Hi all, my head is swimmimg. Iโm considering flying to Chiang Mai next month from Saigon where Iโve been working. Iโm a citizen of USA, 64 years old, single. Monthly pension of approx 178,000 THB.
I did not start this process in USA, is it feasible to expect that I can start and finish a long term visa while in Thailand? Specifically while there on the 45 day tourist visa with 2 30 day extensions?
Really conflicted at this point because Mexico is an option with much simpler visa process.
All advice greatly valued and appreciated!
Thank you.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user, a 64-year-old US citizen, is considering moving to Chiang Mai and wants advice on obtaining a long-term visa while in Thailand on a 45-day tourist exemption. Comments clarify that you cannot get a 45-day tourist visa and that an entry stamp grants 45 days, which can be extended once for 30 days. To qualify for a NON-O visa based on retirement, one needs to either have 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account or prove a monthly income, although simply showing pension income isn't sufficient. Alternatively, the newly introduced LTR wealthy pensioner visa may be simpler without requiring a Thai bank account.
LONG TERM RESIDENT (LTR) VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES