Non-o Based On Visiting Friends

[fstailslide]

I'm looking for a solution to my visa problems (I'm 25, live in Thailand, and have a bar), and I keep reading about a Non-O, but based on visiting friends. I can't find anyplace that says they allow visiting friends as a reason for a one year multiple entry. Where is the best place to do this, and how do I go about making sure that I don't get screwed over when I go to make the visa?

[fstailslide]

Right now I have a Non-B single entry visa, but all I have is the letter from the company saying they want to sponsor me for a multiple entry Non-b and the approval from the Ministry of Labour. Is there a way to change it from single entry to multiple entry? There's no chance of a work permit here, so that's out of the question. Thanks

[thaiphoon]

There are only a few consulates around the globe that are still issuing a multiple entry Non-O visa on the basis of visiting friends. Perth is the nearest consulate to Thailand that will issue, and you would need to take with you a signed copy of ID card/passport of Thai friend plus (suggested) a short note from Thai friend to consulate requesting issue of the visa. You will get 90 day permission to stay on each entry. Do a border run just before the visa expires for new 90 day entry stretching the visa to 15 months.

Within the region you will need either a work permit or Form WP3 receipt from Labour Department (indicating WP applied for) plus company documents for Non-B visa issue. You cannot change a visa once it is issued - you can apply for extension of stay at Thai immigration if you meet the requirements for that extension (which you appear not to) or apply for a new visa. Would be single entry visa first time round; multiple entry visa later with work permit and minimum 8 months remaining.