Liquorice

The reasons being the Non O-A is applied for solely on the basis of retirement, as opposed to the Non O, which can be applied for numerous reasons. The Non O-A also has the mandatory Insurance for extensions. I've witnessed Immigration telling foreigners on the Non O-A but married to Thais who attempted to change the reason of stay from retirement to Thai spouse, they need to get a Non O Visa. Of course, this was almost impossible last year. I'm sure there have been previous reports before on this same issue.

A potential problem he may face is Immigrations refusal to allow an extension based on Thai spouse (no Insurance requirement) when he originally entered on a Non O-A Visa, which is specifically based on retirement and has an Insurance requirement. I'm aware of a couple on Non O-A's who were told to get a Non O if they wanted to apply for an extension based on Thai spouse.

Section 38 : The house – master, the owner or the possessor of the residence are equally responsible for private residential properties. Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979) ENG.pdf

As of April 2022, the priority service was still available for UK Visitor Visas. At the end of the application, you'll be directed to select and pay for the service required and book an appointment for biometrics. Two friends applied in April. One for the 5-year Visitor Visa, and under the assumption applications were taking up to 10 weeks, paid for the priority service. It was approved after 3 days. The second submitted a standard application, standard fee, and it was approved after 10 days. Both had previous Visa applications approved.

Take a copy of this with you and watch their reaction. TM30 Reporting Regulation.pdf