Extending your non o visa extension in Thailand is a straightforward process if you follow the required steps and prepare the necessary documents. A non o visa extension is typically issued for reasons like family reunification, retirement, or volunteering. Here’s a step-by-step guide to extending this visa type within Thailand:
1. Check Eligibility for Visa Extension
Before starting the extension process, confirm that you’re eligible to extend your non o visa extension. The reasons for extending vary but generally include:
- Marriage to a Thai national
- Retirement (for those over 50)
- Family reasons, such as staying with dependent children or supporting Thai family members
- Volunteering with a Thai charitable organization
You can extend your visa for a period of 30 days to 1 year depending on the purpose of your stay.
2. Prepare Required Documents
Gathering the necessary paperwork is a crucial part of the visa extension process. Missing documents can delay your application. Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- Passport (original and photocopies) – must be valid for at least 6 months.
- TM.7 Form – the visa extension application form. You can download it from the Thai Immigration website or collect it from the immigration office.
- Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).
- 1,900 THB fee – to be paid in cash at the immigration office for the visa extension.
- Proof of address in Thailand – This can be a utility bill, rental agreement, or house registration (Tabien Baan). If you are staying with a friend or family member, they may need to provide a signed letter of confirmation.
- TM.6 Departure Card – the small card you were given upon arrival in Thailand.
- Proof of financial stability – The financial proof required depends on the purpose of your extension:
- For retirement: A Thai bank account showing at least 800,000 THB, or proof of monthly income of 65,000 THB.
- For marriage to a Thai national: Proof of income (minimum 40,000 THB per month) or savings of at least 400,000 THB in a Thai bank.
- Marriage Certificate and Spouse’s ID (if applying based on marriage).
- Police background check (for certain long-term extensions like retirement).
3. Visit the Thai Immigration Office
After preparing your documents, visit your local immigration office. In Bangkok, the main office is located at the Chaeng Wattana Government Complex. It’s recommended to arrive early, as immigration offices can get crowded, especially after weekends and public holidays.
Important tips:
- Timing: Apply for your extension before your current visa expires. It’s recommended to apply at least 7 days in advance to avoid any issues with overstaying.
- Location: Check the specific immigration office for your jurisdiction as different offices handle different areas.
- Dress Code: Dress modestly as the immigration office is a government facility. Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts or flip-flops.
4. Submit Your Application
Once at the immigration office, submit your TM.7 form and all necessary documents. After submission, you will be given a queue number and might have to wait for some time before being called to finalize your application.
Steps at the office:
- Wait for your queue number to be called.
- Meet with the immigration officer, who will review your documents.
- If everything is in order, the officer will process your visa extension, collect the fee, and stamp your passport with the new visa validity.
5. Provide Additional Proof (If Necessary)
In some cases, immigration officers may request additional documents or further proof of eligibility. For example:
- If applying for a retirement visa extension, you may be asked to show a bank statement or provide a letter from your bank verifying your financial status.
- If extending for marriage reasons, further inquiries or interviews about your relationship with your Thai spouse may be conducted.
6. Receive Your Extension Stamp
Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the new extension date. The extension can be anywhere from 30 days to 1 year, depending on the reason for the extension. For example:
- If applying based on retirement, you may receive a 1-year extension.
- If applying based on marriage or family reasons, the extension is also generally for 1 year, with the possibility of renewing annually.
7. Report Your Address Every 90 Days
After receiving your extension, it’s important to remember that all foreigners staying in Thailand for longer than 90 days must complete a 90-day address report. This can be done at the immigration office, online, or by mail.
- The 90-day reporting is separate from your visa extension process.
- Failure to report every 90 days may result in a fine of 2,000 THB or more.
8. Renew Your Visa Extension
Most non o visa extension can be renewed annually, especially those based on retirement or marriage. To renew, follow the same steps as the initial extension. Be sure to submit your renewal application at least 30 days before your visa expiration to avoid any legal issues.
Documents for renewal:
- Updated proof of finances (bank statements, income proof).
- Updated proof of marriage or family status, if applicable.
- Current passport with your previous extension stamp.
Conclusion
Extending your Non-Immigrant O visa in Thailand is manageable as long as you are well-prepared with the correct documentation and follow the immigration office’s guidelines. Whether you’re extending for retirement, family, or other purposes, it’s essential to plan ahead, submit your application on time, and keep track of your 90-day reporting obligations.
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