Can I use a housing contract under a friend's name for my Non-O retirement visa application in Thailand?

Thailand visa Non-O retirement visa Housing contract Immigration rules Expats in Thailand Visa application process

Jan 9, 2023

2 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Re: Thailand 3 month Non-O Retirement Visa application question...

I am living with a friend. 

So the housing contract is under their name... Can that contract be used to apply for the non-O visa?

Or does the contract have to be in my name?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The housing contract for a Non-O retirement visa application can be under a friend's name, provided that certain conditions are met. While traditionally the lease should include the applicant's name, recent information from Phuket immigration suggests that a lease in your friend’s name can still be valid if accompanied by a declaration letter from your friend. This letter must state that you are living at the address, include both your and your friend's passport details, and be signed by both parties. Additionally, proof of residency can also come from hotels as long as it meets the relevant conditions.

NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
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Meno *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Kool ******

... I speak Thai decently & spoke with Phuket immigration office 103's younger staff yesterday...

Actually, they told me that if I am living with a friend who has the lease contract, this can work too for applications.

All the same Residential Documents, under the Leasee, as before still required, along with an additional letter from the Leasee declaring that the applicant is living with them. The letter needs to include:

- full passport details of both people

- details of the rental premises

- signed and dated by both

Likewise, they also said that the applicant's resident can also be a hotel versus a home, with a 6-month lease, and MAYBE 3 months... Don't you just love how well defined information is coming from immigration 🙄

Conclusion: Non-O applicants DO NOT need a lease agreement to apply if above can work... Note, this was only asked at Phuket immigration

2 years ago

Kool *******

The lease contract has to have your name on it as legally living there, and it has to be done by the owner, not your friend. You'll also need a copy of the owner's ID card, and a copy of the house book the owner is listed in. Your friend only rents so can't do anything, except get you on the lease.

2 years ago

Graham ******

Non-O based on what, retirement?

2 years ago

Meno *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Graham *****

... Yes & updated

2 years ago

Graham ******

@Meno ****

Has your friend completed a TM30 to notify that you are staying there?