MikeOKitches

Children under 15 don't pay overstay anyways

Thanks for your help with my questions! Apparently, you're experienced. How old are you and when's your birthday?

Yes & No - If you buy an O visa and do not use immeadiately then the validity of that visa shortens due to the expiry date - in this case not much difference, but I have seen someone buy wisa and not use for 4 months therefore in effect could only use part year (if that makes sense cos Leo taking effect)

Ugggh! This is where I am confused.

I guess my question morphs into this.

Should I wait closer to my departure date to make my application?

I don't want to lose any time if I file my application this coming week.

I want this visa to allow me mulitple entries for at least 1 full year - April 1st 2011 to March 31, 2012.

If I leave on or about March 30, 2012 and return say 1 week later on April 6th, I would presume I can tack on another 3 months until June 30, 2012. Is this feasible?

Perhaps I need a Leo to help me sort things out!

There will be 2 dates on your Visa

1 when issued & 1 when it expires (or has to be used before)

When you arrive into Thailand you will be given 90 days and be given 90 days every subsequent time before the expiry date. Therefore you have to do visa runs every 90th day and receive a new 90 days when you arrive back into country

If you come into Thailand the day before expiry you will also be given 90 days therefore in effect can gain 15 months useage from this visa

Check your dates and use accordingly :jap:

You, sir, are the DA BOMB with this detailed reply.

I really appreciate it!

The one year period begins the day you arrive in the Kingdom.

Most awesome, my brother!

Hello everyone!

This is really a rudimentary question. I tried the "search" function with no luck.

I will be arriving to Thailand from USA on 1st April in about 5 weeks from now.

I will be making an application and have been assured by the Thai Consulate I have contacted I can receive a 1 year multiple entry Non-Immigration Type "O" Visa.

I want to send in my application, fee, photo, etc. this coming week via FedEx.

The Thai Consulate will receive it on or about Wednesday 23rd this month February.

My question is is this.

When does the 1 year period for this visa begin?

The date it is entered into system in USA by Thai Consulate on February 23rd?

Or is it day #1 of my physical arrival into Thailand - April 1st?

I've been told by another fellow who used this same Thai Consulate the 1 year period starts when the visa is entered.

Then there's what the Thai Consulate actually wrote me.

I'm all confused.

Can someone please give me a definitive answer on this?

I would prefer to take care of this ASAP this next week so I have one less worry. I want to get this out of the way.

Again, I apologize for such a "newbie" like question, but I am a newbie!

Here is what the Thai consulate actually wrote to me:

I will date the visa when it is entered. The one year period begins the day you arrive in the Kingdom.

I have had two desktops built at TKCom in Panthip Plaza and am happy with TKCom and the computers. www.tkcom99.com

The second, for my wife, was built recently and when I inquired as to costs was asked 'What is your budget?' That surprised me. I got one for less than 14,000 (at TKCom) baht plus I had to buy a monitor (4,600TB) and some software (3000TB) from other stores. I would advise against getting a Dell (not much of a presence in Thailand)or an HP/Compaq (even though their service is excellent) because they are putting proprietary parts in them that can only be obtained from the manufacturer. TKCom invited me to watch the technician check it out and make sure everything worked.

They have a large variety of cases, motherboards, etc. If you like you can assemble it yourself but I doubt that there would be any savings.

zen

This is very interesting to me. Thanks for sharing.

It appears your experience with TKCom has been good for you and your wife's desktops. It's awesome that they will assemble everything for you (and even let you watch them do a check on it!)

I checked out their menu.

http://www.tkcom99.com/pricelist.php

It really looks like they offer a great selection!

If you remember, where did you get your monitor? I would like to get a large screen LCD if possible.

I've never been to Pantrip Plaze (PP) before. I'm moving to Bangkok effective April 1st, so i need to buy a completely new computer system.

Stupid question, but is there a reliable place you know of in PP that sells a quality lazer printer as well as a decent sound system speakers?

Thanks for your help!

Seems to work for me. Perhaps it's the size of your image?

I'm not away of any stores selling Dell kit yet. However, if you want to buy a Dell computer here, you 'phone them up. They send someone to your house to discuss the specification, and the kit is delivered a few days later.

That sounds good.

Will they also install Windows on the rig and will it come bundled like the systems they sell here?

I'd be lost with all you guys!

Visit the Dell web site

http://www........1....=desktops&s=lca

As far as I am aware you can order what bits and pieces you want in your tower.

Going through Dell you will at least end up with a reasonable warranty period. You will not get the same level of Warranty when buying bit and pieces and building yourself.

Thank you for your suggestion.

Unfortunately, the link you provided is dead and I can't access the site it's attached to.

If all you are interested in doing is saving important files, photos and documents, then it's easy. An external USB hard drive accommodates your needs easily. No need to bother uploading all of this to a website unless you really want to, especially since upstream bandwidth is usually limited and it would take forever in the case of a large quantity of data. There are also privacy issues.

The reason most people want to try to save their Windows install is because they have lots and lots of programs installed on there and it's a big pain in the ass to reinstall them all and go through the updates and configuration and so on. If you are happy to simply start anew with a fresh copy of Windows and reinstall your favorite apps from scratch then I would definitely go with the external USB drive.

Most awesome!

I tend to make things more difficult than they should be with computers. I'm a total neophyte.

I thought I was in jeopardy of losing the thousands of photos, files, and documents. I have an external USB hard drive which will do the trick! I'll just buy a new DELL desktop and once I have the Thai compatible Windows installed (hopefully XP,) I have no problem reinstalling the various applications from scratch. Sure, it will be time consuming. But at least I know there will be no compatibility issues and my new PC will work like a charm (hopefully!)

You sir, absolutely rock!

Exactly! That's what I do!

Thank you so very much for spending your valuable time in helping me out on this topic.

I will print out what you have written and follow the blueprint you have laid out for me.

I'm looking forward to "building" my system when I arrive in Bangkok and will check out the resources you have advised.

Regarding the transplanting of my physical hardrive, this might be a hassle. Especially with the issue of Windows compatibility, etc. that you've pointed out. I'm not sure I'll be able to pull it off.

Here's what I think I may do. If you or any other computer genius reads this, I would appreciate some feedback.

I'm thinking of physically downloading all my important files, photos, documents I've saved on to an external hardrive via USB port. Once I get my rig in Thailand set up, I will then plug in the external hardrive via the USB port and "upload" it into the new system

I'm also thinking of having all my existing data, files, photos downloaded virtually to a website called Carbonite http://www.carbonite.com/ . This is a well reviewed service. Once I'm in Thailand, I can upload from their site to my new Thai rig.

I am not a computer nerd, but I'm hopeful either of these options will allow me to import the data, files, photos I currently have on my Dell Dimension 9150 to my future Thai computer system (I will build up!)

Thanks again for helping me!

Hi everyone!

Once again, I marvel at this tight knit community and the speed of replies one gets here to questions. I sincerely appreciate anyone's help.

I plan on moving to Bangkok, Thailand from the USA effective April 1st, 2011.

I posed a question in Yahoo! Answers about 1 month ago asking whether it would be prudent to ship my entire DELL computer set-up overseas from the USA to Thailand.

http://answers.yahoo...09000359AAWbIiT

After reading the awesome answer I received, I think it's best to sell my existing computer set-up here in the USA and just buy a complete new DELL computer set-up when I arrive in Thailand. I do not want to hassle with voltage and software compatibility issues.

My question is this. Does anyone know if the DELL Concept Stores have actually become a reality in Thailand?

I read the following 2008 article in the Bangkok Post:

http://www.bangkokpo...cept-store-here

Is this true? Can anyone verify seeing such a "concept" store dealing solely with DELL PCs and accessories in Bangkok?

I would like to replicate my exact system if possible, with the exception of my tower DELL Dimension 9150 since they probably don't make that anymore:

Dell 24 inch LCD flat panel monitor (model #2407WFP)

Dell Laser MFP 1815dn printer (scanner, etc.)

Dell 5.1 Surround Sound 6 Piece Subwoofer Speakers Set

The article states the following:

......................................…

Adhering to Dell's "build-to-order" concept, and showcasing Dell's consumer computer products, the store aims to be a one-stop shop for today's smart, savvy and selective users who need personalised computing devices.

......................................…

If there are no such DELL concept stores in Bangkok, will it be hard to find all the components I listed above? Where should I go to find them?

Lastly, does anyone know if I can "transplant" the HARDRIVE from my existing Dell Demension 9150 and put it into the new DELL desktop/tower I will purchase in Thailand? Is there any compatibility issues which would prevent me from doing this?

Again, Thank you so very much to anyone who can help me with this. It is greatly appreciated.:jap:

Just FYI, my triple tourist was only issued with a 6 month validity, I believe that is the standard. I did not ask for any specific validity, however. Perhaps if you wrote something on the app then maybe they would give it to you, not sure. But you may only be able to get 6 months - in which case you need to try and get the visa issued, and your passport returned as close to your departure date as you can.

Regarding a one-way ticket, in my particular case, the consulate specifically asked me for a flight confirmation showing the departure date within the period of my first planned entry. Maybe this is not required, but when I asked what I needed to send them, that was on of the things they required. Seemed pretty adamant that it was very important. Perhaps they vary on this.

Thanks for the info. I was merely commenting on the message #3 in this thread authored by another member. He said that a triple (3) entry Tourist Visa was good for 1 year.

Regarding the plane ticket issue, there seems to be conflicting reports in this thread.

To be safe, I would get myself a RT ticket with the departure date being just before the 1st 60 days is up. When I get the extenstion, I would change the return date.

You can fly on a one way ticket if you have a visa so return date is immaterial to airline. As for Consulate they will not be checking tickets for a US passport in the US (and if they did only to confirm ability to pay). That provision is normally only asked if they have reason to suspect you can not afford travel and on a third country passport.

Thank you very much for educating me on this factoid.

If it's cheaper for me to get the 1 way, that's the route I'll take. I can always buy a return ticket back to the USA when I'm over there.

Are you sure? I have never seen one way tickets (x2) cheaper than round trip. Another factor you might consider is security may flag you as a potential terrorist when you buy such a ticket.

You're probably right. With the bumbling Nobama administration at the helm of the TSA, one never knows.

RT ticket it is!

chk pm :jap:

Simply put, you are DA BOMB!

You can fly on a one way ticket if you have a visa so return date is immaterial to airline. As for Consulate they will not be checking tickets for a US passport in the US (and if they did only to confirm ability to pay). That provision is normally only asked if they have reason to suspect you can not afford travel and on a third country passport.

Thank you very much for educating me on this factoid.

If it's cheaper for me to get the 1 way, that's the route I'll take. I can always buy a return ticket back to the USA when I'm over there.

Thanks to everyone who took the time to reply. I genuinely appreciate it!

I didn't know I could apply to any Thai Consulate-General Office here in the USA other than the one in my locale. Sweet!

From what people are saying here, I will bypass the Thai Consulate here in Los Angeles and use Houston instead.

Here's the contact information I found on Houston:

....................................................................................................

TEXAS (Houston)

ROYAL THAI CONSULATE-GENERAL

600 Travis, STE. 2000

HOUSTON, TX 77002-2911

Tel : (713) 229-8733

Fax : (713) 228-1303

E-mail: [email protected]

[email protected]

Honorary Consul-General, Mr. Charles C. Foster

Honorary Vice-Consul, Ms. Julie Richardson

................................................................

Can someone please confirm if the above contact information (especially emails) is current? I tried to find a website for the Houston branch of the Royal Thai Consulate-General, but no luck. I just want to make sure it's valid so I can write emails to Mr. Foster and Ms. Richardson for an application, requirements, etc.

I also didn't know that a Thai Tourist Visa with triple (3) entries is valid for 1 year from date of issuance. Nice!

Lastly, thank you for the advice regarding how I should book the return leg of my RT Thai Airways flight. From what I gather, I should initially make the return date close to the expiration of the 60 days for my "1st entry." Once I am granted the 30 day extension, I can change the return date to correspond with near the end of the subsequent 60 days garnered from my "2nd entry." I would make a final change (after getting the 2nd 30 day extension) and that would correspond to when I would be leaving Thailand at the end of the 60 days granted for my "3rd entry." Does this sound plausible?

If so, it looks like I could actually stay in Thailand for a total of 240 days.

"1st entry" 60 days + 30 day extension + "2nd entry" 60 days + 30 day extension + "3rd entry" 60 days = 240 total days!

Sounds awesome if true!

I can see why this website has the reputation it does on the Net regarding Thai Visas. Extremely helpful people here.

I now feel confisent in all of this. I appreciate you veterans helping this newbie out. You are truly the best!

Hi everyone!

Yes, it's me the ultimate NEWBIE again!

I think I found a way to stay in Thailand for an aggragate total of 270 days and visiting Cambodia a couple times (visa runs) during the duration. I just want to make sure I'm getting things straight.

I live in Los Angeles, California USA and I have a valid USA Passport with (9+ years remaining.)

I plan on applying for a Thai Tourist Visa at the Los Angeles Thai Consulate here. http://www.thai-la.net/index-eng.htm

I read on their website that they a maximum of 3 entries is allowed for a Thai Tourist Visa. See this link: http://www.thai-la.net/visa/visa-fee.htm

OK here's what I want to do if I am granted a 3 entry Thai Tourist Visa. Just want to see if this is even possible.

Step 1. My 1st entry to Thailand is good for 60 days. Before the 60 day period is up, I go to the Bangkok Immigration Office and apply for the 30 day extension for THB 1900. If granted, I have 90 days (60 days + 30 days extension).

Step 2. Before the 90th day comes, I will take a flight to Phnom Pehn, Cambodia and stay there between 5 to 7 days.

Step 3. I will make my "2nd entry" into Bangkok from Phnom Pehn. I surmise this entry will be good for 60 days as well. As before, I assume I can go to the Bangkok Immigration Office and apply for another 30 day extension for THB 1900? If granted, I have 90 days again (60 days + 30 days extension).

Step 4. Repeat Step 2.

Step 5. Repeat Step 3 - I will make my "3rd entry" into Bangkok from Phnom Pehn. I surmise this 3rd entry will be good for 60 days as well? At this point, I may or may not apply for the 30 day extension. If yes, and it is granted, I will have 90 days again (60 days + 30 days extension).

Step 6. RETURN TO USA.

If feasible, this plan would allow me to travel around Thailand (with a couple of visa runs to Phnom Pehn, Cambodia) for a commulative 270 days (90 days per entry x 3 entries).

MY QUESTIONS:

1. Has anyone heard of the Thai Embassy in Los Angeles granting a triple (3) entry Tourist Visa? Triple (3) entry vis = FREE?

2. If yes to Question 1, would it be advisable to book a RT ticket with the return leg being on the 269th day? Or would it be better to book an earlier departure leg and simply change the ticket when the extension is give? I will be flying on Thai Airways, and they have a nice office in Bangkok. Friendly staff, and I can change my ticket there I'm sure for a small fee.

3. In general, is my plan even possible?

I look forward to any replies. You guys are the BEST!

Outstanding video! Very sobering and scary for us here in the USA! Thanks for sharing.

I'm getting out of here (USA) ASAP! My taget date for emmigration to LOS through either a Retirement Visa or Marriage Visa - year 2011 for certain.

Within 6 months the Thai Baht will be 25 to the 1 US$ wait and see but nothing is surer ..!!!!

Hope not.

Public fury forces the defaulting countries out of the eurozone and they set up their own currencies or band together in a new peripheral euro. The new currencies plunge against the core euro, forcing big defaults on euro-denominated mortgages and corporate bonds. Demonstrations erupt across Europe. The union becomes ungovernable.

The US dollar and the gold price shoot higher as investors seek havens. Global imbalances widen again, a wave of protectionism sweeps the US and the world plunges into full-scale currency and trade war.

Living here in the USA, this would be welcomed by most Americans. Our USA dollar has been pummeled badly in the past several years while other world currencies have gained. It appears the pendulum may be swinging back?

Best way to to get a prove of onward travel is a train Ticket Bangkok - Butterworth (malaysia) Cost is around 1200 -1300 Baht and changing the date is free of charge. You can change it as often as you like. If you want to cancel it there will be a fee of around 250 -300 Baht. You can change or cancel it at any train station during the normal operation hours approximatively 04:00 - 01:00

Since you said you have a Thai wife let anyone of her family buy the ticket and than send it to you via mail in the US.

Double entry tourist visa is an option but as the name says you only get 2 entries and you would need to extend two times for 30 Days each time costing you 1900 Baht. Also if you wanna do more than one visit to another country since you you only have two entries you would need a reentry permit which cost another 1000 Baht per entry. So totaly this option cost you at least 4000 Baht + a lot of hassle.

Klauswernst198, thank you very much for taking the time to respond in such a detailed fashion.

I'm most appreciative of you pointing out this alternative option to me. What you've written will help any of those who have a similar inquiry like mine.

Thank you, sir!

Embassy would just provide a paper for you to fill in the address and notarize your signature (but it is likely not required if you ask around). Either location would be fine as mail is almost never used for passbook accounts. There are bank branches just about everywhere these days (all shopping centers have 7 day a week branches now).

Good early Thursday (Thanksgiving) morning from the USA!

Many thanks for the informative post reply once again.

I was under the impression that the US Embassy needed cooperation from the home owner or landlord in generating this document. The procedure sounds rather simple. The US Embassy just provides me with the form, and I fill out the physical address of where I'm staying at. I know people who will allow me to stay at their place while I'm in Bangkok, and they have assured me that they will allow me to use their address for these purposes.

The US Embassy will merely "notarize" my signature, and I'm good to go.

I will bring this notarized US Embassy completed form with my USA Passport to the Kasikorn branch. Member GungaDin has reported extensively in the other sub-forum dealing with banking that there is a Kasikorn branch on Soi 33 Sukhukvit that is "farang friendly" with regards to opening an individual bank account. It has also been reported they will open an individual bank account with only a USA Passport and 30 day VISA EXEMPTION! Wow!

This forum is a Godsend to me, and I want to again say thanks for your patience with me.

Opening a bank account is not really a problem, just find a branch that will do it for you. Many people report Kasikorn as a good one, Bangkok Bank is another.

Here is a link to Pinned Topic in the Jobs, Economy,etc. section.

http://www.thaivisa....nt-in-thailand/

Thank you so much for this link!

I will scour the posts there to see if there is a specific Kasikorn or Bangkok Bank branch location in any part of Bangkok I can go to. I'm certain many married farrangs have faced this challenge before.