Changing Non O Visa To Non B

[broomboy18]

Hi all,

I'm in a bit of a bind and was wondering if anybody can help me.

I am currently in Thailand on a one year multiple entry non-immigrant category O visa.

There are two months remaining on my visa, and I have been trying to find suitable information on whether or not I can change to a one year multiple entry Non B.

I travelled to the consulate in Laos to do this, but they told me that I need to change the Visa at the immigration Bureau in Bangkok.

I have been there today though, and it didn't look like this was possible.

They told me that a category Non O Visa does not entitle you to seek employment. I found this strange, as this is the reason I was issued the visa in the first place.

I have recently been offered employment and this is the reason I want to change the category - The current visa I have (Non O) is stamped "Employment Prohibited." And the UK consulate told me I could change the visa when I found employment.

As it is looking increasingly difficult for me to change the category within Thailand, coupled with the fact that Laos immigration turned me around - and I did have all of the necessary documents required for a Non B - I was wondering if my only option was to wait until my current visa expires. That way I can go on a trip to the UK where it seems I only require a letter of evidence to show that I have a job offer, plus a 100 pound cheque, to recieve a multiple entry category Non-B visa.

I think I could then return on this visa and apply for the work permit?

I'd rather not spend so much money on a return flight, but this seems like the easiest way around what is quickly becoming a huge headache. And it seems that I'm more likely to receive a visa in the UK than in one of Thailand's neighbours.

At the same time is a good excuse to visit family and friends.

If anybody could help that would be great.

Thanks,

A worried Brit.

[selboir]

I'll be going thru the same process soon so can you let me know if you find anything out.

I was hoping i could just change my visa at samui immigration?! Dreaming!!

Keep me posted,

Cheers.

[lopburi3]

Unless you have a work permit receipt (have made application and receipt received) you do not have the documents required for a non immigrant B visa in this area of the world. If you really have a job just obtain that document to go with your company documents and then you can visit any local Consulate to obtain the required visa.

You can be employed on a non immigrant O visa but there is no provision for change (none needed) so that is probably why you dead-ended at Immigration (they do not issue the work permits). But in most cases, if not married to a Thai, companies will be more comfortable with you using what they have experience with (non immigrant B visa).