This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.
Can I convert a tourist visa to a Non-O retirement visa in Thailand, and what are the steps involved?
Tourist VisaNon-O VisaRetirement VisaVisa ConversionThai ImmigrationBanking RequirementsExpat AdviceVisa Agents
Aug 5, 2025
9 months ago
Jeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTERI have a request, I am in Thailand I was told I could convert a tourist visa into a non O visa, went to immigration in Nakhon Sawan to ask l, they would not help or tell me what steps I need to take, I am wanting to end up with a retirement visa as soon as I can. Any good advice would be appreciated, I’m sorry I do not have a bank account in my name, I have proof of residency, I believe I was given bad information from someone already living here, he said I should just come over on a tourist visa and change it to a non O visa once I arrived, now I am finding out I should had just applied when I was home and came in like everyone is saying Thanks
TLDR : Answer Summary
The original poster (OP) is seeking guidance on converting a tourist visa into a Non-O visa (Retirement Visa) while in Thailand. They visited an immigration office in Nakhon Sawan but did not receive helpful information. Many commenters suggest that while it is technically possible to convert a tourist visa to a retirement visa, the reality is complicated by requirements like having a Thai bank account with 800,000 THB. Several recommend that the OP would be better off leaving Thailand to apply for the Non-O visa from abroad, as recent regulations have made it difficult to open bank accounts or meet retirement visa requirements while on a tourist visa. Using an agent was also suggested but with a caution about costs and the need to carefully vet agents.
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.
Pelle Eriksson★★★★★
Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...recently on Facebook
Luca G.★★★★★
I used this agency for my DTV Visa...recently on Google
Trusted Retirement Visa Agent
OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED
#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND
Andy **********
The reason you are getting mixed information, is because some immigration offices, will issue the initial non O and some won't, and will suggest you leave Thailand, and apply at a thai embassy in a neighbouring country, then return and they will issue the 12 month retirement extension, so you will need to do that, or get an agent in somewhere like Pattaya, is usually the cheapest, you should also be able to open a bank account with a non O, if you do the visa, with your own finances through the agent, you should be able to do the extension yourself the following year.
Pertti *************
You can use agent if it's difficult🙏
Greg *****
Hi
@Jeff ************
.. just going through the process myself and yesterday successfully crossed the “divide”. I have posted twice now on the recent 2 day visit and details of the steps taken. Happy to share my Khon Kaen experienceGreg *****
Details sent via Messenger
Jeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Greg ****
you sent it to me on DM? I haven’t seen it, I did see your profile and it’s lockedGreg *****
@Jeff ************
yes I pasted the posts to you on Messenger.. should be waiting for youReply to
Greg *****
Reply
Kelley ******
Call Baan Immigration Services.....they just did mine! Tell them I referred you, please 😊
Keith *******
Sorry to hear of your plight. You will also find poor information from "experts" on this site as well. I find a lot of good information on this site but still go to the Thai Embassy site to check.
Paul ****
Non-O ED sure but not a Non-O retirement. You can’t retire from visa on arrival or a tourist visa. Contact Thai Nexus for more info
Erik *********
You can do anything you want with Photoshop
David ********
Mot pattaya
Holger **************
Are you in Thailand on a 60 day stay Visa exempt? Or have you really a Visa in your Passport ..
But i think both you cannot Convert in 90 day non o
This you must apply outside thailand
But i think both you cannot Convert in 90 day non o
This you must apply outside thailand
Jeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Holger *************
yes I’m here on 60 day tourist visa, I was told I could come here and change to non O, I now believe I was given bad informationHolger **************
@Jeff ************
today i Got Email from E Thai Visa My Visa has been Approved ...multiple entry valid until August 5 th 2030 !!
Reply to
Holger **************
Reply
Walt ********
Siam Legal. I just got my DTV 5 year snd Siam took care of everything, best money spent
Grace ************
We can assist you with opening a bank account in Thailand, whether you're here on a Tourist Visa, Exempt Entry, Non-O Visa, or Yearly Extension.
Please don’t rely on information from just one agency—many claim it can’t be done, but we successfully help clients with this process on a regular basis.
Feel free to contact our team via LINE for assistance:
>
Please don’t rely on information from just one agency—many claim it can’t be done, but we successfully help clients with this process on a regular basis.
Feel free to contact our team via LINE for assistance:
>
**********************
Ricky ********
Only follow directions from immigration. Not expert expats, and not Facebook people.
Peter ******
What's a tourist visa ? As a tourist he cannot open a bank account legally, he has no residence proof, he has no visa, etc.
Steve **********
Pdc agent
John **********
Onestop Services Pattaya Soi 6. Absolutely brilliant. Names Mark, will answer all your questions via WhatsApp. About £1000 in all but all the crap and problems sorted and you can always come back to Mark and ask him anything!
@https://www.facebook.*********************
I can certainly recommend this visa service. Came over 3 months ago to sort my retirement, bike and car visa/licence. Went back to the UK and came back last week with my non 0 retirement visa multi entry.Nongnuch ********
@John *********
there is no more 365-days multi entry retirement visa any more since October 2023. Surely you must mean you are on the 12-months extended stay permit based on retirement, for which you bought a multi re-entry permit for 3800 Baht. You don't have a "visa". You got a "1-year stay permit"John **********
@Nongnuch *******
I've got a Retirement entry permit, Multiple Entry. It's stamped as a NON-IMMNongnuch ********
@John *********
you rather got something like that, instead of "single" it says "multiple"- The top stamp is an "extended stay permit" and the reason it was issued for has been stamped above, it says "Retirement". This is NOT a visa. The headline above the re-entry permit stamp says "Non-Imm" which is the generalization fitting a dozen of visa classes for which a re-entry permit can be bought forJohn **********
@Nongnuch *******
Yes! Same as mine. I've started the 65K every 4 weeks with 800K in the bank 3 months before and after I renew. Can I withdraw the 800K the second year if I continue with the 65K each month??Nongnuch ********
@John *********
you can withdraw the 800,000 THB deposit on the day after you get your new 12-months extension stamped and inked, based on the 12-months banking statement of transfers from abroad of monthly 65K. It's good you used your own funds, because if an agent fronted them, you won't have followed the requirements of keeping the funds in your account for 3 months after being issued the extension and never gone under 400,000 in the rest of the year. Immigration will check your bankbook accordingly.John **********
@Nongnuch *******
Thanks Nongnuch. I will just explain what's happened and if you think there will be no problem. The agent fronted the 800K in April, I've been back to the UK and came back on July 25th I immediately put 65K in my Kasikorn Bank and over 500k in the Bangkok Bank which I can top up to 800K tomorrow if needed. Will this be OK?Brandon ************
@John *********
no. You already failed by having the agent front the money. You'll have to use an agent again next year because your 12 month bank statement will not show that you met the requirements. Your bank account would have to show it was at 800,000 for 3 months after your April extension and that it never dropped below 400,000 after that, which you clearly cannot show.That means you'll need to bring your account up to 800,000 next year 2 months before you'll apply for your extension. Then you'll have to find an agent to do your extension. Then you'll need to keep it at 800,000 for an additional 3 months and never let it drop below 400,000. During this time you can send the monthly 65,000 international transfers, and in 2027 you can apply by yourself using the monthly transfers.
John **********
@Brandon ***********
Thanks, Brandon. That's a real pisser. Enough to piss anybody off after I've done everything by the book. Thanks for your help!Graham ******
@John *********
you used an agent, how is that "by the book"?Reply to
Graham ******
Reply
Greg ***********
Jeff
@Jeff ************
The agent route is very complicated and very expensive. It consists of finding an agent who is willing to do the full process. There are a lot of steps which you will need to walk through. . . . You are better off by visiting a neighbour country and apply for the Non-O retirement visa through the E-Visa Online system while there. The agent route will let you get an Education Visa first, which means exiting and re-entering Thailand, then stay for 90 days and convert it to a Non-Imm-O based Extension of Stay later, after opening a bank account for you. Very expensiveTHAI ******************************
@Greg **********
We’re not sure which agency provided you with that information, but we do not require our clients to obtain an ED visa.Our process is straightforward and typically takes less than a week. It includes opening a bank account, obtaining a 3-month Non-O visa, and securing a 1-year extension.
The total cost for everything typically ranges between 55,000 to 65,000 THB, depending on the time of year. At the moment, it’s approximately 60,000 THB.
That said, we strongly advise against applying for your Non-O visa from within Thailand. It’s far better to apply before you arrive, which allows you to open your own account. If you still choose to use an agency afterward, the cost can be up to 75% lower.
Reply to
THAI ******************************
Reply
Rok ********
Much simpler to apply for non/o in home country, enter Thailand with the visa , open the bank account and apply for extension within 3 months
THAI ******************************
@Rok *******
This is the correct process, but if you’re expecting it to be easy once you’re here, that’s a common misconception.We assist with this regularly, yet we still strongly recommend that, if at all possible, you apply for your Non-O visa from outside Thailand.
We understand this may not be feasible for everyone due to individual circumstances, but it’s important that we make this clear.
Reply to
THAI ******************************
Reply
Sean ******
Form TM86 or TM87 depending on the visa you needed to get into the country. Im going through the process myself now.
Thaat ********
Please use service of the Thai agency company.
Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
so even the group owner is calling out your nonsense and is threatening to ban you from this group for spreading misinformation. You are simply incorrect and ill informed.Grace ************
@Nongnuch *******
Stop spreading false information, or we will have to remove your account from the group.We can STILL assist you with opening a bank account in Thailand, whether you're here on a Tourist Visa, Exempt Entry, Non-O Visa, or Yearly Extension.
Please don’t rely on information from just one agency—many claim it can’t be done, but we successfully help clients with this process on a regular basis.
Feel free to contact our team via LINE for assistance:
>
**********************
Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
Agents in Pattaya are today advertising this service.Nongnuch ********
@Pete ******
go call them and find out, they tell you the full storyReply to
Nongnuch ********
Reply
Bob ********
Siam legal
Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
not true. Agents in Pattaya are still able to open bank accounts for people on tourist visa or visa exempt providing they are applying through that agent for a following Non-O. Obviously for a fee.Nongnuch ********
@Pete ******
That’s not true anymore. Go give anyone of the many agents in Pattaya and Bangkok a call and find out!It is NOT possible any more, not even when you buy their full package.
Your knowledge is OBSOLETE and outdated 🤓 and that’s why I keep telling people DON’T listen to Peter, ignore him!
Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
not true, you obviously are not as informed as you think you are. A Pattaya visa agent as recently as last week was advertising this service on YouTube. They are just avoiding BB, but yes for a fee agents are still able to open bank accounts for visa exempt or tourist visa holders and supplying the funds to qualify for the Non-O. Trying to do it yourself without an agent is now almost impossible.Reply to
Pete *******
Reply
Beverly ***************
I tried 3 banks last week with my Thai daughter-in-law, a letter from my school and the schools government license. Have an ED visa. Denied at all 3 banks.
Felipe **********
@Beverly **************
why would you need a Thai bank account if you're on an a short-term (education) visa?Beverly ***************
@Felipe *********
because I intended to live here permanently. Currently I cannot pay my own rent nor utilities because I don’t have a Thai bank account.Felipe **********
@Beverly **************
you need to move to a permanent visa if you intend on living here permanently. You do not need a Thai bank account to transfer money to other Thai bank accounts or to withdraw cash from ATMs. You can't even get a bank account on a 5-year DTV visa and this is the way it should be, to ensure that the country doesn't become destabilised. I recommend moving to a more permanent visa before making long-term plans.Beverly ***************
I intend on getting a Non-O. my plans will not change. As long as my kids are here, I will live here. This was the quickest way we could get me here.
Reply to
Beverly ***************
Reply
Mary ********
You are much better off returning stateside and getting a visa there. The thai consulate in Chicago is actually helpful. You can do it all electronically.
Nongnuch ********
@Mary *******
he could apply for a 90-days Non-Imm-O Retirement Visa anywhere, even in one of Thailand's neighbouring country - as long as he fulfills the requirementsMary ********
@Nongnuch *******
if you apply stateside proof of the 800k thai baht in a US bank is sufficient. Also you can piggyback visas to get 15 months.Reply to
Mary ********
Reply
Michael ******
You meed to get a three month visa outside of Thailand! Then, after three months, you should be able to apply for a 1-year visa inside Thailand!
Nongnuch ********
@Michael *****
there is no "1-year visa" inside Thailand. You apply for a "1-year Extension of the Stay Permit" . . this is not a visa, this is an extended stay permitMichael ******
@Nongnuch *******
- I am having a 1 year visa since many years! Non Immigrant OA, NOT an extension of permit!Nongnuch ********
@Michael *****
maybe your wrong wording is because English is not your native language. A visa will be used for entering a country. When you enter, you get a "stay permit" stamped in your passport. You live in the country on a stay permit, not on a "visa". A multi entry Non-Imm-O/A visa becomes invlid after 365 days. After the expiry of the visa validity it is only the stay permit which allows you to remain in ThailandNongnuch ********
@Michael *****
you don't have a Non-Imm-O/A visa anymore if you have been in Thailand for longer than two years. You are in Thailand on a "1-year extended stay permit". The 365-days multi entry Non-Imm-O/A visa you entered Thailand with, is already "used" or "invalid". It is already past its validity date.Reply to
Nongnuch ********
Reply
Steven *********
Following this
Graham ******
You can do it if your Embassy still does the income affidavit, if not it is almost impossible now unless you already have a Thai bank account
Lynnette *******
You asked how to do this in April and advice was open a bank account and deposit 800,00. Tbt. Did you do that?
Simon ***********
************************
Simon *********
You can do it if you already have a Thai bank account. If no thai bank account, you need to leave and get a visa outside Thailand.
Colin *********
@Jeff ************
have you been to Thailand on a previous visit and opened a Thai Bank Account in your name only?If you have that, that's great, as it's become just about impossible to open A Thai Bank Account as a foreigner this year. If you're in Nakhon Sawan, you could try enquiring about opening an account (From my knowledge, there's very few foreigners living in that Province, so who knows if it will be easy or impossible). It would depend on if the Banks strictly follow their headquarters rules and policies. If this is the case, then from many comments I've read over the past, almost three years, it's not too hard to do the Visa application yourself without paying an Agent to do it for you. All you would need to do is go into the Immigration Office in Nakhon Sawan, which I believe from my search is part of the Royal Thailand Police Office precinct. Ask them for the list of requirements for applying for that visa, gathering the required documents and presenting them, along with the completed application form and fees.
If you don't already have A Thai Bank account, it's not quite as simple. In this case, you would be best to go to a neighbouring country of Thailand, such as Malaysia, Laos or Vietnam (wouldn't recommend Myanmar or Cambodia due to conflict issues) and apply for the Visa through the eVisa system of the Thai Embassy or Consulate there. Then, once you have the Visa, you can re-enter Thailand on that Visa and quite easily open a bank account with that. If you're already in Thailand in a tourist visa, you may not want to fly back to your home country (USA, it seems), so a short holiday in one of the countries I've mentioned, while waiting for the Visa to be approved, might be best.
Please note: I'm not currently living in Thailand, but the information I've given is based on knowledge built up over almost three years of reading posts by others in this and a couple of other Fb grouped, and a little bit of personal research also.
I am keen to know how you go and maybe keep in contact, because I have a Thai lady in Nakhon Sawan who I intend to marry as soon as I can get things sorted out at home (Australia). Feel welcome to contact me in Facebook Messenger if you want to.
John **********
Firstly not all immigration offices can do it, secondly you need at least 15 days left on your current stamp. Other than that you need to have a Thai bank account with the required finances in the bank
Greg ***********
@Jeff ************
you need to have a Thai bank account in your sole name with a minimum of 800,000 THB sitting in it, to be able to "change of visa type" from a tourist visa to a 90-days Non-Imm-O Retirement Visa. And you would need a rental contract. And a minimum of 15 days left on your tourist visa. These are the requirements, click onto number 9 on this listing of the Immigration website. If you don't have a Thai bank account yet, you can forget your plan. Go back to your home country or to any other country, apply for the 90-days single entry Non-Imm-O Retirement Visa in the E-Visa online system, enter on this visa, get a bank account opened and transfer 800,000 THB onto it. . here, check number 9 . . . *******************************************
Doug ********
@Greg **********
...good idea ...I have typed the same message/s so many times.lol. But my experience here is still very limited but gradually grasping it all a bit better. The one thing I learnt is check the rules, expect something else and just accept it....Doug ********
@Greg **********
can go to any country.does not have to be home country. I did mine in laos👌Greg ***********
@Doug *******
thanks I stand corrected and have changed the textDoug ********
@Greg **********
probably change to what you say by next week . 😂..thu gs change quickly here 👌Greg ***********
@Doug *******
I got something like 500 pre-texted replies to all sorts of visa- and Thailand related questions in two different languages, on my harddisc, and I usually keep updating them. Only a few of my replies are new texts. That happens when a threadstarter is in a very individual and specific situationReply to
Greg ***********
Reply
Stuart ***********
You were given out of date advice. The problem is opening a bank account inside Thailand, as this is a requirement. It used to be possible, but it seems even agents are unable to open accounts now. You therefore have two options. 1. Fly to a neighbouring country and apply online at the Thai Embassy for that country for the non O based on being over 50, using proof of funds in your home country. 2. Use an agent, but they will likely have to get you an Education Visa first and then convert it to non O later, after opening a bank account for you. The second option is likely to be expensive, as they have a lot of steps to complete.
Dan *******
@Stuart **********
thank you, went for 85 days last year. Going back next year. Great information. 3 months is not enough. All the best youGrace ************
@Stuart **********
We can STILL assist you with opening a bank account in Thailand, whether you're here on a Tourist Visa, Exempt Entry, Non-O Visa, or Yearly Extension.Please don’t rely on information from just one agency—many claim it can’t be done, but we successfully help clients with this process on a regular basis.
Feel free to contact our team via LINE for assistance:
>
**********************
Colin *********
@Stuart **********
my understanding is that using an Agent to obtain A Visa, the applicant still needs to gather all the required documentation and give it to the Agent, so one might as well do the whole thing.Stuart ***********
@Colin ********
I never use agents, so I don't know, but I wouldn't have a clue where to start a workaround to open a bank account, therefore the OP might want to look into that as an option. The agents often have contacts in banks and can 'ease' the process. Personally I think their best method is to go to a neighbouring country, but it's up to them.Colin *********
@Stuart **********
as to providing documents for an Agent to do a Visa application, that's something I've read a few others say.In a separate comment specifically naming the OP, I too mentioned going to a neighbouring country if he hadn't already opened a bank account on a previous visit to Thailand, as it's become almost impossible to open one now on a short term Visa, even for Agents. That will almost certainly be what I'll need to do when I move to Thailand in the near future.
Stuart ***********
@Colin ********
if you get the non-O from the Thai Embassy in your country before coming to Thailand, there's no need to leave Thailand. The non-O should enable you to open a bank account in Thailand and you can then easily fulfill the rest of the requirements to extend your stay for 12 months.Colin *********
@Stuart **********
As I'm not yet married to my Thai fiancee, so I can't get the Non-O Visa based on Marriage in my home country, Australia. I don't intend to return either, so I'm not fly to Thailand to get married, then fly back to Australia to get the Visa. So, I'm thinking that I'll need to fly to Thailand, get married asap, take my fiancee (by that point, wife) to a neighbouring country and apply at a Thai Embassy/Consulate for a 1-2 week holiday, then return to Thailand & then be able to open a bank account so that I can apply for the Extension of Stay. As I didn't mention it to you, you might have assumed that I would get the 'Retirement' Visa.I just noticed that
@Grace ***********
respond to you, so if their fees for opening a Thai bank account is less than the costs of what I mentioned in my previous paragraph, that would be better than the hassle of booking return flights out of Thailand, accommodation etc. and maybe Visa fees.Colin *********
@Stuart **********
in late sixties. 'Marriage' Visa is what I would intend to get. Over the past almost three years, I've seen plenty of foreigners say that the 'Retirement' Visa is pretty easy to do. While there's some extra stuff to do with the Marriage Visa and quite a few comment that with the extra requirements each year compared to the Retirement one and they complain about the difficulties, maybe that's a personal issue. I've also been told directly, that most of the documents required for extensions are the exactly the same year after year, so keeping copies from previous years makes the process fairly easy.THB60k is pretty steep. I reckon that I could do it myself for a lot less, including the actual fees and going to say, Vietnam or Laos and getting a decent holiday to one of those countries while applying and waiting for the approval of the Non-O based on Marriage. Enjoy your day 🙏🙂
Stuart ***********
@Colin ********
Okay Colin, it's more than the extra things required to get the marriage visa. You can get the non-O retirement visa online before coming to Thailand. This enables you to open a bank account to extend your stay for 12 months. You can then concentrate on getting married. The following year you can extend your stay based on marriage. It's a much easier process, but it's up to you if you want to make it difficult for yourself. Good luck with it all.Stuart ***********
@Colin ********
definitely worth asking Grace how much they charge to open an account in that case. I don't know how old you are, so I'm guessing younger than 50 or the non O based on being over 50 would be an option for you before coming to Thailand. You are going to have your work cut out for you, if you are coming to Thailand to get married and then get a marriage visa as they are both challenging processes. Not saying they are impossible, but the marriage part involves a lot of chasing around Bangkok back and forth to different agencies and the marriage visa is renowned for being more problematic than the retirement visa. I hope it all works out for you.Reply to
Stuart ***********
Reply
Tony ********
Gather all required documents. Make an appointment at an embassy in a border country. Get it done then return
Nongnuch ********
@Tony *******
cannot get any appointments any more with Thai embassies and consulates. Everything is done onlineKim *********
@Tony *******
all visa applications are evisa nowadays - and has been for more than a year - maybe with still 1 exceptionNongnuch ********
@Kim ********
no exception, except that you have to pay the application fee directly at the embassy and the consulate in LaosKim *********
@Nongnuch *******
thank you - good to be updated 👍Reply to
Kim *********
Reply
Kim **********
So I was told yesterday by a visa agent that they called all the banks and all said no for the account for me and I’d have to leave the country to apply for non o
Holger **************
@Kim *********
correct...you must leave Thailand before and then come Back with 90 days non oOr one Year Visa
Grace ************
@Kim *********
This is not true.We can assist you with opening a bank account in Thailand, whether you're here on a Tourist Visa, Exempt Entry, Non-O Visa, or Yearly Extension.
Please don’t rely on information from just one agency—many claim it can’t be done, but we successfully help clients with this process on a regular basis.
Feel free to contact our team via LINE for assistance:
>
**********************
Reply to
Grace ************
Reply
Tim ****************
Thai Visa Centre
Grace ************
@Nongnuch *******
Please do not speak for our company, this is FALSE INFORMATION.We can assist you with opening a bank account in Thailand, whether you're here on a Tourist Visa, Exempt Entry, Non-O Visa, or Yearly Extension.
Please don’t rely on information from just one agency—many claim it can’t be done, but we successfully help clients with this process on a regular basis.
Feel free to contact our team via LINE for assistance:
>
**********************
Tim ****************
@Nongnuch *******
I stand corrected.Reply to
Tim ****************
Reply
Wannikea *********
If you have the 800K in a Thai bank it's a no brainer. So do you?
Donald **********
@Wannikea ********
Why would he have a Thai bank account if he is currently in Thailand on a Tourist visa or visa exempt?Wannikea *********
@Donald *********
honestly, the guy is retirement age do you think you might have been in Thailand before?Donald **********
@Wannikea ********
Highly likely he’s been in parts of Thailand before but seems to be heading advice from the patrons of various bars in this instance and not with any recent in depth knowledge of how things work these days. Had he had previous dealings with an agent it’s possible he might have opened a bank account but that doesn’t seem that likely.Reply to
Donald **********
Reply
Max *************
@Donald *********
He could have opened a Thai bank account way back. I opened my first bank accounts in Thailand on tourist visas.I had my 800k in the bank way before I applied for my first 1 year extension.Holger **************
@Max ************
yes..Long time ago you could Open a Bank account AS Tourist ...Not anymore Even with 9o day non o IT has become difficult
Max *************
@Holger *************
That's because every bank doesn't understand Non-O visas. They just look at the 90 days and that is not seen as a long term visa.Donald **********
@Max ************
I had a work visa 10 years ago and still was unable to open a bank account on the one attempt I made then!Holger **************
@Donald *********
yes....but this was Long time agoI could Open a Bank account with 14 days permit in 1998....Times are changing
Max *************
@Donald *********
I have opened bank accounts on tourist visas in 3 provinces, plus some more while living in Thailand.10 years ago you could easily open a bank account almost anywhere without breaking a sweat.Donald **********
@Max ************
I told you I didn’t manage on the one attempt I made, so get over it! It was at a bank in Warin Chamrap and I didn’t pursue it as it was on a whim and the work contract unlikely to continue due to world events.Nongnuch ********
@Donald *********
Warin Chamrap next to Ubon Ratchathani is no touristic area. I reckon you but would have been successful in Bangkok or Pattaya. The situation right now since February has extensively changed.Donald **********
@Nongnuch *******
I’m well aware Warin Chamrap and Ubon Ratchathani province in general is not known for being a Western touristic area. I’ve stayed there multiple times over the past 11 years or so and am familiar with it, well beyond being a tourist. I’m also aware of the change of attitude and the stiffening of bank and visa regulations. I’m also familiar with Bangkok and the Chon Buri area having also stayed there multiple times in addition to many other tourist and less tourist explored areas of Thailand. I merely reported that I had been unable to obtain a Thai bank account when I attempted to do so, 10 years ago. Had I been more motivated to open a Thai bank account at that time I would have tried elsewhere too, in more touristic areas. A Pattaya/Jomtien expert must have been visiting three of the more touristic provinces (Hua Hin, Chiang Mai, Phuket perhaps?) while opening bank accounts willy nilly at that time, plus managing to open even more bank accounts in addition! How many bank accounts does one require I ask? Maybe it’s not only the Chinese that the authorities should be looking into for money laundering?
Max *************
@Donald *********
So you missed out 100% of your attempts? Due to "world events"? In 2015? 😂Donald **********
@Max ************
Must have offended you with comments about barstool barristers did I? Take it from your long retirement in Pattaya and Jomtien that you’re an expert on all subjects without having to provide proof or credentials? Do you actually remember the concept of work? On what Bar do you sit, your Honour?
BTW not everyone comes to Thailand for extended periods of time, with time to kill trying to stave off the boredom, by finding random things to pass the time. (Bet you’re a laugh a minute!)
A bit of education for you:
~10 years ago the price of oil collapsed, making the recovery of oil from some fields in the Gulf of Thailand uneconomical and the industry slumped badly here as a result.
Reply to
Donald **********
Reply
Mark ********
************************
Chris ******
@Mark *******
that's who I usedReply to
Chris ******
Reply
Ben *******
Go to an agent. Wasting your precious time. They will sort out everything for you.
Colin *********
@Ben ******
what about "wasting your precious" money? As long as one meets the requirements for the visa, many will say it's not very hard to do for oneself. I find it hard to imagine that a foreigner looking to get a Non-O based on either retirement or marriage doesn't have the time to do it for themselves... after all, they wouldn't be allowed to work.Ben *******
@Colin ********
... Everyone has a choice. You can choose to pay for a service and have them do it for you and then listen to all the negative comments on here. Or you can save your money. Do it yourself. Find out it's more of a problem than it's worth and get hit with negative comments about how you should have gone to an agent. The whole point is for someone to ask a question and receive comments on how they might want to proceed based on those valid comments. How I decide to proceed and you decide should not be open to ridicule but by constructive advice. That is why people are here. If you are here for ridicule them go somewhere else to try and enhance your basement keyboard warriors skills. You are not welcome.Colin *********
@Ben ******
yes, everyone has a choice. Anyone can argue to use an agent or do it yourself. You chose to say "Go to an agent. Wasting your precious time". Many might also have the view that their money is precious (if they're not wealthy).I'm just looking at the opposite view, which is also a 'valid comment' and I'm not here to ridicule anyone. Besides, I'm not a "keyboard warrior" and you don't get to decide based on your opinion or mine, who is welcome in the group. Enjoy the rest of your day.
Kim *********
@Ben ******
that's your opinion - but you can't speak for all. I think your harsh comment was uncalled for - that was not welcome so to speak.Ben *******
@Kim ********
.... Exactly, my opinion and my right to speak. It's an open discussion. That is why you are here as well. Isn't it? I don't really care if you thought it was a harsh comment. It's not really your place to be offended if the comment wasn't directed at you. My point is people come here to get answers to valid questions, and it's right for someone to try and respond in the best way they can. If people want to get a visa for themselves or get an agent to do it for them, then that is their choice and shouldn't be open to ridicule.Kim *********
@Ben ******
I am certainly not offended in the least. And I deliberately used your own words 😏 it seems you don't quite live up to "it's an open discussion" when you say to a member "you are not welcome"Colin *********
@Kim ********
thank you for coming to my defence, when I only offered an alternative view, which wasn't criticising or ridiculing anyone else or their opinion. 🙏Ben *******
@Kim ********
Some people choose to use an agent, and some prefer to do it themselves. That is all I am saying.Kim *********
@Ben ******
ahh - not quite - but ok. Have a nice day 👍Reply to
Kim *********
Reply
Roberto *********
@Ben ******
Yeah....at a price!Reply to
Roberto *********
Reply
Pete *******
You can easily convert a tourist visa into a retirement visa inside Thailand at most Immigration Offices provided you meet the requirements.
Stephen *********
Very very difficult to open a bank account on a tourist visa. That is why agent is the way to go. Wankers who criticize did it years ago when it was easy
Pete *******
@Stephen ********
having a funded bank account is a requirement you need to meet to convert a tourist visa into a retirement visa. Pretty straightforward.Reply to
Pete *******
Reply
Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
you are clueless then on what Pattaya agents actually offer as services.Nongnuch ********
@Pete ******
You have no clue! Myself I know exactly how this process is like. . . . . Applicants will get documents (faked!) from a school, enabling them to exit Thailand and apply for the Non-Imm-ED Visa, then re-enter, get a bank account opened, then do another border run, invalidating the ED stay permit, then apply for the conversion of the visa-exempt entry to the initial 90-days Non-Imm-O Retirement Visa. All this is completely unneccessary and much too expensive. It is easier and cheaper to exit Thailand and apply for a 90-days Non-Imm-O Retirement Visa outside of Thailand. Enter on this visa and get a bank account opened in no time. Agents take 5000 THB for this servicePete *******
@Nongnuch *******
nope that is not at all how it works. The agent opens the account and deposits funds. The bank freezes the account. You with the agent apply for and receive the Non-O. Agent returns to bank with proof of Non-O. Bank unfreezes account. As I said you are clueless of what services are being offered currently by Pattaya agents. These services are being discussed in interviews on YouTube, no need to take my word on it just look it up.Nongnuch ********
@Pete ******
your info is OBSOLETE, it WAS discussed and it is not the viable option any more since end of April. You knowledge is older than the ankle hair of my grandma 😄😎Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
yet the YouTube video is from July. An agent discussing his business and the process he is using to open bank accounts that you claim is impossible to do. I think you are the one with outdated information.Reply to
Pete *******
Reply
Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
sorry you are talking nonsense, bank account opening is still possible in Pattaya.Jan ******************
@Jeff ************
As told several times, if you don’t have a Thai bank account you’ll need a 90 days Non O before you enter Thailand, so you basically have two options; Go back home and apply or apply through an embassy in a nearby country.Pete *******
@Jeff ************
go to your local Immigration Office and ask for the list of requirements to convert from a tourist visa to the retirement visa. Follow the list.Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
where in this post does the OP say he doesn’t have a bank account with the required funds? Stop jumping to conclusions.Pete *******
@Nongnuch *******
He does not say why he was rejected at Nakhon Sawan. You, again, are jumping to conclusions.Reply to
Pete *******
Reply
Ant ***********
Grace ************
@Ant **********
We can still assist if you plan to apply for retirement.Pete *******
@Ant **********
if he doesn’t have the 800k already sat in a Thai bank account then he doesn’t meet the requirements.Reply to
Pete *******
Reply
Jeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Pete ******
do I just go to the immigration office again? What do I tell them so they will convert it?Melanie *****************
@Nongnuch *******
does not have to return to home country. Can border bounce & apply for the Non O.Nongnuch ********
@Melanie ****************
he can apply for the 90-days Non-Imm-O Visa anywhere outside of Thailand. I already corrected my textReply to
Nongnuch ********
Reply
Ant ***********
Right now
A lot are trying to do this
But finding it difficult
Easiest way fly home
Apply for Non-O in your home country
Once approved come back to Thailand & get your 12 month extension
A lot are trying to do this
But finding it difficult
Easiest way fly home
Apply for Non-O in your home country
Once approved come back to Thailand & get your 12 month extension
Kim **********
@Ant **********
you can just go to a nearby country. Don’t need to go homeReply to
Kim **********
Reply
Jim ***********
You have thai bank account with 800k in it? If so border bounce then apply when back O visa
Erik ******
It USED to be reasonably easy to do, but it's become much more difficult to open a Thai bank account on a tourist visa, which you need in order to meet the deposit requirements.
Ann-Louise ********
You’ll need an agent, as in Thailand, but check them out thoroughly. Where in Thailand are you?
If Pattaya, my friend could recommend the agent she used,
Fiona is also on Tik tok, offers great advice.
If Pattaya, my friend could recommend the agent she used,
@Fiona ********
, who did you use? Fiona is also on Tik tok, offers great advice.
Damien ********
Why don’t you google
….retirement visa requirements if applying in Thailand …..
you’ll get plenty of information there
Or
Look up Thai immigration
Retirement visa requirements if
Simple stuff to do
….retirement visa requirements if applying in Thailand …..
you’ll get plenty of information there
Or
Look up Thai immigration
Retirement visa requirements if
Simple stuff to do
Darren ******
@Damien *******
what is the point of the forum if all anyone has to do is Google for information?Damien ********
@Darren *****
this forum is for all the expat experts to offer their personal opinions and conflicting information so as to render the people who ask for help on this forum totally confused !!!Reply to
Damien ********
Reply
Michael *********
@Damien *******
thank you for contributing. Absolutely nothing to this conversation.Damien ********
@Michael ********
thank you for thanking me for contributing.Reply to
Damien ********
Reply
Colin *********
@Damien *******
that's fine as an initial step which the OP may have already done, but if you have any experience yourself, you should know that the Immigration Offices in each Province have their own individual variations on what is required.Trav **********
@Colin ********
Even more reason to visit immigration instead of asking for advice on Facebook which is usually bullshit.Jeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Colin ********
Thank YouReply to
Jeff *************
Reply
Chris ******
If you are already in Thailand you will need use an agent otherwise I think it is 2 month outside of Thailand to apply using agent is more expensive
Chris ******
Like I said if you read it properly it's the way I done it not like everyone else the person was asking about doing it whilst in Thailand like the person asking I got a load of different answers and ended up using an agent because everyone is a professional at giving answers like you
Jeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Chris *****
Thank You, I agree all I want to do now is convert my tourist visa to non OReply to
Jeff *************
Reply
Chris ******
@Nongnuch *******
like said I'm on o visa haven't a clue bout touristsGraham ******
@Chris *****
so why comment?Chris ******
@Graham *****
because I'm like the rest of the professionals on here giving my account of how I obtained my visa it's seriously demented trying get a straight answer as can be seen by so many professional comments 🤣Reply to
Chris ******
Reply
Nongnuch ********
@Chris *****
and you are wrong, you do not have to apply for a 90-days Non-Imm-O Retirement visa 2 months before you enter. The Non-O visa will get issued with a validity of three months to be used for an entry into Thailand. When you enter anytime within the visa validity, you get stamped in for 90 days. You then need to open a Thai bank account and transfer a minimum of 800,000 THB onto it ASAP. Then wait until the money has "seasoned" for 2 months, visit the bank, get the bank letter confirming the 2 months, visit Immigration and apply for the 12-months Extension of the Stay Permit based on Retirement. I guess those are the two months you are confused withJeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Nongnuch *******
Thanks for the short sweet informative information, a immigrations officer told me today bring in your o visa pay me 23,000 baht I get you bank account and 1 yr visa?Nongnuch ********
@Jeff ************
This is Thailand. Money can buy you almost everythingChris ******
@Nongnuch *******
like said so many answers from professionals on here I told it like how I experienced it heard from the professionals then went with an agentChris ******
@Graham *****
007 aka James bondReply to
Chris ******
Reply
Damien ********
@Chris *****
wrong !U can apply inside Thailand like I did !
Don’t post if you don’t know , it only confuses
Jeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Damien *******
how did you do it, immigration told me I can’t and have to go out of Thailand to get O visaJeff *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Damien *******
how did you apply to get it? Go to immigration, I have a residency paper and pictures of passport and tourist stamp and I filled out a tm7 for a 30 day extensionChris ******
@Damien *******
I'm on understanding you have to apply for I visa outside of Thailand 2 month prior to arrival otherwise it's use an agent and that is what I had to do who is right who is wrong obviously I've been told bullshit if I got told otherwise because I used a agent show me different if you know 😁Kim **********
@Damien *******
actually these days even agents are saying it can’t be done. I was told yesterday they couldn’t find a single bank willing to open an account tChris ******
@Kim *********
actually opened 1 last Friday down china town areaKim **********
@Chris *****
with or without a long term/non tourist visaChris ******
@Kim *********
this is all getting confused with o visa and tourist I did it via o visaKim **********
@Chris *****
yes. With non o visa no problem. With tourist or exempt you cannot open an account to get non o. And without non o you can’t get a bank account.Chris ******
@Kim *********
the thread started off about an o visa then it got confused by someone mentioning opening bank accountKim **********
@Chris *****
yes because he wants an o visa which he needs to convert from a tourist visa. It isn’t confused. You can’t convert without a bank account. And you can’t get a bank account until you convert.Reply to
Kim **********
Reply
Chris ******
@Damien *******
yes via agentReply to
Chris ******
Reply
55 comments
9 months ago
22 comments
9 months ago
36 comments
a year ago
43 comments
a year ago
103 comments
2 years ago
34 comments
2 years ago
79 comments
2 years ago
87 comments
2 years ago
30 comments
2 years ago
98 comments
2 years ago
13 comments
3 years ago
40 comments
3 years ago
11 comments
3 years ago
37 comments
4 years ago
9 comments
4 years ago
6 comments
4 years ago
17 comments
4 years ago
10 comments
5 years ago
9 comments
5 years ago
11 comments
5 years ago
0 comments
7 years ago
12 comments
8 years ago
18 comments
8 years ago
27 comments
8 years ago
7 comments
a month ago
9 comments
a month ago
21 comments
a month ago
16 comments
a month ago
8 comments
a month ago
The ask:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.