@John ******

what they are referring to is a visa exempt stamp which for qualified counties is good for 30 days (was 45).

Only my opinion. Since you are still in the US you can get a non-OA 1 year visa. Work with the embassy closest to you and file electronically.

The thing is people don’t like the insurance requirement but you can have the required amount in an American bank account. I think this is a benefit because though there is an insurance requirement, the money in my high yield bank account earns enough interest to pay for the insurance in 2 months, the remaining 10 months I’m making ~5% on the balance! A Thai bank account essentially pays NO interest at all (its pennies, useless).

This was my approach.

The simple answer you will likely be fine. I’ve still never been asked proof of onward. However I always have it!

@Dean **********

mine laughed too!! 🤣

@James *******

ummm, either I missed something or…???

When I got my OA an option for multiple entry can be purchased at the time of application, otherwise is single entry by default. 🤷‍♂️

@Don ********

this has been a silly criteria from my pov. The vast majority of Americans do not have pensions since the 80’s! They have 401k and/or social security which neither are considered ‘pension’.

@Robert ********

I got mine in California with my only interaction was with the website. That’s it!

I think you essentially answered your own question.

Admittedly some details are a bit of effort or a little difficult to understand. Example my very first visa application was rejected because my name on the application did not appear the same as my passport. Granted, it did not state ‘as it appears on your passport’ but none the less was a gotcha.

I see two sides.

If a person has the resources and eliminate the headache, why not pay someone to do the legwork.

The second side is trust. Is the agent honest, does things legally? You will provide your sensitive information to a third party, make sure they’re legit.

OMG, this group is a privilege, not a right!

I see more than ever MODs have to filter out a lot of noise or prudent information can be buried. 🙄

Think you’ve done a great thing here. 👍

@Ellie ******

that’s an excellent explanation! I didn’t know the 3rd year extension at immigration part. 🙌