@Myles ******

The rules changed as foreigners in Thailand need to have valid/ID. Thailand is one of only a few countries that allows you to retain your old passport during the process. It's also one of the only countries where the process is not online.

She will need a Settlement visa. You will need to meet the financial requirements, provide acceptable accommodation for her and prove the relationship is genuine. She will need to pass a UKVI English test at minimum A1 level and have a TB certificate. It's a fairly lengthy and expensive process, and that's just for the initial visa. For Leave to Remain and finally UK citizenship there a more tests and more costs.

@Myles ******

If renewing in Thailand you keep your old passport throughout the process. Colour copies of every page of the old/expiring passport are sent to the UK with the application by VFS.

@Gary *****

No. Just the first address you will be at.

@Gary *****

Any address is accepted.

There is no interview for a UK Visitor visa. Biometrics are taken by VFS in Bangkok or Chiang Mai, but the application is processed and the decision made by UKVI staff in India. Sometimes a phone call may made to the applicant to check information by UKVI staff in Thailand but they are not the people who make the final decision.

@Jim *******

Just replying to your point as you misunderstood what I wrote.

@Jim *******

I live with my Lao wife and our son in Thailand.

@Tee ****

Village life is too primitive and yet the cost of living too expensive.

My family are Lao and we have a house there. But we don't want to live there!