Obviously things have changed when I applied for my wife just before COVID. With chest x-ray and further medical tests and the biometrics we applied in December and had the visa 1st week January. We had to pay the NHS Supplement as well. We downloaded all the information and forms we completed, then took everything to vso.
, was that before Covid? As I am now 54 weeks still waiting. As said previous all districts and sub-districts are different. I am just unfortunate for the province I am in.
My wife and I flew Thai Airways on a one way ticket Jan 2022. With 30day visa on entry. Since then have a non 'O' retirement extension, about to renew on Friday. We had no issues with flights or tickets.
And a prayer. I've waited 52 weeks now. Going to renew my extension on Friday then back to the Amphur office to submit new copies of my 12 mth extension. As previous comment it all depends on the office. Some people I know have got it all same day different office/province.
I used it from the UK last year but wasn't asked for it when we checked in at Heathrow. If I remember it cost me 10€ but for peace of mind it was worth it.