I should have clarified as using the Work Permit to run a business in Thailand. I think some Elite Members would like to do that... It would simplify a lot ...

What is the status for those with Elite Visas obtaining a work permit?

It is call to each his own. When the new longer stay over 50 visas are put fully into place requiring much more money in the bank and same with monthly income - and some prize winning member of the Thai Government decides to phase out the current Extension of Stay for over 50 and the lower financial requirements then the 500k Elite will look pretty good.

I had read many topic threads on the Thai Elite Visa on many forum platforms ... The take that I get - is that the vast majority of those with long term experience with one version or another of the Elite Visa are well satisfied ... A lot of the carping about the Elite Visa - in my opinion - comes from a bit of jealousy from those who do not have the disposable income to do it ... I do not have the money to do it - even the lowest cost one of 500,000 Baht for 5 years - BUT I do not envy those who can do it or have done it.... More power to them ... Of the hundreds of posts on this subject that I have read I cannot recall even one negative post of Elite Visa owners... If I had the money -- I would do it tomorrow - just for one reason -- not to have to deal with any hassle to live here...

At Krabi Immigration - they charge nothing and it doesn't take too long most times

There are cooking schools all over Thailand

I suspect the plan by Mr. Redberg to stay out of Thailand for a while - maybe a long while - coupled with taking the advice of one comment to lock down - or change his Facebook page... that he will get back into Thailand without too much hassle - especially if he goes to get a METV - 6 months life - multiple entries of 60 days stay - each of which can be extended ... Mr. Redberg - I suggest you look up and study the METV requirements posted on the Internet by the Thai Enbassy / Consulate in your home country ... see if this will help you. This METV can make a lot of difference as each exit and reentry is expected with the MULTIPLE Entry METV... No hassle at the border - most likely - nor at any Immigration office...

Wow -- that is a sad case... So most every foreigner in BKK who wants to buy a motorcycle in BKK has to go to their own Embassy ... good grief

There is more than one office in Bkk

Yes - you can get a residence certificate... just have a rental / lease agreement . .. and information about where you have stayed before...