What are my options for extending my stay in Thailand and obtaining an O visa after arriving on a 60-day visa exemption?

You've had a complex immigration history in Thailand, and I'll try to provide guidance on your current situation.

Current Situation

You're currently in Thailand on a 60-day visa exemption, which you've extended by 30 days. You're approaching the 90-day mark and need to decide on the best course of action.

Options

You've mentioned two options:

1. *Border bounce in Laos*: This involves exiting Thailand, entering Laos, and then re-entering Thailand. This method is not recommended, as it's considered a "visa run" and might raise concerns with immigration authorities.

2. *Stay in Laos or Cambodia for a few days and return*: This option is more acceptable, as you'll be spending time in another country before re-entering Thailand. Make sure you have a genuine ticket to leave Thailand within the additional 60 days.

Obtaining an O Visa While in Thailand

It's possible to apply for an O visa while in Thailand on a visa exemption, but there are certain requirements and restrictions. You'll need to meet the eligibility criteria for an O visa, which includes having a Thai spouse, among other requirements.

To apply for an O visa while in Thailand, you'll need to:

1. *Meet the eligibility criteria*: Ensure you meet the requirements for an O visa, including having a Thai spouse and sufficient funds.

2. *Gather required documents*: Collect the necessary documents, including your passport, marriage certificate, and proof of income.

3. *Submit your application*: Apply for the O visa at an immigration office in Thailand. You may need to provide additional documentation or attend an interview.

Keep in mind that immigration policies and regulations can change, so it's essential to check with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate for the latest information.

Recommendations

Based on your situation, I recommend exploring option 2 (staying in Laos or Cambodia for a few days and returning) or applying for an O visa while in Thailand. If you choose to apply for an O visa, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and gather the required documents.

It's also essential to consult with the local immigration office or a reputable visa service to ensure you're following the correct procedures and meeting the necessary requirements. You should also consider reading a book or two before your travel.. I'd recommend a book "Thailand Unveiled 2024-2025" by James Anderson on Amazon..it has all the info and recommendations you need..you should check it out 😀

The married visa is a 'non-o' visa and he should apply for it in country.. generally speaking when he has 30 days left on his exemption stamp.. though some offices may stipulate waiting until 15 days unexpired.. there is no need to extend the initial stamp at all.. since the non-o process grants an initial 90-day stay (visa) which is then rolled into the 12-month non-o.. so it's possible to avoid the cost and bureaucracy of the day extension of stay by simply going straight for the non-o.. but it's essential to check out the specific requirements of the immigration office being used to get all your ducks in a row ahead of time.. you must have had your marriage registered at your local amphur and have a registration certificate.. best to get 3-4 copies properly stamped as originals.. and if you were married overseas (ie. outside of Thailand) that will necessitate having a translated copy of the marriage certificate properly notarized.. if you need to do this and live in the country where you were married then i suggest you get this done before you come to Thailand.. otherwise you'll need to engage an agent to do it for you once you're here.. since the process is very cumbersome.. especially if you are not living in Bangkok where most of the foreign embassies are located.. once marriage registered immediately apply for a yellow book at the local municipality.. this serves as proof of address for everything in Thailand and will make life much easier when applying for your visa (and at renewal) and when dealing with banks etc.. it also enables you to apply for the Pink ID card..which is akin to a farang national ID card albeit issued locally.. and is recognised by many institutions here.. such as the LTO when applying for (or renewing) your driving licence.. all these documents make interacting with immigration much easier.. imo, that's largely because you have demonstrated a real commitment to settling down and staying here permanently to support your Thai wife and family!

I'm not a visa expert, but I'll try to provide some general guidance. However, please consult the Thai embassy or consulate, or an immigration lawyer for personalized advice.

Visa Exemption and Extensions

1. *60-day visa exemption*: You've already utilized this option.

2. *30-day extension*: The local IO suggested this, but be aware that extensions are typically granted for unforeseen circumstances, not for regular visa runs.

Border Run Options

1. *Border bounce in Laos*: This option is possible, but be cautious:

1. Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sufficient funds.

2. Be prepared for potential scrutiny from immigration officers.

3. There's a risk of being denied re-entry or receiving a shorter visa exemption period.

2. *Stay in Laos or Cambodia for a few days*: This option is generally considered safer and more respectful of immigration regulations:

1. Spend a few days exploring Laos or Cambodia to demonstrate your intention to travel.

2. Keep records of your travels, such as hotel bookings, transportation tickets, and photos.

Obtaining an O Visa While in Thailand

It's generally recommended to apply for an O visa from outside Thailand. However, in some cases, it might be possible to apply for an O visa while in Thailand on a visa exemption:

1. *Consult the Thai embassy or consulate*: Reach out to the Thai embassy or consulate in Thailand to inquire about the possibility of applying for an O visa while on a visa exemption.

2. *Meet the eligibility criteria*: Ensure you meet the requirements for an O visa, including having a valid passport, proof of marriage to a Thai citizen, and sufficient funds.

3. *Prepare required documents*: Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, marriage certificate, and proof of income.

Please note that immigration regulations can change, and individual circumstances may affect the outcome. You should also consider reading a book or two before your travel.. I'd recommend a book "Thailand Unveiled 2024-2025" by James Anderson on Amazon..it has all the info and recommendations you need..you should check it out 😀

I’ve just asked immigration in non bua lam phu 2 days ago I was told I can come to Thailand on the 60days on arrival stamp tourist. And ask immigration for a change to retirement or marriage visa , I was told to go for the retirement visa as it is easier to get

You can get a non-O retirement visa in Thailand. You need 800k THB in a thai bank account in your name. Go to the immigration office to get a list of requirements (letter from bank, copies of passport, etc).

As

@Gar***

states get the additional 60 days visiting Thai family if you’re marriage is registered in Thailand.

You cannot apply apply for a DTV inside Thailand.

You can apply for a 90 days Non O in Thailand and you’ll need 15-21 days left on your stamp.

If you apply based on being over 50 years the requirements are proof of 800K baht transferred from abroad. Based on marriage it’s 400K baht.

If you’re able to get affidavit letter from your embassy regarding income the requirements are 65K baht a month as retired and 40K based on marriage.

Get a DTV - it's the new "Super Visa", everyone's getting them now

If you have marriage certificate with you, can you extend another 60 days for visit Thai family yes even after the 30 day extension.

Yes you can convert your visa extempt to o cost 2000 baht or something

Recommend talking with your immigration office then here. And they will gladly assist you futher