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When will expats with non-immigrant O visas be able to return to Thailand?
ThailandVisaNon-Immigrant O VisaRetirement VisaExpatsEntry RestrictionsImmigration PolicyCOVID-19Certificate of EntryASQ Procedures
Oct 5, 2020
6 years ago
Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTERDear Government of Thailand.
Chinese tourists are allowed to enter - but we expats who normally live in Thailand still have to stay abroad - things are slowly becoming incomprehensible. When will we finally be allowed to re-enter all of us with a non-immigrant O (retirement visa)? We want to go back to our loved ones and places, back to our houses and apartments, back to our normal lives! Please - please Thailand it would be so easy - just enter the country like all the exceptions that have been allowed to enter so far with the same rules (ASQ ec.) We would all be willing to spend our money in Thailand again and not unnecessarily in the places where we are waiting to be allowed to return to Thailand.
I❤️ 🇹🇭 Thailand I love you - but I don't understand your actions.
Chinese tourists are allowed to enter - but we expats who normally live in Thailand still have to stay abroad - things are slowly becoming incomprehensible. When will we finally be allowed to re-enter all of us with a non-immigrant O (retirement visa)? We want to go back to our loved ones and places, back to our houses and apartments, back to our normal lives! Please - please Thailand it would be so easy - just enter the country like all the exceptions that have been allowed to enter so far with the same rules (ASQ ec.) We would all be willing to spend our money in Thailand again and not unnecessarily in the places where we are waiting to be allowed to return to Thailand.
I❤️ 🇹🇭 Thailand I love you - but I don't understand your actions.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The community is discussing the frustrations of long-term expats holding non-immigrant O visas, particularly retirement visas, who are unable to return to Thailand while tourists are allowed entry. Concerns include the perceived discrepancy in entry policies prioritizing tourists over expats, the lack of clarity around re-entry permits and Certificates of Entry (COE), and the economic impact of restricting expats who are willing to spend money in Thailand. Numerous comments provide insights on visa extensions, the evolving entry requirements during the pandemic, and shared experiences of expats attempting to navigate these challenges.
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.
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Jim **********
Well put, I live in Thailand and I feel sorry for the people who wish to come but the international borders are keeping you away
Mazi *****
Japan will move all there investment from Thailand couse Thailand government supports China. Today News from Thai politicians.i love China. What they did to the world. China only country with no covid🇨🇳🇨🇳😂😂😂
Jeff **********
If you got a re-entry permit before you left you should be able to apply through the embassy
Addy ***********
Sorry but 80 procent from Thailand not won't you back look Bangkok post and that say enough..
Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTER"The majority of Thais", 1,318 people were interviewed - the country has about 69,332,000 inhabitants. It's great when 0.0019% of the population represents the opinion of a country. Can I laugh now or should I cry?
Addy ***********
@Peter *******
cry because the still not let people in.Reply to
Addy ***********
Reply
Michael ***************
Mazi *****
Please stay way from Thailand we only love Chinese. Now is matter of fact.Over 15% Thai national are Chinese Thai and they run this society over 200 years so they are always welcome in Thailand no matter what and I forget to mention. China is one of the countries with no covid 19 effected 😜😜😜 I am looking for Chinese wife for shuttle down whuwan 😂😂😂
Pascal ********
@Mazi ****
The whole Asian society is run by Chinese , they are the one with brains and not lazy to work harder than other racesMazi *****
@Pascal *******
you are right and I am agreed. If Chinese are not the best. How come they make a covid virus. So thank you again for Chinese. I love China Ahkim ********
@Pas***
, and VietnameseReply to
Ahkim ********
Reply
Johann ******************
Retirement Visa info, for those who need this info.
The Thai government issues two types of retirement visas for foreign nationals:
The One-Year Thailand Retirement Visa (“O-A”), which is issued to foreigners aged 50+ of all countries and is valid for 1 year with the option to renew annually.The Ten-Year Thailand Retirement Visa (“O-X”), which is only issued to foreigners aged 50+ from certain countries for 5 years’ duration. It is renewable once more for a maximum of 10 years.
Source:
The Thai government issues two types of retirement visas for foreign nationals:
The One-Year Thailand Retirement Visa (“O-A”), which is issued to foreigners aged 50+ of all countries and is valid for 1 year with the option to renew annually.The Ten-Year Thailand Retirement Visa (“O-X”), which is only issued to foreigners aged 50+ from certain countries for 5 years’ duration. It is renewable once more for a maximum of 10 years.
Source:
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Sudhir *********
We ignore to visit due to Thailand government love towards Chinese tourists. Thailand lost charms due to Chinese tourists.
Joel ********
Very well said
Subhadip ****
If Chinese are entering then I advice to stay back to your own country for some more days and wait n watch what new virus these Chinese people are gonna spread.
Greg ******
As many tell me, “follow the rules, it is their country”
Burnard ************
@Greg *****
Yes, you are a guest.However,
It is Thailand. It is hard to follow imaginary rules or one's that change without notice depending who you are dealing with.
That is why we need sites like this to share what Immigration is doing.
Oddly enough, Thai Immigration also scans these sites as if knowing the rules in advance is cheating.
Greg ******
@Burnard ***********
I’m not a guest, I live here.Burnard ************
@Greg *****
I suspected that. Then you should know. Greg ******
@Burnard ***********
Right, “shut up and follow the rules” regardless of how stupid or illegitimate the rules are.Burnard ************
@Greg *****
Which rules? The official, posted rules, or the invisible rules? Greg ******
@Burnard ***********
Violating either has the same results.Burnard ************
Greg ******
@Burnard ***********
“shut up and obey”Reply to
Greg ******
Reply
Back ******
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Loujean *****************
Excellent. How do we get the appropriate Thai officials to read this?
Reply to
Loujean *****************
Reply
Stefan ****************
Thailand now over killing Covid to hard. In first case for poor thai and smaller companies as Tourist nearly cant get in. Now they let specially group stay other the Government expensive hotel... but most of western tourist must pay a lot to come in. 3 tests and half a month Quarantine is to much.... 2 covid test and no fever 3-4 days enough. And to start with China tourist already is both political crazy as a jouke....
Sammy *******
why did do many depart the country when red flags were everywhere, or if already out of the country, why didnt they hurry and get back here before borders closed? have read in other posts, people complaining about having left Thailand to go on a holiday as the virus was rearing its ugly ahead all across Asia and the world, and now havent been able to return. true, this doesnt apply to all eager to return, but to many.
Mark **********
@Sammy ******
i left for work in December and should of returned to my wife and Son in March, its now October and still not sure when I will be able to return with out the need for exspensive quarantineJoel ********
@Sammy ******
i went for 5 days to Indonesia for my fiancée. On March 14 . Sammy *******
@Joel *******
and did u get back in?Sammy *******
@Jo**
by March 14, there were many red flags.Joel ********
no we tried but we were stuck first in Indonesia. Couldn’t get plane of the island
Sammy *******
@Joel *******
it was that urgent to leave on march 14?Sammy *******
@Mark *********
having to leave for work was a legitimate demand on you, but others left for reasons they could have controlled. Reply to
Sammy *******
Reply
Ken ***********
@Sammy ******
your compassion is underwhelming. Regardless about why people were locked out, Thailand has opened the border for specific expats; now they are opening for OA and OX and select tourists, why exclude O VisS ?Sammy *******
@Ken ******
my level of compassion is aligned with the level of judgment that some demonstrated in the choices they made.u really think they've opened the borders for those visas and left out the O? You do understand what is still involved in any individual returning? Where are all the returning OA and OX ers? You really can't understand why the situation is as it is?
Ken ***********
@Sammy ******
no I don't understand if Thailand will allow OA why not O ? Please explain.Sammy *******
@Ken ******
first, where does it specifically deny O visas the opportunity to enter? Sammy *******
@Ken ******
so your source is a guy quoting the website of what aparticular embassy is doing. the formal postings from the thai govt I have seen address non-thai residents who reside legally in Thailand and does not distinguish between types of visas.that embassy information seems not to address O visas as O Visa are not issued outside Thailand.
Sammy *******
look at #4 , clicking on the "more information " link specifies all the rigamarol one has to go thru to actually enter.
but note at the end, the exclusion of US for the STV due to how out of control the virus is, despite Trump's lies, one can understand completely, them not wanting it spread there-- if ur home country has a high rate of transmission, good luck in ever actually bring allowed in-- so what they can apply for an OA, will they be allowed in?
but note at the end, the exclusion of US for the STV due to how out of control the virus is, despite Trump's lies, one can understand completely, them not wanting it spread there-- if ur home country has a high rate of transmission, good luck in ever actually bring allowed in-- so what they can apply for an OA, will they be allowed in?
Sammy *******
By virtue of Section 9 of the Emergency Decree on Public Administration in Emergency Situations B.E. 2548 (2005) and Section 11 of the State Administration Act B.E. 2534 (1991), the entry to Thailand is permitted for particular persons in the exempted list. The list for non-Thai nationals includes the following:
(1) Exempted persons or persons who are specified, permitted or invited by the Prime Minister or Chief official responsible for remedying the emergency situation to enter into the Kingdom pertaining to necessity, whereby conditions and time frames may also be prescribed;
(2) Persons on diplomatic or consular missions or under International organizations, or representatives of foreign governments or agencies performing their duties in Thailand, or any other persons in international agencies, that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs gives permission pertaining to necessity, including their spouse, parents, or children; (click here for more information)
(3) Non-Thai nationals who are spouses, parents, or children of Thai nationals (click here for more information)
(4) Non-Thai nationals who have a certificate of residence, or have been permitted to take up residency in the Kingdom, including their spouses or children; (click here for more information)
(5) Non-Thai nationals who have a work permit or have been granted permission to work in the Kingdom in accordance with Thai laws, including their spouses or children (click here for more information); or Migrant workers, who have been granted permission, to work in Thailand (For Migrant workers, the applicants may contact their employers directly for more information);
(6) Non-Thai nationals who are students of educational establishments in Thailand approved by Thai authorities, including their parents or guardians, except for students of non-formal schools in accordance with laws on private schools or of any other similar private educational establishments; (click here for more information)
(7) Non-Thai nationals who need to receive medical treatment in Thailand, including their accompanying persons, except for treatment for COVID-19 (click here for more information)
(8) Non-Thai nationals who are permitted to enter the Kingdom under a special arrangement with a foreign country or have been granted permission by the Prime Minister – all of whom must strictly adhere to the Kingdom’s communicable disease prevention and control.
>> For Media production or Filming (click here for more information)
>> For Thailand Privilege Cardholders, please contact Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (Thailand Elite) directly to request for authorization. At this stage, without authorization from Thailand, the Royal Thai Embassy can’t issue COE for Elite cardholders. (click here for more information)
>> For Thailand long stay/retirement visa (O-A & O-X) (click here for more information)
Persons under 2 – 8 must apply for a Certificate of Entry (COE) at the Royal Thai Embassy/Royal Thai Consulates-General and obtain a visa (if they do not already have one) at least 15 working days before the intended date of travel.
Currently, the following types of visas are NOT permitted to enter Thailand: Tourists visa holders (TR), Transit passengers (TS), Sports visa holders (S), Monks and other religious visa holders (R) and their spouses or children, Volunteers (O), and non-formal students visa holders (such as language schools, diving schools, boxing schools). Due to a high number of infection rate, the APEC card holders and the applicants who are currently in the USA and wish to obtain Special Tourist Visa (STV) do not fall under the categories that could enter Thailand at the moment, please check back regularly for any update
(1) Exempted persons or persons who are specified, permitted or invited by the Prime Minister or Chief official responsible for remedying the emergency situation to enter into the Kingdom pertaining to necessity, whereby conditions and time frames may also be prescribed;
(2) Persons on diplomatic or consular missions or under International organizations, or representatives of foreign governments or agencies performing their duties in Thailand, or any other persons in international agencies, that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs gives permission pertaining to necessity, including their spouse, parents, or children; (click here for more information)
(3) Non-Thai nationals who are spouses, parents, or children of Thai nationals (click here for more information)
(4) Non-Thai nationals who have a certificate of residence, or have been permitted to take up residency in the Kingdom, including their spouses or children; (click here for more information)
(5) Non-Thai nationals who have a work permit or have been granted permission to work in the Kingdom in accordance with Thai laws, including their spouses or children (click here for more information); or Migrant workers, who have been granted permission, to work in Thailand (For Migrant workers, the applicants may contact their employers directly for more information);
(6) Non-Thai nationals who are students of educational establishments in Thailand approved by Thai authorities, including their parents or guardians, except for students of non-formal schools in accordance with laws on private schools or of any other similar private educational establishments; (click here for more information)
(7) Non-Thai nationals who need to receive medical treatment in Thailand, including their accompanying persons, except for treatment for COVID-19 (click here for more information)
(8) Non-Thai nationals who are permitted to enter the Kingdom under a special arrangement with a foreign country or have been granted permission by the Prime Minister – all of whom must strictly adhere to the Kingdom’s communicable disease prevention and control.
>> For Media production or Filming (click here for more information)
>> For Thailand Privilege Cardholders, please contact Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (Thailand Elite) directly to request for authorization. At this stage, without authorization from Thailand, the Royal Thai Embassy can’t issue COE for Elite cardholders. (click here for more information)
>> For Thailand long stay/retirement visa (O-A & O-X) (click here for more information)
Persons under 2 – 8 must apply for a Certificate of Entry (COE) at the Royal Thai Embassy/Royal Thai Consulates-General and obtain a visa (if they do not already have one) at least 15 working days before the intended date of travel.
Currently, the following types of visas are NOT permitted to enter Thailand: Tourists visa holders (TR), Transit passengers (TS), Sports visa holders (S), Monks and other religious visa holders (R) and their spouses or children, Volunteers (O), and non-formal students visa holders (such as language schools, diving schools, boxing schools). Due to a high number of infection rate, the APEC card holders and the applicants who are currently in the USA and wish to obtain Special Tourist Visa (STV) do not fall under the categories that could enter Thailand at the moment, please check back regularly for any update
Reply to
Sammy *******
Reply
Terry ********
@Ken ******
Opening for OA visas?Ken ***********
@Terry *******
yes OA and OX visas are now eligible for entry.Reply to
Ken ***********
Reply
Chris ******
Every countries governments aim is to entice interested investors and thus money, they also know that those type of people do spend large amounts of money, the Uk is no different that’s why we sold half of London’s Belgravia to the Russians a decade ago. The government in Thailand have been slowly heading this way for a number of years. Yes it’s tough for many Thais at the moment and it won’t get better anytime soon. Thailand is changing and looking to get rid of the sex industry, they don’t like the tag, that’s fair comment as no country would. it’s happening and people will either have to meet the requirements or find themselves another country that will offer the same as Thailand used too.
Andy **********
Thailand only cares about the rich getting richer. So many poor Thais will suffer under this regime.
Loujean *****************
I would like to mention that it does not make amy difference as to what country your from when you’re tested before boarding your flight, tested upon arrival, a 14-day lock up and tested againg before release. you cannot get the mandatory Thai health insurance If you’re over 70. We have a very good worldwide insurance which has worked very well during our past 19-years in Thailand. We have a home in Thailand and we have a full Thai staff but, now it sits empty. We totally support our Thai community! So, what’s wrong with this picture when we can’t return to the country we now call home😢
Chad **********
I feel your pain 😥 just want to see my family.
James **************
It may be negative but its true obviously...
Steve *******
@Loujean ****************
the Thai government and immigration don't give a rats arse about how much money you've brought in to Thailand, or how many thai staff you have, how long you've lived there, if your married to a thai etc etc.Charles ****************
@Steve ******
Nonsense. They most certainly care how much you have or had invested in Thailand.Are you saying that if you're a business operator with over 15 or more Thai staff hired, on a business extension with a US$ 1mill invested, they'll pass you over?
Steve *******
@Charles ***************
yes lolReply to
Steve *******
Reply
Loujean *****************
@Steve ******
I defend your thoughts and negative attitude. I just prefer my approach. But, I do wish you well.Reply to
Loujean *****************
Reply
Sudhir *********
Chinese government crushed all small countries ,to capture there land.
Sudhir *********
Thailand Government purchased by Chinese Government Authorities by paid advance money. All tourists advice, not to visit Thailand.
John ********
And covid test on arrival if we obtain a fit to fly certification 72 hours prior is impossible with long waiting lists
James **************
Doesn't it tell you something?
Rick *******
If Thailand does not loosen the restrictions to enter their country by next year, I am seriously considering going to Vietnam until they do. I would at least be able to visit with my Thai family in person. As it is now, I can return but it would cost me over 7K US dollars.
Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTERBad situation. In other countries the embassies are open, but that does not mean that you would have an advantage from it.
Chris ******
@Peter *******
your right as unless you are on their approved list there is no way of getting in. The Uk and many other countries are not so tough for anyone wanting to come out. Now they are focusing on new money from foreign COVID controlled countries, Chinese investors are the first, their plane lands this week. Thailand are trying to clean their reputation up by cleaning up the country of its sex tourist past. It’s been happening behind the scenes for many years now, COVID gave the government what they needed to ramp that up. They still want tourists but not the ones that use Thailand as a sex holiday, yes they will never totally get rid of it but I think in a few years and the right planning the country will be a more upmarket destination / area, a little like Malaysia or Indonesia re beach resorts and attitude towards western holiday / retirees. Just what I read in the TG and others that are linked to their longer term plans. Reply to
Chris ******
Reply
Chad **********
When can we come back home I planned nov ?
Michael *******
Peter. Keep on plugging away I support your efforts. I too have contacted Thai Embassy in London to raise this issue.
Jeff **********
did you get re-entry permit before you left Thailand? When I look at the Thai Embassy website for Washington DC it looks like you can apply for re-entry if you got that permit before you left.
Ciarán *******
Can we even believe China has no cases and can we even trust them to quarantine 14 days
Joe ***********
Most of you act like Covid-19 is the same as the rampaging killer 1918 Spanish Flu Pandemic... which is not remotely the case. Such Fear and Scare Mongering is laughable.
Johanna ********
@Joe **********
look at the death toll in UK and USA it's real it's not scaremongering Joe ***********
@Johanna *******
My statement is absolutely true. Your fear is based on refusing to look at the survival rates of those who do get covid... Statistically people under the age of 59 have only a very small chance of dying from Covid-19. The 1918 Spanish Flu killed 50 million people at least. Real reason for fear. The sickness and death rate of Covid-19 is not much different than seasonal influenza and you spend no time worrying about that. The death rate from Covid-19 is between 0.1% and 0.5% worldwide. Johanna ********
@Joe **********
tell that to my brother in law who nursed covid patients in I CU .I would rather listen to doctors than you .It is nothing like the flu Joe ***********
@Johanna *******
I am educated and highly experienced in medical matters... Here check out the real survival numbers. Johanna ********
@Joe **********
A trump supporter are you Reply to
Johanna ********
Reply
Joe ***********
It is NOT POSSIBLE to have a Covid-19 Free Country and have tourism at the same time. Same as with Influenza - not possible - Pipe Dream
Geoff ********
Come on people. Who believes the COVID statistics produced by the Thai Government ? I live here. Has anyone ever seen a testing facility in use ? Free testing anywhere ? Have you also seen the flagrant abuse of safe use of masks and social distancing outside of Bangkok ? It doesn’t exist where I live. The local authorities are non existent in this area of Chonburi. The stats are all just fantasy.
Robert *********
I live in CR and I put on a mask to enter stores and that's about it. Night time for dinner and drinks it's off. I smoke and We have No tourist so it's the same people who I see in these places and have since March. I had to have surgery in June and follow up in September in BKK and never was scanned and I wore my mask and gave distance which No one was doing. Stayed around my old apartment around Rama 4 and terminal 21 area where 75% of the businesses were still closed with very little foot traffic. I have never seen BKK so dead before. For the hospitals in CR I only see a few people. I walk in see a Doctor wait for medication and pay the bill in 30 to 45 minutes. The rest of the hospitals are basically empty and for testing sites come on, I have never seen one from the start but when you test 1,000 people incoming this is the only way to test positive. I had a bunch of shot's last October and I go in for blood tests because of false positive with all the vaccines over the past 3 years. I get tested every 2 months at my expense but it is worth it for a piece of mind. Be safe...
Johanna ********
Is
Johanna ********
@Geoff *******
it us working in Bangkok you cant go into a shop without a mask and they scan your phone .Geoff ********
@Johanna *******
not where I live near Sattahip. I still wear a mask always but many do not. Never had my phone scanned and never seen it done anywhere. Johanna ********
@Geoff *******
well different where my daughter lives in Bangkok .She is scanned in every shop she goes in and cant go in unless you wear a mask. My 3 year old grandaughter wont go out unless she has a mask on .Seems to be good where they are Reply to
Johanna ********
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Ron ******************
@Geoff *******
have you seen all the sick people around you and the over full hospitals. Do not even mention the stench of all the burning corpses. Another foreigner that cannot accept the fact that a 3rd world country is doing beter than his home country. Ahkim ********
@R**
, sarcasm right?Ron ******************
@Ahkim *******
yip.Reply to
Ron ******************
Reply
Dominic ****
@Ron *****************
not necessarily doing better, but is full of drones that will wear masks when told to. Different, not better. On pretty much every other statistic it's light years behind.Reply to
Dominic ****
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Keef ********
The further you are from the police, well...you know...and Chonburi, if you're talking about the town? Has a history....
Reply to
Keef ********
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Tom ********
Coming to Phuket on the STV is not for the faint of heart. You gotta have the big bucks.
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Wojciech ***********
You can enter just pay a lot
Michael ********
Why even leave to start with?
Michael ********
Sorry Jordan Kane ♥️
Reply to
Michael ********
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Frankie ********
It’s a stain on the Thai immigrations inhumane treatment of expats during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Leon ********
Hopefully next year
Gigi *****
When the USA election and trade deals and vaccine for covid emerges then normality return
Darrell ********
We laugh but this is what everyone is thinking. :-/
Quentin **********
@Gigi ****
5555 Reply to
Quentin **********
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Vincent ********
😢 true
Burnard ************
Com'on! Everybody knew the Chinese would have to be first!
Otherwise, they might take offense. They often Boycott even if they think China has been offended in some way.
Almost all of the Asean countries have better Covid statistics than China an they are all still blocked off.
I think Thai tourists officials will be disappointed as the Chinese economy is hurting badly. They are not likely to come in the same numbers or spend as much money.
Still, it is Thai Tourism's biggest customer.
I think they should broaden their tourists base though.
Otherwise, they might take offense. They often Boycott even if they think China has been offended in some way.
Almost all of the Asean countries have better Covid statistics than China an they are all still blocked off.
I think Thai tourists officials will be disappointed as the Chinese economy is hurting badly. They are not likely to come in the same numbers or spend as much money.
Still, it is Thai Tourism's biggest customer.
I think they should broaden their tourists base though.
Ciarán *******
@Burnard ***********
meanwhile China Committing human rights violations and companies pulling out over this. Burnard ************
@Ciarán ******
That is just the the tip of the Iceberg. There was a trade war before that. Then came sanctions over the virus.Then there are rumors, and I stress - rumors -, of political infighting among the CCP. Many in the party not on Xi's favorite list are trying to get their money, and themselves, out of China.
Reply to
Burnard ************
Reply
Shea *******
@Burnard ***********
my friend has a medical tourist company and he has more chinese people wanting to book medical and tours than he knows what to do.Burnard ************
@Shea ******
Also, I have read that Citizens want to leave China now. Because of Politics and the Economy. From Thailand, they can go to other places. Burnard ************
@Shea ******
Pent up demand. When the small dam breaks, much water flows until it is a stream. Reply to
Burnard ************
Reply
Naravadee **************
Agreed with you totally!
Neo *****
man,it seems the second virus wave has hitted the Europe,making Europe a high risk area.So it must be cautious about that.
Dominic ****
The country only has limited ASQ and is prioritising the economy by offering it to tourists with money to spend on hotels over resident expats who will spend no more on accommodation if they're in or outside of Thailand.
Jim **********
@Dominic ********
not one Chinese has applied for the special visa, only showing an interest wtf!!!!Burnard ************
@Dominic ********
Chinese are on 2 week group tours. As a group, they fill a hotel, buy some things, visit certain sites and go home.A longer term tourist will spend more in different locations over the 60+ days they are here.
Unless they are young backpackers (who spend money too), most of a long-term tourist's income will come from abroad and spent in Thailand.
Chinese are quick money for some places.
Dominic ****
@Burnard ***********
90 days minimum for STVRudolph ***********
@Dominic ********
you are correct on 90 days STV. Burnard ************
@Dominic ********
I was writing about before STV.2+ years of crackdowns on long-stay tourists has not worked well for Thailand and made them more dependent on China.
My understanding is that STV is a temporary visa type. It will be interesting to see in it carries on after Covid.
Reply to
Burnard ************
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Monn *********
No wonder, when you see the Europe cases.
I'm afraid it will take a long time more.
I'm afraid it will take a long time more.
Johanna ********
We are desperate to get back as daughter lives there.But cant blame them as 59 deaths and UK almost 50,000 maybe we should have done the same as them .And sadly Thais listen we dont sadly
Johanna ********
I hope so too but idiots over here dont listen unfortunately
Johanna ********
Paddy Michael I want to get over so I can see my daughter shes pregnant baby due in 3 weeks .Was there for first baby .We are devastated but can understand why they are not allowing tourists in from UK .Hopefully soon so can get to see baby sooner than later .
Johanna ********
Paddy Michael Hes an idiot Trump and our Boris isn't much better still letting everyone in here .I live in Wales we are in lockdown .But people from England can come for holidays to Wales Yet I am not allowed to see my son and family in their house 8 miles away makes no sense
Johanna ********
Paddy Michael me too Paddy .My daughter lives there and they were on the ball.Closed airports track and trace and wearing masks .The UK and USA too late doing anything its criminal Well done Thailand
David **********
@Johanna *******
Yeah but now Thailand is continuing to crush their Economy they’re not letting it up, they have now gone too far the other way and will destroy themselves. There is a balance that needs to be affected. You’ll see what happens in the next two years, It will be incredibly sadJohanna ********
@David *********
I hope not my daughter lives there David **********
@Johanna *******
The damage has been done. Sorry to say they went to farJohanna ********
@David *********
As long as we can get out to see them that's our main concern at the moment .And our grandkids Reply to
Johanna ********
Reply
David **********
Paddy Michael You’re obviously incredibly affected by fake news. When you have the Tayland military regime lying to you in one way, and then you have the incredibly liberal news media and corrupt politicians lying to you the other way. It’s easy to see how you could be confused.
With Western doctors being pressured to put Covid on death certificates of people dying from heart disease, diabetes, etc... also Western hospitals receiving government payouts for Covid deaths. Surely you understand why western civilizations are reporting much higher death rates then Southeast Asia. Wise up , I have been traveling all throughout Thailand during May, June, July. And I have been traveling throughout the USA August and September. I have a eyes and I can see
With Western doctors being pressured to put Covid on death certificates of people dying from heart disease, diabetes, etc... also Western hospitals receiving government payouts for Covid deaths. Surely you understand why western civilizations are reporting much higher death rates then Southeast Asia. Wise up , I have been traveling all throughout Thailand during May, June, July. And I have been traveling throughout the USA August and September. I have a eyes and I can see
David **********
@Johanna *******
RubbishReply to
David **********
Reply
Frank *******
forget Thailand, move on
Joe ***********
Maintaining a Zero-Covid-19 case occurrance cannot be done in any country unless totally sealed - permanently closed borders, no visitors, no international business meetings, no tourists...No National Economic Stability... and on and on.
North Korea could probably do it.
North Korea could probably do it.
Ahkim ********
@J**
, because viruses respect country borders? think manJoe ***********
@Ahkim *******
. My description depicts what a country would have to do to come close to having a zero Covid-19 case occurrence. Of course it would not be 100% effective. I am not sure you understand my pointAhkim ********
@J**
, so.. North Korea can or can't do it?Joe ***********
@Ahkim *******
Probably means 'maybe' - a sort of joke based on the extreme strictness in North Korea Ahkim ********
there was no probably in your post, but it doesn't matter. if you skip a generation or two of the virus' mutation you end yo with spanish flu type occurrences
Reply to
Ahkim ********
Reply
Paul ******
@Joe **********
agree 100 %Reply to
Paul ******
Reply
Aristo *******
Rich Chinese tourists in group from half-year complete lockdown comparing retired farang men from EU while people enjoy the freedom in all kinds, the choice is simple enough.
Take your time a bit. No one promised Thailand is entirely safe anyway
Take your time a bit. No one promised Thailand is entirely safe anyway
Ahkim ********
@Ari***
, spoken like someone who has no stake whatsoever. of it were your kids and wife here woulyou say the same?
Reply to
Ahkim ********
Reply
Narelle ************
Many Elite visa holders applied over 7 weeks ago... still no COE, no explanation...
Todd *********
@Nar****
true 😞 a million baht not well spent Paul ******
@Narelle ***********
so elite visa holders cant get in either ???Narelle ************
@Paul *****
nope. Only a handful have made it in so far. Hundreds waiting. Reply to
Narelle ************
Reply
Sahil ********
According to me the expats on longterm visas, owners of properties & people with Thai families should have been the first one's to enter, but Irony Is that they were taken for granted like the economy!
Sahil ********
It's everywhere mate!
Reply to
Sahil ********
Reply
Vincent ********
They can enter for staying minimum 3 months have to make strict 14 days quarantine very expansive, after have to stay 21 other days in the same province that the Asq hotels where they have done the quarantine and have to wear an electronic wristband during all their stay here. I don’t think you will have a lot of volunteers 😂😂
Joe ***********
It seems on the surface that this new STV (when finalised) could be a route back... Then with a total of 270 days (3 X 90) a Non Imm O and One Year Extension could be arranged.
Tony ******
Letting in Chinese they started all this it's a joke ffs
Barrie *********
when a bunch of Somchais get together don't expect rocket science !
Barrie *********
Do you really believe that 58 dead Is the truth ?
Geoff ********
@Barrie ********
that figure is surely just not correct. Have you ever seen any testing here in Toyland ? No. So how can anyone suggest that the numbers are correct in this small geographically country size but with 65 million inhabitants. Barrie *********
@Geoff *******
exactly .. especially when you look at the figures in other similar counties ..such as the Philippines , Malaysia and Indonesia .. Singapore has had 16 times more Covid cases than thailand despite having less than one tenth of the population of thailand Reply to
Barrie *********
Reply
Pascal ********
Asian countries are much more discipline regarding fighting the virus and protecting them self compare to other countries in Europe or other parts of the world so easy for the Thai government to see who is coming first ;)
Andrew *********
Neil DumaNot blah blah the US is not perfect but China is an autocratic one party Communist state, they may havd embraced capitalism as a means to drag their peopke out of poverty. You cannot step out of line or challenge the state .
Andrew *********
Neil Duma You can never trust the CCP for anything, they contained it because they have draconian powers and you cannot say no to the authorities, they locked up people suspected of being infected in their homes.
Andrew *********
@Keef *******
I prefer Chang ! The Westerners who come here for two weeks to drink and shag probably contribute more to the Thais at the lower end who need it.Keef ********
@Andrew ********
Chang is the only one I don't like. Leo, Singha, or San Mig light which isn't really local. I came from drinking IPAs in the US, so Singha is more hoppy than the others, and I will drink Leo if I think the Singha bottles are selling too slow or not available. Most Thais will be drinking Chang or Leo in my observation at their local watering holes :-)Andrew *********
@Keef *******
An quite partial to the dark Lao beers when I can get them.Keef ********
@Andrew ********
for sure man I would drink them always at the original cheap Charlie's bar in BangkokAndrew *********
@Keef *******
Cheap Charlie's the Westherspoons of Thailand, they do reasonably priced food and excellent staff in Pattaya.Reply to
Andrew *********
Reply
Mark ******
Yes, let the Chinese in, hurry. Lets hope the next new virus does not arrive with them. 😉
Peter ***************
@Pascal *******
korona started this time in ChinaLast time I checked
China is an Asian country
So
When it comes to discipline,they do a pisspoor job
India, also has a fair amount of infections
Peter ***************
Yes
By closing the borders
Time will tell
By closing the borders
Time will tell
Pascal ********
@Peter **************
started in China and control properly David ******
@Pascal *******
can you believe anything China tells the world?Pascal ********
@David *****
Better believe China than some forum ;) Reply to
Pascal ********
Reply
Keef ********
@Peter **************
but China has close ties to Thailand. What does anyone expect? The Chinese bring more money. It's business sense. Andrew *********
@Keef *******
The Chinese have more in terms of numbers, whether they spend more individually is not sure. They book packages with Chinese tour operators, use Chinese co.panies when here and patronise places where the Chinese guides take them and a lot of them are Chinese owned restaurants and shops, hiw much trickles down to the Thais is debatable.Keef ********
@Andrew ********
yes it's more controlled for them. Doesn't always mean the money goes the right direction. But what is? Most of my money goes to Singhas brewery 555Peter ***************
@Keef *******
yesDiscipline
Fighting the virus
Or protect them selves against the virus,is not relevant in this
Money is
And because many businesses are gone already
It’s to little
To late
Reply to
Peter ***************
Reply
David ********
The Chinese tour buses are warming up already. Quality tourists incoming!
Chan ****
Perhaps when retirees act in unison and withdraw their baht out of Thailand would they be noticed above the Chinese tourists?
Andrew *********
@Chan ***
Probably not the Chinese potential of sheer numbers clouds the judgement.Reply to
Andrew *********
Reply
Ron ******************
They opened for non imm OA visa holders recently. Instead of pleading just contact your nearest embassy.
Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ron *****************
yes i know, but OA Visa must live the country after 1year, i want stay in Thailand for everRon ******************
@Peter *******
you do not need to leave the country after 1 year. Before expiry date you can get an extension if you meet the requirements. Then after that every year you do the same. If you want to live here without a visa look at how to get a PR or how to become a citizen. Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ron *****************
Thanks for this advice. The website of the Thai Embassy in Switzerland currently states that the OA Visa states that you have to leave the country after one year. Regarding becoming a citizen in Thailand, I have heard that it is "almost impossible" unless you have done an extraordinary job in favor of Thailand. Do you know someone who became a citizen?Ron ******************
@Peter *******
yes there are people that become a citizen but it takes time. The PR road is less dificult but also takes time. You can in actual fact stretch your OA visa (multi entry) to nearly 2 years under normal conditions. After entry you stay here untill just before your 1st year finish. Then you leave the country and return before the 1st year is finished. Immigration will then stamp you in for a further 12 months. You can get an extension inside the country before your 1st year on an OA if you comply with non imm O requirements (proof of B 800 k or B 65 k per month). Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ron *****************
Thanks Ron for this information, I didn't know thatReply to
Peter ********
Reply
Oliver ********
It is strange that retiree expats stuck outside of the kingdom can't apply for certificates of entry to return. I wonder how many people are in this situation and whether Thai immigration knows they exist.
Pascal ********
Most of them can not afford the price of the quarantine
Chris ******
@Pascal *******
the things I’ve noticed is 8 months ago we found out about COVID on a worldwide basis. At that time we didn’t have anything as a race to test or trace, in 6 months we have a number of tests and some promising signs of better faster and safer testing to come, as this develops then yes quarantine times will reduce, month by month things are getting better on the scale and management of the virus. So I would expect a slow easing as test and trace becomes faster and more accurate, until then, pay the money, sit the quarantine and enjoy, or don’t and wait. It’s that simple. I also believe Thailand will make the ability to retire a lot easier going forward as long term retirees will spend all their hard earned there if they live there and this however small is a lot more over a year than the 2 week tourists would spend Bobby ********
@Pascal *******
. Quarantine prices start at 33,000 baht I think? Pascal ********
@Bobby *******
Yes but some can not afford it as their pension is not so big and prefere to wait till better days, the one who have money they dont mind to paid and most of them apply for the big 270 days visaBobby ********
@Pascal *******
. *****
baht is about 1,000 US dollars. For 15 days accommodation. That's $66 per day. You're telling me tourists want to come here and can't afford $66 per day? And these are the tourists who will help save the Thai tourism economy? Am I missing something here? Does Thailand really want people like this?Pascal ********
@Bobby *******
I know but if somebody get around thb 50,000 pension and need to spend 33,000 for 15 days they can not if they do not have saving Bobby ********
@Pascal *******
. Ok. I don't think they are the target tourists Thailand is looking for. Can't afford the accommodation, I doubt they can afford insurance and flight! They want tourists to spend money! That's the whole pointPascal ********
@Bobby *******
Yes correct it is a problem for some of them to come back here, hopefully later when most will come back to normalBobby ********
@Pascal *******
. Possibly, but I think quarantine will be here for another 6-12 months, and insurance will be a permanent fixture. They were talking about it before Covid, so I think this is part of the "new normal"Pascal ********
@Bobby *******
They may accept people to fly to Thailand if they pass the test before flying and are still negative upon arrival Bobby ********
@Pascal *******
. They're talking about 10 day and 7 day quarantine. The covid tests are too unreliable. Someone can pick up the virus during the flight and nothing will show until a couple of days later, as has happened already with the Thai repatriation flights. Doubt very much it will happen any time soonReply to
Bobby ********
Reply
Chris ******
@Oliver *******
I have just called the Thai embassy in Uk and they are shut and not issuing anything for entrance into Thailand due to the COVID situation in the Uk. I spoke with a senior officer and he said his seniors have said that until the Uk get on top of the virus he can’t see anything changing. Considering Thailand’s tough quarantine measures I’m surprised by this. That said Thailand and Laos have done well keeping this virus at bay so why would they open up to a country like the Uk with the figures as they are. Also worth noting China have been running daily flights throughout the pandemic to the Uk Chris ******
And yes you do need to start these in your own country to begin with BUT in the UK their embassy and all consulate offices are closed and are unlikely to open until we get our infection numbers down
Bobby ********
@Chris *****
. It could be a while before Thailand opens up to high number countries like the UK. Thai authorities will monitor the UK situation, and I'm sure it's not lost in them that Britain has a very large anti-authority movement, with well-publicised demonstrations, frequent bad-tempered outbursts over simple mask-wearing, and little adherence to safety measures. They do not represent the type of people the Thai government is trying to entice to come here. Sadly, the UK is shooting itself in the foot (and the US is not much different) with its total mis-management of the virus. Chris ******
I fear your right bobby
Reply to
Chris ******
Reply
Chris ******
I was basing this on me and starting a new application.
Greg *******
@Chris *****
are you able to fly to say Switzerland for a few days and then apply ?Bobby ********
@Greg ******
. If you're talking about applying for the retirement visa, this has to be done in your home country.Greg *******
@Bobby *******
I’m going on the basis they already have a non- O or O-A already. Why they are stranded. If they are just starting the process then you are correct, it can only start in your home country.
Reply to
Greg *******
Reply
Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Oliver *******
they are many in the same Situation, belife meBobby ********
@Oliver *******
. Retirees CAN apply for a COE! From September 29.Mark ************
@Bobby *******
only with non immigrant O-A &O-X. Immigrant O(retirement) visa are not allowed yet !Bobby ********
@Mark ***********
. I doubt if the O will be allowed. There is a tendency from embassies and immigration to wind this back. It is not available in many embassies nowReply to
Bobby ********
Reply
Peter ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Bobby *******
from where you got this Info and date? Bobby ********
@Peter *******
. It was widely announced on 29 September. Information is available from various sourcesReply to
Bobby ********
Reply
Paul *******
This doesn't make any sense at all.. if you have a non immigrant "O' visa, you can come back here anytime you want.. only tourists are restricted.
Edit.
I guess I am mistaken.. actually it doesn't effect me as I've no plans of leaving the country anyway.. I only got involved because a friend of mine is planning to take a trip to the UK with his daughter. And I don't think he is aware of any problems coming back here on an o visa based on retirement.. I have since, passed this post on to him...
Edit.
I guess I am mistaken.. actually it doesn't effect me as I've no plans of leaving the country anyway.. I only got involved because a friend of mine is planning to take a trip to the UK with his daughter. And I don't think he is aware of any problems coming back here on an o visa based on retirement.. I have since, passed this post on to him...
Michael *******
@Paul ******
i am afraid it isn't as simple as that 🤔Sutrebmal ****
@Paul ******
i wish that is treuGeir *******
OA Non Imm aka Retirement one year.
Michael *******
Mr Burns you are so wrong
Marlies *********
@Paul ******
no - with a non imm 0 visa - you are not allowed to enter. The Embassy want you to change to 0-A or 0-X visa. Which is not easy to do, when all you papers are in ThailandStephen *******
@Marlies ********
What papers in Thailand do you need? It's all home country or internet available items.Marlies *********
@Stephen ******
i need papers in Switzerland- we are stuck here and thinking of applying O-A, since we can‘t go back with OReply to
Marlies *********
Reply
Stuart *********
@Marlies ********
not so. If you have a non immigrant O based on having a Thai wife or Thai kid then you can get a CoE through the local Thai embassy (plus all the other hoops you need to jump)Marlies *********
@Stuart ********
fortunately i am Swiss and married to a Swiss 🤩🤩🤩Joe ***********
@Stuart ********
- That is only the Non O for Marriage or Dependents. Surely you are aware of the Non O for Retirement... no method to process back Stuart *********
@Joe **********
I’m aware of the different types of Non O. I was merely replying to the comment that Non O’s couldn’t get in. Joe ***********
@Stuart ********
- But your answer was incomplete - you left out retireesStuart *********
@Joe **********
I also left out the other copious reasons you can get a non O for - as none of them are relevant to being able to access the country.Joe ***********
@Stuart ********
just keep digging.. The non O for Retirement is a significant category. And it is quite odd that a Non O Category that requires 800,000 Baht in the Bank or 65K Baht a month x 12 months is ignored by the government as being inconsequentialStuart *********
@Joe **********
I don’t doubt it’s not inconsequential and I have no idea why they haven’t let those with that visa in yet. However I was refuting the post stating blankly that non Os were not allowed in as it isn’t true.Joe ***********
@Stuart ********
You have a real problem using the word "Execpt".. Except it is true for Non O based in Retirement... keep diggingStuart *********
Well actually there is another Non O that allows you in. That’s the guardian of a non Thai national at an international school. Forgot that one.
Reply to
Stuart *********
Reply
Oliver *******************
Didn't this get posted yesterday
Reply to
Oliver *******************
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