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

Non-Immigrant O Visa Retirement Visa Visa Application Process Tourist Visa Visa Change in Thailand

Apr 23, 2025

2 days ago

Philippe *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

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!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Yes, it is possible to apply for a Non-Immigrant O Retirement Visa while in Thailand on a tourist visa. This process, known as 'change of visa type', allows individuals to change from a tourist entry to a 90-day Non-Immigrant O Retirement Visa. However, you will need to ensure that you have at least 15-21 days remaining on your tourist visa to apply. Additionally, having a Thai bank account can facilitate this process. The impact of the 90-day permit period on your planned exit date would depend on your visa's remaining validity and the processing of the new visa.

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.

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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 🍻

a day 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 days 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 days 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 days ago

Ron ******

@Tore ********

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

a day 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

a day ago

Reply to

Tore *********

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 days 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 days 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.

a day ago

Reply to

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

Bob **********

You will need 15-21 days left on your stay to apply

2 days ago

Reply to

Bob **********