Getting My Non O Visa & Extensions In Bangkok, Thailand
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 ก.ย. 2023
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Many youtubers will not make detailed immigration videos. They make excuses like paperwork and the procedures are going to change the next day or the next week, blah, blah. We understand this process is time sensitive and somewhat individual. But it really helps us expats to see an overall detailed view of the process. Thank you so very very much for making this video. I hope this is one of your most popular videos and you make a ton of money.
Hey David man, thanks for the nice comment. I just got word that a buddy from work passed away. Crappy morning and if you click down a few comments, I went off on some clown. He made a stupid comment, that I didn't know what I was even getting, etc.. I started writing a long response. In the past I'd just block the clown, but he picked the wrong day. After I finished, he changed the first stupid comment, to I just made hard work of it all. Those kind of trolls are the reason most guys stay away from immigration.
I'm sure I'll get another dozen comments, like your an idiot I just arrived at the airport and they gave me a retirement visa for free. Who made the quote? "You can't change stupid." And it's true, when this process changes in 6 months, maybe the 800K goes to 1 million, I'll be yelled out for passing out the wrong info. Normal people like you, will look at the date of the video. For others, that's a challenge.
I think I must have said a half dozen times, I'm not an expert, this was my experience, etc.. but some people just hear what they want to hear. So thanks again man. I'm just a regular guy having some fun making videos. It keep me off the bar stool, sometimes.
As far as this process, if you're in the US and going for a Non O for retirement, ask me anything and I'll tell you what I did. Like a smart person, you'll then decide what you want to do. Always respond with a new comment. If you respond to this comment, I don't see it. I think I get too many comments, so TH-cam only shows me the first one, not the thread if that makes sense. I try to respond to anyone that took the time to watch and Leave a comment. So if you don't hear back, make a fresh comment. I probably didn't get your response. Take it easy man. Joe
This extensive description of the non O visa process is very well done. Frugal expats could do it themselves without an agent but they must be willing to study and prepare all documents without help. I’m guessing most will need help and should pay for the service. Thanks for another excellent video. 😊
Ya, it's not that tricky. I could have easily hired an agent, but I'm glad I learned what an agent does. The third time I've done it myself, it's pretty simple. I'm gonna spend the money, but I'd rather take a trip with it than pay someone to fill out a few forms. But, if I agree. If you really can't afford an agent, this video will show you what to do in Bangkok. It will get you very close anywhere in Thailand. But, I'll I have experience with is Bangkok.
Thanks Joe, this couldn’t have been easy to produce. I spent two years searching for this information and was only ever able to get bits and pieces of the puzzle of Thai immigration. Your guide is very comprehensive and people should take heed of your caveats as things do tend to change from time to time. I am not ashamed to admit that this process was daunting for me so I opted for an agent visa service. But people with patience and wherewithal should be able to take your guide here and complete the non O retirement visa successfully.
I appreciate the nice comment. I might have left out a small thing, but this will get you close. I never pretended to be an expert. Nothing wrong with agents, I did forget to mention a few agents will take your passport to another city. Maybe the brother in law somewhere in Issan. That may cause a problem one day. Other than that, agents are fine, but it's doable on your own.
Maybe next year go do your own extension. Just do the TM7 and TM8 for multi entry. It will save you $400 or $500. Plus, the next year is easy compared to the first time.
Hey something is happening with TH-cam. If you respond to this comment here, I don't see you responded. Send me a fresh comment every time. I try to answer everyone. I feel bad, that I must have missed a ton of responses.
As far as the video, this immigration is always a hot topic. People like to yell and scream. I've already got a few negative comments. You didn't need this or that. Like this clown knows what i was asked for. Plus, in 6 months when a few things change, I'll get yelled at again. Your an idiot telling people to got to Chaing Wattana. they moved, etc.. Some people are just so anxious to correct others. They may not be smart enough to look at the date of a video, but they have all the answers.
Ya go down there and re-new next year. If nothing else so you understand the process. I think you'll find it's no worse than the motor vehicles department. It's one bad day and then a free trip with what you saved to Hua Hin or Pattaya.
Comment if I can help. If we are in the same circumstance. I might know the answer. I mentioned in the video I can't answer immigration questions. Maybe today, maybe next week I'll be asked how do I get an education visa. Oh well
@@EagerExpat If you change the "Sort by" setting from "Top comments" to Newest first", you'll see all comments.
@@QarlonRoad No that's not the issue. This comment you just made, I did not get a notification. I manually saw you answered. When you get 50? comments a day, You Tube only shows me the first. I answer you. If you answer me back, I have no idea. The only reason I saw this was I was looking for something and doing a manual search. If you respond to this comment of mine by hitting reply, I never see it. If you make a new comment at the top of the page, I get a notification someone sent a comment, and then I try to answer everyone. Not sure if that makes sense. I only found out because guys sent a new comment and said, you never answered my second question. It's because I never got a notice. I'm answering your third comment in this thread. You'll get a notice you have a message. I won't if it's not a first comment. Ok man see ya later
@@EagerExpat Not every comment or reply gets a notification. But you can see how many replies for specific comments. If you just click the numbers to display all replies, not all replies will show up. You have to change the "Sort by" setting from "Top comments" to Newest first" to see all replies (responses) for specific comments.
Thanks Joe for putting this together. It makes the process seem more familiar and less daunting.
No problem. I did my best, hopefully I didn't say anything wrong. Bottom line is I was able to do it, so you can too. It's really not that tricky. Just paperwork. Best of luck
Thanks Joe, appreciate it.
Cheers!
No problem
Thank you for this video!
No problem, hope it helps. It's not that tricky. Thanks for watching
Joe. Thanks for the detailed response to my last set of questions. I have been compiling a list for myself from your channel regarding... Condo locations, Banking, Medical/Dental Locations, Visa Requirements , Shopping areas, Nightlife and Insurance. Your channel is great because you have "boots on the ground" which is what is required to make informed decisions when I am ready to make my retirement move to Thailand. I have watched a ton of videos on retirement in Thailand and your channel is probably in the top five regarding best information to know before you make the move to retire in Thailand. My opinion based on your content😀
I appreciate you watching. I was the same way, watching all the Thailand info before I made the move. Time for me to pay it forward
This informative video is perfect for me.
Glad to hear that. Check the night market out
Thanks. Getting much clearer
Yes, it's not that tricky. Things like the TM-30 come and go. They used to have a TM-6 you get at the airport. You needed to always how a copy of the TM-6. Then it just went away. Who knows what tomorrow will bring. But, follow these steps and you can make any small adjustments. And you'll save a few thousand
Super useful video for reference. Wow they do make you jump through hoops. But with a little research,, time prep and this video I'm sure it'll help getting the visas.
Ya man, you can do it. It's 3 or 4 forms. Hopefully, this process will stay the same for a while. Even if the fees change, etc.. That Facebook group lives to talk about the latest changes
Yeah, i don't mind doing this myself, I just see it as a little project, and always good to learn new processes. Thanks for your help, and I'm sorry to hear about your loss. Take it easy. All the best.
Ya man thanks. He was a good guy. Only 66 and just got his second retirement check. That really sucks. You never know how much time you have. So if one stressful day at immigration is all I have to complain about, I'm doing pretty good
I discovered your channel a few weeks ago. and as an aspiring early retiree I just wanted to let you know that this was a very helpful and informative video. Thank you very much. Love the content
Thanks for watching. I'm out hanging with friends tonight. More videos to come
Great effort. I'm about to do my extension & this has been very helpful.
Thanks for watching. It's just paperwork. But, this is what worked for me. Hope it helps
Thanks much for this. I'm 49 and and looking to do my first retirement visa in 2024 once I'm eligible. Think I might spring for an agent the 1st time around as I'm sure to screw something up myself, haha.
Nah man, you can do it. I'm sure a few things (rumors the cost is going up from 800k to a million, etc..) things will always change. This was a long boring video forms, etc.. but if you follow this formula, you'll get it done for $160 instead of $1600 or more.
Pay to open the bank account. About $100 uS. The rest is easy. I'm not sure how to use a girlfriends address, etc.. but get a condo, bank, phone and follow these steps. I just went for the 4th? time in 1.5 years. It's easy now.
Send me a new comment. Don't answer me answering you, or I don't see you sent a message. Watch the video a few more times before you move over. Make a new comment on any video I'll let you know what has changed. Hire an agent if you'd like, but don't be afraid of messing up. This guide will help you not make the 5 or 6 mistakes I made. If you make 1 or 2, you can fix those on the spot.
Thanks for watching. A thumbs up really helps my little channel. Again, new comment if I can help. I'm not an expert but I did get it done. If I can help someone I will. Then you can help someone later. Not just keep these agents paid. That's beer money. Later. Joe
During covid, I had to do a reduced version of this every 2 months. It was very tiresome. Fortunately my wife is very organised about this stuff. Plus having a Thai speaker meant I was less affected by the general chaos.
I have it in mind to enrol in a language school who will organise the education visa and start from there.
Yes, every two months would get old, but once a year is fine. I'm an old paperwork guy from the US Navy. Do these 5 forms with triple copies, etc.. No big deal. It's very helpful they all speak English. I'm sure in some countries, like Vietnam, that would not be the case. I would have to use an agent. In Thailand, I could do this myself. Anyhow, I kind of understand the system. I'll just adjust to any rule changes in the future. Best of luck with the Education Visa
good info. thanks. I didn't know that if you leave the country and come back at your 90 days reporting that it takes place of the 90 day reporting.
Yes, make sure you get a multi entry visa, like I did in the video. Otherwise, you need to go to immigration each time yo leave and get a re-entry permit. Otherwise your visa ends when you leave.
If you leave a few days before your 90 day report (maybe day 85) travel for a few weeks, or a month, your next 90 day report will be 90 days from your return to Thailand. The 1 year visa time continues while your abroad, but the immigration check when you return will be a "90 day check-in"
I'm no expert, just a regular guy. But, this is how it worked for me. I like to travel, so I just planned trips to avoid the 90 day trip. They didn't question that when I got my extension.
For the record, this is a very good video with good information but damn youre right its boring lol. Definately makes me want to use a Visa agent
I hear ya, this paperwork stuff is boring as can be. Still, saving a few thousand bucks, I'll can deal with a little paperwork once a year
No mention of bankbook/passbook copies?
Anyways the rest is solid and correct. I do it myself too.
Except I think the map thing is for non-o marriage visa, not retirement.
btw, subbed :)
I started the video at 830 Bangkok Bank. This was for the bank book update and copies. The last extension I did she handed me a blank sheet of paper. Asked for a map to the condo. I had a few already made. It's always hit or miss. I'm a Non O for retirement. Thanks for following along
What a great video, so informative, I went through the whole video and you definitely made the process very clear. May I ask how did you find out the info on all the paperwork needed to start this process? I have tried to google it but I cannot seem to find a clear website that will tell you all the forms and details like a hand-drawn map of the condo/Google map of the condo etc. Also, how do you even begin to draw the map? does it need a lot of details or just main roads ...seems such a crazy process that they require.
Thank you again for this video, there are not that many videos that are as concise as this. Great job.
Thanks for watching. I think I found the paperwork at the official immigration website. The hand drawn picture just needs the basics. Things are always changing, but this process should get you very close. I'll be doing the same next year, and I'll adjust for the change of the day.
Great video! I'd rather not pay an agent, so it's good to have someone's real world experience of the process. I've got a similar mindset too of being prepared.
Hope the video helps. Follow these steps, and you should get it done. Of course, they might add a step. But, we all have to deal with that. Watch my 90 day report video on the TM 30. That's the new hassle lately.
th-cam.com/video/-ICp_RzUDpE/w-d-xo.htmlsi=C5Tow6egGtQQavv5
Thank you! The process looks scary, but lots of people will have done it themselves, so it can't be that bad can it?For me, it's all about having as much knowledge beforehand as I can get, being prepared, and having patience and the tenacity to get through it.
Great video!! Thanks for taking the time to make it. Being from the U.S. it was especially helpful. I do have three questions. Maybe you can offer your thoughts... Thanks in advance.
1. Did you make the appointment by calling?
2. Why did you need an stm2 visa overstay notice?
3. Do you think it’s a good use of time to go to the info desk and get original forms maybe a week or two before you even go to start the process just in case downloaded forms may be an issue?
Oh shoot thanks for reminding me. I put a link to the Thai website to make an appointment. I have another link (you reminded me to post) to also make the appt online. Sometimes the Thai website doesn't work. Try the second link. I'll post that in 5 minutes.
2. You need the STM2 every time. It's just a warning of overstay. No biggie. If you overstay, that page you signed might appear as proof you knew. Now, pay the hefty fine, or worse don't come back for 1 year etc..
3. I was gonna say go pick up originals, but I would take the chance. Download the forms and print perfect copies. No black lines, etc.. It worked fine for me the first time. But, yes I'm sure somewhere it says they must be original. Will it hurt to go get originals, No. Is it worth wasting three hours? I'd rather have the bank account opened and a new lease signed.
I didn't have originals so I downloaded before I heard of the rule. I'd say you have an 80 percent chance of being ok. If you get a grouchy agent, you can fill out originals in 20 minutes. It's not that tricky
Joe, very informative video. Why you don’t have the 52 pages passport? It’s the same price as the 28 pages.
I do have the larger one. I might have said it wrong. You need a copy of every page with a stamp. In my case 28 have a Japan, Argentina, etc.. Stamp. Not sure who's on Thailand's naughty list, but maybe (insert country here) place you went might cause concern. During the health crisis, everyone asked have you been to (wherever) recently. I'd guess that's why you need the copies.
How about this Joe > when it's my turn to apply (hopefully this yr) I hire you to hold my hand > if anything, as thanks for going into such detail that pretty much no other Thailand yt'ers are willing to tackle.
Regardless...on my next visit later this mos (looking to take advantage of the new 60 Visa Exemption... hopefully they will indeed whip out those stamps in the next 3 weeks) I just may pop-into Stella's a time or 2 looking to buy You & Friends round or 2+
Thanks again for going over it all ...even if some of it may have changed a bit since this was published 🙏
Maybe see ya in a few weeks if you happen to be in town.
Cheers!
Rob
Hey Rob. I'm glad the video helped a little. I'm sure not the guy to hire. My working days are over. Ha ha. Things like the visa exempt stamp will always change. Since I made this video, the only thing that has changed is the TM30 is very strict now in Bangkok.
Even if I leave the country, I need a fresh TM30 when I come home. If i go to immigration without an update, it seems to be an issue. At least a few of my friends had an hour delay. We are figuring out the airport counting as a 90 day check in, seems to be cancelling the TM30. Who knows. But doing a TM30 before you go to immigration for the first visa or yearly extension is the way to go.
If you are going to do all this on your own, I encourage that. It's not that tricky. Get all the forms together, pictures, copies, etc... I can't hold your hand, but you won't need it. Of course I wouldn't charge anyone, but you can show me your package over a beer.
Just follow the steps in the video. That's what worked for me. That's all I can say. Hopefully, those same steps work for you. If you don't have a lease, like I did, maybe that will be an issue for you. Maybe not, I never tried.
Worst case, if you don't want to deal with all that. Stella offers an immigration service. You can contact her about prices. I have no idea. That's the person who will walk you through it all.
Just keep in mind, things change fast over here. They announced the new 60 day stamp on May 30 to start June 1. Well, reports online are people are still getting 30 day stamps. They were told at immigration the 60 day will start at the end of June. That could turn into the end of July, etc.. People on Facebook pretend to be experts. But, they don't know what's going on either. With immigration, you just try to be prepared, then go with the flow. I might tell you to do everything in Blue ink. You get there and they ask you to do it all in red ink. Who knows. Who cares. Just get it done, and enjoy this beautiful country. Or be that guy that says Thailand immigration sucks. I'm going to Cambodia. Good, let them go. If a few forms is enough to trick that guy up, or the monthly immigration rule change, we don't need that person here. But you will do fine.
Don't worry about the stamp. If you arrive and you only get 30 days, it's two forms and 1900b to get another 60. Or pay a person to do it for you. Even the 60 day stamp, they made no mention if you can add 30 more days. So nobody know what's happening yet. Sure, there are all kinds of videos. Same with the new tax issue. But, I'm not going to guess what's happening. I'll wait until it actually happens.
@@EagerExpat > that's what I meant...will meet you for a round or 2 regardless so I can thank you more properly for all your sincere efforts > the time you put into replies speaks vols in & of my Friend > a few more weeks & I'll finally be back on the Kingdom clock > find even while in the West I tend to keep myself on Kingdom time....every little bit helps 😉
@@user-bc1bd5ig7b That sounds like a plan. Have a smooth flight
Hi Joe:
Thanks for the detailed process review, very helpful. Just a few questions.
I realize that you account is based on your experience and you may not
be able to address some of the questions below:
1.Re: TM30 - did you provide the same TM30 you used for initial 90 days
application, when you went for the 1 year stamp ?, or did you get a new one.
2.Can you use a 6 months condo lease, when you apply for 90 days,
just in case you don't get a 1 year stamp, or do they need a 1 year lease?
On TM 87 & 86 what do you put on line "Kind of visa"
Cheers!
Hi, again I'm not pretending to be an expert on any of this. Just one guys experience. The TM-30 system is changing every week. I think soon you will be able to do the TM30 yourself online. Today you can do it at immigration. Some will say you need a new TM30 every time you leave home. Others say just when you leave the country. My immigration friend told me, it's true a hotel in Pattaya will do a TM30 even for a short stay. So, every time you go to immigration it's best to have a fresh TM30. I've only did one 90 day check in at immigration. She looked at my lease and then looked something up. I would guess if the last TM30 was the Holiday Inn in Pattaya, I might have had a problem. I asked my lease agent to do a new TM30 3 days before I went to immigration. I then made a hard copy of the receipt she got. Ask about TM30 on Facebook and you'll get 10 answers. The safe bet is to get a fresh TM30 before you go to immigration. That might be a pain if you go every 90 day report. I usually take a trip around day 85. I like to travel. The check in at the airport counts as a 90 day check in. So far, I've never showed a lease or TM30 at the airport returning.
I don't know how to answer the 6 month lease question. I would guess it's not an issue in Bangkok anyhow. When I got my first visa 90 day/1 year I showed a 1 year lease. When I got my first extension I had changed condos and had 7 months left on that lease. They didn't seem to care about the last 4 months. Do the math on the 6 month lease VS. 1 year. My person wanted 22K a month. I signed a 1 year lease at 19K. Saved 3k a month. I'd guess she would have wanted 25K for 6 months? You will pay first, last, deposit when you move in. If you break the lease on say month 7, the landlord will keep the deposit and last month only. Assuming you didn't damage the place. They don't demand the remaining 6 months. Again, this is what both of my landlords told me. Friends as well, but ask your potential landlord.
As far as the TM87 and TM86, I don't have the form memorized, but if you're applying for a retirement visa, you'll put Non O for Retirement. The Non O is a catch all visa. I might have put "For Purpose Of Retirement"
I do know I had a guy getting upset with the agent next to me. I don't think he had a TM30 and she kept telling him his long term AirBnB wasn't an address she would accept. Again, maybe others have had luck with that? I can only report what I did. That was a 1 year lease. Again, when I went to get the 1 year extension, that one year lease was almost 4 months old. So I'd guess a 6 month would be ok? I think they just want to see a lease and a TM30 that matches that same address. Just make sure the last TM30 in the system isn't a hotel in Phuket, etc.. That might slow down the approval. Best of luck
I think it’s better to do things on your own like this. What if one day they decide to audit all the visas and you have no money in your account. It’s not worth the risk.
Yes I agree. It's always better to learn the system. The whole agent thing might be gone one day. That won't be a problem for me. I'd guess they won't hassle anyone who used an agent in the past. 75% (a guess) of people would have an issue. But, anything is possible.
My head exploded half way through. Sorry I couldn't finish. 😂
I hear ya man, but that's the process. It's tons of paperwork, but it's actually pretty easy. I've always said in every video, only you understand your tolerance for paperwork and bureaucracy. If that's not your thing, an agent will be glad to do all this. It may cost around $8000 agent fees over 10 years, you can do it for $1500 over 10 years. But, that might be the best money you spend.
Myself, I did paperwork in the US Navy. It involved twice as much as this, just to transfer a person overseas. And their three kids, wife, dog, car, everything they own. Now that's paperwork. Maybe 50 documents. All notarized, sent to Japan or Italy (even Thailand) Rejected for no reason and have to be re-done half the time. That was tricky. Three forms at Thai immigration, that's a breeze
@@EagerExpatI envy your patience!
@@drewtube2929 In the military it was "hurry up and wait" Thai immigration is the same. It's one bad day a year, too live in a great spot. I'll deal with it. Even if I had to pay an agent, it's worth it. Luckily I don't
Hi Joe
Followed your instructions and all went well.
Just a couple of questions:
On the TM 7 -right at the bottom where it says ____days ,do you put 365 days ?
Also, did you have to get the proof of foreign remittances a second time from the bank or did you use the ones you got for the tm87 filing and only the certificate showing your current bank balance.
Thanks
Glad the video helped. I don't pretend to be a visa agent, but it worked for me. I haven't looked at those forms in 6 months. I'll have to re-watch my video the next time I go to refresh my memory.
If I understand the question, yes, I put 365 days on the TM-7. The TM-87 you'll just fill out for the first visa, the next year will be an extension. If you make the agents life easy, they will scratch out 365 and put 90, etc.. on say the first visa. I'd still put 365. When you come back the first time to extend the first 90 day visa (on day 61) you would not do a TM-87, You already have the visa. It's just a TM-7 extension each year. And the TM-8 re-entry. That will say 365.
Keep a file with each years package. You might need the original form (or copy) of the bank letter showing the 800k came from abroad. Plus, I'd guess 10 years later, you still need to show the original arrival date, flight number, etc..
I just woke up, so I'm not sure what your asking on the bank. Here's what I did. You can skip the first thing I did. I went to my local branch in Asoke. I got the letter saying the 800k came from abroad, updated my bank book (200b) 100b deposit and 100b cost for the letters. Make sure to tell them it's for your first visa. I made a mistake and got the paperwork for an extension. I guess that's much more common. I did all this 30 hours before my appointment. It gets a little confusing to me. I think you can get the bank book updated within 7 days and the deposit has to be within 24 hours. My package was in order, but she sent me to get fresh bank letters in the basement of Chang Wattana. Of course it was 3:00pm, they close at 3:30? And Monday was a holiday. So I had to come back Tuesday. Good reason, not to have 1 day left on your visa exempt stamp.
Straight to the bank, paid 200b, got the first visa paperwork again, ran to make copies. This time I had a "special number" so I skipped much of the line. She took a fast look at just the bank papers. She told me, ok you are under consideration. I think if you have an agent, you skip this step. Not sure. She told me to come back in 10 days. Maybe this is what you asked me. I asked her do I need to go to the bank in 10 days. She said no. On day 10, they said I'm approved. I then got the visa stamp for 90 days. Remember the first Non-0 is 90 and extended for 1 year (61 days) later. They want to see that 800k in the bank for 60 days. To get the first visa, they want to see the 800k came from abroad and sits in the bank. You then need to leave it there for 60 days.
Maybe the video showed. I can't remember if I then got the TM-8 multi-entry. I think I did. So now I'm approved for 90 days Non-0 with a multi-entry.
I made an appointment the next time on day 61. Much faster. I went in did a TM-7 extension to my approved Non-0. I put 365 days. Once again the first visa will be 90 days, plus 1 year, or 15 months. Straight to the bank, copies, appt at 9am. I couldn't get an appt for the TM-8 extension. I should have got a ticket and in the que, when I got in line for the TM-7. Lesson learned. The TM-7 took 45 minutes. The TM-8 line took about 2.5. Again, this is my experience at Bangkok. They were cool with the local branches in the basement. They all appeared to be there, but I'd double check before you open an account that might not be. I have Bangkok Bank, so that's all I know.
So I hope that answers the question. Just keep an large file for copies of everything. Lease, TM-30's, etc.. Then some big envelopes. Put all the completed paperwork for each year away. In the very rare chance, 5 years from now there is an issue. I'm an over planner, but 10 years from now, I'll walk in with the first visa and last nine extensions sitting in my folder.
The new hassle since I made this video is the TM-30. They keep changing the rules and it's enforced different at every office. This is the form you get from the landlord or condo agent showing you have a lease. I have no idea about guys talking about getting one from a hotel, etc.. On my last trip, the guy at the desk next to me, was having an issue with his AirBnB. I have a condo lease, so I'm not sure. Here's the problem. You need to do a 90-day report. Taking a trip is fine. Lets say you travel abroad on day 89. The clock stops. As long as you leave before day 90. You return 5 days later. That passport stamp is your new 90 day mark. I like to travel, so I did this for the first year. I never bothered learning how to do a 90 day report. I got my first extension and it wasn't an issue.
I started hearing reports, Khao Sod English is a reliable website, also Pattaya mail. Guys were having trouble with the TM-30. I guess they changed the system. There is still plenty of troll talk on Facebook. It's a little silly. You can get a condo, get a TM-30 for 365 days. Go to a hotel in Pattaya for 1 night and they do a TM-30. That "seems" to be overriding the first TM-30. So you are suppose to get a new TM-30 from the condo agent. There also seems to be a rule you need to do a TM-30 the day you return from abroad. I'm not sure. I did test this. I had a TM-30 in place and went to Indonesia on my usual day 85. I came home and did nothing. 90 days later (I think you can do it 15 day early, but you lose those 15 days. So maybe 10 days early) I went to do an online check in. It said it was approved. I've only did a few online, but I print out the receipts of approval and keep them. The passport is my other approval. Leaving day 85, etc..
So keep an eye on the news on the TM-30. It's Thailand. Things change fast. At the very least, before you go to immigration for an extension, maybe a week earlier, get a fresh TM-30 from the landlord or agent. If you have 6 months on the lease it will say 180 days. You can have all the paperwork in order and get held up because the computer thinks you live at the Holiday Inn in Pattaya, because that's the last TM-30 that was filed. Again, everyone has an opinion on this. I made a video and got plenty of hate comments. I've lived here 25 years, etc.. A hotel doesn't do that.... Well, it turns out 30 days later it came to light. But, I'm no expert. Like you, I'm just trying to get by. I figured out a small issue I had with doing an online report, but I paid an agent 500b to do a 90 day report for me. That's where I learned a hotel or trip abroad may be an issue. I'll link that video, but it's seems to change all the time. Just roll with the punches and enjoy saving the $2500 to $3500 an agent might charge for the visa. It's not that tricky if I can figure it out. It's the guy trying to borrow a pen and fill out the forms on his wet knee, that need to hire an agent.
Sorry for the long write-up. Just trying to pay it forward to a new guy. Maybe you can help another guy when you get yours done. Catch you for a drink when you arrive. I'm starting to wake up. The bank letter showing the transfer of funds from abroad (800K) is a one-time thing. Make a bunch of copies. If you use the 65K a month plan, you need to still do 800k the first year. Send 65k a month for 12 months. Then you can show that proof and ask to switch to the 65k method. I didn't ask to do that. I sent 75k each month, but I wasn't happy being forced to transfer when the exchange rate was low. Yes, I have 800k tied up, but I transfer $10,000 or $15,000 when the baht is 36 or 37/1. Not 34/1 in Jan, Feb (or whatever the rate is) Later, Joe
th-cam.com/video/-ICp_RzUDpE/w-d-xo.html
Your last comment I went to approve and answer and it disappeared. I think it was about a Pattaya group. I really only watch Tim Newton on TH-cam and Khao Sod English. The groups and Facebook is the worst, have many trolls. They all jumped to conclusion that June 1 you will get 60 day stamp instead of 30. Today on June 11, they say it will be in effect June 30. Truth is, they don't know. Tim Newton will say, this is the proposed change, lets keep an eye, and wait until it's in the Royal Gazette.
The TM-30 might work different with 30 agents. The safe bet is just get a fresh TM-30 before you go for a visa or a 1 year extension. Experiment with the 90 day check in. Maybe a short trip won't hurt, maybe it will. My 90 day visa guy, said in Bangkok even 1 day in a hotel was casing his clients issues. I'd rather listen to him then some guy on a website, who may have never left his bar stool in 10 years. Much less took a trip to Bali. Also, you mentioned Bangkok might be similar to Jomtien. I wouldn't assume anything. I mentioned (10 times?) I'm in Bangkok. I must have got 15 comments (not sure about Jomtien) you can't go in 45 days early to re-new. It's 30 days. Well it's 45 in Bangkok. I was there on day 44 and got it done. Maybe that rule will change. Maybe it's because Bangkok is much busier than any other office. But, 15 guys had a need to set me straight. Most of which I'd guess, never stepped foot into Bangkok immigration. That's who you find leaving advice on many of these websites and Facebook groups. Stick with Tim, Khao Sod other people love Richard Barrow on X Twitter whatever it's called.
With all that said, the TM-30 may be gone in a week. It's used to be you got a TM-6 on arrival. That ended and they seemed to get crazy about the TM-30. It is what it is. Same with the new tax law that started Jan 1, 2024. Nobody knows what it means. Tim, Khao Sod will say, lets stand by. Facebook, websites will say, you are going to pay 35% on every dollar, etc.. Maybe, but I'd guess that's about a .00001% chance of happening. Yet that troll can't wait to get online and tell you how you should move to Cambodia like him. The strange guy at work, you all thought might be a serial killer, they all live in SE Asia today. Most of them love to post in forums. Don't get me wrong, there are 99% normal guys over here. But the 1% make the most noise. I wish they kept quiet, still afraid to talk with a lady, like they did in the US or UK. Nope, they are superstars here. They can't wait to pass out bad advice.
Hey, Joe. Comprehensive vid.
What is the second bank letter about?
Also, can you recommend someone to help get a bank account?
I used Siam Legal in Nana for Bangkok Bank. Around $100. You'll get two bank letters each time you go to immigration . One in Thai that says your in good standing as a customer. I think. It's mostly in Thai. The other is an itemized list showing the bank balance each day. Atm use, phone scan use, etc.. I think. I kept above 800k all year. You need to look up the rules if you want to drop below 800k. No lower than 400k for 6 months, I think. If you answer this response, I don't see it. You need to send a brand new comment with another question. TH-cam comments work strange. Thanks for watching. Thumbs up helps my little channel. See ya later
Thanks for the reply. Do you remember the line " Hey, Joe. Where're you going with that gun in your hand?"
So you had to have 800K baht on deposit in the Thai account, AND have 65k baht deposited each month AND have a lease? From my reading it was OR. If so, I learned something here.
I'd definitely spring for the multi entry.
But, when dealing with a bureaucracy, always have paperwork in multiple copies available sounds pretty standard. Like the labeled accordion folder idea. Check in every 90 days And then renew extension EVERY year after that?
Sounds like a lot of work, not retirement. ;-)
It's one bad day a year. But, it's not too bad. You can pay a good agent (not a guy in a bar, who runs off to his brother in laws office 200 miles away) You can't avoid the $160 government fee. 1900b plus 3800b multi-entry. So that's $1600 for 10 years.
Of course all fee's including agent cost will go up,. But, using today's costs, for the next 10 years, a good agent will cost around $6500. About $2,000 year one, then $500 each year for extension.
So you pay $8100 total to use an agent or $1600 and do it yourself. Again, all we can use is today's costs. An agent might be $700 in nine years. The costs will probably be closer to $200. Who knows?
To me it wasn't really a money thing. I just wanted to learn the system. Then I'll decide if I want to pay an agent. Other guys like to say, my time is too valuable to sit at immigration for hours. They usually say that sitting on a barstool for 6 hours.
I'm no expert on the 65K method. I asked the immigration agent last year after I deposited the 800K. She said, next year bring in 12 months of bank statements showing over 65K coming from abroad. This is one area where many people have an agent "help" in year one providing that 800K. Don't ask me how. I have no experience with that. I'd guess that's why you pay $2000. You would then deposit the 65K each month for over 12 months. When you went back for the first extension you then ask to switch to the 65K method. But again, I'm not the guy to answer these questions. I can only talk about what I did.
And yes, you need to do a 90 day report unless you leave the country. If you leave before 90, say day 88. Your gone 30 days, the day you return you get 90 more days. the airport was your check in.
If you have another comment make a new comment. If you answer my comment, I don't see the message. It's a lot of info, but it's all in the video.
Oh as far as the lease. That's what I had. I heard a guy complaining they wouldn't accept his hotel as an address. But, I have no idea. They wanted to see my lease every step of the way. Sorry, I can only tell you what I did, but it worked. I have no idea about using your girlfriends place, etc.. I'm sure it can be done, I just don't know how. You'll need a TM30 from her, I'd guess. Facebook may know the answer
what about presenting monthly pension instead of the 800 thousand baht? why isnt this mentioned at all. Arent those the requirements...or rather one of the 2 requirement for an non-o visa. thanks. I hope u can elaborate on that. thanks
I'm 99% I mentioned it. I know I have in several other videos. I'm just a regular guy. I'm not pretending to be a visa agent, so get better advice than me. With that said, my understanding is you need to put 800k in the bank to get the Non-0. You then need to send 65k or more each month. Pick a safe day, like the 12th of each month. If you get 2 payments in February and missed the March payment, you didn't send 65K each month.
After 12 months of doing this, you can then ask to switch from the 800k to the 65k each month. I was going to do this myself. I sent over 75k each month. That comes with expense, Wise or Wire transfer. Plus, one month I might get 34/1 and the next 37/1. Plenty more 34/1. So I decided it made more sense to keep the 800k in the bank and just transfer $10,000 or $15,000 when the baht was high. This year I've did that at 37/1 each time. I know you can't time the market, but at least i have a chance compared to, it's January, whatever the rate is, I have to make a transfer.
I also understand if you do the Non-OA (I think, I never did one) you can show the 800k equivalent in a US account. But, I never did that, so I'm not sure how. If you don't have the cash, you need to pay an agent. Some agents, not all, will let you use their money. So make sure to ask that question. My buddies agent walked him through the process and step one was depositing the 800k into his Thai account.
Do you think that you had problems initially getting a bank account because you were on a tourist visa? I've read that it can be hard to get a bank account on a tourist visa.
It's a catch 22. You need a long term visa to open a bank account. You need a bank account to get the visa. And it's getting harder. Many agents are no longer doing bank accounts. While they still can, pay the $125. If you want to save $2500, do your own visa. I did a step by step guide. But, the bank account is getting tricky. I used Siam Legal. They have a notice saying they won't do a bank account today.
With all the talk of 3 month tourist visa on the cards hopefully I can just leave for somewhere and come back and renew another 3 months, I paid a visa agent 60000 thb and was a breeze but rather not have to pay that again
I hear ya man. If you used the agent to "help" with the 800K in the bank, it's a little trickier to do the extension on you're own. In which case, an agent might be the only answer. I had to get the bank letters myself. I have no idea how an agent does the bank process.
If you pass the 800K rules in your bank account, and I'm not sure what they are. I don't drop below 800K, the extension is pretty easy. $1900b and 3800b multi entry. $160 US. That's if you have a Non O. Or an agent might charge $500 and the $160 government fees. Not the end of the world, but that will add up over 10 or 15 years.
@@EagerExpat appreciate all you videos and help mate!
@@Consumer11 Thank you. If you could thumbs up, that really helps me grow with You Tube. It's just a hobby, but I'd appreciate it
Hey Joe... I just went back to review your "how i transfer money" video after watching your visa video yesterday. So I have a question... Hopefully it does not sound ignorant. :o) I saw comments about Schwab shutting down foreign accounts. Unfortunately Schwab was going to be my bank for foreign transfers. However to be safe it seems I need to change that strategy. I use Navy Federal as well so I will use them as my go to for foreign transfers. I don't have any questions about wise or fees. All that made sense in your video. My question is this... You said you need to contact Navy Federal to make a transfer. Do you just call an 800# for Navy Federal from your Thai cell phone number when you want to initiate a transfer? If you could elaborate I would be appreciate it. Thanks in advance. Jeff... Sorry one last question.... Hope it does not sound silly either. I'm guessing you have no problems logging into your U.S. bank accounts from Thailand?
Hey Jeff, no silly questions. You're smart for trying to figure it out. Many guys just go with what the crowd says. I'm not sure how many comments I got, your dumb Wise is much better. I say Wise is $500 to transfer a large amount. $25,000 or so. Navy is $25. They say, your still dumb, Wise has a better exchange rate. Maybe, but it's not worth $500. Maybe it's .0001% better. So do some research. I made it clear Wise might be fine for a $1300 Social Security check. I'll make up the numbers, maybe $16 fee. Navy is $25. The both deposit (within a dollar or two the same amount) Sure on $25,000 Wise might give you $50 more on the .001 better rate. Too me that's not worth paying $475 more than Navy and the $25 flat fee.
The Schwab was just a warning. I'm in travel blogs online. There were people in Mexico and Columbia saying Schwab shut them down. You might get away with it for years. I'm not sure, but you need to have a back up plan to get your money.
If your going for a Non O Retirement Visa, you will need to show a very clear path of the 800K coming from abroad. You can't bring $23,000 (or whatever 800K is) with you. It has to come from (I thought your home country) Wise is from the UK. Another reason I didn't use it. Oh and I gave Bangkok Bank a Florida address. Luckily I changed from CA to Florida drivers license, because they wanted proof of that address.
Navy Federal wire transfer worked fine. They do it through their partner Wells Fargo. Don't you do it through Wells Fargo. Reports online, they will shut you down if they suspect you live abroad. Even with Navy Federal I use a US address. Even T Mobile said they will shut me down if I don't hit a US cell tower in 12 months. I think I got lucky and they put me on a military plan. I was in 84 to 88. Maybe because I was a customer for so long
Yes, you have to call the 800 number. Have your Thai bank account number, Swift Code for transfers, the exact address of the branch and the address you have on file at the Thai bank. I use Bangkok Bank. Kind of hard to get an account opened. I went to Siam Legal. It costs $100 and all problems went away. Bangkok Bank was fine with me using a US address. It's all done on the app. As far as calling from a Thai number, I'm sure that's ok, But, Navy better have that as your only number. I try to keep an image I'm still a Florida guy. My buddies address. A few visa offers show up, everything else is paperless.
So when you call Navy it's also good the address for both banks is the same one in Florida. That's just my experience and it's worked fine for 15 months. Ask Navy to keep all this info saved in a Secure message. So each time you call in, they can transfer the info. At least for a year. I recently called in and they said the info was gone. Then he says the secure message only lasts a year.
Again, not sure what you're doing. If you need the 800K for a Non O Retirement visa, get over here and open an account one day one. I used Siam Legal in Nana so that's all I know. Use a US address for the Thai bank. Same address as Navy. Just to be on the safe side, I wouldn't switch Navy to a Thai address. Everything is paperless anyhow.
Transfer over at least 900K the day you get the account opened. The clock has started on that money being in the account at least 60 days. You'll understand if you watch my how I got a Non O video. You can't drop below 800K even by accident before you go to immigration.
Sorry for the long response. I'm just trying to get you at least what worked for me. then you can decide. How I call is I use two phones. Look at T Mobile, they have a $55 Magenta plan. If you're a Veteran, call them and maybe they'll do what they did for me. I think she put me on an active duty plan. Those guys might not hit a US cell tower for years. Not sure. Tell her you're going to be a civilian working on a base. I'll bet they'll let you slide. I'm not sure about Verizon, etc.. I've heard guys say Google Voice shut them down after a year or two. But I don't know. T Mobile can shut me down at any time.
As far as Navy, I call in with my US phone that I only use in my condo on WI FI only. Shut down roaming, data use, etc. One time it switched from Wi Fi to roaming and the call was .25 cents a minute. I do use the T Mobile when I travel. The Magenta 55 is free 3G, free text and .25 cents talk anywhere. So it's good enough to get a Grab car in Malaysia, etc.. Then I just use it on hotel wifi.
Just remember tohave Navy save all that info in a message. The bank address will be tricky and long. I call in and they type it all in for 5 minutes. read a bunch of disclosures and off it goes. I always send in US dollars. It will be put in Baht when it arrives in Bangkok Bank. We can't control the exchange rate, but it's very close to everything else.
I haven't had problems logging into Navy from my Thai laptop. It does send an OTP number that I get as a text on my US Phone. I think you can get an email too, but not everyone will email. Is it Bank of America? I forget. I do have a VPN. I use Shark something? Many people use Nord VPN. So you can get US Netflix. Set up a Thai account, it's cheaper, then switch to the US, UK whatever.
Once you get that first 800K sent over and the letter and deposit slip from Bangkok Bank, you can use Schwab. Again, I'm assuming you're doing a Non O Visa. If not, just use Schwab until they shut you down. Maybe never? But keep some cash at Navy in case you need a $25 transfer when Schwab goes away. At least the ATM rebate goes away. $9 or $10 ATM fees will add up fast.
Hope that helps. I can't see if you hit reply to this comment I sent you. Start another comment and I'll se it. Again, I'm no expert, but we all have to try and help one another. Maybe you can help the next guy when you try a few things. I'd sure appreciate a thumbs up on any video you like. That really helps my little channel. Thanks, Joe
Hi Joe, will accept a monthly VA pension letter and other proof of that in lue of 800k? Just wondering if they are strict about that. I have heard different stories.
Like I said in the video, I'm no expert on visa issues. I know enough to get my visa, but I'm careful with advice. With that said, I was told you need to show proof of money going into a Thai bank account every month for 12 months. Back in the day, you could get a $50 letter from the US Embassy that stated you have Social Security (maybe they validated a VA pension?) But, they stopped doing that. So, it's my understanding, for at least the first year, you need to show 800,000 baht in a Thai bank. It can drop to 400K at some point. I don't pay attention to that rule. I just keep a little over 1 million in my Thai account. If it drops below a few times a year, I transfer money over from the US. You then will transfer (and pay the wire or Wise fee each month) then take 12 months of Thai bank statements to immigration when you go to extend your visa in 12 months. This is what my immigration agent told me, when I explained in year one, that I also had a federal pension. Of course the agent five feet away may something different. But, I've heard this one year of bank statements rule, before. Of course paying a private visa agent, might help with this issue. It will cost you (not sure how much, maybe $4000 the first visa?) to "use" the agents 800k to get the Non O, then in year two you can switch to the proof of pension method. Hope that helps.
I think I said the first visa is 4K US. I think it's closer to 2K. My mistake. Like I said, I never used a visa agent. I think my buddy paid 4K, but it included other services like a drivers license, condo help, etc..
Hi Joe,
Great video.
I have Non-O Visa with Multi Re-entry which will expired 11/9/24.
Q1.
Can I just buy a 1 way air ticket from Australia to Thailand?
Q2.
Does TM30 apply to me when I arrive back in Thailand within 24hrs?
Thank you.
I'm no expert, but yes, you can buy a 1 way ticket. The more important issue is arriving back into Thailand with a one-way ticket. If you don't have a long term visa "they can" ask to see your ticket leaving Thailand within 30 days (or whatever stamp they give you on arrival) That has never happened to me, but I did get stopped in Los Angeles on my last trip over by Japan Airlines. I had to buy a $30 ticket to Malaysia ) before they let me board. When I got to Bangkok, they didn't ask to see it. If you have a Non-O, you can arrive back in Thailand on a one-way ticket, no problem.
I'm not sure what you're asking about the TM-30. That seems to change every day. Assuming you leave Thailand before a 90-day report (Day 88, for example), you go to Australia for 30 days. When you return to Bangkok, immigration counts as a 90-day report. You arrive on March 1, which counts 90 days from that date to report again. Roughly Jun 1. Although, you can report (in BKK anyhow, 15 days early)
I like to travel, so I rarely go to immigration (or report online) at the 90-day mark. I just take a trip. The one time I did go to immigration, I asked the landlord (agent) to do a fresh TM-30. The last thing you want is a hassle because the last TM-30 was a hotel in Phuket, etc.. Letter of the law, you're supposed to do a TM-30 every time you stay more than one night away. At the very least, have a fresh TM-30 done a week before you go to immigration. For a 90-day report, extension of visa, etc.. Other people will argue this point. This is what I was told to do by an immigration agent. Of course, the agent 5 feet away might say something else. But, this has worked for me.
As far as the TM-30 at the airport, I've never been asked about that. Maybe 40 or 50 times through immigration over the years. Also, always have your passport open to the Non-O page. My buddy just rolled into town, and the agent must have been distracted. He gave him a 30-day Visa Exempt stamp. You think the computer would have said he had a Non-O, but mistakes happen. I'm not sure what he'll do to sort that out. Shouldn't be a big deal. He has a good Non-O stamp with 9 months left. OK, I hope that helps. I just realised you said Australia to Thailand. One way. Yes, that's no problem. Did you get a Non O or a Non OA from abroad? Either one, you're fine with a one-way ticket. I'm not sure how you're TM30 worked if you got the visa in Australia. I had to have a condo and TM30 in place to get the Non O in BKK. Either way, I think you're fine
@@EagerExpat
Hi Joe,
Thank you very much for your advise.
Hey Joe do you have any agents in Bangkok that you can recommend as I want to do my Non-O and Retirement visa next month?
No, I'm sorry. I did mine myself. There is no shortage of good agents in town.
Hi Joe! I know a couple of guys that don't want to go through this headache and they use a service (which they pay). By the sounds of it looks like it's worth paying the service, do you recommend?
It's a little drawn out, but if you do everything I say, at least until it changes, you can do it. You know yourself. If it's gonna drive you crazy, get an agent. Too me, it's one bad day and over 10 years, I save 6 or 7 thousand. That's a decent rate of return. You can do it.
@@EagerExpat okay thanks!
@@stevensantiago746 Sounds good man. I normally don't see when you respond to my comment. I think TH-cam only shows me the first comment. Just make a fresh comment on any video. I can tell you what I did, if that helps. Don't worry about immigration. It's a hassle, but not impossible.
About the 60 day seasoning of your 800k deposit. Suppose you deposit your 800k on April 1. You get your 90 day approval on April 15. Can you apply for your one year on or after June 1? Or do you have to wait until on or after June 15?
I'm just a regular guy, so this is what worked for me. Your mileage may vary. Get the bank account opened fast. When you make the international transfer, they warn it may take 5 days to receive the money. 15 hours was common. 3 days was the longest I waited. Called in Sunday and Monday was a holiday. Also remember Thai holidays cause delays.
But yes, money in the account Apr 1, go to immigration and get the first 90 day stamp Apr 15. I'd give it one extra day. On day 61 of the money in the bank, go to immigration and get the 1 year extension. They will add the one year onto the 44 days you have left.
In your example, it doesn't matter when you get the first 90 day stamp. If you somehow met all the requirements (lease, TM 30, Thai phone, etc..) Go to immigration on April 2 and get the 90 day stamp. What matters is the money is in the bank and never drops below 800K for 60 days. I would go the 61st day, just in case they don't count half a day, etc..
Thanks again
@@n200a4 Ya man, again I'm not pretending to be an expert. Things change fast. Word on the street is the TM-30 is turning into a real pain. My photocopy wasn't an issue. Next year, who knows?
With that said, if I can point you in the right direction, just ask. The Facebook groups have a small percentage of trolls, They like to pretend they are better than a new person trying to learn. As long as you understand to verify anything I say with the immigration office. But, I'll share what worked for me. It's not that hard. No need spending 10K to agents over the next decade.
That immigration office is so far from the central BKK. I was there in Dec 2023 and the bank won't let you open a bank acct without proof of visa. And you can't get a visa without a bank acct. If you have advice on how to do this properly, pls share your experience(s)
It's not close. But, it's also the size of an airport. Hard to build that in Asoke. Like the video said, no easy way to open a bank account. I put on a nice shirt and pants and had $10,000 US in cash. I tried 5 branches. Other than one branch wanting a $70 insurance policy (each year) no luck. Get a lawyer letter. I used Siam Legal. It cost about $100 US. Send them an email. The same bank that told me no, saw the letter and opened my account in 20 minutes. Watch the video a few times, then decide if you want to do this yourself. I gave a detailed report of how I did everything. It worked twice for me. Or you can pay Siam Legal a few thousand and they'll do it all. Other visa services will do the same. It's not that tricky. Follow the video, fix any specific changes they ask, and you'll be fine. Or pay an agent, like many people do. Things have to be done in a specific order. Money has to be in the bank for exact dates, etc.. Mess up by one dollar or one day, and you'll be making that trip to immigration 2 or 3 times. I did paperwork in the Navy. Thai immigration was a cake walk compared to that. The video description and video is exactly what worked for me in Bangkok. The first visa and the extension a year later. Follow the video. I say do it in blue ink, if you do it in black ink you might be told to do it over. I say blue for a reason. Black looks like a photo copy. I had a buddy that was made to re-do everything at 2pm. By the time he was done, he had to come back the next day. It's all in the video. I'm just a regular guy, but if you're trying to figure all this out, it may save you some time. Even though it's a boring video. What isn't boring is saving the $3000 others pay. Best of luck.
@@EagerExpat They let you open a dollar acct? What was the content of the letter? I wonder if US Embassy can do the same for less fee
@@rnikko6472 The money has to be wired from abroad to Thailand. It should be wired in your local currency, dollars, pounds, etc.. and then converted to Thai Baht. The US Embassy used to charge $50 for a bank letter. They since stopped. I have no idea about other offices. The bank letter was in Thai. I didn't care what it said, as long as it worked. I think it was some type of vouching for me letter. My experience is always wire the money in US dollars. Let Bangkok Bank convert it to Thai Baht on arrival. If you ask Bank of America to convert it to Thai Baht, you get a worse exchange rate. On $23,000 you might lose hundreds.
Stop over thinking all this to try and save a $100. Concentrate on trying to save $3000. You need to get the steps correct. The bank account is a very small part of the process. Come on over an attempt to open a bank account. You might get lucky. Some people do. I'd guess that 90% of us have a hard time opening an account without a visa. Try 5 branches, if they say no, then pay the $100 like the rest of us. I made a step by step video on how to do the paperwork. By the way the 800k ($23,000 US?) has to be wired from abroad. I brought 400k ($10,000) cash with me. I still had to wire another 800k ($23,000) from my home country. These guys that say, "show up with 400K and they'll be glad to open an account." Maybe that was true in 1999. They didn't care about my $10,000 in cash.
Immigration wants a clean paper trail of the money coming from abroad. It's all in the video. Watch that thing 3 or 4 times and you'll be fine. Make the mistake of brining $23,000 cash from the US and head to immigration, and you'll be wiring the money back to the US and wiring it back to Thailand. I clearly explain in the video, you need the document showing 800K came from abroad. Not 400k was brought in cash and 400k was wired. I met a guy last night that told me he used my video as a guide and it worked for him. I'm not an immigration expert. I can only tell you my experience. But, what I did worked. So I'll leave it up to you, to try another way. There's more than one way to skin a cat. Read the video description. I think I say get a Thai phone, get a bank account, day one or two. Get a condo lease and TM-30, take all the paperwork (and copies) to immigration with at least 15 days left on your current stamp into Thailand. If you want to attempt not getting a Thai phone, I have no idea if that works. I was asked for my Thai phone on every document. If you show up with 14 days on your passport stamp, I was told that doesn't work. Others may say I'm wrong. I can only tell you what worked for me. So you can copy what I did, or you can try another path. It's not complicated, but it's a detailed process that has to be followed. It's like starting a jet engine. Steps one to twenty. You can't leave out step 16. That's why they have a checklist. This is no way as complicated as a jet engine, but I made the checklist anyhow. I'm a pilot, I like checklists. Ha ha. You got this. Relax and get it done. If it's gonna stress you out, just hire an agent. It's not worth 3K to have chest pains.
Get an LTR, good for 10 yrs. Report once every 365 days IF you don't leave Thailand - if you leave Thailand you'll never need to report.
No need to open Thai bank account, and you get Fast Pass privileges.
The new LTR comes with a laundry list of requirements. I'd guess a small percentage of retiree's would even qualify. I'm not sure how many people jumped over. I do know they lowered the application fee from 100K to 50K. True, it's a great option. But, the retirement visa is really affordable. If you can handle three forms on your own. If you need to pay an agent thousands over the next ten years, it can get costly. Sure you need the 800K in a Thai bank, but it's your money to take at any time.
@@EagerExpat 80k a year in pension assets - that's it. After that 50k covers the entire 10 yrs, no reporting required and various privileges.
@@robertriebel8064 Thanks for the info. I'll check it out. Like anything in Thailand, the LTR or Non O will change. You just have to roll with the punches. Look what happened to the Thai Elite. In the meantime, I'm good for 9 more months. I'll see what happens then.
Under Item 3, first non O: what does (15 days minimum) mean? Do you have to wait 15 days into your 30 day visa exemption before you can apply for your 90 day?
If I understand the question, you need to have at least 15 days left on whatever current stamp you have. To get any new visa or extension. Not only do you not want to wait 15 days, that doesn't leave any room in case you made a mistake and have to return. You'll have to go to another office (currently Leksi immigration) wait in line and pay 1900b for a 30 day extension. Every office works different. Bangkok told me, you must have 15 days left on a visa exempt stamp, or tourist visa to apply for the first 90 day Non O. Enter Thailand Apr 1. Get stamped until April 30. You need to apply and be approved for the Non O by April 15. If you were approved April 12 for the Non O, 90 day stamp, assuming the money was in the bank Apr 1- June 1. Go back June 2 and get the 1 year extension.
I've seen other people on You Tube go to immigration in Udom Suk etc.. the week there visa expires. Why do that? Go as early as possible. They add the time together. Go a month early, get it out of the way for the next 13 months. Many offices say 30 days early you can apply. Bangkok let me apply 45 days early for extension number two. But, they also have the 15 day rule for extensions. Again everyone gets a different story. My officer told me come back for the extension no earlier than 45 days early and no later than 15 days before the stamp expires. Hope that helps
Hey. Thanks for the prompt response.
@@n200a4 No problem. Thailand is a great place to live. I wish you the best
Joe, Are you in town? I’ll look for you at Stella’s, if you’re available. tx
I'm in town, but I'm resting my liver lately. Ha ha. Maybe I'll swing by Stella's or O'Shea's soon if your around. I have to meet the girlfriend for dinner tonight. Friday and Saturday we might get away. But, I'll be here until the 26th and then I head to Malaysia. Shoot me a message if your free. I have a hard time remembering TH-cam handles. I know I've met some Kevin's. Did we meet before? I don't forget a face, but I'm terrible with names.
@@EagerExpat we talked here in April, but I can’t find that comment thread. I just have the email generated from TH-cam. My hotel (near Pleong Chit) is doing power maintenance from 1-5pm today. I was going to walk around Phrom Pong. I can drop my number at O’Shea’s or Stella’s (if open then). Happy to buy you lunch today or tomorrow, if you’re interested. I drink ice tea normally. Thanks, I look forward to chatting with you. Good video on ‘making videos’ … I watched the entire 42 minutes. Ciao.
@@EagerExpat I replied but I don’t see the reply. I’ll stop by O’Shea’s around 1:30pm today. (No power in my hotel)
I’m sitting outside, if you’re around.
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Can’t you just get a visa agent to do all this stuff?
Sure you can. $2000 US for the first and $500 each year to re-new. Or you can just learn the three forms and do it yourself. I'm a lazy as the next guy, but $15,000 or more for 10 years of visa's seems like a waste of cash. but, you do you.
Meanwhile, in the U.S. border is wide open and anyone can get in easily.
I hear ya. To be fair, getting into Thailand is easy too. You just show up. Making sure the stay continues to be legal, that's the tricky part. I'm sure there are people that never do any of this. They also never leave Thailand or they might be blacklisted from returning. But, I agree it's a lot of paperwork. Plus, the check in every 90 days seems a bit much. But, I'm a guest, so I'll play by the rules. Thanks for watching
Your bank details can be 7 days prior. Not on the same day as you say. That is more rubbish. I did mine 30/10/2023. You do not have to do this in the province where you opened the bank. It is National. Any bank office will do it for 200 baht. You do not need loads of copies. They do the photos. Not you.
ANYONE READING THIS: Please don't show up at Chang Wattana with 7 day old bank letters. One of my letters was 23 hours old, and I was sent to the Bangkok Branch in the basement for a same day account detail printout. You get TWO documents. One customer in good standing letter, this can be 7 days old. The 2nd is a printout of 6 months of every transaction you made. (AT CHANG WATTANA THIS HAS TO BE THE SAME DAY, WITH A 100 b DEPOSIT) If you think it's a good idea to not keep copies of important paperwork, I'll leave that up to you. I'll say it once again, unlike this commentor, I can only tell you what happened to me at Chang Wattana. I won't tell you what happens in Jomtien, Issan, etc.. I've never been there. I'd guess this commenter has never been to Chang Wattana if he walked in with 7 day old bank letters. Or maybe his agent at Chang Wattana was different than the 6 or 8 agents I've had in the past few years. They all wanted a same day bank printout. In my opinion, just get the bank letters the morning you go. Why risk it?
So to respond to the this comment:
You must have missed when I said five times, this is my experience. Your experience may be different. The only issue I had doing this on my own, was with the bank letters. I was told (by immigration at Bangkok) the "customer in good standing" letter can be 7 days old. That cost 100b. The account details requires a 100b deposit and can be NO OLDER than 24 hours. I went to my original branch the day before I went to immigration. They gave me the original copies of each letter. I didn't ask for copies of these important details. I can afford 2b a piece to make a copy. Maybe some people can't. I keep copies of my tax records too. I'll be showing up next year, with a copy of this years extension. In the rare case there's a question as to what happened this year. If your bank gives you copies, that's great. In Chang Wattana Bangkok Bank they do not. At least they haven't in my 6 trips to the branch.
The next day all the paperwork was in order. Except, I was told the bank details letter must be the same day. Go the branch in the basement and do another 100b deposit and get that document. 5 pages of printout. They don't give you two copies of the pages. So I chose to pay the very expensive 2b a page to have a copy of what I turn into immigration. You may not keep a copy of what you hand into immigration. A foolish decision in my view, but that's your choice. I recommend to keep a copy of the entire package. You turn the original package into immigration. Keeping a copy of what you gave them cost 50b in copies. A safe investment in my view.
At 8am you'll see a long line in front of every bank branch at immigration. They (Chang Wattana) 100% want the bank account details the same day you come to immigration. If your using an agents money (800K or 400K) maybe that's different? I was showing my 800K in my account. That can't be 7 days old
It must be down to the individual. On Friday 27/10/2023 i went into a Bangkok Bank branch in Rayong. My bank account was opened in Korat. Some vlogger has put on YT that you have to get the bank certs from where you opened the bank on the day of submitting your visa application. Thats a five hour drive from here. I asked at the Rayong branch and they said they could do it now. Passbook updated there and then. All the certs signed and stamped. 2 receipts of payments for 200 baht. That was it after 20 minutes. On Monday 30/10/2023 i went to Rayong Immigration and submitted the completed visa application. No copies of the bank certs required.
If you have 800,001 baht in the account then do it on the day. I had 2 million baht in the account for 5 months when the exchange rate was better. Maybe thats why Immigration didnt question it
@@philiproyle8859 Yes each office is different. Many times the officer 2 feet away is different. I can only tell you my experience in Bangkok at the Chang Wattana office. The bank papers showing the account balance has to be same day.
I know this from personal experience. My 23 hour old bank document was rejected, much less a 7 day old document. Once again, she said the one form can be 7 days old, but the bank book has to updated the same day. In Bangkok, they even wanted copies of the bank book plus the two bank documents. I use to do paperwork in the military. I'm fine throwing a copy of everything at them. I'm not the guy that's gonna be sent away because I only made a copy of my last stamp in my passport. It take 2 minutes to copy every page. Just in case. It's 10 minutes of extra work on my part. Maybe that's a waste of time, but I haven't needed an agent to do any of this. As others sit in Chang Wattana complaining, "can you believe they want a copy of my lease" I just smile and go home early. I brought 3 copies of my lease just in case. And yes, they took a copy of my lease. That other guy probably won't bring a copy of the lease next year. He'll be complaining it always takes three trips to get this done.
Rayong must be more relaxed on the 800K proof rule. Not the case in Bangkok, at least for me. I had to get same day bank docs for the first 90 day stamp. That's when I got sent back with my 23 hour old doc. The next times I went for extensions, I just got them in the basement at Chang Wattana. Like you said, it takes 20 minutes at the bank. 200b. Make an appointment for 9am get the Non-O completed. Usually takes until after lunch (in my case) turn the Non-O into a multi entry.
I also went in 45 days early to get a 12 month extension in Bangkok. My buddy went in 45 days early in Jomtien and they told him to come back 30 days early. So yes, you gotta go with the flow. I've been told by buddies in Bangkok, you did need to get the bank paperwork from your opening branch awhile back. I think they backed off on that. I opened my account in Asoke and used the Chang Wattana branch for my documents for the past few years.
So between Rayong, Bangkok and Pattaya there are three examples of how things work different.
@@philiproyle8859 You might have just got lucky with that agent, maybe Rayong is easier on the bank doc reporting. Who knows. I also have more than a few million in my account. It's never dropped below that amount. I think I could have 100 million in that account, if I walk into Bangkok Chang Wattana, they will send me away if I didn't get the bank docs same day. It's not a money thing, it's a Bangkok Immigration thing. I watched the agent take a highlighter and made the yellow mark every 30 days. Jan over 800K, Feb over 800K, etc.. That's fine with me. I'll listen to you on how Rayong worked for you, but please stop thinking Bangkok works like Rayong. It's not a 800,001 thing. It doesn't matter what your balance is. You might get lucky, but 99% of the time Bangkok will send you away to get fresh docs, if they are not same day. I wish it wasn't true, but just ask the line of 20 people at each bank branch each morning. We know it is true.
Most bank open at 9 or 10am. These branches (of every bank) in the Chang Wattana building open at 8:30 am. Just to handle the traffic because this immigration office requires same day bank docs. Maybe Rayong or other small offices don't have bank branches. Maybe that's why they allow 7 day old docs. But, don't try that in Bangkok. When I got rejected with the 23 hour old docs, the balance was over 3 million. Go get fresh docs and get back in line. Oh it's 3:30 pm, come back tomorrow. That was the last time that was going to happen.
WAY TOO MUCH HASSLE
I HOPE CAMBODIA KEEPS IT SIMPLE...I HATE TRAVELING
Thailand is a great place, but they have immigration rules. Best of luck with Cambodia. That's also a fine choice
You didnt get an extension, you got a 1 year visa.
The bank letter has to be in Thai. If they do it in English, you have to pay and have it redone.
2 copies is all I've ever done
I use Chang Wattana also
Never copied the bank letter
Not a good idea talking about visas if you dont know about them. All you do is confuse people.
I love guys like you who know it all. I said in the video a dozen times, this was my experience. I'm not CONFUSED about what I did or what happened. I don't think you even finished the video, after the first comment you took down. I read it. I clearly said I got a Non O for retirement VISA. 13 months later, I EXTENDED the original visa. It even says that on the thumbnail. As far as the bank letters, only a fool wouldn't keep a copy for their records. Once again this was GETTING a Non O visa. Then EXTENDING it after the first 90 days and the FOLLOWING YEAR. You telling me I wasn't getting an extension is just plain wrong. You do not get A NEW VISA EACH TIME!!! Unless you did something stupid and lost the visa leaving the country without a re-entry permit. Then you have to start over with a new visa. Otherwise it's an EXTENSION each year of the original visa you got years ago. Or in my case last year.
You seemed to have taken down the first dumb comment you made. The second comment is equally dumb. I didn't make HARD WORK out of anything. This is the process. If you don't want copies that's your choice. A stupid choice in my opinion, but hey some people can't afford the 2 baht a copy (I guess)
As far as saying I'm confusing people, you're the one that sounds confused. Who said anything about getting the bank letter in English? I said it was in Thai, I didn't say get it in English. Geez man, get ahold of yourself. Especially if you think your getting a new visa each year.
I'm gonna guess your partner does 99% of this for you. You just sit there looking at cat videos on Tik Tok. That's fine, but don't tell someone that actually took the time to learn the process that he's wrong. I never said I was 100% correct. I said this was my process. Take that for what it's worth.
To any normal person reading this, this is the kind of guy I warned you about on Facebook. The troll who can't wait to tell you he's right and you're wrong. Only in this case, this guy doesn't know the difference from a TM87, TM7 or TM8. Or he would understand you get the visa, then you extend the visa. He was fast to tell me I didn't know the difference, then he took down the comment. Then he had a need to say I made hard work of it all. I'm not sure it's hard work, but it's a process, This guy can't be bothered to make a few copies. So his tolerance of hard work seems a little different than the rest of society.
Back to this guy. Not keeping a copy? Do you have a copy of your tax records or marriage license? I'll guess no.... As far as me confusing people, you seem to be the only one confused. Go buy your partner flowers today. It sounds like she understands the visa (and EXTENSION system) a little better than you. Please don't try to correct her too. You're just embarrassing yourself. I can see her now. "We should have a copy of this." You yelling back in your Chang tank top, "I ain't got no time for no dang ole copies!!!." Make those roses you get her. Oh and thanks for watching
Hey, thanks again for making the video. Very helpful. Wasn't confusing to me at all. ♥️
@@David-ue6gk Cool man, ya that's the guy I would normally just block. I'm sure he'll only read the first three lines and then go back to his 11am beer
@EagerExpat wow what a prat you are. I have been here 6 years, and I do my own extensions each year.
What's the attitude all about ?
Typical yank, fire and never question.
As for the rest of the shyte you wrote, not even worth replying to.
People be wary of know it all TH-camrs.
They have not got a clue.
That is why they use agents to get bank accounts. They are not capable of doing it themselves. 😊