What should I do if I need to change my visa from Non-O to Non-B but can't leave Thailand due to COVID-19?

Non-O Visa Non-B Visa Visa Change Immigration Rules COVID-19 Impact Work Permit Issues Thai Visa Regulations

Aug 26, 2020

4 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi all, pretty stressed out and confusing times.

So I was and am on a non o volunteer visa when my school hired me and all was good as I have my degree etc. Then covid 19 happened and everything got stuck but I was already contracted by the school. Now I need to change from non o to non b, but immigration says I need to leave the country for that and cannot do it in the country, which of course I cannot do now.

So my volunteer work permit will expire September 24, my visa March 2021. As I understand if my wp expires it will automatically cancel out my visa which means then I'll be on amnesty (if I'm getting this right).

Is there any alternative or does any face a similar issue. Really confused to what to do.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is facing difficulties in changing their Non-O volunteer visa to a Non-B visa due to immigration restrictions, compounded by the impact of COVID-19. They are concerned about the expiration of their work permit and the implications for their visa status. The responses highlight the typical immigration procedures, emphasizing that switching visa types inside Thailand is generally not permitted amid the pandemic.

NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

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Robert *******

As it is all nice, but pre covid, during covid and until the Thai Government is introducing a new Immigration act, you could not, can not and will not be able to switch from one Non Immigrant visa into another Non Immigrant Visa inside the country.

Most of the visa you buy at a consulate are single entry and stamped used, yes this means they are invalid, on entry.

4 years ago

Robert *******

I guess what you call a visa is actually a big stamp from Immigration with in the second line Extension of Stay permitted up to .. March 2021.

This stamp has to be cancelled when you stop doing your volunteer work at Immigration.

It seems that your new employer can not meet requirements and therefor the advice is apply at a Consulate.

4 years ago

Wannikea *********

There is talk in the works about changing visa in country. Ministry of education wrote a letter earlier this month to immigration with this specific request. No response or word as of yet. Stay tuned.

4 years ago

Robert *******

@Emile *******

Being allowed back in is not a requirement by Immigration laws, leaving a country when your allowed period of stay has ended is,

4 years ago

Emile ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Robert ******

no, we do have all the paperwork but I cannot change my visa as I need to leave and enter and now all borders are closed

4 years ago

Robert *******

Emile Burger No, only land borders are closed. You can still leave using airplanes.