As of October 1st, 2022, the free entry program for travelers without a visa to Thailand has been extended from 30 days to 45 days. This extension applies to visitors from 58 countries who arrive without a visa. They can enter Thailand and receive a free entry stamp for 45 days, after which they can apply for a one-time 30-day extension at an immigration office for a fee of 1900 baht.
Tod *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Sadly, you "heard" wrong ๐ฎ ๐
What happened on Oct 1st is the the free entry program when you enter without ANY visa (which used to be for 30 days) was increased to 45 days. The program runs from Oct 1st to Mar 31st
It is not a visa on arrival, it is not a visa at all it is a free entry stamp which people from 58 countries get when they show up here without a valid visa to thailand in their passport.
People who enter on that from 52 countries can get stamped in for 45 days and then apply one time for a 30 day extension at the immigration office where you stay for 1900baht
keep in mind people from the 17 visa on arrival countries usually are asked to show proof of 10K baht or the equivalent, proof of onward travel in 30 days and proof of lodging when they buy their visa on arrival at passport control. Not everyone is asked but I'd sure be prepared
There is no "retirement visa" it's just what people call the process and the stamps they get
BUT
yes, if you meet the financial requirements and have enough time left on your visa exempt entry stamp (most offices are minimum of 15 days and some are minimum of 21 days) you can use that entry stamp or the 30 day extension from it to apply for first the in country 90 day Non-O visa based on being over 50 (retirement) for 2000baht and then the year extension 2 months after that for 1900baht.
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