What are the steps and requirements for converting a Non-OA visa to a Non-O visa for expats in Thailand over 50?

Aug 20, 2022
2 years ago
Roy ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
For a Non-OA to Non-O, based on over 50 years old, conversion. I have reviewed prior posts, including the excellent guidelines, but would appreciate some guidance on the following.

Currently on an extension based on my 2018 Non-OA visa, USA passport, extension valid until October 27, live in Chiang Mai.

The timing is very important to me since I want to have my annual extension renewals due about mid-February of each year, for which I can apply up to 30 days in advance in Chiang Mai. I leave CM each year for 2-3 months, usually in mid to late February. Once I am clear on the items below, I can calendar it out to figure out the best time to leave the country without a reentry permit and return 1 to 2 weeks later on a visa exempt entry - which likely will be 45 days if I return in October

1. After returning, I get 30 or 45 days and will soon apply for an in-country Non-O based on 50+ years old, at least 21 days before my permission to stay expires. Question: will that 90 day Non-O begin on the date of application or approval, or will it start at the end of my visa exempt expiration date?

2. When I apply for a 1 year extension of stay, based on that 90 day Non-O, will the extension begin on the date of application or approval, or will it start at the end of the 90 day Non-O expiration date?

3. Re: requirement of proving origin from funds out of the country. I did this 2 years when I got my first OA extension 2 years ago. The deposit has remained in my Bangkok bank account. Do I need to prove the origin again? Can the bank provide me a letter recertifying the origin from a deposit made 2 years ago?

4. Am I correct that no health insurance at all is required?

I am aware of the other documents and requirements for applying. Thanks for your advice.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
This post discusses the process of converting a Non-OA visa to a Non-O visa for individuals over 50 years old living in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The user seeks clarification on several points regarding the timeline and commencement of the 90-day Non-O visa and subsequent one-year extension, requirements for proving funds, and health insurance necessities. Comments provide insights on visa application timelines, extension protocols, and specific local practices regarding these visa types.
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Willem ****
In Chiang Mai you can apply for a extention of stay 45 days in advance.
Tod *********
1 - in bangkok (which is NOT where you are) you lose all the days you have on your visa exempt entry stamp and the new Non-O visa starts the date you APPLY for it (not the date you go back to get it inked in)

2 - the year extension will be ADDED to the expiration date of your 90 day Non-O

3 - the bank never gave you a letter saying the funds came from abroad, (they don't do that) the code in the bank book for that transaction shows it was an international transfer. So if you have a new bank book you might need to go find the original bank book to see the transaction code.

4 - no insurance required, it's the ONLY reason people are dumping OA's and getting O's the other requirements are all the same

I dunno how chiang mai does it, so you need to slog on over there and talk to them before you bounce out and cancel that OA extension
Roy ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
Thank you for the extremely quick and comprehensive reply to my questions. Much appreciated ๐Ÿ™‚
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