I'm currently in Thailand on a non O visa and I plan to switch to a 12 month extension of stay as a retiree. As my current visa runs until the end of February, it is my understanding that I can apply for the extension around the middle of January. My question is this: will the extension take place as soon as I apply for it, or will it kick in when my current visa expires? The reason I ask is because I may need to take a trip outside of Thailand before the end of February, and I would rather have my extension in place (with multiple entries) before I go. I hope I'm explaining myself sufficiently clearly.