@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.

@Ian *********

which bank? I have 2 accounts with Bkk bank.

I did this a couple of years ago and kept the 800k in the same account. I explained what I wanted to do and the reasons and they cancelled the card for my original account and gave me a new one for my new account instead.

Having said that, I never use the debit card these days anyway as I always use the cardless withdrawal option on my phone, so I kind of wish I had opted to not have a card (if that's possible).

@Graham *****

does that mean he might have a better chance in Samui Graham?