So there's lots of non-immigrant visa options. What are the immigrant visa options? I mean one you obtain from outside Thailand to immigrate to Thailand.

Currently there is none. Maybe there were decades ago. So the name just sticks to add confusion.

Currently there is none. Maybe there were decades ago. So the name just sticks to add confusion.

Umm not that long ago the Thai consulates/embassy in Australia was still advertising an immigrant visa, to be applied for via the embassy in Canberra only (not sure if Sydney also handled such applications, but other consulates, mostly the honorary ones were advising applicants that they need to apply via Canberra).

There was a quota system mentioned and no info about turn around times. In essence a visa that can theoretically be issued but in practice is hard to come by.

It seems that the accepted method of migration to Thailand on a permanent basis is by establishing oneself in the country first, for a minimum of 3 years by working on a non-imm B and extension of stay, paying enough tax, preferably marrying a local, preferably learning the local language up to fluency, then applying directly for citizenship (if married) or permanent residency otherwise, a process which in both cases can take years for approval.

Therefore it doesn't seem practical for any non-Thai to hope to be granted an immigrant visa before having ever lived here. I still find it strange that many countries like Australia, Canada (and the USA through it's green card lottery system) etc. are offering such visas - surely a period of residence should be required first?