Answered8 years ago

Should I apply for a retirement visa in the US or Thailand after my work permit expires?

retirement visa Thailand immigration work permit expiration NON-O visa bank requirements visa application process

Cheryl *********

asked Apr 19, 2019

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I'm a US citizen and currently have a work permit which expires on September 30. I want to change to a retirement visa at that point, and understand that I have to transfer the 800K into a Thai bank account 3 months in advance (I think that's clear from past postings ;-) However, I'm a bit concerned about the timing. I'm going back to the US for a visit in July. Would it be better to apply for the non-resident visa while I'm in the States, or should I do it in Thailand when I finish my job and give my work permit back? Will I need to leave the country to switch visas? Is there anything else I need to do? (Sorry if these questions have been asked already - couldn't find the answers when I searched.)

Answer summary

A US citizen currently holding a work permit in Thailand is seeking advice on transitioning to a retirement visa after the work permit expires on September 30. They plan to visit the US in July and are uncertain whether to apply for the retirement visa while in the States or in Thailand after completing their job. Additionally, they are inquiring if it is necessary to leave Thailand to switch visas and what other steps they need to take regarding the 800K baht requirement in a Thai bank account.

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Robert *******

And when do you like to stop working?

8 years ago

Cheryl *********

Got it - thanks so much for your help!

8 years ago

Robert *******

You should be able to cancel your Extension of Stay based on working and directly apply for a new Extension of Stay based on being over 50 years of age. But I would strongly advice to visit Immigration Office before you make this move and make sure you got all the needed documents in order. If you cancel your Extension of Stay and the new application gets not approved you will have 7 days to pack your bags and leave the country.

8 years ago

Cheryl *********

Good point, thanks! So I can take care of everything from within Thailand when I finish my job, or do I need to leave again?

8 years ago

Robert *******

Than you need a re-entry permit for your visit to the USA. You can not switch visa in the USA as a visa for being over 50 years of age does not allow you to work inside Thailand.

8 years ago

Cheryl *********

I'm completely legal and would like to stay that way .

8 years ago

Cheryl *********

I have an extension of stay based on working and I'm doing my 90 day reports at immigration (or online when I can get it to work). I would like to finish out my contract, so I'll stop working on September 30.

8 years ago

Robert *******

And you have at the moment the Non Immigrant B visa and making border runs every 90 days or do you have an Extension of Stay based on working and doing 90 day reports at Immigration?

8 years ago