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

@Marilyn *********

thank you

@Robert ******

Phuket requirements:

@Robert ******

what are the requirements for phuket ?

Correct.. he did exactly as you say

@Robert ******

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@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.

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.

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

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.

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

that is totally incorrect.