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What is the difference between a retirement extension of stay and a visa in Thailand?

Retirement Visa Extension of Stay Thailand Visa Rules Visa vs Extension Immigration Policy in Thailand

Oct 12, 2018

6 years ago

Marty *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I know it is often stated that there is no such thing as a retirement visa but here is the extension of stay they stamped into my passport today.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The discussion emphasizes the distinction between a retirement extension of stay and a visa in Thailand. Users clarify that what is often referred to as a retirement visa is technically an extension of stay, as evidenced by legitimate stamps in passports which do not indicate 'visa'. The dialogue also highlights the process for applying for extensions and the misconceptions that can arise about visa terminology.

NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.

Tod *********

and on that note we're done :)

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Joshua *****************

'Former Berkeley Science Educator' - unable to pinpoint the difference between an extension of stay and a travel visa - go figure.

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Pedro **********

just curious as to why Nov 19, 2019. That would be beyond the 1 year period.

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Tod *********

because you can apply up to 45 days early for the extension AND they ADD the year onto your current expiration date not from the date you apply for it.

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Tod *********

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Guido **********

I wonder if one day people will see the difference between a visa and extension of stay stamp.

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Robert *******

They see the difference, but how long it takes to type: Extension of Stay or Visa? Time is money.

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Robert *******

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Ադամ ********

Proved it yourself. An Extension of stay based on retirement, not a VISA.

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Robert *******

@Marty ********

People ask questions, no problem. But we can not see the passport, so hard to give advice. I like to call my Extension of stay, Chang beer. But nobody understand me when I write I want another Chang.

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Marty *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks. I realize that correct terminology is important in the FB group.

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Marty *********

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Robert *******

Correct, as you can read there is not even one word in these stamps that says: VISA.

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Robert *******

The re-entry permit is valid till the end of your current stay, if you change your stay the current one is cancelled and a new permitted stay is given. You can apply when ever you want, but do it before you leave the country.

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Marty *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hmmm. Interesting. The multiple entry stamp was previously good until November 20th. So it is no longer any good and I should get a new one now? or at any time? Another surprise . . .

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Robert *******

It has already expired. You changed your stay with this Extension of Stay, your previous Admitted until period is cancelled with the re-entry permit.

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Marty *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I will plan to get a new multiple entry permit after the current one expires November 20th.

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Robert *******

This is an Extension of Stay stamped by Immigration with "Retirement" to save space in your passport, it is: based on being over 50 years of age and willing to spend the rest of their time in Thailand. And correct, normally the Ministry of Labor does not give a Work Permit to people holding this Extension of Stay.

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Marty *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

So this is an extension of stay based on "Retirement"? I assume this means they don't want me to work.

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Marty *********

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