Answered5 years ago

Can I convert to a Non-B visa from a Visa Exempt or Tourist visa without leaving Thailand?

Thai Visa Rules Non-B Visa Covid Amnesty Visa Visa Exemption Tourist Visa Expats in Thailand

Thomas ********

asked Jan 31, 2022

2.2k

views

replies

likes

Help please. 

I don't qualify for the new Covid amnesty visa so will have to leave in March. 

I want to start working here later this year.

I have been advised that converting to Non B from a Covid amnesty without leaving the kingdom is no longer possible.

This is my question: 

If I reenter on a visa exempt or a tourist visa can I then convert to Non B without having to leave the country again? 

Thanks in advance.

T

Answer summary

The user is inquiring about the possibility of converting their entry status to a Non-B visa without leaving Thailand, specifically after the Covid amnesty period. They mention needing to exit the country in March and are exploring options for re-entering on a tourist or visa-exempt basis to then apply for a Non-B visa. Commenters provide advice about the necessary documentation and the importance of employer support for the conversion process.

13 repliesnewest first

Click comment and we will ask for your email, then OTP, then name.

Ellie *******

If you can apply for an in-country visa also depends on your extension history since your latest entry.

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@Ellie ******

i think this might be the issue as I had a Non B previously then moved onto the Covid amnesty.

5 years ago

Lisa ********************

@Tho***

it is not a Covid amnesty. It's an extension due to unable to travel because of Covid.

5 years ago

Ellie *******

@Lisa *******************

, you are right with current program, but there were amnesty periods as well.

5 years ago

Nicolas ********

Hello where did you hear that you cannot convert to a different Visa without leaving?

5 years ago

Tod *********

@Nicolas *******

the person was ON a Non-B visa/extension before they switched to covid extensions; which is why they can't get any more covid extensions since the new program started AND why they can't get an in country Non-B issued (because their current covid extension now can be tracked back to the Non-B visa/extension and you can't get a Non-B visa from a Non-B visa 🙁

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@Tod ********

this Is exactly right.

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@DaNish *******

thanks. I'll make some further enquiries then.

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@Nicolas *******

from the school admin who deals with work permits etc.

5 years ago

Stewart ***************

It can take a while to get all the documents together, good idea to get things moving before you arrive back. Or apply while you are outside of Thailand.

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@Stewart **************

yeah, have started working with them now on the documents. Was hoping to get it all done without having to leave but plan B has had to be implemented.... and overdue a visit to the folks anyway so it should all work out ok. Just wanted to make sure I don't get myself in a situation where I have to leave again once I return.

5 years ago

Robert *******

Most easy option is to apply for the Non Immigrant B visa before you make your way into Thailand.

Your employer must meet the requirements to convert your Visa Exempt Entry or Tourist visa into a Non Immigrant B visa, you have to discuss that with employer and Immigration.

5 years ago

Thomas ********

@Robert ******

thanks Robert.

5 years ago