DrJack54

That's correct. Years ago there were different rules. What you outlined in your OP is the current rules.

As above. The non O-A can only be obtained in your home country or country where you have permanent residency. You would be obtaining a non O retirement from a tourist visa entry. You will use TM86 form to change visa status from TV to non O retirement.

Immediately after receiving your stamp.

Not sure what you are referring to. Indeed some offices want to see "activity in the account". To me thats referring to deposit/withdrawal on day of application? Edit: think I misunderstood your post. Do you mean that immigration wanted to see all you bank statements as some months in bank book had no activity.

Best option. Just have a read of posts regarding "onward flight" Airlines often require that flying visa exempt you have an onward or return flight.. Your friend most likely have booked a return flight since it's only a 3-4 week holiday.

If he was issuing a 60day extension you would have had to fill in a TM7 . So yes not clear. When did they tell you to come back.

How long is the planned trip. He only needs a criminal background check for non O-A and few other options. Visa exempt entry and tourist visa does not require a check. Visa exempt entry is currently 45 days till end of March . Good option. Obtaining a 30 day extension here in Thailand also no check

You would not be obtaining a "Tourist visa" it would either be a 60 day extension to visit wife or a non O marriage that would give a 90 day stamp. Hopefully the non O. With a visa exempt exempt entry you use a TM87 form visa application. Did the io have you apply for that or a TM7 to visit wife.

Here is a thread particular to Samut Prakan and has detailed info. https://aseannow.com/topic/1127901-non-o-retirement-visa-extension-multiple-re-entry-permit-at-samut-prakan-report/

OP, appears that you are on extensions based on retirement. Almost a given that you will not receive a home visit.

As the guys pointed out it's 2 months prior and best maintained for the under consideration period. All up you might need to "squirrel it away" (like that) for up to 3 months. Be aware that if you are ever in a spot, you can obtain a 60 day extension to visit wife which in some situations gives you time to get things in order (1900baht)

You can't help yourself. Now on ignore

No you cannot pick it up from immigration. Wait for further advice. Bottom line is what address does immigration currently have for you on file. Bit off topic to your question but I live in Bangkok and when I purchased my second hand car it had Nonthaburi plates and "my car guy" had them replaces with Bangkok plates (simple process) My understanding is that the purchaser organizers that.

Another person imposing their views and preaching as such.

My lease was not required at CW.

I agree. A condition of obtaining a residence certificate at CW is that you have been doing your 90 day reports at CW. You are probably aware that immigration post the residence certificate to your address on file and can take 2 weeks but more likely one. Cost 200baht. Think this is your best option.

That's why there are so many reports of positive experience using them and couple even when airline has checked. Please direct me to a report or review where your Armageddon has occured

OP where have you been doing your 90 day report and what address do you have with immigration. Bangkok?

It will.

Here is a thread outlining 12 month extension process. Mention it as previously Jomtien had a "return 3 months after extention approved to show funds in the bank" That is not required. Ignore it.

I was hoping you wouldn't say Jomtien. Here is a current thread where fella had issues with Jomtien as they wanted 2 months of funds in the bank for the non O application. His is based on marriage so was able to obtain 60 day extension to visit wife so for him the extra time they required wasn't an issue.

Excellent your good to go. The non O is doable with visa exempt entry 30days and you will not need to obtain a 30 day extension. Apply with 15+ days remaining on your permit. Which immigration office?

Think you will find the insurance needs to cover 90 days. Anyway skip it as seems you intend to obtain the non O in Thailand. Do you already have a Thai bank account in your name only?

Yes any extension has expiry date till expiry of passport. Dont even understand your OP. Why would you not do passport renewal now and then your questions would be irrelevant.

You could also consider non O obtained from Canberra or Sydney.