My only thought for you is use formal shipping/relocation services with proper paperwork. Everything that comes through customs is scrutinized and the potential exists you could be charged import fees by customs for personal items. Dot your I's, cross your T's. I was charged for being mailed a pair of glasses that were 5 years old...small example. 👍

If you’re still in the states get an international permit from somewhere like AAA. That makes getting licensing in Thailand super easy.

@J *****************

and some phones only take eSIM. 😇

@Kace ******

the pay was a side note. The point is a PADI certification is not a degree program or regulated by a certification body. Muay Thai as a somewhat relevant lateral the country of Thailand has a significant interest and is therefore an anomaly. Most of the time something like dive training is a hobby and is ‘recreational’ in construct, not profession. DM is the intro professional level but takes 3 other certifications to even start the approximately one year for DM certification. 👍

@Stéfan *******

I’m aware of that. I mentioned the pay because to some degree DM hours are compensated and was not really the point.

The point was it’s not uncommon for a beginning diver to take a year of diving/certs before getting to the point of even starting a DM program. Understand?

PADI dive certification is likely not qualified for a visa.

Also a hint, too many dive shops use ‘DM interns’ essentially as nearly slave labor, it’s a fairly well known abuse. Buyer beware! 👌

@Stéfan *******

this would require Recreational diver -> advanced diver -> rescue diver -> then START dive master.

Doubt there would be an ED visa for this.

DM’s in Thailand barely make beer money. 👌

So what I think you’re saying is:

Your card was working, now it’s not? ‘Can’t get it to accept the card anymore’ meaning it won’t physically take the data, or it’s declining the charges?

Have you attempted to contact your bank or ‘verified by Visa’ to see if it’s been declined?

I’ve had verified by Visa suddenly decline cyclical charges I’ve had in place for months for no real reason.

It depends on what you already have as licensing. Having an international license will likely get you through the process only having to take basic motor skills tests, paperwork and a photo. I got car and motorcycle months ago. Making the appointment took as much effort as the licensing.

If you’re genuinely leaving and not returning, sure. Any expectation of return I would do it, pretty easy process.