New Visa Rules From July Confirmed By Immigration

[abdulrahman]

Dr.Pat,Jim,sorry,but she can't!

Border Police,you know;however she can handle a assault gun!

We'll go to the Immigration Office on Friday, without gun,very humble,will report.

Abdul

[dr_Pat_Pong]

Dr.Pat,Jim,sorry,but she can't!

Border Police,you know;however she can handle a assault gun!

We'll go to the Immigration Office on Friday, without gun,very humble,will report.

Abdul

Good luck Abdul. Your patient approach is bound to prove fruitful. Smuggle that bloody assault gun in your briefcase

[Roger13]

At: Retirement visa (O-A) Thailand

It says:

"Pensioners arriving before Oct 1998 with unbroken records while living here only need 200,000 baht in a Thai Bank when they apply for an extension."

I was here just before Oct 98 but the Regulations then were

Bht 200,000 if you were 60 years old or older.

Bht 500,000 if you were 55-59

I was 59, so I had to show 500,000 then - and

have done so without question eversince.

Does anybody KNOW if the CURRENT regulations are such that

I NOW only need to show Bht 200,000

or am I stuck with Bht 500,000 ...

I can qualify on the Income requirements.

Roger

Dr Pat, George anybody ...

Can you help me with the above?

Roger

You are grandfathered Roger....no change for you

Doc,

In my casr then the GrandFathering is a DISadvantage?

I am Stuck on Bht 500,000 ... ?

I had hoped that I might now qualify for Bht 200,000 ...

Roger

It is certainly worth pleading a case. Go on in and talk to 'em it might just get a nod, nothing is ever for absolute certain here Rog.

A few days ago I went to Report my Residence after 90 day stay

- done without hassle or question.

I then proceeded to the Ground Floor to plead my Case for Bht 200,000

rather than Bht 500,000 Bank Deposit.

The Lady Police Officer who has dealt with me several times in past years,

started by Checking my Pension - I noticed that she input a rate of £1=60Bht

into her calculator - "Excuse me Madam the exchange rate is Bht 70" I ventured.

She smiled and said "For Retirement, Immigration uses rate of Bht 60" (MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE)

"Anyway" she continues "you still have more than the monthly minimum

of Bht 68,000 ... so not to worry"

"And the Bank Deposit?" I ask

"Never mind she replies "You qualify on Income"

So Doc, thanks for encouraging me to go !

I do not need ANY Deposit - so all the Hassle with the Bank is over

- I hope - anyway I will be submitting my papers a few days before

my Visa Expires in June for my next Extension.

So the requirements DO appear to be as stated

Income Bht68,000 OR Bank Deposit OR Combination.

Roger

Soi Suan Phlu, Bangkok.

In March, upon enquiry, I understood one Officer to say that

I qualified on just INCOME alone.

A few days ago at my application for annual extension,

I gave only details of my Income supported by the usual

British Embassy Immigration Letter (cost Bht 1,500)

Unfortunately the Numbering system took me to a different

officer who asked me for details of my Bank Account.

I pointed out that I qualify with Just Income and that

the other officer told me I did not need to show Bank Deposit.

I showed where the other Officer calculated my income

by writing on a photocopy of my last year's Embassy Letter.

I point out several times that previously I produced Bank

Deposit details but when I enquired in March - the Other

Officer told me no need for Bank Deposit... But we do not

get to the point of confronting the other officer sitting a few seats away ...

The conversation is very amicable interspersed with questions about my

recent overseas trip.

But the outcome is that her Senior Officer will need to

check my Bank Account and want to see my Deposits & Withdrawals.

I am given 15 days extension to obtain the Bank Letter.

I do not need to fill another T.7 or pay another Bht 1,900

Just to bring the Bank Letter, Passbooks & Photocopies.

I was NOT asked to bring any Medical Certificate - but I did not ask about that.

I asked several times - how much do I need in the Bank

- each time I was told "Up to you" !!!!!

******

I had always wondered why the Officers take Applicant's Passports

to a side room ... It seems they check on their Computer.

I had arrived back in Bangkok that morning and my arrival was not yet recorded

in the Computer... so phone calls were made and I was asked what Flight I had arrived on and at what time...

Only after this was verified was my application processed.

Roger

[astral]

.... Those affected should take a Thai lawyer along when the extension is being sought, and if they play silly buggers, take the lawyer in the see the boss. A letter to the Editor of the English language newspapers might be useful too. It is hard enough, without having elastic regulations, misconstrued continuously on an officer's whim.

In my local Immigration office there is the usual board giving the rates for all the visas.

At the bottom it gives the name and address of the big boss at Suan Plu, Bangkok, last time I looked it was Maj Gen Hemmerat, and you are invited to write to him if you have any problems.

I recommend that course of action, it works.

A few years ago I had problems with embassies/consulates refusing to issue a multi-entry O marriage visa, they only wanted to give me a single entry. I wrote a letter of complaint to Suan Plu. I received a very begrudging apololgy from the consulate!! Mind you I also got a thorough check by the local immigration office and the Income Tax people.

However I consider that fair enough as I had put myself in the firing line.

My impression is that the people in Bangkok do want to see the job done properly, according to the rules, not at the whim of individual officers.

[astral]

Perhaps someone should send a copy of George's original post to the Immigration Colonel in Phuket??

Edited June 3, 2004 by astral

[dr_Pat_Pong]

.... Those affected should take a Thai lawyer along when the extension is being sought, and if they play silly buggers, take the lawyer in the see the boss. A letter to the Editor of the English language newspapers might be useful too. It is hard enough, without having elastic regulations, misconstrued continuously on an officer's whim.

In my local Immigration office there is the usual board giving the rates for all the visas.

At the bottom it gives the name and address of the big boss at Suan Plu, Bangkok, last time I looked it was Maj Gen Hemmerat, and you are invited to write to him if you have any problems.

I recommend that course of action, it works.

A few years ago I had problems with embassies/consulates refusing to issue a multi-entry O marriage visa, they only wanted to give me a single entry. I wrote a letter of complaint to Suan Plu. I received a very begrudging apololgy from the consulate!! Mind you I also got a thorough check by the local immigration office and the Income Tax people.

However I consider that fair enough as I had put myself in the firing line.

My impression is that the people in Bangkok do want to see the job done properly, according to the rules, not at the whim of individual officers.

I think that Suan Phlu is less to blame than some of the regional Immigration offices. But, nevertheless, first and foremost is a program of decent education for all immigration officers.

[astral]

I have just applied for my one year extension at Sri Racha,

and was told that it is 400,000 for all married people as from July.

So much for grandfathering!!

Edited June 4, 2004 by astral

[astral]

I was offered aone-year multi-entry at KL, but as it cost 500 ringgit, as against 200 ringgit for a three-month single entry (and I still have to get the marriage extension part) I stayed with the cheapy.

The fee is about right.

One year extension costs 1900 baht

then multi-reentry permit is 3800, which makes the embassy figure look

quite good (assuming 10baht/1 ringgit)

[ratcatcher]

I have just returned from Immigration Suan Phlu after applying for my non-immigrant "O" marriage visa. Showed B200,000+ in bank and was informed next year I will need B400,000. So much for all the chatter about "Grandfathering" What about "motherfckuing" ?

No other problems as I had ALL our papers in order. Just confirming what Astral above said. Take a newspaper as you'll have lots of time to read.

Also, for the lucky fellas rushing around trying to find a suitable Thai wife between now and July 4th-Good luck! Immigration staff ask quite a few questions like "How long have you known your wife? Where did you meet"? etc. I think they can tell if you are being economical with the truth. They like to see photos of the wedding and photos of your residence. For the chaps living in hotels near Soi 4 ,you'd better have a good story and tell "Noi" to leave the gold at home, wear conservative clothes and speak only when spoken to and in Thai only.

[Roger13]

At: Retirement visa (O-A) Thailand

It says:

"Pensioners arriving before Oct 1998 with unbroken records while living here only need 200,000 baht in a Thai Bank when they apply for an extension."

I was here just before Oct 98 but the Regulations then were

Bht 200,000 if you were 60 years old or older.

Bht 500,000 if you were 55-59

I was 59, so I had to show 500,000 then - and

have done so without question eversince.

Does anybody KNOW if the CURRENT regulations are such that

I NOW only need to show Bht 200,000

or am I stuck with Bht 500,000 ...

I can qualify on the Income requirements.

Roger

Dr Pat, George anybody ...

Can you help me with the above?

Roger

You are grandfathered Roger....no change for you

Doc,

In my casr then the GrandFathering is a DISadvantage?

I am Stuck on Bht 500,000 ... ?

I had hoped that I might now qualify for Bht 200,000 ...

Roger

It is certainly worth pleading a case. Go on in and talk to 'em it might just get a nod, nothing is ever for absolute certain here Rog.

A few days ago I went to Report my Residence after 90 day stay

- done without hassle or question.

I then proceeded to the Ground Floor to plead my Case for Bht 200,000

rather than Bht 500,000 Bank Deposit.

The Lady Police Officer who has dealt with me several times in past years,

started by Checking my Pension - I noticed that she input a rate of £1=60Bht

into her calculator - "Excuse me Madam the exchange rate is Bht 70" I ventured.

She smiled and said "For Retirement, Immigration uses rate of Bht 60" (MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE)

"Anyway" she continues "you still have more than the monthly minimum

of Bht 68,000 ... so not to worry"

"And the Bank Deposit?" I ask

"Never mind she replies "You qualify on Income"

So Doc, thanks for encouraging me to go !

I do not need ANY Deposit - so all the Hassle with the Bank is over

- I hope - anyway I will be submitting my papers a few days before

my Visa Expires in June for my next Extension.

So the requirements DO appear to be as stated

Income Bht68,000 OR Bank Deposit OR Combination.

Roger

Soi Suan Phlu, Bangkok.

In March, upon enquiry, I understood one Officer to say that

I qualified on just INCOME alone.

A few days ago at my application for annual extension,

I gave only details of my Income supported by the usual

British Embassy Immigration Letter (cost Bht 1,500)

Unfortunately the Numbering system took me to a different

officer who asked me for details of my Bank Account.

I pointed out that I qualify with Just Income and that

the other officer told me I did not need to show Bank Deposit.

I showed where the other Officer calculated my income

by writing on a photocopy of my last year's Embassy Letter.

I point out several times that previously I produced Bank

Deposit details but when I enquired in March - the Other

Officer told me no need for Bank Deposit... But we do not

get to the point of confronting the other officer sitting a few seats away ...

The conversation is very amicable interspersed with questions about my

recent overseas trip.

But the outcome is that her Senior Officer will need to

check my Bank Account and want to see my Deposits & Withdrawals.

I am given 15 days extension to obtain the Bank Letter.

I do not need to fill another T.7 or pay another Bht 1,900

Just to bring the Bank Letter, Passbooks & Photocopies.

I was NOT asked to bring any Medical Certificate - but I did not ask about that.

I asked several times - how much do I need in the Bank

- each time I was told "Up to you" !!!!!

Roger

After one week I returned with a letter from the

Bank - my Balance was Bht 240,000.

The Officer Stamped my Passport with a One Year Extension

and asked me to take it to the Senior Officer.

All she said was:

"Next Year you must Bring Medical Certificate

- it is a New Rule"

I was out within 5 minutes - it was around 1.00pm

and the Officers who attended to me were just returning

from their Lunch as I arrived.

The Bank letter was in English this time

previously I thought they had to be in Thai Language.

I had to provide photocopies, signed by me, of all pages of my

Bank Passbook.

So I have yet to read here from anybody who has got an extension with

proof of Income ONLY ...

So much for the Capital OR Income requirements.

Roger

[dr_Pat_Pong]

They've become a law unto themselves Roger. Every officer has a different slant on the interpretations. It is a hopeless situation.

[slim]

"Next Year you must Bring Medical Certificate

- it is a New Rule"

On my first abortive attempt to extend my visa at Nong Khai i was told the same thing only the immigration idiot - sorry - I mean officer - wanted it there and then and not next year but it does look as if this will be a future requirement which could have serious consequences for some of the older expats.

[ovenman]

"Next Year you must Bring Medical Certificate - it is a New Rule"

What sort of medical certificate are they looking for? If it's anything like the medical certificate required to obtain a Thai driver's license, this requirement is a total joke.

[astral]

What sort of medical certificate are they looking for? If it's anything like the medical certificate required to obtain a Thai driver's license, this requirement is a total joke.

Don't worry.

Even the medical check for a work permit is not very serious affair.

All they reaaly want to know is if you have any communcable diseases,

like TB or HIV. That is it!!

Not an unreasonable requirement for someone who wants to live here.

[dr_Pat_Pong]

"Next Year you must Bring Medical Certificate - it is a New Rule"

What sort of medical certificate are they looking for? If it's anything like the medical certificate required to obtain a Thai driver's license, this requirement is a total joke.

Very similar sort of medical examination. If you are well enough to walk in sober and pay the 50 baht for the medical, you are good enough for an extension. They want you to go to the hospital, not a local clinic.

[ericd]

Does anyone have any further information on the rate of exchange that immigration is using to calculate income especially UK Stirling. An earlier quote said Bt60 to the UK pound when currently its BT73/74. Makes an awful lot of difference in how much my income falls short of the requirements and I therefore need to know how much capital to transfer ( when Ive got it) to make up the difference.

Thanks

[Roger13]

Does anyone have any further information on the rate of exchange that immigration is using to calculate income especially UK Stirling. An earlier quote said Bt60 to the UK pound when currently its BT73/74. Makes an awful lot of difference in how much my income falls short of the requirements and I therefore need to know how much capital to transfer ( when Ive got it) to make up the difference.

Thanks

This was just one officer who told me they use

Bht 60 = £1 to calculate Sterling Pensions into Baht.

This is the same officer who two month's before my extension

told me my Pension was sufficient and that I need not worry

about money in a Bank Account. But which I was asked for

by her Colleague sitting a few seats away at actual extension time.

Maybe different officers use different nominal exchange rates - who knows!

I still maintain - officers have much discretion to assist

those they wish to favour - and to hassle those they

think deserve some hassle.

IMO - Rules are deliberately vague so as to support this system ...

Roger

[Micke]

I really do hope that the only thing that I have to show is the marriage certificate and other relevant papers.

That with copy of her ID card and perhaps a short note that you live together to make it air tight. But believe they are now only giving single entry visas and you are expected to extend it. New policy for those of working age has been stated as up to nine months to find a job before any income needs to be provided as proof; or income from outside Thailand can be used.

It seems they are making it easier for extensions but harder for those who may have been using multi entry visas to avoid income disclosure and working on the side without permits or tax payments.

I forgot to ask...

If applying for a non imm O visa, do I have to bring my wife along? Or can I come alone, with the relevant documents?

[dr_Pat_Pong]

You will probably find it easier to get the visa if you do take the wife with you. If you elect not to take her, you need a copy of your marriage papers, a copy of her Thai ID, and a copy of her house registration book.

[sanook1]

what about now today october 2006?

NEW VISA RULES FROM JULY CONFIRMED BY IMMIGRATION

BANGKOK: The new rules for foreginers married to Thai citizens was passed as law in July 2003, to be effected from July 10'th 2004, same time as the new rules/figures for foreigners working in business here.

MARRIAGE EXTENSIONS:

The requirements for new NON-O extensions based on marriage to Thai citizen are:

- Having a saving account showing not less than 400.000 baht for annual use

or

- Having an income of not less than 40.000 baht a month

or

- Having a savings account and income together of not less than 40.000 baht a month.

(Example: Saving account with 200.000 bath + income 20.000 baht a month will be accepted).

This new new rules/figures, is now confirmed by Vice Commander of Immigration Division 1, Montrie Gosiyasathit, only apply to people applying for extension first time after July 9. 2004.

For foreigners already in the system the old rule/figures still apply, also in the future, currently 200,000 baht or a combination of income and savings not less than 200,000 baht.

RETIREMENT EXTENSIONS:

No changes in the requirements or rules for NON-O Retirement visa extensions, the amount required is still 800,000 in Thai bank assets or a combination of savings and income of not less than 800,000 baht.

Applicants who in the past was grandfathered with lower amounts than 800,000 will be allowed to continue with their lower amounts.

Source: Immigration Bureau 2004-02-24

WORKING CATEGORY EXTENSIONS:

We will post info in a separate thread regarding NON-B extensions shortly. Basically the propsed changes in salaries etc. are confirmed as well by Immigration. Will keep you posted!

Earlier discussions regarding this topic can be found here.

Source: thaiimmigration.com

[sanook1]

I really do hope that the only thing that I have to show is the marriage certificate and other relevant papers.

That with copy of her ID card and perhaps a short note that you live together to make it air tight. But believe they are now only giving single entry visas and you are expected to extend it. New policy for those of working age has been stated as up to nine months to find a job before any income needs to be provided as proof; or income from outside Thailand can be used.

It seems they are making it easier for extensions but harder for those who may have been using multi entry visas to avoid income disclosure and working on the side without permits or tax payments.

I forgot to ask...

If applying for a non imm O visa, do I have to bring my wife along? Or can I come alone, with the relevant documents?

how about if my wife supports me? will they grant me a marriage visa?

[sanook1]

Does anyone have any further information on the rate of exchange that immigration is using to calculate income especially UK Stirling. An earlier quote said Bt60 to the UK pound when currently its BT73/74. Makes an awful lot of difference in how much my income falls short of the requirements and I therefore need to know how much capital to transfer ( when Ive got it) to make up the difference.

Thanks

whenever you make a transfer the exchange rate will be a slightly off exchange rate from the current spot rate, you can ask your bank to arrange for a specific arrival figure in baht, in thailand. This is probably the cheapest way to do it, by paying all the charges from the sending account...hope this jhelps, i have done it b4

[sbk]

sanook, if you look, this thread is 2 years old. If you check the more recent posts in the Visa forum, your questions will be answered.