Changing from SVT visa

[Geoff27]

Hi I'm on my last (3rd) extension & would like to change/get new visa without leaving Thailand. I'm elible for retirement visa. I don't mind using an agent if it cuts red tape. Any recommendations?. 

[M.O.]

I think it is not possible but there is no harm in trying to convert to a Non O visa. Just gather the documents needed and go to the Immigration Office. The reception clerk will be able to tell you whether you can proceed with the application.

[ThaiPhilExpat]

1 hour ago, Geoff27 said:

Any recommendations?. 

What city you stay ?

[Geoff27]

Thanks Bangkok 

[Bluesofa]

1 hour ago, M.O. said:

I think it is not possible but there is no harm in trying to convert to a Non O visa. Just gather the documents needed and go to the Immigration Office. The reception clerk will be able to tell you whether you can proceed with the application.

Hmm, the 'reception clerk' at Udon immigration was just a girl doing work experience who intercepted me a few years ago, and could only say three words: "Go to Laos," when I asked about changing a visa.
Good job I didn't believe her and insisted on speaking the boss, who offered the solution I knew was available (at the time) to change visa type at Udon.

I think now you need to go to Bangkok to change visa type, assuming it's a viable option. I'm sure someone will confirm more details.

[Faz]

You cannot apply for an extension based on retirement unless you have a Non Immigrant type Visa.
You cannot apply for a Non O or any other kind of  Visa from an STV within Thailand.

The conditions of the STV were clearly explained on the Thai Embassy websites prior to application.

• STV is valid for 3 months from the date of issuance. Travelers must enter Thailand within the said 3-month period. They will be allowed to stay in Thailand for a period of up to 90 days, counting from the date of entry. STV may be extended twice while the visitor is in Thailand for a period of up to 90 days per each extension.
• STV cannot be changed to any other type of visa during the duration of stay in Thailand

https://thaiembdc.org/visas/

Unlike the standard TV (Tourist Visa) where you can apply to change Immigration status from Tourist to Non Immigrant (Non O), the STV (S=Special) was a temporary replacement for the METV which was suspended, being unworkable as borders were closed.

The 'Special' conditions differing it from a standard Tourist Visa was it permitted you to extend your stay for 90 days, twice, without the need to cross borders, but you could not change it to any other Visa type.

 

 

[Geoff27]

Yes exactly, but I couldn't get a METV from embassy. This was the best they could offer in Myanmar. I can't go back (no one can) & Thia borders are still closed. There has to be options?

[Faz]

2 hours ago, Geoff27 said:

Yes exactly, but I couldn't get a METV from embassy. This was the best they could offer in Myanmar. I can't go back (no one can) & Thia borders are still closed. There has to be options?

You can apply for a 60 day Covid extension.

Complete the TM7 and Covid affidavit forms.
Cost 1,900 BHT.
Passport.
Copy of photo/details page.
Copy of Visa.
Copy of entry stamp
Copy of TM6.
TM 7 Application for Extension of Stay.pdf
60 Day Covid Extension Affidavit.pdf

[Geoff27]

Thanks very much. That will do fine. Hopefully borders are open by then. Have a great New Years 

[Markjames]

On 12/28/2021 at 3:45 PM, Faz said:

You can apply for a 60 day Covid extension.

Complete the TM7 and Covid affidavit forms.
Cost 1,900 BHT.
Passport.
Copy of photo/details page.
Copy of Visa.
Copy of entry stamp
Copy of TM6.
TM 7 Application for Extension of Stay.pdf
60 Day Covid Extension Affidavit.pdf

I am in the same position. Post please if the 60 day Covid extension worked.