How can I extend my Non-O visa in Thailand and what are the options for returning after my trip?

Question

I seem to recall there is a group of volunteer visa experts that can help answer questions - are they in Patong or only online? Could someone point me in their direction?
Current situation - my 1-year Non-O visa obtained while here in Patong expires Dec 12th this year. I was stamped in until Dec 12th exactly (even if my insurance is good til Dec 31st no big deal) and I plan to leave just prior to that to go home to USA for xmas etc maybe stay 2-3 months. So I guess when I return I can get a brand new Non-O using a service again (and they were very nice and helpful) but I heard that my current Non-O visa can be extended somehow once for 12-months and I'm not sure if that is true or what it would entail (such as a flight out and back, etc.).
So my current basic idea is just come back when I'm ready next year on a 30-day visa exempt, and plan to extend once so total of 60 days before needing that Non-O to be issued. Is that doable? When I got my first Non-O it was back during the 45-day exempt stamp (and 45-day extension) so I had more time and I recall it was a bit down to the wire!
Thank you!

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user is seeking guidance on the process of extending their Non-O visa, which is set to expire on December 12th, while also inquiring about the availability of volunteer visa experts in Patong and online. Various community members contributed suggestions, including the possibility of extending the current Non-O visa for another year, visiting the Phuket Town Immigration Office for assistance, and ensuring to get a re-entry permit prior to leaving Thailand. Additionally, links to resources for further information provided by local immigration volunteers were shared.

Steve ******* · Answer

Get the non imm O in the US and then extend for 1 year in Thailand, or extend for 1 year before you leave and buy a re-entry permit.

George ************* · Answer

As someone staying in Thailand long-term you need to use the Phuket Town Immigration Office (the Patong Office is for short-term extensions, plus 90-day reports and certificates of residence).  What you need to do needs to be done at the Phuket Town office.

The Phuket Immigration Volunteers have information available online on their website:

for Non-O Visa obtained in Thailand:

[url redacted]

for retirement extension of stay:

[url redacted]

You can go talk to the Phuket Immigration Volunteers in Phuket Town whenever the office is open.  You can email questions to them online.

"We are available to help immigration customers at the Immigration main office in Phuket town every working day.

You can find us at room 204 (upstairs office)

Please visit us at room 204 or send a email to [email redacted] if you have any inquiries or need any other information." -- [url redacted]

In my experience, the PIV are available on the ground floor at the information desk.  This means going through the main entrance on the ground floor on the side of the building opposite the drive-through.  I believe this is Room 101.

Dana ******* · Answer

Extend your Non-O for 1 year and before leaving, get a Re-entry Permit.

Stuart ********* · Answer

There are volunteers at Phuket Town and the Patong immigration offices.

Your idea is entirely workable. You could also extend the non O for a year if you have the right financials.

Maxim *********** · Answer

Volunteer visa is a no-go for a little while now, unless you plan to volunteer for real.

How can I extend my Non-O visa in Thailand and what are the options for returning after my trip?

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