Can I switch from a Non-O visa to a Non-B visa while remaining in Thailand?

Question

Hello, I’m currently volunteering and have recently been offered a teaching position. My school is very supportive, but I’m curious about visa matters. Has anyone here successfully switched from a Non-O visa to a Non-B visa within Thailand? I’m under the impression that in-country visa conversions might be mostly available for tourists on visa exemptions or tourist visas. I’m eager to know if it’s possible to complete the process without leaving the country. Any insights or experiences would be greatly appreciated!

Ask Thailand · Answer

The consensus among community members is that switching from a Non-O visa to a Non-B visa while remaining in Thailand is generally not permissible. Most contributors emphasized that such a conversion typically necessitates leaving the country and applying for the Non-B visa from abroad. While it's theoretically possible to attempt the conversion with the support of both the employer and the immigration office without departing, this would involve much more extensive paperwork and is often discouraged.

David ********** · Answer

For a non-B you need to leave.

Brandon ************ · Answer

The only chance you'd be able to switch is if you are currently on an extension.  If you are not on an extension and instead you are actually on the initial 90 day non-O visa, then there is no chance at all.  You would need to leave Thailand and get your current status cleared, and then since you are leaving already, it would be easier to get the non-B at a Thai embassy while you're there.

Otherwise if both your employer and the immigration office support it and you do not get the non-B while you are outside of Thailand, you could re-enter as a tourist and apply to convert at your immigration office.  It will require a literal mountain of paperwork to do it inside of Thailand though. Many employers cannot or will not support it due to how much paperwork is required.

John ********** · Answer

You can't switch inside the country, and most places want you apply for a Non-B outside of Thailand in any case as it requires a lot less paperwork

Can I switch from a Non-O visa to a Non-B visa while remaining in Thailand?

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