@Luc ***********

Irrespective, you're giving out incorrect information by saying a decision hasn't been made yet, but it has. The 45 day concession ends on March 31. That decision has been made and it is what it is

@Luc ***********

It's officially March 31. Check any embassy website. If people are looking for advice now, they should be given the advice which is correct at this time.

@Luc ***********

The 45 day concession ends on March 31. There was a rumour that TAT wanted to extend until end of the year, but Royal Thai Police don't want it. So at this stage it's March 31

@Paul ******

I used to work for the Transport Department in my state in Australia, and I know Thai people on extended stay in Australia did not require Australian licence, so I believe there may have been a bi-lateral agreement. As I say I've never had any problems with officialdom in Thailand. Although in the past I've obtained an IDP it's unfortunately been a waste of money because Thailand is not interested once they see the Aussie licence. The OX visa is for 50+. It's a five year entry stamp when you get here, and after five years, you get a five year extension. For everyone but Aussies, you require I think it's 3m baht in a Thai bank account. But Aussies just have to show it in an Aussie bank account and the job's done. I don't have one yet, but eventually I will, as I know people who have it and they swear by it. But I wouldn't be putting 3m baht in a Thai bank account to get it!

@Paul ******

Actually there are a number of "concessions" between Thailand and Australia which benefit Australians. The "working holiday" visa, available only to young Australians is one such perk (which is reciprocated to Thais visiting Australia). Another is the 10 year OX visa, which although is available to about a dozen or more countries, Australia is the only one where applicants can leave their "proof of funds" in their Australian bank account, never having to transfer a single baht. Bangkok Bank do not require Passport authentication for Aussies passport holders. I do recall reading something a few years ago about a "bi-lateral" driver's licence arrangement. In light of these other "arrangements" it is extremely possible there is a reciprocal agreement which might be why so few Australians appear to suffer the same angst with police. I'm only in Thailand for half the year, so I still use the Aussie licence, and I've never been queried or asked for IDP.

@Andrea *******

It was a good story. I enjoyed it! Is there a sequel?

@Paul ******

That confused me too. If she's come on a minibus "border run" the bus will not leave without her. I think she's made a big mistake and is trying to dilute her responsibility!

@Andrea *******

I don't think the bus would leave until you've finished at the immigration booth.

Always pays to check your stamp before moving away from the immigration booth. Easier to rectify there and then.

@Russell ******

Apparently it's 150 baht. That will probably be paid in cash.