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What are the best consulates for applying for a Non-O visa in Thailand?

Non-O Visa Thailand Visa Application Visa Approval Process Thai Consulates Expat Visa Tips Immigration to Thailand

Dec 6, 2025

5 months ago

Petrov ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello,

I am planning to apply for a Non-O (family) visa for Thailand and I am considering a few consulates in the region. I am specifically looking at:

 • Savannakhet (Laos)

 • Vientiane (Laos)

 • Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)

 • Hanoi (Vietnam)

Could you please share your experience:

 • Where are the highest chances of approval?

 • Where is the process faster and more reliable?

 • Are there any special considerations I should be aware of?

Thank you in advance for your help!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The discussion centers around applying for a Non-O (family) visa for Thailand at consulates in Laos and Vietnam. Key points include the approval process being similar across locations, with specific mention of the physical application process in Laos for payment. Participants suggest Vientiane (Laos) as a strong option, while others praise the communication and efficiency of the Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi consulates. Overall, experiences highlight the importance of being aware of local holidays that may affect processing times.

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Phirom *******

In my opinion, I really like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi the most! My husband applied for a Non-O visa, and both of them are super good at communication. Whenever I have a question, they always reply clearly and helpfully. The approval time is usually around 1–3 days, depending on whether they ask for extra documents.

5 months ago

Sopan *********

Vientiane seems to be the best one tbh

5 months ago

Thomas *******

@Sopan ********

I did mine in July. I had a couple of paperwork problems and got it before the fourth day was over. No paperwork problems and it would have been done the same day. To be fair, the paperwork issues were on my end. I can't say enough good things about how they handled everything.

5 months ago

Reply to

Thomas *******

Brandon ************

There's no difference in chance of approval. You either qualify or you don't.

If you go to Laos you'll need to physically go to the embassy in the morning after you submit your visa application online in order to pay with cash.

Laos is the only place like that. If you go elsewhere you both apply and pay online and never have to leave your hotel room if you don't want to.

Special considerations are to make note of holidays, both Thai holidays and holidays of the country you go to.

5 months ago

Michel ********

@Bra****

you have to go pay in person before the visa is approved?

5 months ago

Bob **********

@Michel *******

you won’t get it without payment

5 months ago

Michel ********

@Bob *********

I know but I would have thought that you pay after the visa is approved...

5 months ago

Brandon ************

@Michel *******

No, you're not paying for the visa. You are paying for the processing of the visa. Whether it's approved or not, they keep your money. No refunds. Just like everywhere in the world.

5 months ago

Reply to

Brandon ************

Greg *********

@Brandon ***********

doesn't he have to apply for an O visa within his country of residence?

5 months ago

Brandon ************

@Greg ********

no, why would he? It's available from any Thai embassy that doesn't restrict visa applications to residents.

5 months ago

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