they should consider this a viable option for those that cannot be out of Thailand for long periods. I think not a practical system for all neighboring countries. Appointment system is sufficient. E-visa is overkill.