Are There Any Exceptions To Having A Wp For Citizenship?

[inquisitive]

For PR there are several categories with lots of very specific requirements, and then there is a category of "other" which basically means that if you're connected high enough up the line, you get a free pass. Still need to jump through hoops, but some of the requirements are at the discretion of the government at the time of application. Is there any possibility at all to get citizenship without a work permit? Are there any circumstaces where a retiree could get sufficiently high backing to be eligible?

[kurnell]

How high up do the connections need to be?

[inquisitive]

How high up do the connections need to be?

For the PR there is a name for the specific level needed. I can't remember off-hand but I believe that it is one level below that of a minister. The rector of a university would do, for instance, and I think a tahn puying would be another example. I also know it helps if you get the application delivered to Immigration by someone from one of those offices. For example, I was at Immigration when a thick packet of documents was delivered by an emmisary from the Prince. Immigration made the comment to me that the application was going to sail right through.

If you ask most folks, they'll are not aware of this provision. It isn't a secret - it's just not used very often so it's not that well known. I'm wondering if there is a similar provision for citizenship. Anybody know?

[kurnell]

Are we talking citizenship or residency?

[KHR1010]

Yes, of course there is. Like anything in Thailand, the law/regulations do not apply to all. I am not "up" on all the loop-holes, however I do know if you have a strong enough relationship with the right people it becomes quite simple. The definition of "strong enough" in my experience equates to providing something very needed to the influential Thai relation. I got my Thai citizenship years ago just after the the finical crisis of 1997 and I was in a position to fill a tremendous need to one of our Thai JV partner groups. Two of the share holders of the company I kept from serious financial jeopardy (lose of face) regarding a civil infrastructure project reciprocated by "helping along" my, previously non-existent, citizenship application.

I am aquatinted with a handful of other foreigners in my business circle that have received a Thai passport following significant finical investment/support directed at the appropriate individuals. There are no hard and fast rules here, it is one of those things where you need to be in the right place, at the right time with the right people and have the present-ability to facilitate that which is required.

[davejones]

You can get citizenship of any country in the world if you have money and the right connections. Even USA, UK, etc. So I'm sure you can in Thailand. How much money do you have?

[Colabamumbai]

Everything seems to have a price.

[Mario2008]

Higly unlikely that a retiree can get citizenship. A large part of the process is based on determining if you are an asset to Thai society. An important factor in that is that you are working. Even people who invest but do not work normally do not have much chance.

But you can always discuss your case with special branch, who will process your application. My guess it they will tell you to forget it.

[granuaile]

Hmmm, can the OP provide a link with information about the other category for permanent residence?

[lopburi3]

Below is the document outlining PR on immigration website.

http://www.immigration.go.th/nov2004/doc/residence/26122546_regulation_notice_en.pdf

[granuaile]

Below is the document outlining PR on immigration website.

http://www.immigrati...n_notice_en.pdf

Lopburi, thank you, This is very informative - I need to spend more time on Immigration's website...