Problem With Non-B Visa Change

[pjbpjb]

Hello, I'm new to this site and hope you can help.

I came to Thailand from the UK with a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa, which was valid for three entries. During this time I started work and my company began the application to change my visa to a Non-B and to gain a work permit. The process was taking a long time so I went to Immigration at Cheangwattana to get a 30 day extension.

Today I went to Cheangwattana with all of the documents to change my visa to a non-B visa, but I was told that because I didn't have 15 days left on my visa, they could not do it.

So, I do not have any more re-entries on my current visa. I was thinking of going to Poi Pet, but will they issue a visa on entry!?!

Hope that you can help, thanks in advance!!!

[Mario2008]

You can make a quick border hop and apply for the conversion the same day at immigration. As a UK national you will get 15 days on entering Thailand at a land border.

You might consider going to Laos and apply for a non-B visa there.

[pjbpjb]

My only concern is going to Poi Pet and then not getting back to Cheangwattana in time? Other than Laos are there any other options?

Thanks,

[Mario2008]

For a border run you just chose the closet one. To apply for a visa you are advised not to go to Cambodia, as they take 4 days to issue. Laos and Malaysia take 2 days. (apply day 1 and recieve back the next day in the afternoon.

[digitalchromakey]

Why don't you get your employer to file your WP3 application then with the rest of the required paperwork you can then do a visa run to a nearby consulate and get a 90 day single entry Non Immigrant Category 'B' Visa which will allow you to pick up your WP and start work.

Don't be under any illusions, there are virtually no situations where it is ok to work without a WP in Thailand and being caught doing so could set you up for big fines/imprisonment and/or deportation.

[pjbpjb]

The problem is my visa expires on Monday and any processing needs 15 days.......well, that's what Cheangwattana said...

[lopburi3]

Go to border Sunday and overnight and cross/return early in day on Monday and return. That should give you time. Or fly anywhere and return for a 30 day entry.