Tourist Visa. You get 2 months, then can extend for another 30 days (90 days total) at immigration. Then I do a hop over to Laos or Cambodia (usually Cambodia... they have a great place called Sihanoukville Beach). I'll stay a day or a week. Whatever I feels... get another Thai Visa in whichever country (can't get in Thailand). Then go back for another 90 days. It's worth pointing out that I've never stayed an entire year at once in Thailand crossing back and forth doing border runs. I've done trips back to the USA, Costa Rica (3 months), India (1 month), etc. Technically, you're not allowed more than 6 months in Thailand in 1 year on a Tourist Visa, but I know several that have and since I only stay about 6 months, that's never been a problem for me. I rent a small, well furnished condo (month to month) overlooking the beach for about $350 in Pattaya and just love it here. It's paradise at a fraction of the cost. That's why I'm here. I want to learn how to earn several more sources of income online. This life is too valuable to lose and the more income, the safer I'll feel.