I currently have a non-O foundation volunteer visa and work permit that I've held for 15+ years. I'm switching to a religious (RA) visa soon. The department of religion said I need to apply for an E-visa and recommended getting it in Penang, Malaysia.
The problem is that I can't apply for an E-visa if I'm in Thailand. What's the process for switching visa types like this?
I see my post was removed. The answer from Tod was great. Not sure why it was removed. I had a follow up question about my wife and son. Do they need to apply separately or is there a place to include them as "followers" on my application?
TLDR : Answer Summary
To switch from a Non-O foundation volunteer visa to a religious (RA) visa in Thailand, you will need to cancel your current visa and exit the country. You cannot apply for the RA visa from within Thailand โ it's recommended to go to a Thai consulate in a nearby country like Malaysia or another option that processes eVisas. After canceling your extension at the immigration office and securing documentation from your supporting organization, you can either return to Thailand on a free 60-day entry stamp and apply at the immigration office or apply for the visa online at a consulate. It's important to note that each family member (wife and child) must apply separately unless applying at a walk-in consulate where simultaneous applications are possible. Keep in mind that rules may vary depending on the local immigration office.
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.