Hello! In February, 2023, I have plans to apply for a new non-O retirement extension (this is my “normal” time to apply) intentionally using a passport which expires in January, 2024. I do this because I’d prefer my extension application date to be a few months earlier than it currently is, and I think(?) this will accomplish that - I believe they will only give me this next extension up to the passport expiry date.
However, I think I just read that immigration adopted a new policy in August, 2013 which requires me to start the entire visa process over using the new passport; this implies that simply going to immigration with both passports and requesting they transfer the stamp is no longer an option. As I’ve seen discussions on stamp transfers, I suspect this is incorrect information(?).
I will apply for and receive a new passport while in the US. Assuming the information in my second paragraph is incorrect, other information via Internet suggests that no embassy letter is required when I go to transfer the extension stamp as long as my arrival stamp is in the new passport. So, I would arrive in Thailand carrying two passports, desiring that the official put my arrival stamp in my newer passport. Will that occur automatically once I point out what’s going on, or will I have to try and convince the officer to do this?
As you can see, I’ve some conflicting information and it’s my first time renewing passport while on a long-stay visa and I’d appreciate your expert help in ironing all this out. Thanks much.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user plans to apply for a Non-O retirement extension in February 2023 using a passport expiring in January 2024. There is confusion about whether they can transfer their visa stamp to a new passport without starting the application over. Commenters clarify that applying early won't extend the expiration date of the visa past the passport's expiry. They also note that the policy has changed, and the user will need to apply for a new yearly extension whenever their passport expires. However, upon entering Thailand with two passports, the user should receive their arrival stamp in the new passport automatically, and they likely won't need an embassy letter for the stamp transfer.
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.
