My retirement visa--yes, I know, it's not a visa, (it's easier to call it that), will be expiring and I won't be in Thailand, and I will probably be entering on visa on arrival. Does anyone have the latest info on Pattaya immigration converting the visa on arrival to non O, then to a retirement visa, they used to do it a few years back without having to leave Thailand. And before anyone asks/comments, I do have all the documents/seasoned money in the bank for the retirement visa--yes, I know, it's not a retirement visa.

I only mention I know it's not a retirement visa several times because I've read other threads where the topic goes off the rails based on this issue.

Thanks in advance

You , I believe can apply for a "conversion" in Pattaya who will forward the paperwork to Bangkok for approval.

Two visits to immigration will be required and you need at least 15 days "permission to stay" remaining for the application to be accepted.

If you qualified for a 15 day visa on arrival that you have to pay 1000 baht for on entry they would not do the conversion.

I suspect though you mean a 30 day visa exempt entry that can be converted to a 90 day non immigrant visa entry that can then be extended for one year based upon retirement. at Pattaya immigration. In order to apply for it you must have 15 days remaining on your entry and be able to show the financial proof.

Thanks for the answers, Yes you are correct ubonjoe, I'll be entering on a 30 day visa exempt.

I guess I should have mentioned also that I work time on/time off and will only be in Thailand for 5 weeks (35 days). I won't be here for the full 90 days so obviously won't be here when it gets down to 15 days. I do have the financial proof needed.

The 15 days reaming is on the 30 day visa exempt entry.to apply for the conversion.

If your funds have been in the bank for 2 months Jomtien immigration may do your extension when the visa and 90 day entry stamps are done.

If not you can get a re-entry permit for the 90 day entry and then apply for the extension when you return.