You can apply for a dependent visa (Non-O visa) for your wife and kids here in Bangkok since you’re working under a BOI (Board of Investment) visa. Typically, dependent visas for family members are processed through the same channels as your BOI visa. However, different immigration offices may provide varying information due to specific office procedures or interpretations of the regulations.

Here’s what you can do:

1. BOI Office: Since you are under a BOI visa, it’s often faster and more efficient to handle visa matters directly with the BOI One Stop Service Center. They specialize in processing dependent visas for BOI-sponsored employees, and this could bypass any confusion at different immigration offices.

2. Documents Required:

• Marriage certificate (for your wife).

• Birth certificates (for your children).

• Your BOI work permit and visa.

• Proof of financial means to support your dependents (bank statements, salary slip, etc.).

3. Application Location: Try reaching out to the BOI One Stop Service Center in Chamchuri Square. They may clarify the discrepancies you encountered at Chaengwatthana Immigration.

You can usually submit a certified copy of your education certificate or diploma for visa and work permit applications, but the consulates typically require the original document for certification, especially if they are certifying a PDF version. In your case, since the original is in Canada, you might want to consider the following options:

1. Canadian Embassy or Consulate: Check if they can assist in certifying a PDF copy of your diploma, or if they have an alternative solution for certifying documents without the original.

2. Digital Certification Services: Some consulates and agencies accept digital certifications that are verified through official university portals. You can inquire whether this option is accepted by the consulate or relevant authorities.

3. Send for Original Certification: If neither of the above options work, you may need someone in Canada to retrieve and certify the original diploma before sending it to you.

It’s best to reach out directly to the consulate or the authority processing your visa for specific guidance.

The key differences between the Non-O and Non-OA visas lie in their purpose, requirements, and some specific benefits:

1. Non-O Visa (1 Year, Multiple Entry):

• This visa is typically for those who have family in Thailand (like a Thai spouse or children) or for retirees who don’t meet the OA requirements.

• It can be renewed yearly inside Thailand without the need to leave the country.

• Health insurance is usually not required for a Non-O visa.

• For retirees, you’ll need to meet the financial requirement of having 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account or proof of a monthly income of 65,000 THB.

2. Non-OA Visa (1 Year, Multiple Entry):

• This is specifically for retirees aged 50 and over.

• It requires mandatory health insurance (both Thai and foreign providers are accepted, but you need specific coverage amounts).

• The OA visa can be obtained from outside Thailand and also requires proof of financial stability similar to the Non-O visa.

• With the Non-OA, you have more stringent requirements related to health insurance, which could be considered a downside, but it also gives retirees more flexibility as it’s designed with longer-term stays in mind.

Which one is better?

• Non-O: Better if you are staying for family reasons or prefer not to have the health insurance requirement.

• Non-OA: Better if you plan to retire in Thailand and meet the financial and insurance requirements.

I hope this helps clarify the difference for you!

I understand how confusing these processes can be. Here’s what I can confirm:

For the residence certificate, a TM30 is not sufficient on its own. You’ll need an official residence certificate from immigration or a yellow house book if you have one. The TM30 just proves you’re registered at a residence, but for the license renewal, immigration will need to issue the residence certificate.

You’ll also need:

• 2 photos

• A copy of your passport with visa and entry stamps (as you mentioned)

Regarding the house contract, this is not always required, but it’s good to have on hand in case they ask for further proof of residence. Since you’ve just done this in Pattaya for your dad, it sounds like you’re familiar with the process there.

90-day report: You’re right, if you travel frequently, you won’t have this, and it shouldn’t be a problem as long as your visa and TM30 are in order.

Appointment: You can go directly to the Department of Land Transport (DLT), but it’s highly recommended to make an appointment online. Walk-ins can lead to longer wait times or limited availability, especially if you’re in a busy location.

Yes, a medical certificate is generally required when applying for a motorcycle license in Thailand. This is part of the standard application process, and it helps ensure that drivers are medically fit to operate vehicles.

However, the additional 1000 Baht request seems unusual, as the official fee for a motorcycle license application, including the test, is typically less than that. You may want to verify the legitimacy of the website or office you’re dealing with to ensure you’re not being scammed. It’s a good idea to check with the local Department of Land Transport office or their official website for the correct procedures and fees.

If you’re applying through a third party, double-check their credibility.

Hello,

Starting a business in Thailand comes with unique challenges, and it sounds like you’ve already identified a couple of key hurdles. Here are some suggestions for each of the issues you raised:

1. Registered Capital Requirements:

If the business idea involves minimal startup costs, but the registered capital requirement seems too high, you could consider setting up the business with the minimum registered capital required for a foreign-owned company. Typically, a foreign-owned company needs 2 million baht registered capital for each work permit. If you don’t need a work permit right away, you could look into other structures, such as setting up the business under your Thai girlfriend’s name with 51% ownership, but considering her being a government officer, this may not work for you (more on that below). Another option would be exploring the possibility of finding Thai business partners or investors to reduce the required capital on your end.

2. Thai Girlfriend as a Government Officer:

You’re right to be cautious about conflict of interest rules. Government officers in Thailand are generally prohibited from being directors of private companies. In this case, it might be best to have someone else as a director, even a trusted business partner or a nominee, provided that they fully understand the implications and that your rights as an owner are protected.

3. Rethinking Your Business Idea:

You mentioned that you might need to pitch to investors for more capital. Before switching ideas entirely, it may be worth exploring if there are government incentives or programs that could support businesses in tourism or if the Board of Investment (BOI) has specific schemes you could benefit from that could reduce the initial capital burden. Your idea of working with tourists might also be suitable for partnerships with existing Thai companies, as you mentioned.

4. Partnering with Local Tour Companies:

This could be a great way to enter the market with lower upfront costs. Thai business culture values relationships, so networking is key. Approach potential partners with a clear, concise proposal that shows how your business can add value. Building trust and fostering long-term relationships will be important, so take time to develop rapport with these companies. Be patient, as Thai business negotiations often take longer than you might be used to. It may also help to have a local Thai consultant or lawyer assist you in making the right connections and handling the paperwork.

Feel free to reach out for any further clarification or specific legal advice. Best of luck with your venture!

Hello,

Welcome! It’s great that you’re considering moving to Thailand to start a new life. Here’s a breakdown of the visa options and pathways you can explore:

1. Non-Immigrant B Visa (Business Visa) – This visa is suitable if you plan to work in Thailand, either for an employer or by starting your own business. Since you’re interested in opening a business, you would likely apply for this visa. After establishing your company, you can apply for a work permit to legally work.

2. Non-Immigrant O Visa – This is often used for family members of Thai nationals, but it’s also available to retirees or those who are accompanying a spouse. Your husband might qualify for this if he won’t be working initially due to his disability.

3. Retirement Visa – Since you’re 48, you can consider this visa when you turn 50. You need proof of financial stability, such as savings or a monthly pension, to qualify. While this visa doesn’t allow work, it’s a good long-term option for residency. You can apply for a work permit later if you decide to start a business.

4. Starting a Business – Thailand welcomes foreign business owners, but the process can be complex. You’ll need to register your business, possibly with a Thai partner holding 51% of the company, depending on the industry. There are specific licenses depending on the type of business, so if you’re looking into therapy or counseling, you’ll need to check the regulations for those sectors.

It’s best to consult with a Thai legal or visa expert who can guide you through the detailed steps based on your specific plans and situation.

Good luck with your move! Feel free to ask if you have more questions.

@Phil *****

UK can extend 30 days he come with free 30 days visa P.30

It square and don't forget your tm.30

@Anthony *******

you are welcome