What were the key steps and experiences in obtaining a non-immigrant O visa based on retirement in Penang?

Mar 26, 2018
7 years ago
Susan *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
This afternoon I successfully picked up my non-immigrant O visa, based on retirement, from the consulate in Penang. :-D I really want to thank the amazing Tod Daniels for all of the patient advice! A few suggestions for others based on this experience...

I brought my original proof of income affidavit with me, along with a copy (per something I saw Tod Daniels mention in another thread). They checked the original and allowed me to submit the copy--that will save me having to get it again for the extension.

The only other thing they wanted (along with the application and photos) was a printed bank statement. I didn't have that, thinking I could just show them an online statement. They asked me to send a PDF to a consulate email address, which I did.

Bring 300 RM. I did not have the 300 RM, having paid an unexpected deposit at the hotel, so paid 3,000 THB instead (an extra 600 baht, or so).

I found this link for filling out the application ahead of time very helpful: [members only] The Penang application can be found and printed out from here: [members only]

Everyone I spoke with was friendly, from the guard and staff at the gate (who will ask you to log your name, passport number, and type of visa that you are applying for) to the staff behind the window. There were only 5 or 6 other people applying at 9am on Friday, and perhaps a few more picking up today at 2pm.

Finally, there's no good place to wait for the gate to open, so aim to arrive on time or after. I could not find the nearby Organic Circle Restaurant that Google Map says exists. I did find a rather lovely bull in a field eating grass.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The author shares their positive experience obtaining a non-immigrant O visa based on retirement at the Penang consulate, with thanks to advice from Tod Daniels. They highlight crucial steps like bringing the original proof of income affidavit and a printed bank statement, along with the application and photos. The author suggests arriving on time due to limited waiting space and notes the friendly staff. Commenters provide support and share similar experiences.
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শায়েলা *******
Congrats.
Jim *******
Thanks Susan. Well it's changed a little to when I got mine there 1 year ago.

I submitted my original embassy verified income,they copied it and gave me the copy which Bangkok accepted without question. I wasn't asked to Show Any bank statement,and it was,as you say,a most pleasurable experience but I guess they're not over run like some.
Kimmi ******
Thank you for your tips ! Did they require photos with a blue background or white background ?
Kimmi ******
Cool.. Thanks again !
Susan *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
They didn’t say...I used a couple of extra photos I still had on hand from a Vietnam visa application. They have a white background.
শায়েলা *******
@Jabid ******
It will help you to know a lot of things.
Tod *********
Sincerely glad that worked out for you. (y) It was great they accepted the copy of the affidavit of income so you can use the original when you get the yearly extension in a couple months .. :)
Susan *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
I need to travel outside the country sooner than expected, and I might need to be away for 2+ months. Can I apply for the 1 year extension with multiple re-entry right away? Or, do I need to apply for a single re-entry permit on my current 90 day Non-O? Even though I'd loose a few extra months, I'd prefer to streamline the process if possible.
Jim *******
Tod. Maybe I didn't fully comprehend,but please confirm that I can go for my extension renewal up to a couple of days prior to the expiry of existing. Thankyou.
Laurence **********
You won't go wrong with Tod Daniels. Remember him at Christmas and birthdays.
กะลาสี *****
Congrats!
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