also when I last extended visa kind of joked with the IIO about all the paperwork. She suggested using retirement instead of marriage. But then said I would have to cancel my WP first and I could not get a new one.
it is quite possible we have been told no multiple times because we are using Bangkok. Also when I last renewed my WP we asked if ok to change reason for stay from marriage to retirements and MOL said no can't have WP if retirement.
yes and that's my point. MOL in Bangkok has told us multiple times we can't get a WP for someone on retirement. If you or anyone knows how to do so I would appreciate knowing. FYI we have no problems with someone using marriage.
But still doesn't answer why some are told no, including me and others, and some yes. But I guess you don't want to hear that. And the OP asked what the difference was. I only pointed out that people have been treated differently. Guess you missed that.