Is it possible to apply for a 90-day non-O visa while out of Thailand for a short trip?

Question

Hello. I am a Belgian national on a non-OA annual retirement visa which I would like to change to a non-O when the current one expires. I plan to exit the country before its expiry and return on a 30 days exemption visa before applying to 90 days non-O then extend to annual retirement. Is it possible to apply for a 90 days non-O while I am out of the country for few days only skipping the 30 day exemption visa? I plan to fly to Luang Prabang and back. It seems it is possible in theory (according to PKK immigration) but would like to know if anyone has actually done it. Thank you for sharing your experience, if any.

Ask Thailand · Answer

A Belgian national on a non-OA annual retirement visa wishes to switch to a non-O visa by exiting Thailand and applying for a 90-day non-O visa. The inquiry concerns the feasibility of applying for this visa while temporarily out of the country, specifically after traveling to Luang Prabang. Responses clarify that the application must be made at specific Thai consulates in Laos, with guidance on procedures and processing times.

Anne-Marie ********* · Answer

Fantastic. Thanks a lot for your feedback.

Tod ********* · Answer

Well you aren't gonna apply for a Non-O in Luang Prabang 😉 as there's no thai consulate there 😕

You COULD apply for a 90 day single entry Non-O visa based on being over 50 from either thai consulate in Lao (Vientiane OR Savannakhet)

Vientiane requires you book an appt online before you show up or you don't get in the gate, AND they have a 3 business day processing time (counting the day you apply as day 1) meaning apply Monday morning get your passport back Wednesday afternoon.

Savannakhet is a walk up consulate, meaning no appt necessary, AND they only have a 2 business day processing time (counting the day you apply) meaning you apply Monday morning and get the passport back Tuesday afternoon.

Go to the website of the thai consulate you're thinking of using, read the requirements, MEET the requirements, go apply, wait the processing time and get the visa.

That will cut two immigration visits out of the 30 day stamp, to Non-O to year extension process (y)

Come in on the 90 day stamp from the Non-O, wait until you have 30 days or less left and then go apply for your year extension for 1900baht

Is it possible to apply for a 90-day non-O visa while out of Thailand for a short trip?

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