DrJack54

That's also what I wondered about. My extension expires in Nov. Would be great to obtain the DTV prior to expiry of current permission of stay. Have a booked trip to Oz and Saigon in November so could skip the extension and return with the DTV and activate it with that entry

Was sorta asking to confirm my own plan. Not sure at this stage,...however rather than obtain another retirement extension would go to Saigon and apply for DTV (soft power Medical). The plan would be to apply ASAP after arrival in Saigon and stay a week. Exit even if not approved at that point. My main difference from your OP report would be how to activate the DTV. Rather than border bounce would do second trip to Vietnam. I'm biased as love Saigon

Assume you could have exited Cambodia after application was made given that the eVisa is emailed to you?

That's the best option IMO if you qualify. I ran into a young UK guy 26 (just arrived) with a DTV. He obtained it in UK and process took 3 days. Easy, as he actually had a UK employer and can work completely online. TBH was jealous will all my years of dealing with immigration and maintaining 800k in Thai bank. And here he is with a 5 year visa + it's a multi entry.

When you previously used to fill in TM6 (arrival card) you would be aware of the fields. Such as visa # etc In those days I would put my reentry permit #. Assume you have a smart phone and can take screenshots. Hopefully for your future trips it will be a simple process now you have done it once

Which option did you opt for and what supporting docs were required.

The reply I was given was 1. Letter from clinic or hospital stating diagnosis. 2. Previous appointment history 3. Treatment plan for next 6 months.

Only read a few reports and seems page of passport showing entry into the country was required. Example obtain the e-Visa in say Vietnam and show immigration entry stamp in application. The eVisa application fee made in Laos is done in person.

Exactly. 1.9mil aud is hardly at the high end. Many of that age would own their own home. If you elect to sell up and move to Thailand then your assets + superannuation would be substantial.

Definitely and if this is required then close your account and open new account with another bank.

I don't understand why you would even bother. I'm also on annual extensions retirement. Same as yourself 13yrs renting in Bangkok. Only difference is with a GF not married. I do extension each year and provide my lease at CW. Not even sure if it's required. I don't want a yellow book or Pink ID card. Don't need it. Don't want it. The saying.. "if it ain't broke then don't fix it"...springs to mind

Don't follow. Many folk have Thai bank accounts obtained while having tourist visa status

That is no longer a rule.. No stated limit.. The accommodation could be simple eg agoda booking fully refundable booking. Rental agreement does not indicate tourist. However if you have one then yes provide that

Recent thread where used this mob after refused entry and flown back to Vietnam. Returned to Thailand next day using safe entry service from this agent. 4.5k suggests you are minimal issue. The fee is based upon history.

Staying outside for few (2) nights would avoid agent requirement. You still may be asked for onward flight, accommodation rubbish etc. Yes I made typo was meant to be "can't" Will change my post. Correction in bold type.