FYI -- The author/OP is confusing terminology: "Exempt Tourist Visa". No such thing. It is either a 45-day Visa Exempt Entry stamped upon arrival (meaning No Visa was issued); or it is a 60-day Tourist Visa obtained from an Embassy/Consulate before arrival in Thailand. Otherwise, I agree with all of the Posts above.
Robert Curtis You do not need Health Insurance if you follow my instructions, but you DO need Health Insurance if you apply outside the Country for an O-A Retirement Visa.
You do not need Health Insurance if you follow my instructions, but you DO need Health Insurance if you apply outside the Country for an O-A Retirement Visa.
YES, if you ever want to leave Thailand. If you leave without Re-Entry Permit, your Non-O &/or Extension of Stay is invalidated, and you have to start from scratch.
We pretty much agree. But one clarification needed with respect to your suggestion about the Monthly Income Method. This either requires a Letter from your Embassy certifying same (which is no longer available for USA, UK, and AU); or requires Proof of 12 prior monthly Deposits from foreign source into Thailand Bank Acct,
Apply using TM7 Form, and fee of 1900 Baht. Virtually automatic. You can apply anytime within 30 days of expiration of your current Entry. Also note, you can do a "Border Bounce" to neighboring countries, if you choose to stay longer, and receive another 45-day Visa Exempt Entry.