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When should I apply to extend my retirement non-O visa before my holidays in Thailand?

Sep 24, 2025
2 days ago
Rob *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi guys, hoping for some advice. I am getting close to the time to extend my retirement non O for 12 months. I have some holidays planned for October. I am wondering if I should start the process before or after I come back for hols (inside Thailand) do immigration hold on to your passport for any time ? If I apply beforehand and they give me a date to return is it negotiable? Can I ask for a date after I return ? (Still before my current extension runs out ) thanks ๐Ÿ™
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is seeking advice on the timing of their retirement non-O visa extension before going on holidays in Thailand. They inquire whether to start the application process before or after their trip and if immigration holds onto their passport for any duration during the extension process. Comments indicate that it's possible to apply for the extension 45 to 30 days prior to its expiration and that many immigration offices return passports the same day or the following day.
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.
Rob *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks Jan and Tod. Do you know if Chiang Mai is an office where you can apply 45 days beforehand? If I can get my passport back the same day that would be great ๐Ÿ‘
Tod *********
as Jan said, most offices you apply for the extension, pay and wait for your passport to be returned that same day. Only a few offices (Jomtien, Phuket) have you come the following day to pick up your passport
Jan ******************
You can apply from 45 to 30 days before the due date, and up until the very last day (although this is not recommended). Normally, you will receive your passport back during the process. At some immigration offices, you can pick it up the following day.
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