Is it true that I must leave Thailand to change my ED visa to a Non-B visa due to new immigration rules?

ED Visa Non-B Visa Visa Change Procedure COVID-19 Immigration Policy Thai Immigration Rules Visa Extensions

January 26, 2022

3 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello all,

Anyone has this info or experienced. 

I was told changing ED visa to Non-b, I have to fly out of border to convert then enter thai w non-b. Inconvenient 😓 

Is it true w e new covid ext program, CW IMM (not counter N) will not be doing 60day ext and then company can change to non-b? 

TQIA 🙏

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TLDR : Answer Summary

You must exit Thailand to convert your ED visa to a Non-B visa, as recent immigration regulations have eliminated the option for extensions based on COVID-19 circumstances. It is confirmed that all immigration offices no longer offer 60-day extensions for any Non-Immigrant visas. Instead, you can either cancel your current ED extension and apply for a tourist visa or visa exemption to re-enter Thailand, or leave with the necessary documents to apply at a Thai consulate for a new Non-B visa.

Tod *********

It IS true at ALL the immigration offices in the country. you can no longer get a covid extension from any type of Non-Immigrant visa/extension 😮

So your option is cancel the ED extension you're on, leave the country either come back on a tourist visa or visa exempt entry THEN you could have your company give you documentation to apply for an in country Non-B at Chaengwattana Counter C-1 for 2000 baht

OR

when you leave you take the documents with you and apply for a 90 day Non-B at the thai consulate in what ever country you go to

3 years ago

Robert *******

Be aware that the new employer must meet the requirements from Immigration to make a conversion. It is easier to apply for a visa at a Thai Embassy as they have less requirements.

3 years ago

Utah *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Robert ******

Does all Thai embassy accept every passport to convert to non-b? It seems like my new employer has to call which country Thai embassy will accept to convert to non-b

3 years ago

Tod *********

@Utah ****

check with the website of embassy you're thinking of going to so you can see the requirements and email them if you are not sure.

3 years ago

Utah *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

: Thank u! ☺️

Tod *********

Robert is correct, it's FAR easier to get a 90 day single entry Non-B at a thai consulate in another country than it is to meet the requirements and get it issued in country once you're here. (y)

3 years ago

Robert *******

@Utah ****

You apply for a NEW visa not a conversion at a Thai Embassy. You have to look at the website in the country you like to visit.

3 years ago

Reply to

Robert *******

You never could change the reason of a Non Immigrant visa after it is issued.

You have to fly out and apply for a new Non Immigrant B visa at a Thai Embassy, be aware that a WP3 form, application for work permit is needed at most Thai Embassies to apply.

Yes, the new rule is that there is no more Extension of Stay based on unablte to travel for Non Immigrant visa holders as they can apply for the normal Extension of Stay.

3 years ago

Utah *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Robert ******

Thanks! I will remember WP3

3 years ago

Reply to

Utah *****

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