Applying for a Non-Immigrant Visa(O) in Thailand can be a confusing and overwhelming process, especially for those who are new to the country. However, with the right information and guidance, you can get your visa application approved and start your new life in Thailand.

First, it’s essential to understand the different types of Non-Immigrant Visas available in Thailand. The most common ones are the Retirement Visa, the Education Visa, and the Business Visa. For this post, we will focus on the Retirement Visa, which is the most popular among expats.

To apply for a Retirement Visa, you need to meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 50 years old
• Have a minimum income of 65,000 THB per month
• Have a minimum of 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account
• Have health insurance that covers you in Thailand

Once you have met these requirements, you can start the application process. Here are the steps you need to follow:

1. Gather the necessary documents: You will need to submit the following documents:
   • A valid passport
   • A completed visa application form
   • A copy of your passport
   • A copy of your birth certificate
   • A copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable)
   • A copy of your divorce certificate (if applicable)
   • A copy of your bank statement showing a minimum of 800,000 THB
   • A copy of your health insurance policy
2. Choose the correct visa type: Make sure you choose the correct visa type, which is the Non-Immigrant Visa(O) based on retirement.
3. Apply online: You can apply for the visa online through the Thai e-Visa website. Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready before you start the application process.
4. Pay the application fee: The application fee is 2,000 THB, which you can pay online or at the Thai embassy or consulate.
5. Wait for the application to be processed: The application process usually takes a few days to a week, depending on the workload of the embassy or consulate.
6. Receive your visa: Once your application is approved, you will receive your visa, which is usually valid for 90 days.

After you arrive in Thailand, you need to apply for a 1-year extension of your visa. To do this, you need to:

1. Open a Thai bank account: You need to open a Thai bank account and deposit a minimum of 800,000 THB.
2. Get a residence certificate: You need to get a residence certificate from the local immigration office.
3. Apply for the extension: You can apply for the extension at the immigration office in the province where you live.

Some of the best banks in Thailand for expats are Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, and Siam Commercial Bank. They have English-speaking staff and online banking services that make it easy to manage your account.

In addition to the banks mentioned above, you can also consider using online money transfer services such as Wise, which allows you to send money to Thailand easily and at a lower cost.

When looking for a place to stay in Thailand, you can consider using online platforms such as Agoda or Fazwaz, which offer a wide range of apartments and houses for rent.

In conclusion, applying for a Non-Immigrant Visa(O) in Thailand can be a straightforward process if you have the right information and guidance. By following the steps outlined above, you can get your visa application approved and start your new life in Thailand.

Some of the best places to live in Thailand for expats are Chiang Mai, Hua Hin, and Koh Samui. These places offer a relaxed lifestyle, modern amenities, and a thriving expat community.

Overall, Thailand is a wonderful country to live in, with its warm climate, delicious food, and friendly people. With the right visa and a little bit of planning, you can make your dream of living in Thailand a reality.