Can I convert a 30-day tourist visa to a retirement visa in Thailand without leaving the country?

Retirement visa Thailand visa rules Non-O visa Tourist visa Visa conversion Immigration procedures

Mar 31, 2022

3 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi.

I'd appreciate some advice in the below.

I live in Thailand and have a valid retirement visa.

I need to leave Thailand for a couple of months for personal reasons during which time my retirement visa will expire.

2 questions

1. Rather than applying for a new retirement visa at an Embassy outside of Thailand, 

is it possible to return to Thailand on a 30 day tourist visa and then have this converted into a new retirement visa at Chaengwattana Immigration? 

2. If yes,  can I do this in Thailand upon my return without thereafter having to leave the country as part of the retirement visa issuance process?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user seeks advice on whether they can return to Thailand on a 30-day tourist visa and then convert it into a retirement visa (Non-O) while residing in the country. Two commenters confirm that this is possible, stating that the user can apply for the Non-O visa in Thailand without needing to leave for the issuance process. However, it's highlighted that one of the requirements is a significant bank transfer into a Thai bank, and clarification on historical transfers may be needed.

NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

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John **********

Be aware part of the requirements for an in country Non-O visa are that you are able to show 800k being transferred into a Thai bank from overseas. I'm not clear if a historical transfer (assuming you're even able to show one) is acceptable. Perhaps

@Ellie ******

might know?

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@John *********

Thanks. Yes important point.

3 years ago

Ellie *******

@John *********

As long as he can get the bank record of 'old' international transfer, he can use it. (There is no maximum limit on how old the international transfer has to be)

3 years ago

Reply to

Ellie *******

1 - yes, you can apply in-country Non-O once you entered Thailand on the visa-exempt scheme.

2 - yes, you can apply for an initial in-country Non-O visa and following 1-year extension without leaving Thailand

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Ellie ******

Thanks, that's good to hear.

3 years ago

Charles *************

@Ellie ******

thank you I plan to retire in Thailand next June and I was not sure if I could come on visa exempt scheme and then apply or not. And yes I will have money in bank 90 days before I apply. Thanks again

3 years ago

Reply to

Charles *************

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