@Bobby *******

hmm, I'll have to research this! I tend to on average spend about B/mo so this would suit me perfectly. Now, do you have to show a 12 mo. history first to qualify for the visa or can you start new?

@Bobby *******

but I have to prove it's income correct? I have no income, just savings.

@Chris ********************

I'll be doing it when I go for my 90 days then convert to marriage when we register our marriage. Then maybe it extend for another year. Will put my money in the bank ASAP to age.

@Dave ********

already got them.

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

I will not put any excess funds in a Thai bank. I can get money from my US bank for free at any ATM at the current exchange rate. But if I need money, I just transfer to my wife's account with Wise for cheap and she brings home the money to me. This is from my local immigration office. What is a fixed account? Since I will not access the funds I then choose the best interest.

I think the "funds for long term stay" reason is more for the reoccurring deposits to show proof of income in leu of the total deposit. But as others have said, Wise is your best option. I have worked for a bank and a brokerage company and unless you have a large account with them you will pay a wire fee and exchange rate fees. Plus, some banks charge an incoming wire fee as well and sometimes even a percent of the deposit. Wise is fast, cheap and easy and, to my experience, gets you the best rate. Even compared to the rates on echangerate.com. I send my wife money all the time in less than a minute. Usually the fee is 1% or less and I get the best exchange rate.

@Lindsey *********

so you will be getting a work permit? Is it for a contract period or indefinite? If indefinite, probably no. Contract period, Yes unless you renew your contract or get a new job. I have never been asked for a return ticket at the airport but if it is a requirement for you visa they can always ask and cause you problems.

It's rare, if ever, you will be asked, I never have been, but they may. If the requirements for whatever visa you are applying for states you need a return ticket, get one. Why tempt fate. If you are concerned about the cost to change it, go with an airline that will let you change it for free and just pay any upcharge. I just bought a one-way ticket because the instructions I read for my visa type said buy a ticket TO Thailand. It did not say buy a round-trip ticket. I have the website where it shows this so I have my proof.

@Jon ******

it has now become very rare you can cancel a ticket within 24 hrs since COVID. Many now charge you for the privilage. I know, I have just been researching tickets and I didn't find one website that stated "Free Cancellation within 24 hours." If you know any please share.

Basically you can only probably get away with doing "back of house" stuff where you are not seen. That in its self can be substantial. Keep in mind that even includes taking care of the books. I know many farangs that own a business with their wife/partner but their participation is very low key. Just don't piss off the wrong people or make enemies and you should be fine. I built my wife a coffee shop. Taught her how to make banana bread and brownies. She then taught herself more things to make. Occasionally I'll make banana bread or squeeze juice and she takes it to work to sell. I created FB ads to market the shop. Lot's of stuff you can do and not be "seen." Just keep it low key.