Hello:

I'm a 59 year old American male artist soon to retire from the National Park Service. I have a 30 year lease (registered with the land office) on one rai of land, in Northern Thailand, that I want to build a traditional Ayuthuya style house on.

I need advise on what type of visa to apply for. If I apply for a type O visa as a precondition for a RETIREMENT visa, am I "locked-in", or, could I change my mind and apply for a different type of visa later if conditions changed, i.e. opportunity for work, marriage, whatever.

I'll have enough money in a Thai bank and a regular monthly income to satisfy the RETIREMENT visa requirements and I also meet all the other qualifications. I am still very active and creative and am not ready to just sit around and take it easy. Here are a few questions I need help with.

1. Is the RETIREMENT visa my best option?

2. Can I legally build my own house with hired Thai help?

3. On a RETIREMENT visa do I have to stay in Thailand year round or can I leave for 6 months at a time to make more money in the US or to travel?

4. Can I bring my personal I-Mac computer with me?

5. Will I be charged duty on it?

6. What about owning my own car and driving license/insurance?

7. Should I supply Thai character references with my application?

8. If I bring special screws for my house project from the US will I be charged duty?

9. Is it legal for me to do volunteer work in my village if there's no pay involved?

That's plenty for now. All constructive input is gratefully appreciated. Thank you.

Artistmouth

1. Only you can answer that question - but it would appear that way. You are never locked in.

2. You can not build but do not believe anyone will object to your supervision.

3. You have complete freedom to do as you please - to travel outside the country does require a re entry permit first to keep your extension alive (routine procedure).

4. Yes.

5. Yes. Rate will be whatever Customs says. Very grey area.

6. No problem.

7. Should not be required. You are the person supporting your stay.

8. If noticed they will likely attract duty.

9. Not by strict interpretation of laws but unlikely to be a problem in real life for most low profile things.

1. Only you can answer that question - but it would appear that way. You are never locked in.

2. You can not build but do not believe anyone will object to your supervision.

3. You have complete freedom to do as you please - to travel outside the country does require a re entry permit first to keep your extension alive (routine procedure).

4. Yes.

5. Yes. Rate will be whatever Customs says. Very grey area.

6. No problem.

7. Should not be required. You are the person supporting your stay.

8. If noticed they will likely attract duty.

9. Not by strict interpretation of laws but unlikely to be a problem in real life for most low profile things.

Thanks very much! I'm soo excited.

Artistmouth