Every question you asked is answered with a yes,…except question no.1
The METV is clicking the same second you receive it,….so it’s activated the day it’s approved.
If you leave Thailand the last day before it expires,…let’s say fly to Kuala Lumpur in the morning, kill about 6 hours in the airport and go straight back to Phuket or Bkk you will be signed in for 60 more days witch you extend 30 days ( 1900 bath ) at a immigration office near you.
that’s what a METV is all about,…cross any boarder and you get new 60 days which can be topped with a 30 days extension at any immigration office in the country,…