Has Thailand Changed?

Has Thailand Changed?

My Background

After holidaying as a tourist in Thailand with my English wife over a period of four or five years, I moved permanently to this Land of Smiles in October 2006. Technically, under Thai law I'm an "alien", that's the word they use. I am not a long-term permanent resident. Although foreigners regard themselves as Expats, as indeed I do, the reality is that they have to apply annually for an "extension of stay" and to report to Immigration every 90 days. It's a nuisance and time-wasting but we have to put up with it. The extensions are almost always granted. It's possible to apply for permanent residence to avoid extensions and 90 day reporting but it's subject to an annual quota by nationality. It takes months if not years. Few people bother. I know of only one person who was granted residence but he did so 30 years ago when it was easier.

Where Have All the Smiles Gone?h3>

testing