I am planning to visit Chiangrai for longer than 30 days ..(3 month to a year) for a visit. What is the best way to extend visa without applying for retirement visa? I don't have access to Thai embassy where I live so I will be getting 30 day entry visa upon arrival.

Thanks

By the way I am USA citizen. Follow up of my previous enquiry

You need a Visa from U.S.

Without one or a ticket leaving Thailand within 30 days you could be refused entry to the flight.

You should obtain at least a two entry or three entry tourist visa. Do not understand why you can not do this as mail can be used anywhere in the USA for same week service from Honorary Consulates. You may not even be allowed on flight without a visa or onward ticket within 30 days. A two entry could cover up to almost six month stay and three entry (if six month validity from issue) almost nine months using normal 30 day extensions of stay. Exit/return would be required every 90 days.

If you wish to extend in Thailand you would need to meet the requirements for such an extension of stay and you say you do not want to use retirement? Are you married to a Thai? Will you be enrolled in an education facility? Are you over age 50 with 65k per month income or will have 800k in bank account here? Will you be working for an NGO?