I've always been able to get 6 month trip insurance from the UK. Most recently from the post office.

I believe HMRC UK residential status for taxation purposes requires minimum of 183 days in the UK during any tax year period. Does not have to be continuous. Also, don't forget, UK tax year runs 6 April to 5 April. Thailand use the calendar year, so 1st Jan to 31 Dec. You may wish to plan accordingly.

@Nick ***********

not in Thailand.

I believe the reference period is 1st January to 31 December and the 180 days would be cumulative within that period.

If ya lucky 😘😘

We had the visit from immigration police with the photos of me and wifey in front of house, also in addition to the ones we had already provided with the initial application. Whilst no money changed hands nor indeed, was it asked for, the officers did go away with some freshly cooked fish, rice and other foodstuffs that had been prepared by aunty next door. They seemed happy with that. It seems to be the way in Thailand. Same with people doing work on the house or whatever. They still get fed and watered in addition to any agreed price.

@Dec *******

that's what I did. To make matters worse, Eva were not opening the check in desks particularly early so instead of 2 relatively shorter queues there was just a massive scrum all in one snaking queue. I checked my watch more than once. Perhaps a hiccup on the day I don't know but not a very enjoyable experience. Only benefit I can see to checking in online is if you can select your seats (even at a premium). I know I wouldn't be happy being seated seperately for 12 or 13 hours!

I went with EVA from H'row > BKK in May. All the people that had checked in online had to queue at the auto machines to get thier baggage labels printed and then join the same queue as everbody else for the same check in desks just to put their luggage on the conveyor belts. Absolute farce!!

Wait until you've got the actual visa approved. Do not let it go below 400K during the "under consideration" period. Was told that by immigration.

@Graham *****

that makes more sense, Graham. Technically, once you pass through immigration and go "airside" you are no longer "in" Thailand so I've always assumed that you would not be able to go back in through immigration. Could be wrong but I've always got my re-entry permits before going to the airport just to be safe.