Maybe not the right place for this, although I know it will get maximum attention here. Admin, feel free to move it elsewhere.

Anyone recently done a marriage visa renewal at the Thai Embassy in Manila? I usually do it in the UK, with no problems for the past 4 years, but this time, as I am going to Manila soon, I thought I would try there if they don't mess you around.

Any observations would be helpful.

Thanks.

Probably best in Visas, moving it there

Manila is well known as being THE most unfriendly consulate in the region, if you're in town it can't hurt to have a go but I wouldn't hold my breath.

KL is going to be a far better bet.

Any reason you're not doing an extension in-country?

Thanks Crossy - still not got the hang of the many forums/a here!

I actually hadn't thought of doing it in Thailand as I have always done it on my regular trips back to the UK.

I usually get a 1 paragraph letter from my lawyer basically sponsoring me and indemnifying the government against my being here! It saves on papwerwork and financial stuff, but would that be acceptable in Thailand?

Can I do it at the Immigration office in Jomtien?

Many thanks,

Sharecropper.

Sub-heading referring to Manila removed at OP request.

OP is now widening his search to any 'local' consulate that will issue non-o visas based on marriage to a Thai.

This thread http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/Latest-Repor...on-t189375.html would be a good starting point.

No that would not work in Thailand or at most places outside of Thailand. For extension of stay you must prove 400k in a bank account for 2 months or 40k per month income. Then provide paperwork and have spouse sign paperwork. You can not obtain a visa inside Thailand like you obtain in a Consulate.

Manila is, as said, the worst choice of any Embassy in Asia from all reports I have seen - and that dates back years. In KL if you show 100k in bank account and marriage certificate/copy of wife ID card a one year multi entry O visa is normally available. Other places closer than Perth it is most likely only going to be a single 90 day entry.

Kl would issue a multiple non-O, if you can show 100,000 in a Thai bankaccount. Otherwise it would be a single non-O or going to Australia (Perth or Brisbane) for a multiple without showing money..

Thanks for all the replies. I think I will just get a 90 day in Manila and then do the 1 year in the UK when I go back in the summer, as it sounds much easier to deal with there.

You may not even get that in Manila - let us know how it works out.

You might also be disappointed if you expect to get a non-immigrant "O", 90 day visa from Manila.

Blimey. Just what is the problem in the Thai embassy in Manila? Understaffed, a law unto itself, inefficient, incompetent or what?

A law unto itself. Many reports of unhelpfulness even to their own nationals