My (farang) wife and I have been living here for nigh on twenty years, non-O visas and extensions. Originally we had separate visas, and each had 800k in separate bank accounts.

Some years ago, money was a bit tight and we changed from retirement to spouse visa for me: that meant 800k in the bank for her, and nothing required for me. There was no difficulty doing it, immigration made a mistake at the next extension and gave me retirement, but spotted it and fixed it, no penalties involved.

Now, as we get older, we realise that if SWMBO snuffs it, I could have a problem! We have come into some money, and want to change back to 800k each, independent retirement status.

Has anyone done this, and if so, were there any difficulties? Specifically, will the original non-O visa stand, or will I have to start all over again?

Fact is you both have Non immigrant status.

Should be able to change from dependant to retirement.

The requirement for extension retirement requires 800k in bank a/c in your name only for two months prior to application.

FWIW: just one person's opinion.

I would do nothing right now.

You have a sweet set up currently and is working well.

If someone passes then at worst the other person could exit Thailand and either obtain a Non O retirement eVisa or reenter visa exempt and obtain Non O at local immigration.

Quite possible they may even allow the extension to remain valid until expiry and accept change to based on retirement.

Which immigration office

3 minutes ago, DrJack54 said:

Fact is you both have Non immigrant status.

Should be able to change from dependant to retirement.

The requirement for extension retirement requires 800k in bank a/c in your name only for two months prior to application.

FWIW: just one person's opinion.

I would do nothing right now.

You have a sweet set up currently and is working well.

If someone passes then at worst the other person could exit Thailand and either obtain a Non O retirement eVisa or reenter visa exempt and obtain Non O at local immigration.

Quite possible they may even allow the extension to remain valid until expiry and accept change to based on retirement.

Which immigration office

Jomtien. Thanks for the comments.

Just now, Grusa said:

Jomtien. Thanks for the comments.

That's why I asked which office.

When folk enter Thailand visa exempt and look to change to Non O retirement the rule is 800k in bank on day of application.

Jomtien played a game of requiring 2 month seasoning.

Not the rule but they don't care