@Paul ******

What about the Italian part of Ital-Thai?

@Paul ******

Is that why so many over passes have been collapsing in recent times? :)

@Roberto ********

Why don't you "just" offer to pay for it for him?

@Zoe *****

All permissions of stay are "legit". All tourist type visa are "paid". He didn't break any rules. How do you claim to know what "everyone here" thinks? So many mind readers in here, it's like a mind readers convention.

We are talking about Thailand, not "any country" & there's no rule about how long a person can stay in Thailand using tourist visas & visa exempt stamps. It's better if a person can get a more secure visa type, yes, but quite a few people her are saying things that just are not true.

What's your deal?

@Lynnette ******

You have no idea what an Elite visa is? Ok...

Thanks for your input...

@Neil *****

"If foreigners didn't pay...to bribe immigration officers...things wouldn't be like this".

Oh, those poor immigration officers, they just can't help themselves & the guilt must be tearing them apart.

"Thais don't need immigration" because they don't need Burmese to build all large buildings etc or foreign experts who design MRT, BTS, etc, etc.

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

I have read the same posts. I have also read tons of posts from those who have had success. Bad news tends to be reported more though - as any newspaper demonstrates. Your main point of there being more secure options of long term stay are good.

@Kevin ************

"If you've got the money, honey, I've got the time" - Hank Williams

@Neil *****

I don't know why stating facts seems to make people think you advocate something, but it's a phenomena I have often observed. I do admit though that such medieval forms of indirect taxation can sometimes save time!

@Bennito ********

I'm sure someone here can oblige you. It's well known & I remember when the rule was passed & it was widely reported in Thai media.