Advice re:Thai application for immigrant Visa

From the Postbag of The Bangkok Post.''The secret to US visas''

''Every few months I see letters in Postbag complaining about the American visa process. It is a shame that people don't get it. It's easy to get a visa to America. The difference in age of an applicant and her boyfriend has nothing to do with it. In fact, the applicant probably shouldn't even mention having a boyfriend. It's her application alone.

Here is the secret to getting a temporary visa to America. When you sit before the American consular officer in your interview, just convince him or her that you will be coming back before that visa expires. No problem, right?

Here's what is required. The visa applicant _ not her boyfriend _ must have assets that prove roots in Thailand. One is a good job, hopefully a solid, career-type job. Second is ownership of property, a healthy Thai bank account, a car. Third is family ties in Thailand.

Also, it is helpful if the applicant has already been to America and come back within the terms of their visa. These are ''normal assets'' as far as the hi-so and upper middle-class Thai families are concerned. They also look normal to the American consular officer.

Here's the problem: the Thai girlfriends or wives of foreigners may be lovely and dependable companions, but they are rarely from the upper tiers of society. American consular officers hear scams and lies all the time. They have already heard all the stories you can think up. So, considering all this, most farangs will be smart to stay away from situations involving visas for Thai friends. Even after many years of marriage, it is still her visa.ht this might be a worthwhile opinion that others might want to consider.''

I must admit I was astonished at the Number of Ladies I saw at the Oz Embassy who were NEARLY Wearing Skirts, but were applying for Visa's to be with their Elderly Sponsor Yes your Honour I have a well Paid Job and my Mamasan .... Umm Boss says it will be there waiting for me when I get back

After reading the advice, which is very good advice, it really has nothing to do with immigrant visas, but rather tourist and other temporary visas.

Here is the secret to getting a temporary visa to America. When you sit before the American consular officer in your interview, just convince him or her that you will be coming back before that visa expires

Immigrant visas could be based upon an individual only, but most often have to do with family.

I recall sitting at the US Embassy some years ago and talking with a 40's something Thai guy who had finally won the visa lottery after 8 years of applying. He was waiting to get his immigrant visa. He had no contacts, family, or job offer in the US. He was going cold and he was pleased as punch.