Answered3 years ago

Why is the Non “O” retirement visa initially valid for 3 months, but some say it can last up to 15 months?

Non O visa Retirement visa Visa validity Visa extension Immigration process in Thailand Thailand visa rules

Linn *************

asked Aug 11, 2023

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Hi, for Non “O” retirement visa, may I know why it is valid only for 3 months? Some people say the retirement visa is valid 15 months. What is the difference?

Answer summary

The Non 'O' retirement visa is initially valid for 3 months upon entry into Thailand, which is indicated by the initial stamp. After this period, the holder must apply for a 1-year extension. The confusion about the 15-month validity comes from the combination of the initial 3-month visa and the subsequent 12-month extension. Therefore, while the initial visa is short-term, the total time one can remain in Thailand as a retiree can indeed extend beyond 15 months with proper extensions.

8 repliesnewest first

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Ellie *******

Now you know, basically, it's a two-step procedure to be on 1-year extension based on being over 50, three immigration office visits (except going to get the latest requirement). The procedure may vary by the immigration office

1. in-country initial visa application

visit the local office to apply for a visa, then visit again to get the initial visa stamp

2. 1-year extension application

visit the local office to apply for an extension, usually, you get the stamp on the spot

3 years ago

Chris ********

Good information to know. I hope to go through the same process later this year. ✌

3 years ago

Ellie *******

Totally correct. There is NO in-country visa valid for 15 months.

The first stamp (admitted to stay until) from an initial in-country visa is valid for 90 days. Then you are supposed to apply for a 1-year extension based on the same reason at the end of that 90 days. After that, you will apply for a yearly extension at the end of your stamp, every year.

Some people just saying it's 15 months for the first time, an initial visa for 3 months + a 1-year extension for 12 months.

3 years ago

Linn *************

@Ellie ******

thanks so much for the detailed explanation!

3 years ago

Keith ******

@Ellie ******

Does the 1st year (Non O) cost more than the 2nd year? Or is it the same?

3 years ago

Wannikea *********

@Keith *****

the initial visa costs 2000 baht, then you get a yearly extension 1900 baht each year. Once you are on extensions the visa becomes invalid and you are on a yearly extensions/permission to stay stamp for the reason of being over 50.

3 years ago

Ellie *******

@Keith *****

, the official fee for an in-country Non-immigrant visa (except non-OX) is 2000 baht and for an extension on Non-immigrant or short-term is 1900 baht regardless of number of the days of stay.

3 years ago

Keith ******

@Ellie ******

thank you very much!!!! 👍👍

3 years ago