No Visa options for the ones who are young and have money?

[gerry1011]

So for the Thai Elite program, its essentially 100,000 Baht/year? After that first 5 years you just pay again and get the same thing? 
 
 

Yes...
Cool isn't it?
:)

Sent from my HTC One using Thaivisa Connect Thailand mobile app

[nicolas18]

 

 

In his own little mind, he's Khun Big Time, spending a whole million baht every year (which probably means something closer to Baht 500,000 or less than most real retirees). 

 

Errrm, most of the real retirees I see in Thailand are actually cheap Charlies who would spend an entire afternoon trying to find the bar selling the cheapest beers.

 

Should you not  haunt the same bars, maybe you could meet more fortunate ones

 

Nice try, but I don't even drink. I'm not going to go to a bar to have a Coke. ;)

[Tchooptip]

 

 

 

In his own little mind, he's Khun Big Time, spending a whole million baht every year (which probably means something closer to Baht 500,000 or less than most real retirees). 

 

Errrm, most of the real retirees I see in Thailand are actually cheap Charlies who would spend an entire afternoon trying to find the bar selling the cheapest beers.

 

Should you not  haunt the same bars, maybe you could meet more fortunate ones

 

Nice try, but I don't even drink. I'm not going to go to a bar to have a Coke.

 

I was not serious AT ALL 

[NamKangMan]

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

[iphad]

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

I am not an expert so this is my opinion & I could be be very much wrong.

From my experience I was on tourist visa 2 month double entry for 2 1/2 years..last time I was in Vientiane in April ...Thai immigration wrote on my Tourist visa that it was the last one I would get unless I showed proof of income.

I am over 50 & could do ..& I have since done the retirement extension.

The impression I get on the crackdown...is Thai immigration is clamping down on the border runs & want people to get the proper visa..so instead of going to border & come back on a 30 day entry..they have to apply for a tourist visa.

So basically one is good for at least 2..& maybe 3.... 2 month double entries.

Then Thai immigration would require proof of income...so if you have the funds..there is a good chance Thailand would extend the 2 month double entry to you..I am guessing there is no age limit..so if under 50 & you have the funds & can show proof..I'm thinking no problem.

Obviously you can't get the retirement extension because you have to be over 50 with sufficient proof of funds.

There is nothing written in stone yet..that I know of..and I could be totally wrong.

But I am thinking if you have the funds to show you can support yourself while in Thailand...

you shouldn't have a problem but time will be tell.

[zydeco]

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

 

Perhaps it is because Thai Immigration has made the  calculation that altering the immigration laws does not benefit Thailand or Thai citizens.  That is all that matters, because immigration laws  exist to  benefit Thailand and not the immigrant.  You may think Thailand is wrong, but Thailand thinks you are wrong, and that is why the law is as it is.
 

[NamKangMan]

 

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

I am not an expert so this is my opinion & I could be be very much wrong.

From my experience I was on tourist visa 2 month double entry for 2 1/2 years..last time I was in Vientiane in April ...Thai immigration wrote on my Tourist visa that it was the last one I would get unless I showed proof of income.

I am over 50 & could do ..& I have since done the retirement extension.

The impression I get on the crackdown...is Thai immigration is clamping down on the border runs & want people to get the proper visa..so instead of going to border & come back on a 30 day entry..they have to apply for a tourist visa.

So basically one is good for at least 2..& maybe 3.... 2 month double entries.

Then Thai immigration would require proof of income...so if you have the funds..there is a good chance Thailand would extend the 2 month double entry to you..I am guessing there is no age limit..so if under 50 & you have the funds & can show proof..I'm thinking no problem.

Obviously you can't get the retirement extension because you have to be over 50 with sufficient proof of funds.

There is nothing written in stone yet..that I know of..and I could be totally wrong.

But I am thinking if you have the funds to show you can support yourself while in Thailand...

you shouldn't have a problem but time will be tell.

 

 

I have been living here for near a couple of years on 60 day tourist visas.  I have never once been asked for any "financials" at the various neighbouring Thai Embassies/Consulates.

 

I could easily provide them, if required to do so, or, more preferably, if that's all you had to do, in order to be granted another 60 day "tourist" visa.

 

With all the 30 day visa exemption runners simply going to the 60 day tourist visa, I really think that's going to come under the same notice, in the near future, if not already, and there will be no "back to back" 60 day tourist visas issued, after all, what would the visa crack down achieve, if everyone, automatically, was granted a 60 day tourist visa?

 

I consider myself fortunate, it's no real big deal that I am tipped out of Thailand, but, as my post mentioned, isn't it time Thailand reviewed their visa classes to incorporate more legitmate foreigners who wish to reside here?

Edited August 9, 2014 by NamKangMan

[CiaranO]

Anyway my point was that there is a missing Visa in Thailand, the equivalent of the "Exceptional Ability" Visa in the USA.
People who are successful in business, or have done something out of the ordinary should be able to come here to bring their brain and experience in this country (their money too).
But something that is not only based on old retired falang or people who are running a local business.

Your hardly exceptional on 60000 per month


Sent from my iPhone using Thaivisa Connect Thailand

[NamKangMan]

 

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

 

Perhaps it is because Thai Immigration has made the  calculation that altering the immigration laws does not benefit Thailand or Thai citizens.  That is all that matters, because immigration laws  exist to  benefit Thailand and not the immigrant.  You may think Thailand is wrong, but Thailand thinks you are wrong, and that is why the law is as it is.
 

 

 

An interesting post, considering Thailand's visa laws already allows hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of foreigners to reside here. 

[chrisinth]

<script type='text/javascript'>window.mod_pagespeed_start = Number(new Date());</script>

 

 

 

Thailand has a GDP of 360+ Billion baht a year. The economy will fall to its knees when the OP takes his million baht away with him   alt=cheesy.gif width=32 height=20>  

Please don't forget he is not alone, but have 2/3 friends who will take their one million Baht out of Thailand too  alt=whistling.gif> Pffff

 

Well, if all young retirees and freelance workers do indeed leave for other countries, it will have a negative impact on certain sectors of the economy. On the other hand, if the old farts who spend their days (and nights) glued to barstools did, no one would notice the difference.

 

Talking about the grey hair brigade, I wonder whether those who constantly applaud the recent immigration "crackdown" would still feel the same way the day the Thai government decides it wants more "quality retirees" instead of sexpats and decides to increase the minimum income/money in the bank requirement for a retirement visa.

 

 

nicolas18, could you please explain which sectors of the economy will be affected if the freelance workers leave? I have underlined the word workers as this is a thread about no visas being available for this said group.

 

This whole debate about freelancers, which has been ongoing for about a month now has for the most part been aimed at immigration. It is not up to immigration what you work at, that is the labor department which hardly any of you recognize.

 

When you argue against people living here on retirement visas and what they have to provide as financial proof, this does not add up to your arguments. If a person living here on retirement wanted to work, they would still have to apply for a work permit. This is possible, but hard to get. The other option they have is to relinquish their retirement status and extend based on their work permit.

 

Unless of course the entire 'digital nomad tribe' consider themselves different to the mere mortals who abide by, and adapt to the laws of this country to remain here. If the intention of the argument is to get an easy visa for long stay, I get that. If you are intending to work while you are here, see the labor department.

[iphad]

@NamkangMan

I have been living here for near a couple of years on 60 day tourist visas.  I have never once been asked for any "financials" at the various neighbouring Thai Embassies/Consulates.

I could easily provide them, if required to do so, or, more preferably, if that's all you had to do, in order to be granted another 60 day "tourist" visa.

With all the 30 day visa exemption runners simply going to the 60 day tourist visa, I really think that's going to come under the same notice, in the near future, if not already, and there will be no "back to back" 6 day tourist visas issued, after all, what would the visa crack down achieve, if everyone, automatically, was granted a 60 day tourist visa?

I consider myself fortunate, it's no real big deal that I am tipped out of Thailand, but, as my post mentioned, isn't it time Thailand reviewed their visa classes to incorporate more legitmate foreigners who wish to reside here?

 

I believe the crackdown is on the 30 day entries...so if people are living here for a period of time they would be on the 2 month double entry..or 1 month I guess but the 2 month double entry is better as one could get basically 6 months with 30 day extensions on either end of the 2 month & although still have to leave the country after 3 months..it's one less visa process to get.

Then it's the issue of funds...I myself have never been asked before about funds either but as I said in previous post..I wasn't refused a 2 month visa..they just wanted proof of funds next time.

So if you did stay in Thailand..& you went to do another border run & applied for a tourist visa..I would suggest you provide them with proof of funds.

I believe they are mostly cracking down on people..young or old..who are living in Thailand & maybe working illegally.

If you have proof you do not need to work..I'm thinking you will have no issues.

[JSixpack]

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

 

Our opinions and fulminations about the matter are totally inconsequential and pointless. All we can do is follow the laws or face the consequences of not doing so. Thailand's "problems" and "needs" are Thailand's alone. Surely your home country, where you have a vote, has room for improvement too? If there's a real crisis, the gov't will act. This visa crackdown per se won't lead to any noticeable economic effect, though it's understandably comforting for many a visa runner to imagine it will. 

 

You wanna march and carry a sign outside of Government House, go right ahead. See how much your advice is appreciated.
 

[zydeco]

 

 

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

 

Perhaps it is because Thai Immigration has made the  calculation that altering the immigration laws does not benefit Thailand or Thai citizens.  That is all that matters, because immigration laws  exist to  benefit Thailand and not the immigrant.  You may think Thailand is wrong, but Thailand thinks you are wrong, and that is why the law is as it is.
 

 

 

An interesting post, considering Thailand's visa laws already allows hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of foreigners to reside here. 

 

 

Yes, it does, because the law has calculated that they are beneficial to  the country and its citizens, either as expats with specialized knowledge unavailable in Thailand or as individuals who will not compete with or displace Thais from their own economy (retirees).  Look, I have every sympathy with you.  I hope you and other under 50s do find a way to  stay  until  you can hit the retirement age.  But until then, your options, for the sake of Thai citizens are limited to specialists who provide a net contribution to Thailand, people married to Thais, and expats who don't compete with Thais in the economy.  Otherwise, the Thai  Elite  card is there for people who are willing to pay for the privilege of going around those provisions.
 

[NamKangMan]

@NamkangMan

I have been living here for near a couple of years on 60 day tourist visas.  I have never once been asked for any "financials" at the various neighbouring Thai Embassies/Consulates.

I could easily provide them, if required to do so, or, more preferably, if that's all you had to do, in order to be granted another 60 day "tourist" visa.

With all the 30 day visa exemption runners simply going to the 60 day tourist visa, I really think that's going to come under the same notice, in the near future, if not already, and there will be no "back to back" 6 day tourist visas issued, after all, what would the visa crack down achieve, if everyone, automatically, was granted a 60 day tourist visa?

I consider myself fortunate, it's no real big deal that I am tipped out of Thailand, but, as my post mentioned, isn't it time Thailand reviewed their visa classes to incorporate more legitmate foreigners who wish to reside here?

 

I believe the crackdown is on the 30 day entries...so if people are living here for a period of time they would be on the 2 month double entry..or 1 month I guess but the 2 month double entry is better as one could get basically 6 months with 30 day extensions on either end of the 2 month & although still have to leave the country after 3 months..it's one less visa process to get.

Then it's the issue of funds...I myself have never been asked before about funds either but as I said in previous post..I wasn't refused a 2 month visa..they just wanted proof of funds next time.

So if you did stay in Thailand..& you went to do another border run & applied for a tourist visa..I would suggest you provide them with proof of funds.

I believe they are mostly cracking down on people..young or old..who are living in Thailand & maybe working illegally.

If you have proof you do not need to work..I'm thinking you will have no issues.

 

 

Surely, iphad, the back to back 60 day tourist visas will be stopped.  I am fully expecting them to do so.
 

[Smurkster]

<script type='text/javascript'>window.mod_pagespeed_start = Number(new Date());</script>

 

 

Thailand has a GDP of 360+ Billion baht a year. The economy will fall to its knees when the OP takes his million baht away with him   alt=cheesy.gif width=32 height=20>  

Please don't forget he is not alone, but have 2/3 friends who will take their one million Baht out of Thailand too  alt=whistling.gif> Pffff

 

I also believe that there are countless falangs who would do the same, a few friends of mine as well....

 

 

This is new world, this isn't the Southeast asia of 20 years ago,  there are plenty of more interesting, happening, open,  hassle free places to reside....where Thailand doesn't necessarily fit into the picture for many folks...

[zydeco]

<script type='text/javascript'>window.mod_pagespeed_start = Number(new Date());</script>

 

 

Thailand has a GDP of 360+ Billion baht a year. The economy will fall to its knees when the OP takes his million baht away with him   alt=cheesy.gif width=32 height=20>  

Please don't forget he is not alone, but have 2/3 friends who will take their one million Baht out of Thailand too  alt=whistling.gif> Pffff

 

I also believe that there are countless falangs who would do the same, a few friends of mine as well....

 

 

This is new world, this isn't the Southeast asia of 20 years ago,  there are plenty of more interesting, happening, open,  hassle free places to reside....where Thailand doesn't necessarily fit into the picture for many folks...

 

And I'm happy that you have alternatives to Thailand that you think are better.  You'll have every opportunity to build and prosper there and, perhaps, build a place superior to Thailand.  Were I younger, I might indeed do just what you're suggesting--strike out for Myanmar, Cambodia, or even Vietnam.  In my day, actually, the opportunities were in South and Central America, more than SE Asia.  Good luck.  No one is bitter towards you, and I hope you're not bitter towards Thailand.  But Thailand either is or is on the brink of being an emerging economy.  Those other places are still lower on the economic development scale--true Third World places.  But places that should give the adventurous young good opportunities and, as you say, less "hassle."
 

[JSixpack]

This is new world, this isn't the Southeast asia of 20 years ago,  there are plenty of more interesting, happening, open,  hassle free places to reside....where Thailand doesn't necessarily fit into the picture for many folks...

 

Absolutely! Thailand's all crap now. Pollution, open sewers, trash piles, rats, rampant inflation, deserted, crumbling buildings, no service, sadistic ripoff doctors, fat go-go girls, stale Chang. And don't get me started on that cesspool Pattaya.

 

Farangs gonna be jumpin' left & right out of balconies soon. Financial disaster imminent from the visa crackdown! RUN!

 

Poor ol' retirees stuck here. Meanwhile, there's a potential bakery in Sihanoukville callin' right now. Bye!

Edited August 9, 2014 by JSixpack

[Deacon Bell]

No Visa options for the ones who are young and have money?

 

 

No.

 

You have no birth right nor reason to be here.

 

 

Good bye.

[iphad]

 

@NamkangMan

I have been living here for near a couple of years on 60 day tourist visas.  I have never once been asked for any "financials" at the various neighbouring Thai Embassies/Consulates.

I could easily provide them, if required to do so, or, more preferably, if that's all you had to do, in order to be granted another 60 day "tourist" visa.

With all the 30 day visa exemption runners simply going to the 60 day tourist visa, I really think that's going to come under the same notice, in the near future, if not already, and there will be no "back to back" 6 day tourist visas issued, after all, what would the visa crack down achieve, if everyone, automatically, was granted a 60 day tourist visa?

I consider myself fortunate, it's no real big deal that I am tipped out of Thailand, but, as my post mentioned, isn't it time Thailand reviewed their visa classes to incorporate more legitmate foreigners who wish to reside here?

 

I believe the crackdown is on the 30 day entries...so if people are living here for a period of time they would be on the 2 month double entry..or 1 month I guess but the 2 month double entry is better as one could get basically 6 months with 30 day extensions on either end of the 2 month & although still have to leave the country after 3 months..it's one less visa process to get.

Then it's the issue of funds...I myself have never been asked before about funds either but as I said in previous post..I wasn't refused a 2 month visa..they just wanted proof of funds next time.

So if you did stay in Thailand..& you went to do another border run & applied for a tourist visa..I would suggest you provide them with proof of funds.

I believe they are mostly cracking down on people..young or old..who are living in Thailand & maybe working illegally.

If you have proof you do not need to work..I'm thinking you will have no issues.

 

 

Surely, iphad, the back to back 60 day tourist visas will be stopped.  I am fully expecting them to do so.
 

 

I don't agree...doesn't mean I know...but I believe Thai Immigration is focused on making it more difficult for people that are working illegally in Thailand.

By making people go on the tourist visa they have more control..to ask for documentation...like what your funds are..where you living etc.

I don't believe Thailand is trying to turn away people that have money that they have accumulated legally...might be different if they suspect money laundering or drug money.

It's a wait & see game.at least for the next couple months..

I'm sure it is unsettling for people not knowing...difficult to plan ahead if one doesn't know if they get a tourist visa continued or not.

People might have to have a Plan B...or C

It's the people with little or no funds that have been living in Thailand who will experience the biggest pain....young and old.

 

 

[NamKangMan]

 

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

 

Our opinions and fulminations about the matter are totally inconsequential and pointless. All we can do is follow the laws or face the consequences of not doing so. Thailand's "problems" and "needs" are Thailand's alone. Surely your home country, where you have a vote, has room for improvement too? If there's a real crisis, the gov't will act. This visa crackdown per se won't lead to any noticeable economic effect, though it's understandably comforting for many a visa runner to imagine it will. 

 

You wanna march and carry a sign outside of Government House, go right ahead. See how much your advice is appreciated.
 

 

 

I agree with your post, wholeheartedly, although I will point out that Thailand doesn't currently have a Government, and due to the military coup, tourism is down, therefore, the Thai economy has been impacted.

 

I have never felt I have the right to reside in Thailand, and being as unstable as the country is, was always prepared to resort to my "Plan B" which has now become a real alternative to Thailand.

 

There's no sour grapes from me.  You are correct, Thailand have their laws, and that's it.  There is no point questioning them.  Foreigners have no rights here, it's as simple as that.

 

I feel for those with emotional, business and property interests here.  I know many of them have felt stable here, probably when they shouldn't have, and we are seeing panic now.

 

if I have to go, I will go.  No problem for me. 

 

My posts are not those from a desperate man, with a Thai girlfriend, with a "sick buffalo" in Issan.

Edited August 9, 2014 by NamKangMan

[NamKangMan]

 

 

 

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."

 

I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.

 

I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.

 

Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  

 

Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 

 

I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.

 

This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

 

Perhaps it is because Thai Immigration has made the  calculation that altering the immigration laws does not benefit Thailand or Thai citizens.  That is all that matters, because immigration laws  exist to  benefit Thailand and not the immigrant.  You may think Thailand is wrong, but Thailand thinks you are wrong, and that is why the law is as it is.
 

 

 

An interesting post, considering Thailand's visa laws already allows hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of foreigners to reside here. 

 

 

Yes, it does, because the law has calculated that they are beneficial to  the country and its citizens, either as expats with specialized knowledge unavailable in Thailand or as individuals who will not compete with or displace Thais from their own economy (retirees).  Look, I have every sympathy with you.  I hope you and other under 50s do find a way to  stay  until  you can hit the retirement age.  But until then, your options, for the sake of Thai citizens are limited to specialists who provide a net contribution to Thailand, people married to Thais, and expats who don't compete with Thais in the economy.  Otherwise, the Thai  Elite  card is there for people who are willing to pay for the privilege of going around those provisions.
 

 

 

Ahhh, so with a Thai Elite Card, which I can afford, but chose not to buy, I am welcome, but without it, I am rejected. 

 

I thought we were talking about "the law" - not a Thai money making scheme.  Then again, the law has always been for sale in Thailand. 

[zydeco]

 

 

 

 

 

Perhaps it is because Thai Immigration has made the  calculation that altering the immigration laws does not benefit Thailand or Thai citizens.  That is all that matters, because immigration laws  exist to  benefit Thailand and not the immigrant.  You may think Thailand is wrong, but Thailand thinks you are wrong, and that is why the law is as it is.
 

 

 

An interesting post, considering Thailand's visa laws already allows hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of foreigners to reside here. 

 

 

Yes, it does, because the law has calculated that they are beneficial to  the country and its citizens, either as expats with specialized knowledge unavailable in Thailand or as individuals who will not compete with or displace Thais from their own economy (retirees).  Look, I have every sympathy with you.  I hope you and other under 50s do find a way to  stay  until  you can hit the retirement age.  But until then, your options, for the sake of Thai citizens are limited to specialists who provide a net contribution to Thailand, people married to Thais, and expats who don't compete with Thais in the economy.  Otherwise, the Thai  Elite  card is there for people who are willing to pay for the privilege of going around those provisions.
 

 

 

Ahhh, so with a Thai Elite Card, which I can afford, but chose not to buy, I am welcome, but without it, I am rejected. 

 

I thought we were talking about "the law" - not a Thai money making scheme.  Then again, the law has always been for sale in Thailand. 

 

 

No, I really think it's about the law protecting Thailand and Thai citizens.  As has been pointed out, someone with the ability to acquire an Elite card is much, much less likely to abuse or violate Thai labor laws.  Again, I really do have sympathy for you guys.  In fact, I think it's admirable that you are willing to strike out beyond the boundaries of your home country and culture.  You should be rewarded for that courage.  But, as you say, this is a different world.  Things are  and harder and easier than they were when I was much younger.

 

Easier because:

* ease of travel

* ease of communications

* availability of food, entertainment, and information in your own language

* widespread creature comforts, such as a/c, good roads, transport, and infrastructure

 

You likely have no idea how it was when you had to make a reservation with an overseas operator to telephone back home.  When  there was no a/c, no English  language TV, no way to import your culture from back home.  And, paradoxically, that is why it is harder for your generation to be able to move around the world as easily as I did, because:

 

* you are now in direct competition with the locals

* your presence in a foreign country is almost like a "commute" for someone from a rich nation, who is able to subsidize his lifestyle with Western income, and thus enjoying an advantage over people in the local  economy

 

I never enjoyed an inborn advantage in my younger years--aside from training and education.  I never received a salary or subsidy that separated me from the local people.  Consequently, there were far fewer people doing what I did--and thus not the pressure on  the local economy that your generation is causing.
 

[JSixpack]

I feel for those with emotional, business and property interests here.  I know many of them have felt stable here, probably when they should have, and we are seeing panic now.

Probably when they should NOT have, I guess you meant. Wasn't visa running always just a little too good to be true? Should a visa runner have ever risked investing in any big emotional, business, and property interests? Anyway, we've discussed the legit courses of action to protect those interests now--which visa runners just don't wanna take. They wanna keep all the interests while continuing visa running, as if that's somehow their birthright, or entitlement.

 

Gov'ts can and do pull the rug out from you at any time. UK abolition of tax personal allowance: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/732736-uk-abolition-of-tax-personal-allowance/. Best to roll with the changes (having prepared to do so) with good grace rather than wasting time bitchin' an' moanin.

Edited August 9, 2014 by JSixpack

[Oceanbat]

 

 

I am under 50 years of age, single, and self funded, therefore, I am a "visa runner."
 
I have followed this thread, and the various arguments and personal attacks.
 
I will simply say, shouldn't Thailand at least review their visa laws?  They have been the same for so long, yet, the world is changing.  The distribution of wealth is changing.
 
Why is it such a problem for Thailand to add more visa classes for legitimate people living here?  It appears that the longer Thailand does not review their current visa laws, more and more legitimate foreigners are not represented in those laws.  
 
Nothing stays the same forever.  They need to review the current system. 
 
I don't say this as I feel I have a right to live here.  I say it for the benefit of Thailand, and the Thai economy in general.
 
This visa crack down very well may see thousands of people, and billions of baht, rejected from Thailand, simply because they can not meet a visa criteria that does not exist to represent them.  

 
Perhaps it is because Thai Immigration has made the  calculation that altering the immigration laws does not benefit Thailand or Thai citizens.  That is all that matters, because immigration laws  exist to  benefit Thailand and not the immigrant.  You may think Thailand is wrong, but Thailand thinks you are wrong, and that is why the law is as it is.
 
 

 
An interesting post, considering Thailand's visa laws already allows hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of foreigners to reside here. 
 

 
Yes, it does, because the law has calculated that they are beneficial to  the country and its citizens, either as expats with specialized knowledge unavailable in Thailand or as individuals who will not compete with or displace Thais from their own economy (retirees).  Look, I have every sympathy with you.  I hope you and other under 50s do find a way to  stay  until  you can hit the retirement age.  But until then, your options, for the sake of Thai citizens are limited to specialists who provide a net contribution to Thailand, people married to Thais, and expats who don't compete with Thais in the economy.  Otherwise, the Thai  Elite  card is there for people who are willing to pay for the privilege of going around those provisions.
 

Yah. Which nationality had the most work permits? Why? That should answer the questions.

OB




Sent from my iPad using Thaivisa Connect Thailand

[NamKangMan]

 

I feel for those with emotional, business and property interests here.  I know many of them have felt stable here, probably when they should have, and we are seeing panic now.

Probably when they should NOT have, I guess you meant. Wasn't visa running always just a little too good to be true? Should a visa runner have ever risked investing in any big emotional, business, and property interests? Anyway, we've discussed the legit courses of action to protect those interests now--which visa runners just don't wanna take. They wanna keep all the interests while continuing visa running, as if that's somehow their birthright, or entitlement.

 

Gov'ts can and do pull the rug out from you at any time. UK abolition of tax personal allowance: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/732736-uk-abolition-of-tax-personal-allowance/. Best to roll with the changes (having prepared to do so) with good grace rather than wasting time bitchin' an' moanin.

 

 

Yes, that should have read "shouldn't" - it was a typo and I have fixed it up. 

 

Like I said, no sour grapes from me, I have always had a contingency plan.  in fact, I encourage all foreigners to plan for a life outside of Thailand, for whatever reasons that may eventuate.

 

I think I will probably be granted more 60 day tourist visas, but in the case I am not, in the words of MacArthur, "I shall return." 

[NamKangMan]

@ zydeco

 

No offence, but, I didn't work, and therefore live, in some real shiteholes in the world, doing some dangerous and distasteful things, so I could be in the financial postion I am today, and be under 50 years of age. 

 

The things you say "Easier because" weren't "easy" where I worked and lived. 

 

For the record, I have not, do not, and will not, ever, take a job off a Thai, in fact, in my small way, I create employment for Thai's, obviously, because I move within their economy.

 

Once again, no sour grapes on my behalf.  i am well and truly prepared to be rejected on my next visa run and will reside elsewhere.  Of course, I will come back, when allowed to do so, in the short term, to sell up, and after 50, to live.

 

I do not consider myself rich, but comfortable, then again, money can not buy health and happiness, both of which are now my goal in life. 

 

To be honest, I have the freedom to say, "I don't need Thailand" - just like Thailand is saying they don't need me, and I'm fine with it. 

 

Sure, it's a little disappointing that I am looked upon somehow as an illegal worker or a criminal, when I certainly am not, but hey, TIT.

[JSixpack]

I will point out that Thailand doesn't currently have a Government,

A good argument for a visa runner to present to an Immigration official: the present non-government lacks the legitimacy to change the visa regs; therefore, you gotta let me back in. Fact, might as well just grab the stamp and stamp yourself on in! I'd like to sell tickets to that dance. Well, it would appear the non-government is laboring under the misconception that it's a government. We farangs should always point out the truth of Thai situations. It's a matter of honor and sacred duty, fulfilled here on the forum constantly.
 

and due to the military coup, tourism is down, therefore, the Thai economy has been impacted.

 

True, but the coup is by no means the only factor--and now we're talking numbers of some significance. The visa runners are no longer defined as a tourists and won't even be allowed to "tour," but are a tiny fraction of the total. And now the Cambodians are being let back in . The most likely scenario is that tourism will pick back up and increase over time. Some reports are positive: http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/749601-consumer-confidence-rises-as-thai-economy-recovers/. Even though any positive report is always greeted with sneers, and hence the SV airport was never built and is in fact an illusion, my point is that it isn't really a done deal that the end of visa running really spells ECONOMIC COLLAPSE. I wouldn't short sell on that probability. As I said, in the end it will make no discernible difference to the Thai economy overall. No matter the hot air, the countless anecdotes, the dire prophecies, time will tell.

Edited August 9, 2014 by JSixpack

[yoslim]

If the purpose of the crackdown is the avoid people working illegally why do they sell a visa for 500,000 baht. You would think people working illegally would have no problem paying for a visa when they actually have job 

[NanLaew]

 

 

If you're not 50 and not on a retirement visa... Why did you compare the Thailand Elite program with a retirement visa?

I am not 50 either by the way... But with my Thailand Elite PE visa I don't have your worries... and I don't have to stay away till an immigration officer allows me to enter. What a strange way of doing (and thinking) you have...

And "you're not paying 50 times more (it was 60 in your previous post) for an inferior visa"... Which visa are you talking about? Your tourist visa? Or a retirement visa again? I don't follow...

 

 

Maybe you're fine with overpaying, I just think it's plain unfair I have to pay so much more money for a visa because I'm not 50 yet or don't have a Thai wife. Anyways pointless argument, as I said I'd be fine with buying the card at the terms you got in (1mil for lifetime). As always in Thailand easy to bring your money in, way harder to take it out.

 

 

For every one person kicking themselves today for not having bought the Elite card 10 years ago, in ten years from now, there will be a hundred people kicking themselves that they passed up on Elite 'lite' card today.

 

[gerry1011]

 

 If you're not 50 and not on a retirement visa... Why did you compare the Thailand Elite program with a retirement visa?

I am not 50 either by the way... But with my Thailand Elite PE visa I don't have your worries... and I don't have to stay away till an immigration officer allows me to enter. What a strange way of doing (and thinking) you have...

And "you're not paying 50 times more (it was 60 in your previous post) for an inferior visa"... Which visa are you talking about? Your tourist visa? Or a retirement visa again? I don't follow...

 

 
Maybe you're fine with overpaying, I just think it's plain unfair I have to pay so much more money for a visa because I'm not 50 yet or don't have a Thai wife. Anyways pointless argument, as I said I'd be fine with buying the card at the terms you got in (1mil for lifetime). As always in Thailand easy to bring your money in, way harder to take it out.
 

 
For every one person kicking themselves today for not having bought the Elite card 10 years ago, in ten years from now, there will be a hundred people kicking themselves that they passed up on Elite 'lite' card today.

 

Yes, I think you are right.
It seems that since they introduced the 5 years card, many new members are joining the program.
The new 5 years Easy Access card is very good because it allows new members to "test" the product first.
But personally I would not be surprised if the price of the 5 years card jumps to 600,000 in a year.
I am also pretty sure that there will be a kind of "platinum" option in the future too.


Sent from my iPhone using Thaivisa Connect Thailand Edited August 9, 2014 by gerry1011