Trying To Get A New (renew?) Retirement Visa Before Usd Drops More!

[Lopburi99]

Last August 1 I entered Thailand on my first time Non Immigrant O-A Retirement visa. I have faithfully sent in my 90 day forms since then, but I am now facing the end of my first year and don't know what needs to be done next and/or when it may be done. I have been in Thailand continuously but am planning a one month trip back to the USA in late June. My plans were to wait until my return to Thailand in late July to arrange for another retirement visa year, but now I am a bit worried the USD may drop further by then giving me a major headache in requalifying (I have only my Social Security income). Last summer I got my retirement visa using the combination income/bank savings method while in the USA, but I had been expecting this year to be in good shape using my income only (have no savings anymore due to some purchases here) but I'm now getting worried.

My question is this: Is it possible for me to extend/renew/requalify (don't know which term to use) my retirement visa NOW (early!) while the USD/baht rate will still work for me and before I leave for my trip? I think all I need for immigration is a current (updated) Social Security income letter which I can have my daughter fax or EMS to me. Can I do my paperwork entirely at the Pattaya (Jomtien Beach) Immigration office?

Thank you very much for the advice. I could sleep a LOT better if I could assure my second year of retirement here quickly without further worries about the declining USD!

[massein]

Last August 1 I entered Thailand on my first time Non Immigrant O-A Retirement visa. I have faithfully sent in my 90 day forms since then, but I am now facing the end of my first year and don't know what needs to be done next and/or when it may be done. I have been in Thailand continuously but am planning a one month trip back to the USA in late June. My plans were to wait until my return to Thailand in late July to arrange for another retirement visa year, but now I am a bit worried the USD may drop further by then giving me a major headache in requalifying (I have only my Social Security income). Last summer I got my retirement visa using the combination income/bank savings method while in the USA, but I had been expecting this year to be in good shape using my income only (have no savings anymore due to some purchases here) but I'm now getting worried.

My question is this: Is it possible for me to extend/renew/requalify (don't know which term to use) my retirement visa NOW (early!) while the USD/baht rate will still work for me and before I leave for my trip? I think all I need for immigration is a current (updated) Social Security income letter which I can have my daughter fax or EMS to me. Can I do my paperwork entirely at the Pattaya (Jomtien Beach) Immigration office?

Thank you very much for the advice. I could sleep a LOT better if I could assure my second year of retirement here quickly without further worries about the declining USD!

Will your retirement slip below 60,000 per month, if so go back to the US abd renew your retirement visa there, and should be know problem, but you may have to go to the border every 3 months. I,m on my 6th year of a retirement visa, was onh a marriage visa but retirement is easeir

[retiredusn]

Too start with you need too show either 65k per month via letter from the embassey or 800,000 in the bank with a bank letter. Now, if you leave and return just prior to extending your OA you should get another year without showing anything.

[ubonjoe]

You can only leave and get another year if you have a multiple entry non-OA.

The combination of income and money the bank to give you a totoal of 800,000 is also an option.

At todays exchange rate you would need about $1900 to get the extension using only incomee proven by an income affidavit from the embassy which is a sworn statement the you have a certain amount of income. They do not ask for any proof of that income.

Yesterday the rate was 34.2. Which has been about the average for the past year. The low has been 33 more or less.

It has gone as high as 36. I personally don't think it is going to go much lower than it is now.

[lopburi3]

Pattaya has been reported to accept extensions of stay up to 90 days early (others usually do not want more than 30 day early) - so your location may work to your advantage. I also do not expect the exchange rate to get much worse - today it started to go in the other direction. As said the proof is a letter from Embassy that will cost you $30 that you obtain before visiting immigration. And do not expect immigration to use the daily rate - it is likely to be a flat rate a bit lower than market. If you have to wait it would be best to try and get some money into a savings account to provide for any shortfall.

[longball53098]

The OP needs to say if his O-A is multiple entry or not. As stated above if multi entry he can get another year out of it if he plans his trip correctly.

[Lopburi99]

Pattaya has been reported to accept extensions of stay up to 90 days early (others usually do not want more than 30 day early) - so your location may work to your advantage. I also do not expect the exchange rate to get much worse - today it started to go in the other direction. As said the proof is a letter from Embassy that will cost you $30 that you obtain before visiting immigration. And do not expect immigration to use the daily rate - it is likely to be a flat rate a bit lower than market. If you have to wait it would be best to try and get some money into a savings account to provide for any shortfall.

My visa is not a multiple entry, so this is more of a reason to get the extension done before I leave. By the way, to get my understanding of the terms correct, would I be applying for an "extension of stay" or a new Non O-A visa? Are there any differences? Would this then be valid for another 12 months like my first was? Would my updated visa still be single entry or can I get a multiple entry one this time? I hope I did not make a major mistake not getting a multiple entry in the first place - I always expected to return to the States once each year but thought that would not be a problem after renewing each year. Looking forward to hearing your response on this - Egads.

Also, would the U.S. Embassy accept a fax of my latest Social Security Benefits amount letter or would I need the original? As long as the USD/Baht ratio used by Immigration is at least 32.5 I should be OK because my total benefits income is $2,028/mon.

[lopburi3]

You would apply for a one year extension of stay for retirement at an Immigration office using form TM.7 and paying 1,900 baht. It is not an OA visa, which is something you obtain from a Consulate in your home country; and normally only once - you follow up using the extension of stay process. The extension of stay does not allow travel so you must obtain re-entry permit at 1,000 baht or multi entry re-entry permit at 3,800 baht if you will do any travel during your one year extension of stay.

The embassy provides you a form to fill in - you put your current (gross) income on that form and sign under oath before the Consul. He is not interested in seeing any forms. You should have a current print out in case Immigration officer would like to see it - but it probably will not be asked for.

[Lopburi99]

You would apply for a one year extension of stay for retirement at an Immigration office using form TM.7 and paying 1,900 baht. It is not an OA visa, which is something you obtain from a Consulate in your home country; and normally only once - you follow up using the extension of stay process. The extension of stay does not allow travel so you must obtain re-entry permit at 1,000 baht or multi entry re-entry permit at 3,800 baht if you will do any travel during your one year extension of stay.

The embassy provides you a form to fill in - you put your current (gross) income on that form and sign under oath before the Consul. He is not interested in seeing any forms. You should have a current print out in case Immigration officer would like to see it - but it probably will not be asked for.

While you were replying I was editing my previous post to ask about if my single entry visa is a major major problem now (Pls reread my last post). Is it??? (Sorry for the ships passing in the night)

[ubonjoe]

My visa is not a multiple entry, so this is more of a reason to get the extension done before I leave. By the way, to get my understanding of the tems correct, would I be applying for an "extension of stay" or a new Non O-A visa? Are there any differences? Would this then be valid for another 12 months like my first was? Would my updated visa still be single entry or can I get a multiple entry one this time?

Also, would the U.S. Embassy accept a fax of my latest Social Security Benefits amount letter or would I need the original? As long as the USD/Baht ratio used by Immigration is at least 33 or so I should be OK because my total benefits income is $2,028/mon.

If you wanted to leave the country now you would have to get a re-entry permit to keep your current entry alive. It would be valid for as long as your current permit to stay is.

A non-oa is the visa you got in the States. An extension of stay is what you get here at immigration.

An extension of stay is valid for one year.and you can then you can get a multiple (3800 baht) or single (1000 baht) re-entry permit.

The embassy will ask for nothing as proof. You fill out the affidavit showing your income then sign it in front of a consular officer making an oath that it is true and correct.

I think you will ok for the money. If you came up short you could show a bank book to make up the difference. You would have to show a total of 800K baht if you did that.

You should have a bank account anyway because some immigration offices will want to see a bank book with some activity along with the letter. It should show transfers in then withdrawls.

They have an appointment system at the embassy see this webpage for info.

http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/acsappointment.html

[lopburi3]

It would only be a major mistake if you departed Thailand without a re-entry permit (and expected to return to finish your current permitted to stay time). Which is why they started the multi entry - too many people departed thinking they could return only to find out that without a re-entry permit their extension of stay had ended on departure.

Most people, if they do not travel much, should probably just get a single entry re-entry permit the same day they get the one year extension of stay. You have to obtain in the same location you get the extension of stay now so that can be a distance away for some people and always good to have for an emergency.

[Lopburi99]

My visa is not a multiple entry, so this is more of a reason to get the extension done before I leave. By the way, to get my understanding of the tems correct, would I be applying for an "extension of stay" or a new Non O-A visa? Are there any differences? Would this then be valid for another 12 months like my first was? Would my updated visa still be single entry or can I get a multiple entry one this time?

Also, would the U.S. Embassy accept a fax of my latest Social Security Benefits amount letter or would I need the original? As long as the USD/Baht ratio used by Immigration is at least 33 or so I should be OK because my total benefits income is $2,028/mon.

If you wanted to leave the country now you would have to get a re-entry permit to keep your current entry alive. It would be valid for as long as your current permit to stay is.

A non-oa is the visa you got in the States. An extension of stay is what you get here at immigration.

An extension of stay is valid for one year.and you can then you can get a multiple (3800 baht) or single (1000 baht) re-entry permit.

The embassy will ask for nothing as proof. You fill out the affidavit showing your income then sign it in front of a consular officer making an oath that it is true and correct.

I think you will ok for the money. If you came up short you could show a bank book to make up the difference. You would have to show a total of 800K baht if you did that.

You should have a bank account anyway because some immigration offices will want to see a bank book with some activity along with the letter. It should show transfers in then withdrawls.

They have an appointment system at the embassy see this webpage for info.

http://bangkok.usembassy.gov/acsappointment.html

Unfortunately I will need to go to the US Embassy in BKK since the Pattaya outreach probably won't be until July which will be too late for me. I wanted to do everything in Pattaya where I believe Thai Immigration may be more farang friendly than in BKK, plus I hate the BKK trip. So next week we are planning a trip to BKK to go to both the embassy and Immigration there and try to get everything done in one day. I hope being about 60 days early will not be a problem with immigration there. If so, I can go to Pattaya but that would be a separate trip and another day on the road.

Once I get my income verification letter from the embassy, do I need to have any other documents for Immigration to get my one year extension of stay? My Thai bank account hasn't shown any activity since last fall, since I have just been using ATM cash so I hope I don't have to show that. Also, is BKK immigration walking distance from the US embassy?

[lopburi3]

It is a long walk - 3 or 4 KM I suspect. Costs about 60 baht in Taxi. They do not normally like to do earlier than 30 days but from recent reports they may not be pulling files now so it might not be an issue (and you do not have a file in any case).

You should make appointment at Embassy web site - you will be getting notary service.

[ubonjoe]

Do make an appointment at the emabassy. It is mandatory now. They will probably do it without an appointment but it could be a long wait if they are busy.

Unless you have a Bangkok address immigration will send you back to Pattaya. The rules state that you have to do your extension at the assingned office for where you live.

[Lopburi99]

It is a long walk - 3 or 4 KM I suspect. Costs about 60 baht in Taxi. They do not normally like to do earlier than 30 days but from recent reports they may not be pulling files now so it might not be an issue (and you do not have a file in any case).

You should make appointment at Embassy web site - you will be getting notary service.

Sorry Lop3, but I don't understand what "pulling files" means and how that affects my attempt to get my extension. Also, it sounds like Immigration Pattaya will be a necessity for me, since only they accept up to 90 days in advance (per previous posts), right?

Yes, I have used the Embassy website appointment system before and it works well, although it is difficult to predict just when the van and taxi will actually get me from Lopburi (where we are staying temporarily) to there.

I guess you are saying I must get my income verification letter from the Embassy notarized, and that is the only document Immigration will require for my extension. Pls confirm.

Thanks.

[lopburi3]

They have the form and you fill it in - the appointment system does not list it as a specific item so you select notary on the appointment. Pulling file referred to Immigration were in previous years they seemed to have the stacks of files due in the next month in a specific location so they could pull them (find). Last reports I have seen they are not doing this presently (which is probably good as there are stacks all over the floor) so perhaps the 30 days would not have as much meaning. Am not sure of your address - somewhere between Bangkok and Pattaya? If it Pattaya you need to do there. And in that case I would make appointment at Embassy for the 1300-1400 time period - get the letter (notary will cost $30) and then proceed to Home or Pattaya for next day application there.

[Lopburi99]

They have the form and you fill it in - the appointment system does not list it as a specific item so you select notary on the appointment. Pulling file referred to Immigration were in previous years they seemed to have the stacks of files due in the next month in a specific location so they could pull them (find). Last reports I have seen they are not doing this presently (which is probably good as there are stacks all over the floor) so perhaps the 30 days would not have as much meaning. Am not sure of your address - somewhere between Bangkok and Pattaya? If it Pattaya you need to do there. And in that case I would make appointment at Embassy for the 1300-1400 time period - get the letter (notary will cost $30) and then proceed to Home or Pattaya for next day application there.

Thanks Lop3, we've been all over the place as we've been looking where to finally settle and build a home. Currently we are back in Lopburi which is my official address in Thailand. When immigration sent back my last 90 day notification receipt, they enclosed a note that the rules had changed and that BKK immigration is only used now for those residing in BKK, and for me to contact Room 507 Immigration BKK, 5th floor, 02-286-5777 so I guess I should call them. Maybe Pattaya won't give extensions for Lopburi residents either? I always thought immigration was immigration, and that going to the Pattaya office would be ok (I don't know if I am starting to enter the world of dimentia or whether all this is as confusing to others too.)

Oh, and with my last receipt was a notice to check my stay permit so maybe they are pulling files again.

[Lopburi99]

They have the form and you fill it in - the appointment system does not list it as a specific item so you select notary on the appointment. Pulling file referred to Immigration were in previous years they seemed to have the stacks of files due in the next month in a specific location so they could pull them (find). Last reports I have seen they are not doing this presently (which is probably good as there are stacks all over the floor) so perhaps the 30 days would not have as much meaning. Am not sure of your address - somewhere between Bangkok and Pattaya? If it Pattaya you need to do there. And in that case I would make appointment at Embassy for the 1300-1400 time period - get the letter (notary will cost $30) and then proceed to Home or Pattaya for next day application there.

Thanks Lop3, we've been all over the place as we've been looking where to finally settle and build a home. Currently we are back in Lopburi which is my official address in Thailand. When immigration sent back my last 90 day notification receipt, they enclosed a note that the rules had changed and that BKK immigration is only used now for those residing in BKK, and for me to contact Room 507 Immigration BKK, 5th floor, 02-286-5777 so I guess I should call them. Maybe Pattaya won't give extensions for Lopburi residents either? I always thought immigration was immigration, and that going to the Pattaya office would be ok (I don't know if I am starting to enter the world of dimentia or whether all this is as confusing to others too.)

Oh, and with my last receipt was a notice to check my stay permit so maybe they are pulling files again.

Crap! I just read about the strict guidelines for immigration offices being in effect for some time now. It appears I must go to the Ayuttaya office since my official residence is Lopburi.

And who knows if they will accept my one year extension early at that office (as Pattaya does).

Back to square one. Jeezus!

[Lopburi99]

Down, down, and down more. Now the USD is at 34.1, and surely on its way down more.

The Obama economic stimulus' massive spending is killing the dollar. Obama himself said "We have already run out of money, and are operating in deep deficits." Now Geithner is in China trying to keep them from getting further spooked. Things don't look good at all for our continuing USD-based income here.

I am delaying no longer, and am going to BKK then Ayuttya Immigration tomorrow.

I suggest others whose retirement visa income qualifications may be in jeopardy due to the weakening dollar also obtain their one year extension as soon as they are able.

[Tafia]

1.If you use the combination route of say 250,000 in an account (which you can deposit and forget about)and the Embassy letter stating a monthly income of say...50,000 x 12 = 600,000 which is just over the required amount.

Do you have to show the pension total of 600,000 coming into the country or will the account and letter suffice?

(There would also be another account showing the daily ins and outs)

2. What proof do the UK Embassy ask for before issuing the letter and does it need to be Notarized?

3. Does the 250,000 need to come from outside the country? and or if using the 800,000 in bank does that need to show it come in from outside the country?

[ubonjoe]

1.If you use the combination route of say 250,000 in an account (which you can deposit and forget about)and the Embassy letter stating a monthly income of say...50,000 x 12 = 600,000 which is just over the required amount.

Do you have to show the pension total of 600,000 coming into the country or will the account and letter suffice?

(There would also be another account showing the daily ins and outs)

2. What proof do the UK Embassy ask for before issuing the letter and does it need to be Notarized?

Just the income letter and letter from bank confirming the bank balance plus bank book.

The money does not have to stay at the full amount for the year it just has to be there on the date you do the application. You could use the account for your normal deposits, transfers and withdrawls. You do not need to show the full income amount coming into the country.

See this webpage on embassy website for info on letter. http://ukinthailand.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for...ng-in-thailand/

[Tafia]

1.If you use the combination route of say 250,000 in an account (which you can deposit and forget about)and the Embassy letter stating a monthly income of say...50,000 x 12 = 600,000 which is just over the required amount.

Do you have to show the pension total of 600,000 coming into the country or will the account and letter suffice?

(There would also be another account showing the daily ins and outs)

2. What proof do the UK Embassy ask for before issuing the letter and does it need to be Notarized?

Just the income letter and letter from bank confirming the bank balance plus bank book.

The money does not have to stay at the full amount for the year it just has to be there on the date you do the application. You could use the account for your normal deposits, transfers and withdrawls. You do not need to show the full income amount coming into the country.

See this webpage on embassy website for info on letter. http://ukinthailand.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for...ng-in-thailand/

If I put a lump sum into an account as I suggested does that have to show as coming into the country or can it be money given to me by GF?

[ubonjoe]

1.If you use the combination route of say 250,000 in an account (which you can deposit and forget about)and the Embassy letter stating a monthly income of say...50,000 x 12 = 600,000 which is just over the required amount.

Do you have to show the pension total of 600,000 coming into the country or will the account and letter suffice?

(There would also be another account showing the daily ins and outs)

2. What proof do the UK Embassy ask for before issuing the letter and does it need to be Notarized?

Just the income letter and letter from bank confirming the bank balance plus bank book.

The money does not have to stay at the full amount for the year it just has to be there on the date you do the application. You could use the account for your normal deposits, transfers and withdrawls. You do not need to show the full income amount coming into the country.

See this webpage on embassy website for info on letter. http://ukinthailand.fco.gov.uk/en/help-for...ng-in-thailand/

If I put a lump sum into an account as I suggested does that have to show as coming into the country or can it be money given to me by GF?

They normally don't ask for any proof it came from outside the country. It would be better if you had an old bank account but if not just the lump and maybe a transfer from outside the country would look better.

[Lopburi99]

Just got back from BKK (U.S. Embassy) and Ayutthya (Thai Immigration) today and got my one year extension. A couple of things to report. The Embassy did not ask for proof of income as other posters have said, in fact they seemed to very much not want to see my Social Security Benefits amount letter, almost like they didn't want to get involved in any validation. BUT, Ayutthya Immigration DID ask to see the document and scrutinized it carefully. Thank Goodness I brought the S.S. letter along because I believe Ayutthya Immigration would have made me return with it. They did not ask to see my bank book to show the income was actually transferred here each month - good because I use the ATM*. Also, I found out two photos were needed so we ran to a nearby photo shop to get them made. And lastly, they asked for my receipt from my last 90 day filing which fortunately I had in the glove box in my car. Today the $USD was over 34 baht so I qualified at 68,900 and now everything is all set visa-wise for another year. BUT, I still don't trust the future of the dollar at all so I had better begin stashing some cash aside in my bank account here monthly for bext year's extension just in case.

*BTW, I read on another thread we CAN AVOID the 150 baht ATM fee at Government Savings Bank (GSB) ATMs, right? Great news if it is true. Any of us who wants to avoid the fee should be able to find a GSB somewhere nearby (hopefully) and plan to use that ATM exclusively in the future. That's what I'll be doing.