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Can I obtain a Non-Immigrant B visa in Thailand while on a COVID extension of a Tourist Visa, or do I need to leave the country?

Thailand Visa Rules Non-Immigrant B Visa Tourist Visa Extensions Visa Conversion Process Expats in Thailand Work Visa Requirements

May 17, 2021

4 years ago

Dirk *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

If I am currently staying in Thailand by way of COVID extensions to a Tourist Visa and I am hired to work in Thailand, will I need to leave Thailand in order to get my non-immigrant B visa?  Or can the visa be obtained without leaving the country?

If I do need to leave the country, as an American would I need to go back to the USA to obtain?  Or can it be done elsewhere?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is inquiring whether they can convert their COVID-extended Tourist Visa to a Non-Immigrant B visa without leaving Thailand. The comments suggest that while it is possible to process the visa change within Thailand, it may depend on the employer's arrangements with immigration. Some responses mention successful conversions with extensive paperwork, though one user notes their situation does not involve BOI designation. It remains advisable to consult with the hiring company to clarify the process.

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Michi *******

A friend of my transferred from tourist to non-B without leaving. That was with the BOI and tons of paper work tho.

4 years ago

Dirk *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Michi ******

thanks! Unfortunately this will be done without BOI designation.

4 years ago

Reply to

Dirk *********

Reiner *********

Don’t need to travel -..now all can be done here

4 years ago

Dirk *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Reiner ********

thanks!

4 years ago

Reply to

Dirk *********

Darren *******

Speak to your employer. Ultimately it's between them and immigration as to whether it can be done in country or not. If not, then it's off home you go to process.

4 years ago

John *******

@Darren ******

in which case, a round trip air ticket to the USA, which can cost over $1000USD, is not cheaper than an agent, do you see my point now ?

4 years ago

Darren *******

@John ******

no, because the agent would be effectively paying a bribe in this scenario and would create issues when it comes to renewing the visa.

4 years ago

Reply to

Darren *******

Michael ********