@Frank *********

It is amusing, but ultimately they're all approved by MFA through the embassies. They should have an annual "review" to ensure the conditions are still being met

@Todd ********

You need to visit the island that used to be called Phuket. Now it's a divided country, half Russian, half Indian

@Jon *********

It was rumoured about two years ago the lump sum for retirement visas would rise to 1 Millon baht or 85,000 baht per month. I wish it would. Easily affordable for most, but would start squeezing out the cheap charlies.

@Brook *******

I really can't get too philosophical about an hour out of my day. I know there are petrified little expats who scamper like frightened little mice to agents every year, hand over anything between 10,000 and 25,000 to save that one hour. I find it amusing. I'm fortunate. I invested way over my head in Sydney real estate in the late 70's, early 80's and struggled for 4-5 years to balance everything. Now I have a property portfolio worth $7 million and a weekly income of $12,000+. I don't lift a finger to work, what's the point? Sitting at home looking at my view along the Chao Phraya River is satisfying, but I can take an hour off to earn myself 15,000 baht tax free and to have the pleasure of knowing I'm not being scammed

@Brook *******

If an hour out of your time is causing financial distress, I suggest you're not as successful as you think you are!

@Rob ******

I think I do deserve it! I've navigated 15 years in Thailand and never once needed my hand held to fill in a few forms! 👍👍👍😆😆😆

@Chris ****

Exactly! Some people seem to get stimulated by being scammed by visa agents!! I just don't get it - but there again I don't want to get it!! 😂

I deal only directly with the immigration office. Never had a problem. I shake my head and ROFL at people who need an agent to carry out simple tasks!

Is your partner already a UK permanent resident?

@Graham *****

I followed Rob's advice and did it earlier this year, so I think you'll find it's still an option. The 65k transfers simply replaced the embassy affidavit. You just need to show minimum 12 months