Answered5 years ago

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

Thomas ********

asked Mar 31, 2022

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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?

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.

6 repliesnewest first

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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?

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@John *********

Thanks. Yes important point.

5 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)

5 years ago

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

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@Ellie ******

Thanks, that's good to hear.

5 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

5 years ago