Retirement Extension Outside Thailand?

[mistakurtz]

My current retirement extension expires in September, 2011. However, I must go home to USA for family emergency which will keep me out of Thailand past that date.

My understanding is that extensions are only available at immigration in Thailand, and after that expiration date, I would need to go through the the application process for a new retirement visa in the USA. Would immigration allow me to "renew" 9 months early?

Is there any way to get an extension outside Thailand to avoid losing my current retirement status? I suppose I could fly back to extend, but that would be costly and time consuming. Could third party legal agencies be of help "in country?"Any information and suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Edited November 16, 2010 by lopburi3
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[Lite Beer]

Best bet would be to either apply for a Non O-A Visa in U.S.

Or.

Apply for a single Non Imm O Visa in U.S and extend in Thailand when you return.

[retiredusn]

Wish I had that much advance notice of family emerg.