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What are the current challenges and recommendations for obtaining a Thailand Non-O visa from the U.S.?

Nov 4, 2025
2 days ago
Jason *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Just FYI to Americans in the Northeast, the NYC consulate appears to be very backed up with visa applications so I'd strongly recommend applying early and triple checking things before clicking submit. I applied for a 90 day non 0 retirement visa on September 15 and was finally approved *today while literally on the plane to Thailand.* The immigration officer accepted the PDF version of it on my phone as I had nowhere to print it out.

Would have been pretty funny if I hadn't checked my email upon landing.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The NYC consulate is experiencing significant delays with visa applications, prompting advice for Americans in the Northeast to apply early and review submissions carefully. One user noted they were finally approved for a 90-day Non-O retirement visa while en route to Thailand, highlighting the importance of checking email for updates. Comments suggest applying 6-8 weeks in advance, as some embassies delay processing near travel dates and outline alternative entry options using a 60-day exemption.
90 DAY REPORTING RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Use the trusted Thailand 90 Day Reporting Service to get your in-person report done and mailed to you for as low as 375 THB (even if the online system doesn't work for you).
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
TG *********
I applied through Washington DC Thai embassy ( servicing Alabama) on
*****
approved today
****
.

Non O family based.
Brandon ************
Some embassies purposefully hold applications until closer to the travel date indicated on the application.
Jan ******************
It’s best to apply 6–8 weeks before you leave — no need to wait until the last minute. If you hadn’t received your visa before passing through immigration, you could still enter on a 60-day visa exemption and done a border run later to activate your Non-O visa.
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