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

Understand that's how it works. Just seems like an unnecessary burden. I assume when one converts there is a fee. Not the first Thai process I've found odd!😅

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

do you know why an exit is necessary and not just collect the visa fee and start the new one then and there?

@Jason ********

I don't think so. But possible he would need to enter on exempt in order to convert visa. I'd have a sit down with the IO. It's a process question.

Worst case is he applied for new non-o using whichever bank he wants. No need to exit country...

Be cautious of excluded coverage. Almost anything cardiac, kidney, blood or liver related will most likely be excluded. Medications here are very inexpensive. About 30% of USA for equivalent generics. You'll might consider tucking the $500 a month you're likely to spend in premiums away and self insure.

No transactions to/from Thailand. No Thai business partnerships or sales relationships. No Thai customers or suppliers. No shipping in or out of Thailand.

If you are eligible, go for the non-o visa. Rare to get rejected unless you lie while applying or use fraudulent documentation.

@Jovan ******

it is "first extension", there is no 2nd visa

It's your responsibility to report. Not sure of any dire consequences other than the fine, but why would you not take the hour it takes to comply?

@Jack *******

we disagree on your statement that all visa types start upon issue which is not true. A 60 day TV issued Jan 1 is valid to be be used until near end of March. Arrival on Feb 1 is when the 60 days stay, not Jan 1.

@Jack *******

not true. They have a validity date range (usually 90 days from issue). If no entry by the end date, the visa expires unused. The time of the length of the visa starts upon entry. 60 days for TV, 90 for non-o. Hence I believe (but don't know for sure since DTV is a multi-entry visa). That the 5 year clock starts ticking upon 1st entry. But I know from experience the other two visa types work as I describe and time starts upon entry.