What type of insurance do I need while on an OA visa in Thailand, and can I convert to an O visa before leaving for Australia?

Thai Visa OA Visa O Visa Insurance Requirements Expat Health Insurance Immigration Advice Covid Insurance

Jun 19, 2022

3 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello to all,

Would appreciate your advice relating to correct Insurance requirement for following scenario.

Currently @Pattaya on OA Visa no insurance originally issued Australia 2018 although on yearly extensions now expiring Oct 2022.

Will be returning to Australia for 3 weeks late August then back to Pattaya.

Do I need to obtain the full insurance as required by Thai Immigration costing around 60000THB plus or would Covid Insurance be adequate.

The other alternative is maybe convert to O Visa via Agent here prior to departure for Australia.

I'm 69 years old and ok to pay Insurance if absolutely necessary but have been very healthy without any serious illnesses to date etc.

Thanks for taking the time for your advice.

Cheers

Gary

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on insurance requirements while holding an OA visa in Thailand and considering a return trip to Australia. They are unsure if they need to purchase full insurance as required by Thai immigration or if Covid Insurance would suffice. The user is also contemplating whether to convert their OA visa to an O visa through an agent before leaving for Australia, while also being informed that converting a visa is not possible outside the country.

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Eakkawee **********

You need to let your OA extension lapse by not getting a reentry permit before you leave. Then either return on O visa or tourist visa and apply for O in Thailand, then extension if you meet requirements.

3 years ago

Eakkawee **********

You can't convert a visa out of country. Nor can you convert your OA to O in country while it's active.

3 years ago

Gary *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Eakkawee *********

Thanks so much for your information. Really appreciate your time to reply.

3 years ago

Reply to

Gary *********

Lloyd ********

To relieve yourself of the insurance requirements, do not buy a re-entry permit and leave Thailand. When in Australia apply for a single entry Non-O, and then when you come back you already have the money/income and apply for your yearly extension of stay.

3 years ago

Gary *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Lloyd *******

Cheers Lloyd

3 years ago

Reply to

Gary *********

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