I am in Thailand, but plan to go to Laos soon to apply for a new visa.

However, my girlfriend said that she just heard some 'news' (not sure where), that now, I don't need to go to Laos, and I can apply for a new visa in Bangkok (or within Thailand).

I haven't heard such news, and I failed to find any information on this new development, but you guys are the best, so maybe you know something?

If this is true, it will surely save a lot of time and money for some.

Thanks, all!

Maybe she was referring to Thai Elite card, half a million Baht and say goodbye to Laos (for five years).

Beside that or marring her, there is no other way, and you will have to go get a new visa.

Perhaps your friend heard about getting a non-O visa at the immigration office, but this is given to foreigners who arrived visa-exempt or with a tourist visa and qualify for the marriage or retirement extension. Her way of hinting that you should marry her?