Hello! In February, 2023, I have plans to apply for a new non-O retirement extension (this is my “normal” time to apply) intentionally using a passport which expires in January, 2024. I do this because I’d prefer my extension application date to be a few months earlier than it currently is, and I think(?) this will accomplish that - I believe they will only give me this next extension up to the passport expiry date.

However, I think I just read that immigration adopted a new policy in August, 2013 which requires me to start the entire visa process over using the new passport; this implies that simply going to immigration with both passports and requesting they transfer the stamp is no longer an option. As I’ve seen discussions on stamp transfers, I suspect this is incorrect information(?).

I will apply for and receive a new passport while in the US. Assuming the information in my second paragraph is incorrect, other information via Internet suggests that no embassy letter is required when I go to transfer the extension stamp as long as my arrival stamp is in the new passport. So, I would arrive in Thailand carrying two passports, desiring that the official put my arrival stamp in my newer passport. Will that occur automatically once I point out what’s going on, or will I have to try and convince the officer to do this?

As you can see, I’ve some conflicting information and it’s my first time renewing passport while on a long-stay visa and I’d appreciate your expert help in ironing all this out. Thanks much.