@Benjamin *****

no, he is American. Sorry it's not clear, I'm the one who grew up here, but my Dad is American (mom Filipino) and I've always held American citizenship. I left to go to college, got married to an American, had kids and moved back to work for a foundation helping Thai children.

@Tod ********

they are homeschooled. 😭😭 We're definitely caught between a rock and a hard place, but I know we're not alone. Covid is affecting so many who consider Thailand home, even though the government will always consider us outsiders. I've found some can be very reasonable and empathetic if you approach them right, so still holding out hope...

@Angelo **********

no, I gave birth in the States. Education visa isn't an option either because i already know the language, and don't have the schedule to go to University (again). I just got my work permit re-upped for another year, though, so hopefully we will have better luck pleading our case next time. 😕

@Gregor *********

I wish that were the case, but at least in the States, they explicitly say only Non B work visas, no Non O Volunteer visas, even with work permit.

@Benjamin *****

ok thank you

@Benjamin *****

yes, I grew up in Thailand with American citizenship, married to an American and moved back, so no extension based on marriage or retirement for me.

@Dominic ********

do you think that means these 60 day extensions are a way to be able to allow foreigners to stay, without amnesty? It makes sense on an economic level, but still makes me anxious about our continued chances at further extensions. The U.S. has out of control Covid numbers, and we are genuinely worried about going back.

My experience on Oct 30: Went to Bangkok Chaengwattana today, was told I should have had a U.S. embassy letter (but they announced they are not issuing them). In the end, filled out this form for 60 days and was given a 14 day under consideration stamp.

@David *******

They gave it to me, but very reluctantly, after saying I needed the letter, which scared me for next time. The foundation I've been volunteering for and have a valid work permit with since last year still want me, and we went prepared with all documents like usual, but immigration said it couldn't be extended past a year. We are happy to reapply for a new volunteer visa, but they said we have to leave the country to do so. But... because of Covid, the U.S. is not issuing volunteer O visas, even with a work permit. So. More Catch-22s. I'm so confused why it seems like we're being forced out even though we want to work and pour into the struggling economy here, but it is what it is. 😕

@James *******

thank you, I appreciate it