Was not an agent that posts here. I dont recall when I bought it. 6 months ago? Like Philip McCormickI was panicking. I also dont know about extending. I was told when I bought it, that it could not be extended. I am hopeful that will change I have another 9 months until I have to worry about it.

My volunteer visa was 70,000 baht easy. I think I overpaid and people are getting them cheaper.

Nope. Don't really need any credentials. Its helpful and a little more legitimate to do the TEFL thing, or some variation.

If you want to be a serious teacher (working at the better schools, better pay) then you will need advanced degrees (masters etc).

I use the people next to immigration. I think they're expensive but I have had good experiences. I also have used First Class Visa - soi 6, victoria bar. They've gotten the job done but I think limited in the services they provide (This is Pattaya bay the way)

I have western union'd to myself. That sux.

I have used my credit cards for stuff - but i get hit with stupid high forEx fees.

The other option is Transferwise.

@Tod ********

how much does an agent charge for that?

I think it's much easier now, if you own a yaht. You should consider buy a yaht. Imagine the money you'll save on ASQ.

I have been here for six years. And my experience is completely different. But good point - probably there is an unenforced law that says you need a license. I wonder how many Thais driver around without a license.

You'll notice he didn't say thank you to all the smart asses that posted useless comments (you know who you are).

Set-up google voice number. Can be used to make calls to/from USA like normal.

Probably your N. American phone wont work here (Wifi will) you will probably need to get a new phone when you arrive. Work it out friend/family to use their phone number for your Google Voice number.

I recommend packing light. You wont need a big wardrobe and clothes can bought cheap here. You will be most comfortable/lite clothing, t-shirt, shorts, flip-flops. I brought two duffel bags of clothes, haven't open since I arrived.

Extra passport photos come in handy. You may not need them but you will use them if/when you get extensions new visas etc.

If you plan to go to another country after Thailand - you may want to get an international drivers permit (sometimes mistaken call license). I don't recommend driving a car while you are here and a license isn't necessary for a motorcycle (scooter).

If you plan to work while you are here, stop by local courthouse and get a transcript that says you have no open cases (no cases is best). If you are unable to do that at a local courthouse, go to a courthouse where you can (next city or next state).

If you plan to earn a income from the USA and import the money here, transferwise is your friend. Requires a local bank account, you can worry about that when you are here.

If you plan to be out of the USA for more than a year and do not own property. Check with whatever state you paid state tax, to see requirements for being a non-resident. Tax burden's a bitch.

Bring Twizzlers. When you arrive PM me.. I will send you my mailing address. ( I tease).