Jan 12, 2024
10 months ago
American citizen here. Can you apply for a 6 month METV while in Thailand? Here is my dilemma. Thinking of retiring to Thailand?, but before I plop approximately $22,000 US dollars into a Thai bank account I want to spend as close to a year in Thailand to see if it is for me. I don't know whether to get a 6 month METV first, extend 2x's to make it 9 months, do my two exits and entry's then put in for a 60 day Tourist visa and extend it 30 days to make it 90 days and then put my retirement VISA in. In other words want to spend as close to a year in Thailand before I put in fot Retirement Visa. I want to make sure that Thailand is the place. Any help would be appreciated? Thanks in Advance.
TLDR : Answer Summary
An American citizen cannot apply for a 6-month METV (Multiple Entry Tourist Visa) while in Thailand; it must be obtained from their home country. However, there are alternatives, such as applying for an OA visa which offers a longer term without the need for funds in a Thai bank account. A recommended approach is to visit Thailand first to assess the living conditions before committing financially to retirement arrangements.
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.