Just go for a non o with an agent for 15 months to see if you like it first, that way you don't need the 800k in a Thai bank. You can choose whether you want a multi entry or single entry on top.
Yep. That sounds about right. That's the no hassle way. I'm sure it's cheaper if you want to do it yourself and I've heard that's all good until something goes tit's up.
We did quite a bit of research before we came and this firm stood out. After visiting them we felt very confident they knew their stuff. Some tourists walked in wanting to open a bank acct but they refused them saying the law had changed a week ago and they didn't qualify.
Here's their details, they're in Jomtien, southern end
I once had my middle and surname reversed. I travelled from Manchester to Australia like it. In Singapore they had someone checking the tickets and passports and I still got thru.