@Paul ******

Brandon gave you excellent advice.

Up to you if you decide to take it, but you will be making it 10 times more difficult by ignoring it.

@Graham *****

even better, lucky him 🙂

Apply for a non O retirement visa online before you fly to Thailand. This will grant you 90 days and the option to extend your stay by 12 months (every year).

You will need to open a bank account when you arrive and deposit 800,000 baht immediately to qualify the extension.

@Simon ********

depends which office and if you are willing to pay. I think I paid 200 baht at Hua Hin and got it within about 30 minutes.

@David *********

most people get the non O visa based on retirement before coming to Thailand.

After 60 days you can extend your stay based on retirement for 12 months (this is not a visa, but a lot of people call it a visa).

@David *********

I think it's very expensive to apply for the non O retirement visa in NZ. That's possibly their reason for applying in Thailand.

@Ray *******

you are welcome, you probably have enough time get the marriage sorted in time if you hurry (you can have the party afterwards). Good luck with whatever you decide 🙂

@Ray *******

it's not illegal to use an agent and it seems many people do, but to use one to do something against the law is illegal.

The laws are there for a reason, but for example some people use an agent to bribe an official for things like gaining a Thai driving licence or not depositing the required funds in a Thai bank It's up to the individual if they want to do this, but if the immigration officer is investigated, all of their illegal visas are cancelled (this does happen, i have seen posts from several people complaining). It's not worth the risk imo, that's why I mentioned it, in case you were unaware.

Do you mean you might need an agent to circumvent the 800,000 baht requirement?

If you are buying a house in Thailand it does not seem a good idea to break the law and risk being deported/potential banned.

I don't think you will need an agent to extend your stay otherwise, as it's a simple process.

If you decide to get married that is something I would consider using an agent for, as they can cut out a lot of the legwork and return journeys to Bangkok. Good luck with whatever you decide.

@Ian *********

youch! TiT it's amazing the different responses you can get simply depending on the individual at the bank. It's definitely possible to have 2 accounts at the same branch, because I have 2 and I didn't need to provide yellow book or work permit.