Forgive me if this question has been asked before however I am new to the forum and cannot find the answer to my query which is:

I have recently obtained a multi entry non OA retirement visa valid for 12 months. When I wish to leave Thailand do I have to first request a re-entry permit or is it ok to leave as it is a multiple entry visa?

Thanks

NO and YES!

As long as the visa is valid, you can leave and return, getting another 1 year permission to stay without buying a re-entry permit..

Just prior to the visa expiring, exit and re-enter, getting another year which if done right will give you almost 2 years on the visa. During the permission to stay after the actual visa expires, you will need a re-entry permit to keep it alive.

Have a look at these threads for advice:

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/571987-o-a-visa-multiple-entry-re-entry-permit-needed/

http://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/648904-non-immigrant-o-a-multiple-entry-question/