Can I enter Thailand on a 30-day tourist visa and then apply for a new Retirement 'O' visa?

Apr 6, 2022
3 years ago
Rick *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Searched and no definite info. My wife and l left Thailand and my extension of stay on my Retirement 'O' visa has expired. Can l enter on a 30 day tourist on arrival visa and immediately apply for a new retirement 'O' visa. My passports have my previous extension of stay history (7 years worth). Will l need departing Thailand ticket?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user inquires about the possibility of entering Thailand on a 30-day tourist visa after their Retirement 'O' visa extension has expired, and whether they can then apply for a new Retirement 'O' visa immediately. Comments clarify that they can apply for a Non-O visa while in Thailand, require at least 15 days remaining on their stamp (21 in Chiang Mai), and that the need for a departing ticket depends on the airline's policy. It's important to note the correct terminology used: entering on a visa exempt basis rather than a visa on arrival.
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.
Brandon ************
Stuart answered your question, but just want to make sure you are using the correct terminology as it can make a big difference at times. You'd be entering "visa exempt" not visa on arrival. They are very very different.
Rick *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Ok, one of the 64 countries. I am Canadian but arriving from USA
Maxim ***********
@Rick ******
I'm Canadian too, you have Visa Exempt entry. Doesn't matter which country you are arriving from.
Rick *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Can you explain the difference between visa on arrival and "visa exempt" please.
Brandon ************
@Rick ******
visa exempt means you don't have any visa at all. You are simply stamped in for 30 days when you arrive, and you can extend this for 30 more days. It's based on an agreement between Thailand and specific countries.

Visa on arrival is when you PAY for a visa when you land in Thailand. These usually cannot be extended and are much more limited than visa exempt status. Sometimes they are only good for 15 days depending on the country you arrive from.
Stuart *********
You can apply for a Non O visa in Thailand. You’ll need at least 15 days left on your stamp (21 in Chiang Mai). Whether you need a departing ticket out of Thailand is usually up to the airline. Some don’t care, many will.

Previous history of visas and extensions are of no interest to immigration. They have your entry history in their database anyway.
Rick *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you for confirming.
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