Actually they should have introduced this system prior to changing their visa rules. The way it is now, any type of person can enter Thailand without any vetting. Lets see what happens with crime rates in the coming months.

@Terje ********

I wonder if that is for all countries.

@Nongnuch *******

I was guessing it is meant for the exempt crowd. Seems like maybe Thai helping Lao recover lost revenue from fewer required consulate visits. Maybe ok.

@Min *********

Mukdahan

@Robert *****

I'm thinking maybe people traveling on exemption. People on a regular multiple entry visa possibly may not be effected. Hopefully as more people do border runs, there will be more input to this topic. My last border run to Savannakhet, there seemed to be far fewer foreigners traveling. Most likely not as many people need to visit the Consulate now with the change in visa exempt rules. I'm sure a loss in revenue for businesses in Suvannakhet.

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

Thanks for that. So this is a Thai requirement, not Laos. Would be interesting to know if it is actually something in writing or possibly a bad day for an officer. Also do you know what visa your friend was on. Was it visa exempt or did they have some type of multiple entry visa in their passport. Thanks!

@Daniel ***********

Thanks

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

I thought I saw something a couple weeks back. However when I search the posts now, I can't find them. Perhaps fake news.

No recent experience, but many years ago while I worked offshore and before reaching the age of 50, I used the KL embassy for Non-o marriage visa. At that time it was a one year multi-entry visa which was good for my work requirements. The only special requirement was that my Thai wife gave me an invitation letter explaining my need for this visa. I believe I did this for about 5 years. Now I believe they only issue 90 day Non – O visas and I think you must show financial resources. This embassy was very good.

Generally on a retirement visa you cannot do anything. If you are interested in volunteering to help people, 9 times out of 10 you will have not problem. But if the wrong person sees this and takes the issue to Immigration, you would be in hot water. Best to follow the requirements of your visa to the letter. It is not worth taking the chance. I was once told by an immigration officer in Isaan, the only thing I can do on a retirement visa is help my wife with property she owns. For instance, I could help her work on her farm. That is the only exception.