Answered3 years ago

Can I convert an METV to a retirement visa, or do I need a NON-O visa first?

METV Retirement Visa NON-O Visa Thai Visa Conversion Immigration Visa Requirements

Klaus ***********

asked Sep 27, 2023

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Holding an METV , possible to convert to retirement visa or do I need first the non-O for that process?

Answer summary

Yes, you can convert an METV to a retirement visa, but it involves a few steps. First, you'll need to apply for a NON-O visa based on retirement, which requires you to be over 50 years old and have 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account in your name. If your embassy offers an income affidavit, that may be an alternative. It's essential that your METV has at least 15 days remaining upon initiating this process, and consulting with local immigration for specific requirements is advisable.

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Chris *******

Okay just to clarify for you .

You have an METV with at least 15 days remaining on your entry.(in most areas)

You have deposited 800k in a Thai bank in your name only. Use of an agent may be needed.

**unless you have an income letter from your embassy**

You will convert that to a NON-O 90 DAY visa based on retirement.

Then when your money has seasoned for 60 days you may apply for a 1 yr extension of stay based on retirement.

** go to your local immigration for the requirements in that area**

3 years ago

Steve *******

@Chris ******

You cant use an income letter for the non imm O visa, only the 1 year extention of stay.

3 years ago

Chris *******

@Steve ******

yes you can.

3 years ago

Chris *******

It's always the 2 options.

800k or 65k income.

Which lands many in trouble as they don't understand that it has to be an embassy verification letter and not all embassies will do it.

Many people get in trouble thinking they can use pension statements etc from their government, it has to be an embassy.

It also takes a bit of time and work to get one.

Canadians for example have a relatively easy ability to get it from their embassy here.

I will say that embassy letters are a very small amount of the applicants for non-o or the extension.

3 years ago

Steve *******

@Chris ******

since when?

3 years ago

Fernando ********

I was thinking to do too that but I have read in this group that opening a bank account can be an issue if holding the MTEV.

3 years ago

Graham ******

Yes and you'll need 800k in a Thai bank account in your name only (unless your Embassy offers the income Affadavit) to apply for the initial Non-O (retirement) Visa in country and be over 50

3 years ago