DrJack54

Jetstar currently has very cheap flights to Phuket from Melbourne etc. From Feb 2022. 6000baht return direct.

Not a problem. Even if you came 3 times in a year and stayed 90 days each time, you still would have time out of Thailand. The problem sometimes arises when folk live in Thailand and do weekend trips to places such as Saigon to obtain ongoing visa exempt entries with extensions along with border bounce. Being over 50 it might be suggested that you obtain a non O with extensions. Doing that using an agent is also an option. With a multi reentry permit you would have no issues at all ongoing. (Best option in my book)

No problem. Also keep in mind that in the future when land borders are open you can do border bounce for visa exempt. Two entries allowed per calendar year and each can be extended by 30 days.

No questions should be asked. Take affidavit form if you wish. https://aseannow.com/applications/core/interface/file/attachment.php?id=727659

FWIW, I wouldn't bother a mention of Ed visa. You are entitled to a covid extension. Just apply and obtain one.

Welcome to the Darkside. Do it in person or via mail.

This taken just now. Showing open

Interesting. Seems some do and some don't. Anyway good that you got the covid extension.

I don't blame them. Some folk love to make simple difficult. The report from OP, was more of a ramble of how he had done exactly that.

That's subjective and not accurate. I keep 800k all year round in bank for extensions retirement. Many would argue that they can make approx 5% + with money in shares etc. That's 40k already (excluding tax). Also some folk are wealthy and may argue ~15k per annum using an agent is money well spent. Up to the individual.

Approx 21k including the non O. Then approx 13k ongoing for extensions. The point?

If your not using your money for the 800k requirements, cost for non O + 12 month extension ~ 25k and ongoing extensions ~ 15k. Naturally some lower and more expensive available. Where you plan to live can play part in which agent you use for convenience.

OP, are you also after the 12 month extension or just the 90 day non O? Do you have a Thai bank account? How long do you wish to remain in Thailand?

Thanks for report. Thinking CW was crowded because end of month. Similar reports about Jomtien. I'm going for extension (retirement) money in bank method next week. I also have never provided TM30 however will take lease just in case. I always obtain letter on the day and make deposit at same time.

Yes

Yes to both. You could try check in with your existing return flight. Explain the standard 30 day extension option. However check in staff may not be flexible if airline has standard fixed policy. You could then step away and book onward flight (eg Singapore) on the spot. A screenshot will be acceptable. It would need to be confirmed (meaning paid for) Another option is to buy a "rent a ticket" from online company. Google that and you will find tickets `~$15 USD.

You can obtain a 30 day extension to a visa exempt entry (it's not a visa). Cost 1900baht. That would give you 30+30. Total 60 days. Be aware that the airline most likely require an onward flight for boarding pass.

OP, yes you can enter Thailand visa exempt. It's the airline that may insist on onward flight to issue you boarding pass. If they reject the return flight you have you could book on the spot cheapest throw away flight. (Does not need to be return. Any onward flight is fine). There are also companies that provide a legit booking to satisfy airline. Google eg "rent a flight" or similar.

Best option is to use an agent (not necessarily visa agent) to assist with opening Bank account.

You don't need to do a TM30 even if you exit country and return to where you live in Thailand.

Bit left field but if you thought you might return again to Thailand within a year from this visit...... You could enter with non O (marriage) and obtain a 12 month extension. Would require 400k in bank for couple of months however with the addition of reentry permit could make next visit simple. All depends on longer term plans.

Here is my take based on my experience. When applying for visa (eg tourist visa) an onward flight is NOT required by embassy/consulate. Nor is one required by the airline. An inbound flight IS required for application. Note that it assists airline check in staff if you can direct them to your visa or reentry permit. If flying visa exempt an onward flight IS required by the airline for boarding. Upon arrival an onward flight at immigration would not be asked for (can be but won't). Note, border exits do not satisfy airline. Folk will say that they have flown visa exempt without onward flight. Yes it can happen with some airlines. Generally not.

What visa did you have previously. Tourist Visa?

I think that makes sense. Here is para from Pattaya News. Again just one person's take on it. ......."Apart from routine business such as 90 day reports, the last week of the month also sees the expiration of the special 60-days Covid visas for tourists unable or unwilling to return home. These are currently available until late next month. It is not known if the discretionary permits might be renewable after that time. It could depend on whether the land borders reopen for tourist traffic".

As already pointed out. The 800k only has to be in your Thai bank on day of applying for your non O. Note that you need to show that the 800k came from o/s unless it's been in your account for some time.