Quote Originally Posted by sjaak327
Not many I would assume, but that's not my point, my point is ONCE they are on provisional stay, so AFTER they have jumped all the hurdles, they are treated like first grade citizens.
You're absolutely right. I think Thai immigration should change its rules -- both for tourist visa, long-term stays, and naturalization -- to mirror the more advantageous ones you are talking about. I'm sure the farang population would be happy to jump those hurdles so that they could vote here, or work as an umbrella maker (one of the "restricted" professions, along with making alms bowls, knives, and hats). All this being able to stay in Thailand forever with no qualifications whatsoever is for the birds. We want the right to make umbrellas, dammit!