Can I extend my NON-O visa 2 months early before working overseas?

Aug 14, 2022
2 years ago
Graham *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
I have been here in Thailand for 7 years on an O visa all in the same city. The expiration date is October 20. I have just been offered a 3 month work contract overseas. To get back to extend will be tricky. I read that an O visa can be extended one month early. Would it be possible to do this 2 months early? Is that at the discretion of the local immigration office (with whom I have a very good relationship), or is it just a no no?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user inquires about the possibility of extending their NON-O visa two months before its expiration while they work overseas, noting their good relationship with the local immigration office. Community members provide insights, suggesting that although extensions are generally not allowed more than 45 days in advance, some users have successfully obtained early extensions by presenting proof of their travel plans. It's recommended to directly consult the local immigration office for potential flexibility and to obtain a re-entry permit when returning to Thailand.
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Tod *********
I also had ONE situation where a Dutch woman was returning to the Netherlands for Chemo treatment and we had dr's letter, flight out, and her return flight was after her extension would have expired. Initially she was denied the year extension BUT we filed a written appeal, and they called us two days later to go back and get the year extension inked in (we applied 80 some days before her current extension expired) I realize this was a non-typical situation BUT I relate it to show that the immigration office has a great deal of latitude.

Another situation was an aussie who applied for a marriage extension, BUT would be out of the country when the 30 day under consideration stamp came up, SO he submitted proof he'd be gone and they gave him a TWO month under consideration stamp so that he could make it back (with a re-entry permit) and get the year extension.

All you can do is ask, and the worst they can say is no, and you'll be back at square one :)
Graham *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
thanks for your replies. You have given me some ideas. I will go and talk to them this week.
Tod *********
@Graham ******
take proof you're leaving before your extension is due and comin' back after it runs out to show them why you need a special dispensation
James ********
AND if you are successful in getting it extended...

Be sure you get a Re-entry permit to reenter Thailand when you return.
Richard *******
I have not heard of any Immigration office that allows extensions 60 days in advance, the best you can hope for is 45 days, but you have not told us which office you will use. I suggest you visit your local immigration office and explain your situation.
James ********
@Richard ******
I have seen it happen two months before...

The Thai wife went with her foreigner husband to Thai immigration office and explained his need to leave early with proof of his airline ticket departing Thailand. At Jomtien immigration.
Richard *******
@James *******
Well, that is encouraging for the OP at least ๐Ÿ‘๐Ÿ˜ƒ
James ********
As you said...

It's Up to Your local Thai Immigration office...

Ask them.
Tod *********
you're out nothing by taking your proof that you will be out of the country when the extension comes due and won't be back until after it expires to the immigration office and see if they will allow you to get a yearly extension early,

worst they can say is no.

If they don't do it your current extension will run out and you start all over with a new Non-O visa and a new yearly extension.
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