Should I apply for a Non-O visa before moving to Thailand or wait until I arrive?

Jan 3, 2024
10 months ago
Sharron *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello, Happy New Year. Do I get my NonO visa inline before I move there? Or wait until I get there. If I get it here in USA, do I need a return ticket to come. Or just a one way. I do not plan to return once I am there. Thank you all. I am well over 55.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion centers around whether to obtain a Non-O visa prior to arriving in Thailand or to wait until after arriving. It is mentioned that having a Non-O visa before departure makes for an easier transition in Thailand, particularly for opening bank accounts and extending the visa. Applying online can eliminate the need for a return ticket, although airlines may request proof of onward travel. While some travelers report using a one-way ticket without issues, others suggest preparing an onward flight to avoid complications with the airline.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Tim *********
I flew in with Thai Airlines and a 90-day Non O Retirement visa. The airline was fine with my one-way ticket
Sharron *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Stuart *********
You can apply online prior to entering Thailand in which case you wouldn’t need a flight out.

As a US citizen you could also enter with no visa and apply in country if you meet the financial requirements to do so but you could be asked by your airline to show an onward ticket. It wouldn’t need to be a return ticket just one out of Thailand within the days allowed by your entry method.

Many people aren’t asked. Some are. A crap shoot really. Google “onward flight” and rent one or buy a cheap ticket to Cambodia that you aren’t going to use.
Chris *******
If you have the non-o before you leave, one-way will/should be fine.

You may have to explain to your airline, Thai immigration will not require it.

Having the evisa makes things easier in Thailand, opening bank accounts and extension is just a little easier.

However it is still very doable in country.
Richard ******
@Chris ******
came in November 2023 and the airline wanted to see a return ticket as I had a one way ticket. Thankfully I had one from another airline as I had miles that I used with both airlines. Good luck
Sharron *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Richard *****
did you havea non-o visa?
Richard ******
@Sharron ******
yes non o
Sharron *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Chris ******
Is the evisa the same as the non-o? I saw in your reply evisa.
Chris *******
@Sharron ******
yes, evisa is done online.

Not in person at an embassy.
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