Later this year I intend to "retire" from full time work in the Thai work force and have the option of a marrige visa or a retirement visa. however, reading from other postings, it seems easier to apply for a retirement visa.

But this option raises the question, if I opt for the retirement visa can I apply for a work permit as I will be able to negotiate a few hours a week of work with my current employer as a foreign expert English teacher in place of the current full-time postion of foreign expert English teacher that I now hold, or does retirement mean retirement - total and final - no working in Thailand.

Anyone with any experience in this area - your comments would be appreciated.

NON-IMMIGRANT VISA "O-A" (LONG STAY) - visa for retired persons

This type of visa will be issued to applicants aged 50 years or above. Holders of this type of visa will be permitted to stay in Thailand for one year and may not work while staying in Thailand.

Above is quoted from the MFA - site. Whereas it refers to non-imm O-A, same is applicable for extention of stay, based on retirement, i.e. no work allowed.

Axel is right.

Simply put, only work permit holders can work

And a work permit can not be issued on a retirement extension of stay. If you plan to work you need to go the support Thai wife route.

For more information, see also

Retiremenet Visa Vs Marriage Visa, Bad advice followed by a saga of stupidity and incompetence,

1 Year Marriage Visa...,

WORK PERMITS, VISAS, AND REENTRY PERMITS IN THAILAND

and their related links.

Edited April 11, 200620 yr by vinny