My thoughts on applying for a 12 month O-A visa.
Since the last one I applied for a few things had changed and the main change was moving from paper & photocopies to an online application.
What was required:
* valid UK passport (scan and upload))
* signed medical certificate (print blank and then obtain signature (scan and upload))
* bank statement detailing required funds (scan and upload)
* address verification (scan and upload)
* criminal records check from ACRO (scan and upload)
* medical insurance with a minimum of B400,000 cover (scan and upload)
* signed declaration (print blank, sign and upload)
* booking visa and electronic receipt form (print off and send to Royal Thai Embassey)
* payment of £150.00 via electronic payment once application is complete.
What next.
Once the online application was complete and payment made, the booking visa and electronic receipt was printed and sent to the Royal Thai Embassey in London along with my passport.
The application has various online status and details where in the process the application is.
Mistakes
I made several mistakes with the application:
* The local GP held the medical certificate for three weeks before declining to complete the form. I had to pay for a private consultation with another medical practice
* On the criminal records check I inadvertently used Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) instead of ACRO (although I’m sure I previously used this check)
* Contacted the bank for statements but never received the statements, had to reorder and they arrived within a week.
Summary
Although the process seems complicated it’s fairly straightforward but there are a lot of component parts that each have their own challenges.
I found the Embassey staff were responsive in letting me know the errors with the application and allowed me to rectify any mistakes.
The whole process took about 2 months and this was due to the mistakes I made. I would imagine if you have a scanner a good relationship with your GP and bank then the process could be achieved within a month.
Hope this helps somebody applying for a visa and a bit overwhelmed by the application process.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The process for applying for a 12-month O-A visa has shifted to an online application system, requiring several documents including a valid passport, medical certificate, bank statement, address verification, criminal records check, medical insurance, and a signed declaration. Applicants must send the completed application and payment confirmation to the Royal Thai Embassy. Common mistakes include issues with obtaining the medical certificate and bank statements. The application process took about two months, mainly due to applicant errors.
