I was going to apply for non O based on retirement in a few months , but after reading all the posts about people having difficulty opening bank accounts in order to apply for the extension I am now thinking the non O-A is a better option , yes more paperwork but shouldn't be difficult , yes insurance but you would buy that anyway . At least when you arrive you are not messing about trying to open a bank account getting frustrated , thinking about using agents etc , whose fees will probably exceed the cost of the insurance needed for the non OA .

@David *********

Am I correct in saying that it's either £1500 per month or a closing balance of £ to apply for initial Non O at London?

@Stephen *******

How long was each trip ? Also , did the embassy say proof of accommodation needed to be for the duration of your trip or just the first few days ?

@Stephen *******

This calender year or last 365 days ?

@Craigh ****************

Ah OK, I misunderstood , I thought this happened before immigration. I didn't realise you had reached immigration desk and handed over your passport. I thought it was a kind of pre-check before reaching the immigration desks.

@Craigh ****************

Sorry for all the questions , how did they know who was trying to enter visa exempt ?

@Jacqueline ********

That screenshot is from Thai embassy in London and taken 30 minutes ago.

@Craigh ****************

So did they let you in visa exempt ? What is your history ?

@Craigh ****************

What enclosed area ? Where is this enclosed area exactly ? Why were you standing there anyway ?