Greetings! I want to make sure i proceed properly. Here are the basics:

- I will arrive on Dec 1, 12 on a single entry Non-Immigration O visa - first time I am doing so.

- 800K BHT are properly seasoned (3 months+) in my TH bank account (over 55+ yo)

- I will live in BKK

- I need to return to farangland in the course of early March 2013 for about one month

I guess the earliest i can apply for the permission to stay is feb 1, 2013.

What else, when and how do i have to file so I can maintain my retirenemt extension visa status given

these parameters (re-entry permit, etc.)

I appreciate knowledgable feedback !

T.

You should apply for your extension within the last 30 days of the 90 day permission to stay that you receive when your arrive on 1 December, so yes, you should wait until 1 February. Since you meet the financial qualifications of 800k in the bank in your name only, you will need a letter from the bank issued just before you apply and a copy of your bankbook.

You will get your 1 year extension at the same time that you apply. After you get the new stamp in your passport you should apply fo a re-entry permit. A single is 1000 baht and a multiple is 3800 baht. It's best to always have one in your passport in case of emergency.

The extension will cost you 1900 baht and will require a completed TM7 form with a 4cm x 2cm picture. The extension will require that you conmplete a TM8 form, also with a picture. Both forms are downloadable form the Immigration website. If you do download hem make sure that you print double sided.

Good luck and Welcome.

Edited November 24, 201213 yr by wayned

Thank you, Wayned!

You covered all my questions!

T.

A couple of minor addenda. You will be asked for a 'mud map' of where you live - you can hand-draw a map showing nearest intersections etc.

You will need some documentation attesting to where you live eg. rent receipt.

And you will (probably) need an extra 4x2 cm photo, + photocopies of relevant passport pages.

But it is not such a big ask - only 2,900B for the privilege of living here for a year!

Cheers, AA

Coerrection/addition: "The re-entry permit will require that you fill in a TM8 form"...... You will need proof of address, rental agreement, lease, hotel bill, etc. but I have never had to provide a map for retirement extension, only for marriage, as immigration uses it to find your house for their "inspection" visit. Copies of passport bio page, visa, permission to stay stamp and departure card will be required.

You might also be required to show current activiuty on your account, recent deposit/withdrawal. Since you will be using Chiand Wattana that is not a problem sice there are bank branches and ATMs located there.

Edited November 24, 201213 yr by wayned

1. Photo size is 4x6cm for immigration forms.

2. Money in account time is 60 days for first application.

3. Minimum age for retirement extension is 50 years.