tjaz1

OthmarB...

Also live in AZ.  Used LA consulate for single and 2 METV over the last 3 years.  Always received visa and passport returned in 8-12 days.  Was also able to email directly...asking for status updates...and always answered within 24 hours.

Have found reliable and professional attention from them.

Not to worry!

Nzexpat:

FYI: I do know there is no such thing as a "retirement" visa...but still challenged if an O or an O-A. A close friend that has been here 15 years did not even know which one they had...they just get renewed each year. Go figure!

But you reminded me of my HS freshman English teacher Mrs McCalister: "BE SPECIFIC."

Thxs again,

J

2 for 2 positive responses!

The anx level going down as I type!

Much appreciated.

J

Sincerest thanks & appreciation. Will gladly arrange a dinner or charity contribution.

I have the specifics you outlined and again can't thank you enough.

J

Sincere thanks! My preliminary qwest to this question was affirmative...but have received conflicting reports from MANY sources.

I plan to go to immigration offices this coming week...with as much documentation as I have...affidavit from US embassy, financials for back up, residency/lease papers, etc., and just get clarity on exactly what additional data is required.

IF someone knew exactly what exactly is requires ...that would be awesome and worthy of a great dinner on me...(no..I don't need to be there...just will pick up the check!)...or contribution to charity of their choice!

I respectfully remain one confused farang!

Is it possible to convert my tourist visa to a retirement visa?

I arrived about 2 weeks ago. I'm 65, retired, US citizen, have a residency in BKK, affidavit of income from the U.S. embassy, single...and plan to remain so!

My goal is to be able to stay at least a year before deciding if I would like to stay longer.

Lots of Internet research...input from Western retiree friends...but they have all been here 6-15 years...most entering on work permits...but well before Dec 14' when it appears many new regulations went into effect.

If not...will enjoy my 6 months here with one exit...and spend time in Cambodia & Vietnam

Thanks for any clarity I hope can be provided.

J