Answered8 years ago

Can I convert my METV to a Non-O visa for retirement in Thailand before I turn 50?

METV Non-O Visa Retirement Visa Visa Conversion Thailand Immigration Phuket

Chris ******

asked Aug 29, 2018

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I am 49, my birthday is Jan 24. I'm here on a METV with a last entry date of Dec 3.  I plan to leave and return that day to get 60 more days which would get me to February 1.  Keeping in mind I will be under 50 years old by a week or so on the date I am eligible to apply, can I convert the METV (then expired) to a Non-O (retirement)?  If so, can it been done in Phuket?  If I cannot apply before my actual birthday, can I extend 30 days and apply post birthday, 15 days or more before the extended leave by date of March 3?  If I am overthinking this and it's easier to just reply by telling me what you would do feel free to deviate from my questions.  Thanks in advance.

Answer summary

The individual, who is currently on a METV (Multiple Entry Tourist Visa), is seeking advice on the possibility of converting the METV to a Non-O retirement visa once they turn 50, which is just after their current visa's expiration. They are considering extending their stay and have questions about applying in Phuket or whether they can apply elsewhere, like Nong Khai.

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Chris ******

Yeah I feel like I was cutting it close and knowing how they are about their rules they were highly unlikely to accept an application before my actual birthday even though the approval date would be after it. Follow up question, do I have to get the conversion done in Phuket if they do the service here? Could I go to Nong Khai for example?

8 years ago

Tod *********

Chris Sabo you don't give them your passport. :/ You apply for the 90 day Non-O with the documentation required then you go back in 14 days with your passport and get it stamped in. They don't hold your passport during the under consideration period

8 years ago

Chris ******

I'll swing down and ask them. Thank for the input Tod.

8 years ago

Chris ******

Right, Once my passport is in their possession with the Non O App I can stay in country even though my current stamp will expire Feb 1 correct?

8 years ago

Tod *********

@Chris *****

, that's gonna be up to the immigration office, I'd check with them.

Who knows, they might let you apply without the 30 day extension if you'll be 50 during the period it's under consideration.

8 years ago

Chris ******

Last detail. If I apply for the 30 day extension after my birthday can I apply for the Non O conversion the same day?

8 years ago

Tod *********

you need to use the immigration office that serves the area where you live.

8 years ago

Tod *********

You have a pretty sound plan but you'll definitely need to be 50 to apply for the in country 90 day Non-O visa (seeing it's issued based on your being at least 50 ;) )

get the last entry on your METV, extend it by 30 days at the immigration office. Then once you're 50 apply for the in country 90 day Non-O by meeting the requirements.

I believe Phuket lets you apply when you have 30 days or less left on your current stamp

8 years ago

Tod *********

AFAIK; they only have applications go under consideration for 14 days before you go back get the Non-O visa and a new 90 day stamp inked into your passport.

Then when you have 30 days or less left on that new 90 day stamp you can apply for the yearly extension.

8 years ago