Notice: Today a friend went to Krabi Immigration to apply for another one year Extension of Stay (Age 50 or over). My friend had planned on using the 65K Monthly Income method. He had visited this office a week ago and presented his documentation - asking is this good enough? Told Yes, if verifying documents were presented. Today was several days after the Big Change in the Thailand Immigration HQ Chief and three days after a New Chief I/O took control of Krabi Immigration. My friend entered the Imm. Office - planning to see the same I/O that he had had the preliminary discussion with... But was shuffled off to an assistant I/O... My Friend presented his American Passport and was immediately told that since his country will no longer issue an Income Affidavit / Letter that his only way to qualify was to present evidence of having 800,000 Baht in a Thai Bank - And with full documentation verifying that the 800K THB in the Thai Bank came from a source from abroad. Also the I/O indicated that the monthly income of 65K Baht application method would not be considered. My friend said he was not even allowed to show his 65K Baht monthly Income bank deposit records.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion highlights the challenges faced by expats, particularly in Krabi, regarding the Extension of Stay for retirees aged 50 or over. A recent case illustrates that due to recent leadership changes at the immigration office, eligibility criteria have become stricter, requiring proof of 800,000 Baht in a Thai bank rather than acceptance of monthly income verification. Various comments point out the difficulties with appeal processes and inconsistent application of immigration rules, leading to frustration among expats. Recommendations include potentially appealing directly to higher authorities or transferring funds through recognized channels, along with insights into the operational difficulties immigrants face in local offices.
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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