Do I need to leave Thailand to apply for a Non O retirement visa after my 30-day extension?

Nov 1, 2021
3 years ago
B ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
I have been a member for a few months. This is my first post. I try to follow along when I can. I am American and currently in Bangkok. I arrived in Phuket the first week of October with 30 day stamp. I have been given a 30 day extension until December 3.

I want to start the Non O “retirement” Visa process. Because I have been given the one extension will I have to leave Thailand and come back in to continue the Non O process, or can I get the 60 day Non O extension while I work on the Visa paperwork and bank transfer, etc.?

Thank you in advance for any/all help.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
An American expat in Bangkok, who has received a 30-day extension on their visa, is seeking guidance on applying for a Non-O retirement visa. Commenters advise that generally, one must leave Thailand after their extension unless specific arrangements are made. It's mentioned that a ‘60-day non-O extension’ isn't typically available except in certain circumstances, such as for Thai family. Additionally, there are suggestions to seek a COVID extension and reminders about bank requirements for the Non-O visa.
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Wannikea *********
Side note, don't go too early for the covid extension as I believe they will start the 60 days from the time of applying as opposed to adding it on to your current permission. I'm not 100% on that, it might vary from office to office.
B ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Wannikea ********
do I have to do this COVID extension inquiry in BKK or can I do this in Ratchaburi or Hua Hin?
Benjamin ******
@B ***********
The last day to get a 60 day extension of stay based on unable to travel due to COVID-19 is November 26th.
Wannikea *********
@B ***********
you have 4 work weeks to sort that out.
Tod *********
@B ***********
you do it at the immigration office in the province where you live in.
B ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
thank you. I am looking for an apartment now. Not sure where I will live yet. That is the piece in question.
Wannikea *********
Technically you must leave after your current 30 day extension unless you make other arrangements. There is no 60 day non O extension except for Thai family. You should try for the covid extension as I mentioned above to get some time.
Wannikea *********
Go to buy a covid extension 60 days 1900 baht just before November 26th and use that time to get your non O requirements in order
Robert *******
Visit your local Immigration Office to get the hand out with their requirements to convert your Visa Exempt Entry into a new Non Immigrant O visa based on 50 years of age.

You need at least 15 days in Bangkok or 21 days in Chang Mai left on your current stay to apply for this visa conversion. One requirement is you need a Thai bank account with at least 800.000 Thb on your name and the money needs to come in from abroad. Good luck.
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