In the past I've had an Educational visa while learning Thai language. After returning to Thailand I thought a tourist visa would be nice as I'll be in and out of the country off and on.  However, I just got back from immigration where I found out that I can't get a 60 day extension (only 30 days) and that the next extension would only be for 7 days. A tourist visa doesn't sound suitable as I'm an expat here.  I've got the money for a retirement visa, but I'm still in my 40's, so got a few years to go.

What are my options?  I'll still be in and out of the country and plan to take my Thai girl to America on a little vacation *if* her tourist visa is accepted this time. The EDU visa was great when I was planted and trying to learn Thai, but I learn Thai from my girl for free and I really want to be somewhat mobile.  (I may have to do this again?)

I suppose a marriage visa would take care of her visa to the USA and my visa troubles here, but I'd like marriage to be more then about our visas. I'm still open to this suggestion as I see myself staying with her long term.  I'm just gun shy to the marriage idea.

Also, I'd rather not ever visit Laos again in my lifetime.  If you have a link with other countries I could take care of my visa issues, I'd opt for that instead. 

Thank you in advance for all your advice! 

Kop khun khup!

Where are you registrered (living) when you are in Thailand? Could be useful to know when it comes to suggestions for places to buy VISAS

 

Glegolo

Just now, glegolo said:

Where are you registrered (living) when you are in Thailand? Could be useful to know when it comes to suggestions for places to buy VISAS

 

Glegolo

I'm living in Chiang Mai when in the land of smiles.  :)

• Until you get married you're only options are Tourist Visas (METV or SETV), or the Thailand Elite PE Visa (min 500K baht for 5 years).
• You can only get the METV in the USA. It gives multiple entries for 6 moths with border runs needed every 60/90 days. With planning you can stay nearly 9 month.
• SETV's are available from all the countries neighboring Thailand. You are limited to he number you can buy from each location but there is no overall limit.
• Tourist visas aren't designed for living here as an expat, but if you're prepared to put up with getting a new one every three months or so it's possible.