Uncertainty over visa
I read the instructions that Eric Bahrt referred to and he is correct on its wording; however I suspect he is incorrect in his interpretation.
The first paragraph of the report says that the visa is for affluent foreigners. It does say that it replaces the one-year visa, but I suspect that what they were trying to say is that it replaces the one-year visa for those who elect to use it and can qualify to use it. I seriously doubt that the Thai government would allow a retiree with a five hundred thousand baht a month income but too old to obtain health insurance to leave because of a lack of choice.
I renewed my one-year a couple of weeks ago and it wasn't mentioned. But then again, the report also said that there was no date set yet as to when the option would be available. Option is my word, not their’s but I suspect it will be accurate. Why Eric persists with trying to frighten everyone without the decision being finalised as yet, only he would understand, but it appears as though something here was lost in translation.
John Arnone
