My nightmare In Hong Kong.
I'm currently in HK went to immergration to obtain a 60 SETV.
first attempt lady said everything ok but photo not have white background go get new photo come back tomorrow.
Went and got new photo returned next day.
This time different lady.
Had paperwork showing.
Hotels booked and paid for untill 3rd March.
Flight booked back to UK on 28th April.
She looked at passport and said why you not get retirement visa in UK.
I explained I wanted to, but it had to be done by post and I wasn't sure if it would come back in time for my flight so I decided to go to the local Thai consulate and get a 60 SETV.
She then insisted that I show her UK bank statement for, I think 3 or 6 months. Can't remember to be honest because I was beginning to loose the plot.
I said I can show her 45,000 THB and £500 in cash would that be sufficient proof to show I can support myself.
She then said NO I want to see your UK bank statement.
As I was walking away she also said you travel a lot around Asia I think you are working in Thailand.
My personal situation I'm 68 retired on a bloody good company pension and a brilliant private pension and sadly my OAP from UK government.
I don't work I have no need to work ever again.
What the he'll is going on in the Thai immergration system?
Why should I have to get a retirement visa to travel in and out of the country. I spend about £20,000 every year in Thailand.
Think a big chunk if that will be spent else where next year
Sorry for the rant and rave. Only just starting to calm down 😊😊😊
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user shared a frustrating experience while trying to obtain a 60-day Special Tourist Visa (SETV) for Thailand at the Thai Consulate in Hong Kong. After being told to return with a new photo, they faced additional requirements for a UK bank statement as proof of funds, which they found unreasonable given their financial situation as a retired individual. This led to complaints about the consulate's demands and the overall immigration system in Thailand, sparking further discussion among commenters about the need for better documentation and preparation when applying for visas.
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.
