A FULLY-FLEDGED MEMBER OF THE MEDIA
I've been working in the media in Thailand since June 2006, and yesterday I became the proud holder of a Thai press card for the first time.
After a short visit to the Public Relations Department of the Royal Thai Government I walked away with a FBI-style book that means, legally at least, I am a fully fledged member of the Thai media.
You might be wondering why didn't have one before now? The truth is that in my last job I was employed on a business visa whereas now I am on a media visa. That necessitates having a press card issued by the government.
In the past I was never asked to show my press card, and not having one certainly did not present any problems whatsoever. However I'm told there are a few benefits for being employed on the media visa and having the press card. One is that members of the government should only be taking to people with press cards, and another relates to the apparent ease with which media visa holders can apply for the all-important work permit. There are apparently less hoops to jump through with this kind of visa.
I wonder whether accidentally dropping the press card on the check-in counter at Suvarnabhumi might lead to any additional benefits?
4 comments:
Don't you have to be a better speller to get press card?
It's easier to get an accreditation for bigger events with a press card, otherwise don't hold your breath. Journalists don't hold the best of reputations around here.
Why at Swampy? You have your eye on a particularly appealing immigration officer? ;-)
I might have to employ my media experience over the next few years in Thailand and you've just given me impetus to seek a media registration. Thanks for the idea, Andrew. chrs
Sadly I have to report the media card was no use whatsoever at Suvarnabhumi. I didn't get an upgrade, and it didn't help when it came to being charged for excess baggage.:-)
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