What should I know about switching from a Non-B visa to a Retirement visa in Thailand?

Question

Hello everyone,

I have a question about the retirement visa.

I have been working in Thailand for a long time and I currently have a Non-B visa. This year, I am planning not to renew my contract and apply for a retirement visa. So my visa will change from Non-B to Non-O (I think).

I spoke with the immigration office and they said it is not very difficult. Also, the visa cancellation and the new visa application can be done on the same day, so I don’t need to leave the country.

However, I feel a bit stressed because many things need to be done on the same day. As I understand, my school must first cancel my work permit at the labour office and then give me a visa cancellation letter. After that, I need to cancel my visa and apply for the retirement visa on the same day.

I am worried about possible delays, especially if the school is late to give me the documents. I am not sure if I can finish everything in one day.
 
If anyone has had a similar experience, I would really appreciate your advice.

Thank you very much in advance.

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user is transitioning from a Non-B visa due to the end of their work contract to a retirement visa (Non-O) in Thailand. They have concerns about the process, which involves having their employer cancel their work permit and provide necessary cancellation letters on the same day they apply for the retirement visa. Community responses suggest that the documents can be prepared in advance to alleviate stress, and highlight the importance of fulfilling visa requirements, including maintaining a certain amount of money in a Thai bank account. Overall, timely communication with the school and immigration office is crucial for a smooth transition.

Cynthia ****** · Answer

Working is not permitted on a Retirement Visa.

Bob ********** · Answer

Just ask the school to give you a couple extra days to cancel

ScenicB******* · Answer

I’ve just tried this but I couldn’t get all the moving parts to come together.

It was totally bizaar, frankly.

There was an Agent that operates in and around the Immigration office that may of been the Key to unlock what I needed.

John ********** · Answer

You are not on any visa, you are on an extension of stay, and you will not be applying for a new visa. You will be switching from an extension of stay based on employment to an extension of stay based on retirement. Your employer can give you a letter stating your last day of work so you can cancel your work permit and current extension in advance so you don't have to do everything on the same day. But on that last day you must apply for an extension of stay based on retirement by meeting the requirements of that extension, so 800k baht in a Thai bank for 2 months which must stay there for 3 months after getting the extension and can't drop below 400k baht at any point in time. Bank statements, letter of guarantee from the bank, updated bank book etc. Ask the immigration office what their full requirements are, meet them and it should be straightforward.

What should I know about switching from a Non-B visa to a Retirement visa in Thailand?

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