Hi all. I plan to return to Thailand later this year, on a 90 day non-O visa acquired while in Australia, and then when here in Chiang Mai will go through the hoops of acquiring a bank account, do the 800k deposit, and apply for a 12 month extension.
I've asked 2 agents here about requirements for that 12 month extension, particularly on the "proof of residence" front, and received conflicting info:
Agent #1 said: A lease isn't required, just a TM30, so technically a hotel booking is fine.
Agent #2 said: For residency, hotel booking is not allowed since you need TM30 (At least 3-6months)
I have seen elsewhere (Siam Legal) that a "at least 6 month lease" was required.
Any thoughts, or better, direct experience on this front?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The requirements for obtaining a 12-month extension on a non-O visa in Thailand, particularly regarding proof of residence, are unclear based on conflicting advice from agents. One agent claims that a TM30 is sufficient, potentially allowing for a hotel booking, while another insists on needing a long-term lease. Community members suggest consulting directly with the local immigration office for definitive requirements, as these can vary by location and individual officer discretion.
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You have to wait sixty days for your extension. What is required depends not of where you require, but on the actual immigration officers you will see. He has the final say.
Just in case, take as many information you may be asked although in most cases you will not need that many.
For the bank account, it is down to the managers who are eager to sell a life insurance policy and claim that it is needed.
Agent #2 is right, you will need a proof of residence from immigration to open a bank account. A TM30 is needed from an address. If you use a hotel you may have to show a booking over a longer period of time.
Best to ask the immigration office you will use once you arrive. Some will allow a hotel as long as you can show you have an agreement with the hotel that you will stay for a few months, others want to see a lease
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