I will be applying for a 1 year multi entry visa soon. Does it's validity start when I enter Thailand or when it is issued

The 12 months validity starts on the day it is issued.

So don't apply too early.

The 12 months validity starts on the day it is issued.

So don't apply too early.

Thanks - I might leave it to the last minute as they say they can issue in a day

I have a (now expired, but that's irrelevant) Non O multi-entry visa from the Thai consulate in Hull right here in my passport.

My Non O multi-entry visa started the day it is issued by the Thai consulate and expired one year later.

Both dates are printed on my visa.

In my case it was issued on 16 October 2010 and expired on 15 October 2011.

I used that visa to enter Thailand in November 2010 and recieved a retirement extension until 15 October 2012 on it.