drbrit

Yes I have heard that HK is rather uncooperative, and witnessed it for myself today, despite speaking fluent Thai with them and attempting calm discussion.

Thanks for the info on the visa conversion.

My HR manager has only heard of conversion in the case that incorrect visas were issued by a foreign consulate.

It may well be that the period of overstay (since Nov 2004) is causing the problem.

Infact I have exited the country 3 times, so the backdating of overstay to that date is a little harsh, but I understand their rationale and followed Immigration's procedure.

Regards

Dear All

A tricky situation which I hope members can advise to resolve:

End of last year my employer company closed office in BKK. However, I still had a Non-imm type B visa, valid for nearly a year. The work permit was cancelled but the cancellation slip (x.x.x 10 ?) was never given to me, as the offices closed and staff made redundant.

Our lawyers also gave dubious advice that I could continue to use the visa until I get a new job.

I exited the country 3 times since Nov 2004.

Now I have a new job offer (with a very reputable multinational company), and consulted with Immigration BKK to see how to proceed to ensure the new Type B I will need. They told me: "Cancel the old visa, pay an overstay (which was back-dated to Nov 2004), and the case will be cleared and I can proceed". I eventually got the WP cancellation slip out of lawyer storage and followed Immigrations advice.

Now I am in HK, and the consulate has just rejected my non-imm Type B application. The reason is because they said they will not issue a non-imm if there is an overstay visa. There was no room for discussion on the matter, believe me.

They are giving me a Tourist 30 day visa, and said I could "convert it" to a type B by speaking to Immigration BKK. I have never heard of such a practice, it sounds like a brush-off.

I have always worked fully legally in Thailand, and this situation is endangering my new job position with a major company here. The annoyance is that openly admitted the errors in the case, followed Immigration's advice, paid the maximum fine, and they told there should be no repercussions.

I could try to apply at say Penang, but fear another rejection.

Can anyone advise or offer services to assist?

Many thanks