Convert 15-Day Visa Waiver To Non Imm. "B" Visa

[007]

Is it possible to convert a 15-day Visa Waiver into a Non Imm. "B" Visa at Bangkok Immigration?

[lopburi3]

Not normally - and it would be for a non immigrant entry rather than a visa which would require having full paperwork for a one year extension of stay.

In almost all cases you get employment/company paperwork together and visit a nearby Consulate to obtain a non immigrant B visa and then enter Thailand on that.

[007]

In almost all cases you get employment/company paperwork together and visit a nearby Consulate to obtain a non immigrant B visa and then enter Thailand on that.

Cheers for the quick reply. What paperwork is needed for a Non "B" in Vientiane?

[lopburi3]

http://www.mfa.go.th/web/2482.php?id=2492

Above provides general requirements - a lot of paperwork is required but exact requirements may also vary on occupation.

[madjbs]

Is it possible to convert a 15 day stamp into a Non-Imm ED visa? I have read that previously it could be done if you had 21 days left but are things different now they have started giving out 15 day entry stamps?

[lopburi3]

Although the 21 day requirement seems to have been replaced with a 7-15 day period the ED conversion, to my understanding, is only done for University level study and believe only a couple top places can obtain the required paperwork. Normally an ED visa will require a trip to a Consulate.

[madjbs]

It's for my sister who is studying at a top Bangkok international school. I am sure they can get the required paperwork if it is in fact possible to do it. They have already given her all the documents to extend a visa but she left the country to visit a border market and lost her Non-Imm visa before she had chance to extend it. Should the same documents be all that is required to convert?

Cheers

[lopburi3]

I would expect so as that paperwork is the basis for conversion but conversion of entry is a very limited process so up to office what they will do. The school should be able to answer.

[zaphodbeeblebrox]

Is it possible to convert a 15-day Visa Waiver into a Non Imm. "B" Visa at Bangkok Immigration?

Yes, it is. You can get a 3 month non-B in Bangkok by submitting the usual papers (work contract or letter of intent, application for change of status, and your employer's documents). The cost is 1900 baht. Bangkok immigration has given differing opinions on the length of time that must be remaining on your 15 day entry waiver (I've heard 10, 12 and 14 days). Be sure to have originals available for all copies you provide to immigration.

I did a Cambodia border run back in June, went up to Bangkok immigration that same day, and got a 3 month Non-B. I was with two other workers who did the same, so it can be done.