@Henrik *****************
“Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you”
****comprehensive and partially WRONG!
“1. Visa Application Process:
You cannot apply for a Non-Immigrant “O” Retirement Visa upon arrival in Thailand. This visa must be obtained prior to your arrival. Typically, applications are submitted to a Thai embassy or consulate in your country of residence or nationality”
**** You don’t apply at Thai embassies directly any more. ALL OF THEM are linked to the Online E-Visa system
“2. Financial Requirements:
You’ve indicated possession of the required 800,000 THB, which is excellent. Ensure these funds are transferred into a Thai bank account after opening one upon your arrival”
****WRONG !!!
You will need to prove this amount on your Bank account (which can be anywhere in the World as long as you prove it is in your name)
BEFORE you enter Thailand!
You need to prove this amount in your bank account for the application to the initial visa!!
“This amount must be maintained in the account for at least two months before applying for the retirement visa extension within Thailand.”
**** After entering Thailand on a 90-days Non-O visa, you need to open a Thai bank account.
In the last 30 days before the 90-days stay permit expires, you will apply for the “1-year Extension of the Stay Permit” (and NOT for a “retirement visa extension” – a visa cannot get extended!)
“Alternatively, if you have a monthly income or pension of not less than 65,000 THB, you can provide proof of this instead”
****You should have added: ONLY if your embassy in Bangkok does provide an “income affidavit”
The British Embassy DOES NOT issue income affidavits any more, so he CANNOT use the income proof in the first year!