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Can you switch from a 30-day exemption or tourist visa directly to a retirement visa in Thailand?

Thai visa policies Retirement visa NON-O visa 30-day exemption Tourist visa Visa transition procedures Eligibility requirements for retirement visa

Oct 10, 2018

8 years ago

Gordon **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi.  I am from UK.  Can you switch from 30 day exemption, or from tourist visa directly onto retirement visa?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Yes, you can switch from a 30-day exemption or a tourist visa to a retirement visa (Non-Imm-O) in Thailand, provided you meet all necessary requirements. However, if you are changing from a visa type, it may also involve procedures at a consulate or embassy if done from outside Thailand.

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.
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Robert *******

Yes, you can do in Thailand if you meet all the requirements.

Marilyn **********

thank you

Robert *******

Phuket requirements:

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8 years ago

Marilyn **********

@Robert ******

what are the requirements for phuket ?

8 years ago

Mikkel *******

Correct.. he did exactly as you say

@Robert ******

8 years ago

Robert *******

@Mikkel ******

It goes in two steps. First you change to the Non Immigrant O visa for 90 days and after 60 days you apply for the Extension of Stay.

8 years ago

Mikkel *******

Friend of mine changed from a METV to extension of stay based of being over 50 in Buengkan immigration about 6 month ago, he did not have to leave the country.

8 years ago

Robert *******

In Chang Mai you need at least 21 days left on your current stay.

8 years ago

Gordon **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

That’s great. Thank you Robert. I am in ChiangMai so sounds okay 🙂

8 years ago

Robert *******

You can change from a Visa Exempt Entry or Tourist Visa to a Non Immmigrant O visa based on being over 50 years of age at Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok, Changmai for sure. But you need to meet their requirements.

8 years ago

Gregor **********

there are conflicting reports. Some say it used to be possible in Bangkok Chaeng Wattana only, others state that you can do it on the consuate in Savannakhet, Laos. Yet need a confirmation if this is still possible as I haven't read any confirmed reports for a while. Thank you Robert Lagas I trust your advice is right

8 years ago

Reply to

Gregor **********

this would incorporate a change towards a Non-Imm-O or Non-Imm-O/A visa, which you can only do at a consulate or embassy in the country of your residence

8 years ago

Tod *********

that is totally incorrect.

8 years ago

Reply to

Tod *********

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