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Answereda year ago

How efficient is the immigration process for Non-O retirement extensions in Thailand?

Stephen *******
asked Sep 11, 2025
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Praise report!

Yesterday I went to immigration at Chiang Rai Central Plaza to get my yearly Non-O retirement extension.

I had all the correct paperwork, took a number, waited about 10 minutes, submitted my paperwork to the very pleasant IO, paid my 1,900 baht and received my new stamp.

All up around 40 minutes!

Very pleasant and efficient service!

Well done Chiang Rai Immigration Office.πŸ‘πŸ‘πŸ‘
Answer summary
Several expats have shared their positive experiences with the immigration process for their Non-O retirement visa extensions across various locations in Thailand. Reports from Chiang Rai, Hua Hin, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Phetchabun highlight efficient service, friendly staff, and quick processing times, often taking around 20-40 minutes to complete. Many users emphasize the importance of having the correct paperwork and being well-prepared, which contributes to a smooth experience.
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Sue **********
Sue **********
Same for Phuket. If you have all documents required from the list and are well clothed, you donβ€˜t have any issues at all.
Michael ********
Michael ********
Never had a problem in Phetchabun 30 minutes in and out, very friendly.
Bernd ***********
Bernd ***********
We are all lucky because we are due in low season. I can report the same good experience at the Phuket immigration office. Did my yearly Non O (retirement) extension and was in and out within 20 minutes. The only difference was that I had to collect my passport the next day.
Jeff *******
Jeff *******
Same in CM if you make an appt online. Last time I was in and out in 25 minutes with a new Non-Imm O extension.
Jo **********
Jo **********
Chiang Rai is a great place friendly polite people with few tourists
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
I had a very similar experience today at Hua Hin IO. I arrived at about 11:40 and by the time I had completed the form and had everything checked it was 11:58, I thought there was no chance of me being seen before lunch, but decided I would get a number to try and be first after lunch. I was amazed to be called over immediately and I filled out my re-entry application whilst the IO checked and processed my extension. 20 minutes later I walked out with a years extension and re-entry permit. All the staff were super friendly and the officer even answered some questions I had, as I was moving from the 800,000 to the monthly 65,000 baht method. Brilliant service as always πŸ‘πŸ‘πŸ‘

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