@Stuart ********

I applied for Non O only a week or two after putting the money in the bank. No problem. They did ask for the bank records for the past 3 months when I went back for the extension.

@Damo **********

true, but that’s what they want you to believe. That it’s there in case you have an emergency. If they said “you can use it if you need to but just make sure it’s there when you renew your extension”, then I would believe it. But requiring at least half to be there at all times and the full amount for 5 months of the year is disingenuous. It’s clearly to support the banks.

@Brandon ***********

up to you. But it’s a bit twisted in my mind. Many people have savings so their life isn’t totally upended in the event of an emergency. But you’re saying it’s totally ok for their life to be upended even if they do have savings, as long as the Thai government doesn’t get upset.

@Brandon ***********

the problem with that logic is that if you use that money, you no longer qualify for the retirement extension and you have to leave. I don’t think it’s a conspiracy theory to say that it supports the banks. It certainly does since you have to keep it in there, unless you qualify with monthly deposits.

@Steven *****

you can only do a retirement extension at the office near the airport.

@Stein **********

again, you’re mixing up terms. There is no such thing as a “retirement visa”. There is the Non-O with a retirement extension.

You don’t get “residence” with any visa. Residence is a whole other thing.

Otherwise you are correct.

@Stein **********

you just said “Non o based on retirerement is 3 month only.” What do you mean by that? It doesn’t make any sense.

@Stein **********

you’re mixing up terms. The retirement extension can be renewed one year at a time. The 90 day report has nothing to do with the extension. It’s just a report of your whereabouts.

@Stein **********

no, Non-O with a retirement extension is good for 1 year. But you still have to do a 90 report.

@Brandon ***********

the Saigon consulate requires an appointment and you must bring the email that you receive, confirming the appointment. They will not let you in without it.

Also, the requirement for bank statements is confusing. They want to see 6 months of statements.

Finally, the US$40 must be in crisp, brand new bills.