Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Thailand’s long-term 'high potential' resident visa fee to be halved to ฿50,000
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Thailand’s long-term 'high potential' resident visa fee to be halved to ฿50,000
13 Sept 22:19Key points summarised by AI
Thailand's cabinet approved halving the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa fee to ฿50,000 for foreigners deemed 'high potential' seeking up to a ten-year stay.
The visa targets four key groups: high-income individuals, foreign pensioners, remote workers, and specialists, including their spouses and up to four children.
This initiative aims to attract foreign investment and stimulate the Thai economy, projecting an injection of up to one trillion baht and one million new residents over five years.
Applicants must meet specific financial and professional criteria, such as income thresholds, insurance coverage, or relevant work experience in targeted industries.
Speculation growing over merger between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham parties
Today 16:46Key points summarised by AI
A dinner between Bhumjaithai and Kla Tham party leaders sparked rumors of a potential merger, though Bhumjaithai's leader, Anutin, downplayed it as a casual meal.
The meeting is widely interpreted as a strategic message from Bhumjaithai to the Pheu Thai party, signaling alternative support ahead of an upcoming no-confidence debate.
Thailand's Constitution (Section 99) currently prohibits direct mergers of parties with sitting MPs during the House's term, a rule designed to prevent the 'buying and selling' of MPs.
While direct mergers are restricted, MPs can still switch parties if dismissed by a three-fourths party vote or if their party dissolves, allowing for indirect political realignments.
Kla Tham's voting behavior in the censure debate will demonstrate its loyalty to the government, potentially influencing future political dynamics despite current merger restrictions.