RocketDog

This is a key point of confusion. My understanding is that your OA has to be within two weeks of expiration AND you have no re-entry permit. If you have more than two weeks before expiration they will not issue a tourist visa. The rest of the plan is as several have mentioned. I renewed my extension of stay at Huahin last week and had a minor hiccup with my insurance registration. The agent, one we know, recommended that I do an exit and return for an O visa next year. So this route is commonly recognized. I want insurance and got in before the insurance increase requirement next month. So I'll take this gambit when I renew next year. I'd be happy to see @ubonjoe weigh in on the two week factor. Other than that this approach seems well documented.

It's sad that so many folks don't recognize that such engineering models are actually beta testing for the Thai Moon Mission. This piece, for instance is a radiation barrier for the spacecraft Bay windows. I guess you all believe the Chinese submarine purchases are intended for marine use? Silly rabbits! And those Chinese engine purchases? Just a distraction. The real spacecraft will be powered by 4,298 motorcycle engines operating in tandem. This is just a way to hide the massive 'black project' costs of the program from the public. So, for all you cynics: "put that in your pipe and smoke it". And....... that's legal now!

So you think if every expat resisted such fees they would stop charging them? Very amusing theory.

Good for you. Some replies here show that it depends on the office. Either way the $15 means nothing to me. I have zero interest in challenging immigration over trivial things. My goal is to make my life as easy as possible and to enjoy my life here.

No. Frankly I don't care about the $15 or about challenging people at immigration over such trivia. Up to you.

As you say except at Huahin office I had to get multiple copies of both passport scans and pay 500 thb. Took about 30 minutes.

Banks are for banking and insurance companies are for insurance. Cut out the middleman.