Once all the papers have been submitted for citizenship on the basis of marriage to a Thai and support of (one's own) Thai children, what is the expected waiting time before approval? Is it reasonable to spend part of that time out of the country, or would that harm your chances of approval?

Thanks.

From what I've heard it could take decades. Better not to bother.

There were people that had been waiting for approval from 3 to 5 years in the most recent batch of approvals.

Look at the last few pages of this topic dbrenn's story of Thai citizenship application

If you could keep your work permit and job while out of the country it would not be a problem.

From what I understand 3 to 5 years before you receive your citizenship AFTER you are recommended/approved for citizenship is not unusual.

There are only a limited number of citizenship requests approved yearly, even when you are approved for consideration.