I've been in Bangkok for about 6 months now on a triple entry visa, but it will expire soon. I've heard that it's difficult to get another triple entry visa in the surrounding countries and that the best chance -- other than returning to Europe -- is to go to Penang. Apparently they are most likely (on a good day) to issue one, or at least a double entry. Is that true? What other alternatives are there of assuredly getting a triple entry visa?

Also, is there a limit of triple/double entries that will be issued to you, even in Europe? I'm financially independent so to say and I plan to stay here in Thailand for at least several years, most likely on tourist visas. I can imagine that immigration might get suspicious, possibly thinking I work here. Anyone experienced this? If it's a matter of showing a (Thai) bank statement with sufficient funds that would be no problem.

Thanks.

Money in the bank would surely help your case. There have been several reports that Penang can issue a multi entry O visa valid for one year if you can show a Thai bank account over 200k. Might be just what you need. It would allow 90 day visits before a border crossing required.

Money in the bank would surely help your case.  There have been several reports that Penang can issue a multi entry O visa valid for one year if you can show a Thai bank account over 200k.  Might be just what you need.  It would allow 90 day visits before a border crossing required.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Thanks. Sounds promising. I'll be sure to bring my little Kasikornbank deposit book

I'm in a similar situation to godforhire. Except don't have over 200k in Thai bank account. Have plenty of money in overseas account, which I access with ATM. Plan to stay here for an extended time (several years?) but won't be working. The only "work" I would do would be to volunteer, such as teaching English in a village. Not associated with any organization and not accept any money.

I want to be legal about it all. Suggestions?

Are tourist visas the best option? only option? What's the likelihood I would be refused after a few of these?

I'm in a similar situation to godforhire. Except don't have over 200k in Thai bank account. Have plenty of money in overseas account, which I access with ATM. Plan to stay here for an extended time (several years?) but won't be working. The only "work" I would do would be to volunteer, such as teaching English in a village. Not associated with any organization and not accept any money.

I want to be legal about it all. Suggestions?

Are tourist visas the best option? only option? What's the likelihood I would be refused after a few of these?

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Apply for a multiple entry non-immigrant 'O' visa before you leave home. You can apply at the Thai Consulate-General at Houston by mail. Be aware that even doing voluntary work is technically illegal without a work permit

Money in the bank would surely help your case.  There have been several reports that Penang can issue a multi entry O visa valid for one year if you can show a Thai bank account over 200k.  Might be just what you need.  It would allow 90 day visits before a border crossing required.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

You'd have to be over fifty, right, to obtain a non-immigrant 'O' visa? I'm still a long way from that so I guess having 200k+ in the bank won't help me there. Too bad. I'll just go for the multiple entry tourist visa.

Money in the bank would surely help your case.  There have been several reports that Penang can issue a multi entry O visa valid for one year if you can show a Thai bank account over 200k.  Might be just what you need.  It would allow 90 day visits before a border crossing required.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

You'd have to be over fifty, right, to obtain a non-immigrant 'O' visa? I'm still a long way from that so I guess having 200k+ in the bank won't help me there. Too bad. I'll just go for the multiple entry tourist visa.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Obviously God is a lot younger than I had expected.

But I would ask the visa agents on Chula before I gave up. It is much better than a tourist visa if you can obtain it.