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Answered5 years ago

Is it easier to apply for a 3-month Non-O visa in the UK or Thailand?

Jason ********
asked Apr 12, 2022
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Apologies if this has been asked previously,is it easier to apply for 3 month Non O visa based on retirement in UK or Thailand ?Also what requirements/ documents do I need please ?

Thanks very much for any help.
Answer summary
The discussion revolves around the ease of applying for a 3-month Non-O visa based on retirement, comparing the application process in the UK versus Thailand. Many contributors suggest that applying from the UK is simpler, especially due to the e-Visa system that allows applicants to use UK bank statements to show sufficient funds. In contrast, applying in Thailand involves additional steps, such as opening a local bank account and transferring funds, which can complicate the process. There are also mentions of insurance requirements, highlighting the necessity of adequate medical coverage during the visa application.
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Dennis **********
Dennis **********
Since the Question is about "easier" the process includes banking. From personal experience getting a Bank Account with just a Tourist visa is almost impossible (not quite but almost). Once I got my Non-O based on Retirement it was STILL a difficult process until I stumbled into Krungsri. Several other banks had to many hoops to jump through. So put that into your equation.
Dennis **********
Dennis **********
Todd fully aware and did not intend to say anything derogatory, just that it needed to be put into this guys equation. Sometimes something as simple as opening an account at home is rather difficult.
Tod *********
Tod *********
@Dennis *********
it's 100% just a numbers game when opening a bank account here. There is no rule in the banking regulations that prohibit a person on a 30 day visa exempt or a tourist visa entry from opening a bank account. The rules for each branch are set by that branch's manager.

So you just need to start pounding the pavement, post on a f/b page related to where you stay in thailand and eventually you WILL be able to open an account. It just takes time, patience, and not getting offended by being told "CANNOT!!" time and again ๐Ÿ˜›
Tod *********
Tod *********
I agree with
@London ****
getting a 90 day single entry Non-O visa in the UK using the eVisa system is NOT difficult and you can show funds in your UK account to get it

Then when you come in you'll get stamped in for 90 days and have time to get a bank account opened get the 800K baht in it and let it season the required 2 months so you can apply for a year extension at the immigration office for 1900baht before the 90 days runs out. You'll get a 30 day under consideration stamp and go back when that runs out to get the year inked into your passport.

This is the link for the eVisa system (if you're applying before you go back make sure you say you hold a UK passport and your permanent residence is in the UK or the system won't let you apply online)

****************************
Kevin ***********
Kevin ***********
@Tod ********
800K since the OP said retirement?
Tod *********
Tod *********
Well Spotted
@Kevin **********
(y) I edited it to reflect the correct 800K baht needed for a retirement extension ๐Ÿ™‚ Thanx
London *****
London *****
UK is very easy. As long as you have funds showing on bank statement - UK funds are fine. As already said, all online - they send msg if need anything else. I got mine 2 days later. ยฃ60>
Eze ********
Eze ********
@London ****
Did also you have to buy the Thai company 40,
*******
,000 baht medical insurance (or get the Foreign Insurance Certificate signed)?
Thongnaipan ******
Thongnaipan ******
@Eze *******
Every foreigner needs minimum insurance cover of $20k (now reduced) as part of Thai Pass entry portal
Eze ********
Eze ********
@Thongnaipan *****
Thank you. I know about the $20,000 COVID-19 insurance requirement for the Thailand Pass but I think that they may have also extended the requirement to have 40,000 baht outpatient and 400,000 baht inpatient insurance from a selected Thai provider (or persuade a foreign insurance company to sign their certificate in Thai) to Non-O visas purchased for the purpose of retirement via the e-visa system.

If true, this would be similar to the Non-OA insurance requirements (although the length of cover required may differ).
Jason ********
Jason ********
OP
Sorry just returned to uk from Phuket and looking to go back before he end of may so just trying to work out if I should apply here in UK or wait til I return to Phuket

Sorry for any confusion
Tod *********
Tod *********
@Jason *******
no confusion at all, ๐Ÿ™‚ just two completely different processes depending on being inside or outside the country.
Tod *********
Tod *********
How about before we get into the proz/conz of where it's easier to do it the O/P (that'd be you
@Jason *******
๐Ÿ˜‰ ) weighs in and says whether they're in thailand now or not ๐Ÿ™‚
Stan **********
Stan **********
It's more straight forward applying in the UK from the comfort of your settee . It's all Evisa now .
Robert *******
Robert *******
It al depends on where you are.

If you're in the UK, apply in the UK

If you want it to do in Thailand you need to transfer money into a Thai Bank before you can apply, opening a Thai bank could take some time but also need time left on your current stay.

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