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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

Jan 31, 2022

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

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

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TLDR : 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.

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Ellie *******

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

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Ellie ******

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

3 years ago

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

@Tho***

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

3 years ago

Ellie *******

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

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

3 years ago

Reply to

Ellie *******

Nicolas ********

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

3 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 🙁

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Tod ********

this Is exactly right.

3 years ago

Reply to

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@DaNish *******

thanks. I'll make some further enquiries then.

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Nicolas *******

from the school admin who deals with work permits etc.

3 years ago

Reply to

Thomas ********

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.

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@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.

3 years ago

Reply to

Thomas ********

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.

3 years ago

Thomas ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Robert ******

thanks Robert.

3 years ago

Reply to

Thomas ********

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