Do I need to return to the immigration office where my non-immigrant retirement visa was issued to transfer it to my new passport?

Feb 16, 2024
9 months ago
Greg ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
I read on a posting to transfer visa and re entry stamp to new passport I need to return to the immigration office where I got my last visa is this correct. I'm on non immigrant retirement visa and it was issued in Trang but I'm in bkk currently. Any advise appreciated
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user inquires about the procedure for transferring their non-immigrant retirement visa and re-entry stamp to a new passport after moving to Bangkok from Trang. Responses indicate that while it's preferable to return to the issuing office, it's possible to transfer the visa at a different immigration office, such as the Chiang Watthana head office, provided the TM30 file reflects the new living address. It's essential to bring both passports and copies of relevant pages. Experiences vary, and using a visa service is also an option.
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.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Tom *********
I had that problem in October 2020 during the COVID-19 emergency decree, when I moved from Ban Kok Chaiyaphum back to Bangkok. After wasting a day going to 2 offices I dumped it on a reliable visa service. I believe the fee was ฿1100.
Lee ***********
You should be fine if you have both passports until your next check in date, they will then transfer to the new passport, your visa is valid and you have a valid passport, it's logical anyone can see that, I used to carry a USA visa like this on UK passports
Kool *******
If you are living in Bangkok, and the current TM30 on file shows that living address, then go out to Chiang Watthana immigration, the head office, and they will do it. Bring both passports, and a copy of all pages in your old passport, and the data page of your new passport.
Greg ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@David ********
at uk passport issuing office in Trendy builidng bkk there is an official UK embassy letter on the wall saying they will not provude any letter or supporting document, no real suprise there
Greg ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@David ********
totally forgot that useful bit of info
Nick **********
@Kool ******
Extra info : happened 29 November 2023 (so 2 and a half months ago). Officer kept the documents. He had to come back next day with bankbook (updated it bank downstairs at immigration first), could cut the queue straight to the same officer as the day before.
Nick **********
@Kool ******
It doesn't matter how many times it hasn't been checked. What counts is that as soon as there is an instance when it DID happen, from then on you have to take into account that an official at Jaeng Watthana immigration MAY require your bankbook for the transfer of stamps.

I know of a 100% true case a few months ago where he had to come back the next day with the bankbook (but luckily could cut the queue).

This also means that anyone who used an agent to circumvent the money requirements suddenly gets into unforeseen problems.
David *********
My embassy issued a letter stating why they issued a new passport which immigration required. Also you will need to update your new passport with your bank.
Greg ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Lucky I'm still meeting bank requirements then
Greg ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks guys for the advice, I will take every bit of micro info I have in triplicate
Kool *******
Nick MuayPlam that is not true. You've never done this before have you?
Nick **********
@Kool ******
And bankbook because the IO may want to check if financial requirements for the non o "retirement" are still being met.
Faye *********
I transfered mine in a different province. My TM30 was done and showed I was living in a new area and it wasn't a problem but I suspect that it depends on the office which isn't unusual here.
Brandon ************
An immigration office doesn't like to touch a stamp from another office.
Greg ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
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