A friend is asking if you arrive on a 45 day tourist visa if you can convert it to an O visa, I remember previously it was only available in the UK but, apparently you can process it yourself locally? Anyone got any up to date info and costs, he does not want to use an agent he prefers to do the process himself in HH, many thanks.
TLDR : Answer Summary
A 45-day tourist visa can potentially be converted to a Non-O visa, but this is subject to the discretion of the local immigration office and the remaining time on the visa stamp. Typically, it has been easier to process in the UK, but updates suggest it may now be possible locally, specifically in Hua Hin (HH). It's important to note that the possibility largely depends on the reasons for obtaining the Non-O visa, such as marriage to a Thai citizen, being a parent of a Thai child, or retirement.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.