You must extend at a local immigration office.

Your friend can give you an invitation letter if you are staying with them.

You can book free cancellation hotels.

The 3 proofs that can be asked of you ( personal experiences have nothing to do with the law):

Proof of exit

Proof of accommodation

Proof of 20k baht or equivalent currency in CASH.

Most times you will never be asked for these things but don't be shocked if they do ask.

@Gary *******

when applying Non-o 90 day is not a "longstay " visa.

It will not require any checks or Insurance.

If you apply for a longstay 1yr visa, that is an OA and will be subject to medical, criminal checks and insurance.

But you don't need money in Thailand.

Money in any bank for embassy approval.

1 extension of 180 - cost unclear as of yet. Have heard 1900b or as Much as 10k.

Exact financial and other qualifications are not set yet.

It is expected you will have to prove the money again worldwide BUT unclear of what will qualify as proof. AND possibly have to prove reason again, work etc.

This will be clearer as we approach the first extension.

Still too new.

They are pushing for exits and reentry rather than incountry extensions to keep in line as a tourist visa.

@Brandon ***********

is correct.

Keep in mind that your nonb extension finishes the DAY you stop working.

If the WP expires or gets canceled your are overstay from that date.

Once your reason for extension ends, it's done.

If you are not prepared to apply for the marriage extension immediately you may be able apply for a 1 time 60 day visit Thai family extension.

To give you time to sort out the rest, usually the money.

@Shepherd ******

as of recently the US embassy still offered non-o dependant.

So you may only need to prove 800k and your wife can piggyback off of your non-o based on retirement.

However as many Embassy are changing rules and offerings you'd have to check your specific Embassy.

@Willem ***

yes it was

Supposed to be a pilot program with Australia starting IN December and full rollout in June '25 for everybody.

It has since been indefinitely delayed.

UK passport is 60 days visa exempt plus can extend once 30 days.

@Frankie ******

the ETA is not a thing in Thailand.

The program has been delayed.

The simplest and lowest requirements is 90 day non-o with yearly extensions in Thailand.

The only real requirement for extension is the 800k in Thai bank.

The OA has mandatory health insurance, medical and criminal checks.

Is a 1 yr+ multientry visa only requiring money in your home country.

BUT if extending in Thailand you need the 800k money in Thailand AND always health insurance accepted by Thai immigration.

*ALL should have health insurance* BUT the OA requires specific accepted insurance from a list and becomes an issue for many.

All he can do is try again, possibly with a "service" to expedite it.

Have 20 k baht in cash or equivalent currency

Proof of accommodation

Proof of EXIT

And when questioned politely explain he needs to enter to gather his things and exit.

Maybe the next officer will be more willing to listen and allow it.

No one can guarantee anything at this point, he just has to try again, maybe another entry point, PAY a service for VIP from the plane.

And roll the dice.

If he's flagged in the system for anything in particular, it is as always up to the officer he stands in front of.

Be prepared, polite and thankful.