DodgerRodger

Interesting idea @Pib I was thinking the same but don't want to "waste" too much on a health policy. So I was wondering if anyone has successfully obtained an LTR visa using a policy from WRLife? They have reasonable rates as long as you choose a high deductible.

I thought it might be of use to folks to know my experience renewing my driving licence This relates to BKK DLT at Chatuchak and Immigration at CW only. I obtained my CoR at CW on 10 October. I attended DLT on 4 November. DLT informed me that the CoR from CW is indeed valid for 30 days only so would only be usable up until 8 November. PROBLEM, no appointments available prior to 18 November. I managed to get some leeway here as I proved that DLT website shows out-of-date information that the CoR is valid for one year. A senior supervisor was consulted and I was given appointment for today 7 November. Today's process went smoothly and quickly - in and out in under 90 minutes. Despite the microscopic examination of all documents I provided, I was approved. Of note is that my current 2-year licence expires in April 2025, so renewing 5 months early is permissible. Renewing from 2 year to 5-year does not require the online DLT training certificate. I had done this a few weeks ago but was not asked for it so I asked DLT what the reason is, and was told it is for 5-year to 5-year only. Hope that helps...

I just received my CoR from CW in Bangkok. It is different to the one posted by @johng in that there is no photo and that it states valid for 30 days only

Thanks, and yes I read that too. But when I completed the CoR application I ticked both boxes thinking that one cert would be issued covering both purposes. I was wrong there because the IO then requested the 400 ฿ processing fee. I chose not to try and change anything, just coughed up the cash. When I go to DLT at Chatuchak in the coming days I will present just one cert (+photocopy) and see how that flies...

A quick update. My CoR was applied for on 8 October. I received it in the post today, the certificate having been issued and dated 10 October. Points to note: 1. The certificate (in Thai script only except for my name) identifies the purpose, i.e. to obtain a driving licence for a car (I requested 2 certs costing an additional 200 ฿, so have another specifying it is for a motorcycle licence) 2. The certificate states it is valid for 30 days from date of issue.

Sorry, I should elaborate on documentation. I provided the completed application form, TM30 print out, and copy of passport biodata page, visa page (I have a Thai Elite Visa, others may not have a visa) and passport page showing latest entry stamp. All pages signed by me in blue ink as requested by the IO. Handed over 200 ฿ to IO and was given a Thai Post reference number and told to expect CoR in post in one week. That was it!!!

I obtained my CoR at CW today. As Tod says above, no need for 90 Day Report. I got a Q number, waited 15 minutes to get called and was processed in 5 minutes.

I am Thai Elite but don't stay in Thailand longer than 90 days. I would like to renew my TDL which I previously obtained using UK Embassy letter of residence affirmation, but sadly not available now. The UK Embassy stopped because they claimed the service is available at Thai Immigration. Perhaps they have lobbied for the removal of the 90-day requirement in BKK (wishful thinking?). TM30 in hand.

I've read about this on Tod's FB Visa group as well as on another similar FB group although without any first-hand confirmation that I can see. But that's sufficient for me to venture out there next week without a 90-day report to request a CoR. I'll post an update then. Fingers crossed....

I will likely be dealing with Kalasin Immigration in the near future. Nice to know they have a sense of humour...

I emailed BOI about this very subject in January this year. This is their reply...

May I ask if there was anything other than the lease required?

Thanks for your thoughts and suggestions oldcpu and yes, I agree, BOI need to clarify and I will perhaps seek guidance in due course. I too considered the option of reapplying after 5 years and pay a further ฿ 50K. That would still be cheaper than extending my Thai Elite visa. And I believe evidence of the USD100K self insurance is only required for the 12 months prior to application for the LTR visa.

Totally agree. I have been looking at LTR as an option going forward when my 5-year Thai Elite visa expires (I can hopefully extend another 15 years for ฿ 400K though) but I am too old to get health insurance except for a ridiculous premium. If, as you and I surmise, BoI want to see 5years of bank statements showing that the USD100K requirement has been met throughout then I feel this is not for me. So many things can happen and the future uncertain. I recall reading about Non-O retirement renewals being denied because the ฿ 800K requirement was not met, even by just a small amount. And I doubt that there will be any real clarity on this until the first LTR applicants reach the end of their 5-year visas.