An agent can take care of it all (including forgoing the 800k requirement). Fee of course so it's a matter of what it's worth to have everything done for you.

I went to Bangkok at the beginning of the month. I didn't wear in BKK, on BTS, in the mall, etc.. Specific businesses can require them but any that tried to force masks, I just left.

You'll see most Thais still wearing. Usually it's foreigners not wearing. No longer officially required but they're still pushing them - ex. On the BTS, a message plays regularly stating not required but still "strongly encouraged".

Phil Jones Yup. The onward ticket that's good for at least a few days is an excellent option. Most options are only good for 24 hours so with a flight from N America (that can last 30-45 hours not counting pre-flight/security/check in time), that option is only good for checkin but is expired before arrival at immigration. ☹️

Refundable tickets are very expensive plus there's hassle and dealing with refund process. Also exchange rate costs.

They never ask for proof of cash.

YMMV. Banks are supposed to require a document proving that the funds originally came from outside Thailand. I had all this and still spent 2 months and needing assistance from a rep at the New York office to get my funds transferred.

It all depends on your finances or if you want to save baht (and spend a LOT of time) and jump thru all the hoops. Agents assist with everything in Thailand - they have the connections to simplify/expedite everything. I'm told they do it legally/in an allowed manner otherwise they wouldn't be in business.

Simple example? Immigration offices - some foreigners stand in line for an hour or 2 to get in the door and then they're lucky if they do something simple in one day. Others pay an agency and are walked in front of everyone else.

For retirement O - if you use an agent, they can satisfy this requirement as part of their service (for an additional fee of course but rather than locking up that much money, it may be worth it).

@Steve *******

Yes because we all know how easy it is to get clear instructions and get answers to simple questions when you don't speak Thai.

It's a matter of paying to go the simple route and having everything done for you. Besides all the work for the visa, they can also open the bank account and bypass the 800k requirement as part of the service.

Depends if it's worth it for you.