Poipet border crossing/work permit problems

[earinsound]

Hi

I'm planning on going to Poipet in order to receive a 30 day "visa." A colleague of mine has done this before, says it costs 1,000 baht for the visa and there aren't many hassles. However my girlfriend's coworkers (who are Philipino) pay 200 baht to cross into Cambodia and then 100 baht crossing back. They've done this many, many times.

Does anyone know what this is all about?

Also, I'm having difficulties having my new work permit transfered. 2 years ago I used a copy of my BSc degree in order to obtain a w.p. before I started teaching. However, this time around the Ministry of Education isn't accepting it (yet other co-workers have had their copies accepted!). Any advice on what to do? I can't get the original as it's buried in a garage in Arkansas (really!) and I'm feeling very anxious about this new situation.

Thanks....

[kiwijack]

I am just back from Poipet to renew tourist visa. Yes they want 1000baht for cambo visa, & will not take the required $US20 when offered. Maybe u could hassle re this but could be ramifications.  The guy who takes your passport in side for the visa will hit u up for a tip, up to u. Then when at the cambo arrivals they will ask u for at least 100 baht for stamp in, again up to u but probably better to pay. Similarly on the way out they ask for another 100 baht but have avoided this one by telling them I paid the guys coming in so I could leave same day, they accepted this. I assume its these " tips" u refer too.