What visas do my partner and I need to live in Koh Samui while following Thai immigration rules?

Question

Hi all, 
am sure this has been asked time and time again, but wanted to get you opinion before speaking to the thai embassy in Melbourne.
Partner and I want to move to Samui. I want to be able to do vol work. he is old enough (I am not) for retirement visa but needs Non-Im O first I believe. We both have enough money in the bank to meet requirements. 
Basically we want to find a way to live there forever but want to follow the rules. 
Am I right that we both need the Non-Im O visa??

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user wants to move to Koh Samui, Thailand, with their partner and is seeking clarification on the necessary visas. They believe both need a Non-Immigrant O visa and are considering their options for long-term residency while complying with the rules. Comments indicate that one partner could qualify for a Non-O-A (retirement visa) due to age, but the user, not being married, might have to rely on a tourist visa initially. Recommendations include applying for a multi-entry tourist visa and finding a volunteering organization before settling into the required visa categories.

Tina ****** · Answer

Thank to everyone with their advice! I think we are sorted now. Samui here we come!!! would welcome any friend requests from any expats - especially in Samui :)

Tina ****** · Answer

I have just been advised the best option for ME would be the tourist visa, then if I find vol work apply to immigration. Best for HIM would be the retirement vis (O-A). does that sound right?

Tod ********* · Answer

You mention your 'partner'.. Are you two married? If not you can't get any visa based on him holding a visa or extension :/ If you are and he got a year-long, multi-entry Non-O-A (like I recommended) you could get a  Non-O <- (note there is no A after the O) based on being his spouse.

Tod ********* · Answer

The thai consulate in Melbourne does not issue the O-A visa I mentioned you'd either get it from Canberra or Sydney

[url redacted]

Glen ********* · Answer

To volunteer you need the organisation to sponsor you, your Non-O (volunteer) visa and work permit (if still required).

You could study Thai language, cooking, boxing etc with student visa...to allow you to stay longer.

Otherwise apply for 6 METV that can give ypu up to 9 months stay if you time it right.

Tod ********* · Answer

He could get a year long multi-entry Non-Immigrant Type O-A (Long Stay) visa from the consulate in Australia BEFORE he comes here.

What visas do my partner and I need to live in Koh Samui while following Thai immigration rules?

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