What are the advantages and disadvantages of obtaining a three-month Non-O visa abroad before applying for a 12-month retirement visa in Thailand?

Non-O Visa Retirement Visa Visa Application Process Thailand Immigration Insurance Requirements Visa Extensions

Mar 18, 2023

2 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Is there any advantage/disadvantage to getting a three month non-O at an embassy in another country (Laos/Cambodia/Vietnam etc.) and then coming into Thailand on that before going for the 12 month retirement visa? Or better to do the whole process in Thailand? I know there's an insurance requirement when doing it abroad but not really clear about all the details.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Obtaining a three-month Non-O visa at a Thai embassy in neighboring countries can offer a 90-day entry advantage, allowing time for banking and extension preparation. However, it may involve navigating varying consulate requirements and potential insurance documentation, which are reportedly not strictly enforced in Southeast Asia.

NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
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Robert *******

Advantage is that you get 90 days on entry, which gives you 30 days to open a bank account and deposit the money to apply for the 1 year Extension of Stay.

Disadvantage is that IF you apply in South East Asia you are depending on the requirements set by the Thai Consulate in that country.

2 years ago

Dcbyron ***************

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks, Robert.

2 years ago

Reply to

Dcbyron ***************

Tod *********

As a rule there is no insurance requirement to get a non-O visa issued at a thai consulate (especially NONE in S/E Asia)

You see it being asked on the eVisa website when you apply but you just write N/A on a piece of paper and upload it. It is NOT a requirement to have insurance for an O visa

The upside is you ENTER the country on a non-O visa and get stamped in for 90 days so you can apply for a year extension when you are down to 30 days or less left on that stamp rather than having to apply for the Non-O visa, wait for the review period, go back and get it inked in

2 years ago

Reply to

Tod *********

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Should I apply for a retirement visa for Thailand before or after arriving in the country?

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