Answered2 years ago

Can I apply for a Non-Immigrant O Retirement Visa while I'm in Thailand on a tourist visa?

Thai Non-Immigrant O Visa Retirement Visa Visa Application Process Tourist Visa Visa Change Procedure Exemption Visa

Philippe *********

asked Apr 23, 2025

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Regarding the non-immigrant O retirement visa... is it possible to apply while already in Thailand?

If so, would it be possible to do so after entering Thailand with an exemption or tourist visa and possibly after a 30 days extension?

Would the 90-day permit period be added to the initial planned exit date of the tourist visa or its extension?

Thank you for any info!

Answer summary

Yes, you can apply for a non-immigrant O retirement visa while already in Thailand, even if you've entered on a tourist visa. This process is known as changing your visa type to a 90-day Non-Imm-O Retirement Visa. To do this, you need to meet certain conditions, including having at least 15-21 days remaining on your stay before applying. It's recommended to have a Thai bank account set up beforehand, although opening one may be challenging on a tourist visa.

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Wayne ********

This my exact plan as well, thanks for asking Philippe, I know it’s a straightforward process but the 1st time round is a bit daunting. Cheers 🍻

2 years ago

Nongnuch ********

yes, it is possible. It is called "change of visa type" and described as a change from a touristic entry to an in-country 90-days Non-Imm-O Retirement Visa. The requirements can be read of the pdf document which opens if you click onto number 9 that refers to your case . . .

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2 years ago

Stuart ***********

Do you have a Thai bank account already?

If not, it is virtually impossible to open an account on a tourist visa.

Much easier to get the non O before you come to Thailand.

2 years ago

Tore *********

@Stuart **********

quite possible actually.

- Dress formally (very important)

- Have a residency certificate (can be obtained even on tourist visa in Bangkok)

- Have a medical appointment, or medical certificate from a hospital

- Go to a branch inside, or near hospital

Its generally quite difficult indeed, but this makes it allot easier.

2 years ago

Ron ******

@Tore ********

Why would you require a medical certificate to open a bank account?

2 years ago

Tore *********

@Ron *****

you gonna have to ask the bank why they have their rules. My thai friend called to ask them, and “under medical treatment in Thailand” was pretty much the only way with a resident type visa.(retirement, spouse isa etc). So after i started my treatment i opened the account . This was quite recently

2 years ago

Stuart ***********

@Tore ********

do you know anybody that has opened one in the last 6 months?

I opened an account 3 years ago, but the banks are much stricter now.

2 years ago

Stuart ***********

@Tore ********

okay, I had not heard of that before, but I guess 99% of people will not come to Thailand needing medical treatment.

2 years ago

Tore *********

@Stuart **********

i do yes: me personally. And actually on first branch i tried. But i know in advance about Bangkok Banks «medical clause”. Each branch different obviously, but they do have a “official” clause from HQ specifically for medical treatment.

2 years ago