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.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The extension of stay for a non-O visa in Thailand will take effect upon approval, but it will be added to the current expiration date of your visa. Therefore, if you plan to apply for an extension around mid-January, it will not be retroactively effective before your current visa expires, and you would need to purchase a re-entry permit separately if you intend to travel outside Thailand before that.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.