A Non-Immigrant O Visa Extension allows foreigners in Thailand to stay longer than their initial visa period. This visa type is typically issued for various purposes such as marriage to a Thai national, retirement, or family visits. The Non-Immigrant O Visa is valid for 90 days. However, eligible holders can apply for an extension, which can grant them permission to stay in Thailand for up to one year without leaving the country.
Advantages and disadvantages of Non-Immigrant O Visa Extension
Advantages
- Extended stay in Thailand: Enables the foreigner to continue living and working in Thailand.
- Preservation of family relationships: Helps maintain family unity for those married to Thai nationals.
- Convenience: Avoids the hassle of leaving the country and reapplying for a new visa.
Disadvantages
- Documentation and paperwork: Requires the completion of various forms and the gathering of necessary documents.
- Costs: Involves fees for the application and renewal process.
- Risk of rejection: If the required documents are incomplete or do not meet the specified criteria, the application may be denied.
- Compliance with Thai laws: Visa holders must adhere to all Thai laws and regulations.
Can holders of Non-O visas change their visa type?
- Generally, changing visa types must be done outside Thailand. This means travelling to a Thai embassy or consulate in another country to apply for a new visa.
- In some cases, it’s possible to change visa types within Thailand. For example, changing from Non-O to Non-B for work purposes, or to an Education Visa for study. This is subject to immigration officers’ discretion.
- Applicants must meet all qualifications for the new visa type they wish to change to.
- They must submit all required documents for the specific visa type they’re applying for.
- There may be fees associated with the process.
Renewal of visa type Non-Immigrant O
Steps:
- Submit a renewal application at the Immigration Office before your current visa expires
- Fill out the TM.7 form
- Pay the fee (typically around 1,900 baht)
- Wait for the consideration and receive the approval result
Required documents:
- Original passport and copy (must have at least 6 months validity remaining)
- Completed TM.7 form
- 1-2 passport-sized photos (4×6 cm, taken within the last 6 months)
- Copy of work permit (if applicable)
- Financial evidence, such as bank statements for the past 6 months
- House registration or rental agreement in Thailand
- TM.30 form (notification of residence)
Additional documents based on Non-O Visa type:
- For marriage to a Thai national: Marriage certificate, copy of spouse’s Thai ID card
- For retirement: Proof of deposit or income as specified
- For child care: Child’s birth certificate, proof of relationship
conclusion
The renewal of non-immigrant O visa is an important step for foreigners who want to stay in Thailand, and it must be completed before the current visa expires. The main steps are to prepare the necessary documents, apply to the Immigration Bureau, pay the fees and wait for the results. Important documents include passport form TM. 7 financial certificate and residence certificate. According to non-O visas, such as marriage, retirement or child custody, supporting documents can be attached. Applicants should pay attention to timely and complete submission of documents to avoid fines and potential problems.