So, like the title says, my wife will be attending University in Chiang Mai next fall. It is a ways off but I want to get this sorted now.

Will I be able to get a Type O visa if she has an ED visa; correct?

To be clear, we are both american citizens.

I've been reading on the forums about the recent crackdowns.

Am I going to have to do border runs etc, or will I be able to live peacefully in Chiang Mai for the next 5 years as she completes her Doctorate? We will have a legitimate reason for living there etc, and I will likely be volunteering at some charity as well, as I see this as a good opportunity to do something for others.

My work is primarily online so no need for a work permit.

Cheers,

ultra

Edited October 28, 201510 yr by ultrademon

If with paperwork supplied by the university your wife is granted a one year extension of stay then it would be possible for you to obtain an extension of stay as her dependent. The extensions would be renewable annually.

You are likely going to have to rely on tourist visas until your wife secures an extension of stay.

As you have plenty of time your wife should seek clarification (in writing) from the university about what visa/extension of stay support they will provide.

Working legally in Thailand requires an appropriate visa and work permit no matter what the nature of the work.

Volunteering also requires an appropriate visa and work permit

So she can't just get her ED visa and I get my Type O visa in advance through a consulate here in the states?

Or you think the University will just be able to sort this in part?

on what basis would you get your O Visa?

Your wife would have to gain an extension of her visa, in Thailand this is then called an Extension, you can only piggy back Extensions, and all extensions are granted in Thailand itself.

Your wife can, with paperwork from the university, obtain an Ed visa in the States

You may find it difficult to obtain an "O" visa as there would be no grounds that I know that would permit issue.

"My work is primarily online so no need for a work permit." - Is that you telling the Thai Ministry of Labour, or asking ?

If you wife gets the paperwork and is issued a non-ed visa you should be able to get a non-o visa as her dependent at the same time.