I have used the same agent in Chiang Mai for seven years. I meet all of the financial requirements so no funny business. She picks up all the documents at a coffee house near my house. Later that day she calls and says be at immigration at some time the next day. I go at that time, meet up with her or her staff, get shown to a desk, take photo, and pick up my passport. This year was typical and I was in and out in less than ten minutes. One trip. No hassle. Well worth it.