I read an article not so long ago that said getting a multiple entry 'b' visa

was cheaper and more practical than having a one - year single entry one.

Then a friend told me that he got a one-year single entry but had a multiple

re-entry permit, so could still go in and out without any hassels??

Is this true??

Also the article said that multiple entry visa CAN be issued in neighboring

countries, despite people often being told that it is not possible and you have

to go back to your home country.

So could someone please explain to me what the right way is.

I must admit it does seem absurd that one has to go back to their home country

for such visas when in fact, ALL Thai consulates or embassies should follow

the same rules and guidlines, whether that be in London or Penang.

So, you cannot get these kind of visas in Singapore for example?

Not exactly a neighboring country, is it. Please advise, thank you.

The well used phrase "This is Thailand" should answer all the comments about everywhere using the same rules. That said the UK embassies around the world have different rules in different locations.

Incidentally, to get ANY UK visa you must be in your home country (or a country in which you have PR), so it's not that absurd really.

Anyway.

It is generally accepted that you won't get a non-B for greater than 3 months at any of the local embassies / consulates (Sing and HK are 'local' by the way). The reasoning is that a B is for work purposes, and, once you have the work permit you can readily get an extension of stay for however long is required for your job (max 12 months at a time).

You will probably get a 12 month-multi B from Hull (assume you are a Brit). A non-O on the grounds of visiting friends (again from Hull) may be a better option, it still allows a work permit but requires less paperwork (like a job offer).

Anyone else???