@Jim ******

Am aware it's not cheap @ 650k baht ( more like 10k for 60 months ) however application is simple, is no upfront deposit held requirements and is my call on health insurance.

Other upsides are that I am only charged if the visa is approved, and I get to pay for after approval

At met at Swampy immigration by a special elite department officer and given

Letters of introduction to bank and for drivers and riders licences.

Is a no fuss strategy, for me anyways.

@Helen ******

Google Thai elite visa

I decided to get a 5 year bronze Elite visa.

The benefits open many doors.

Bronze Elite visa

Good luck with the airline letting you board without an outgoing ticket.

And you don't require a departure date on an arrival card.

@Lewis *******

Yes, along with an IDP.

I just walked in at the Phichit district office and left 2 hours later with a 2 year car and bike licence - both seperate of course.

@Paula *******

Will do.

Am heading to Thailand next week expecting a 60 day visa exempt stamp on arrival and will be following up when there to identify the protocols required to tick the boxes - accommodation and accredited Thai cooking school enrolment, for example for next year and beyond for up to 6 months stay each year during our colder months.

Am visiting Sydney consulate tomorrow to identify requirements and time to process.

Suggestions for questions to ask are appreciated.

2 visas = 2 x $24k required.