Expatriates living in Thailand have to struggle with visa related terms each time they have to obtain, renew or extend an entry permit. Below is a list of these technical terms which has been put together to help such individuals better understand the process of applying for a Thailand Visa and facilitate more effective communication between them and their visa agents.
Thai Visa Applications are official embassy forms that applicants fill out when applying for an entry permit. They are available at all Thai embassies and consulates around the world. Depending on the circumstances and the type of entry permit being applied for, Thai Visa applications are also available in Thailand and may be accomplished inside the country. Completing a Thai Visa Application form is a necessary step before extending a Thai visa because current entry permits are subject to extensions when necessary. For instance, usually the application procedure for a retirement visa begins with a NON-O visa application at the Thai embassy in the applicant’s home country. This normally comes in the form of a 90-day pass. This same process likewise applies to the Non-B visa application. During the application period, a 90-day visa is granted to an applicant. These initial visas are then extended into any of three types of visas: one-year retirement visa, one year visa or 90-day B visa.
Thai Visa Extension is the time added to the initial length of stay granted a visa holder. A Thai Visa Extension is given to those who meet the requirements. Visitors who want to request for a visa extension must do so by going to the immigration office. A 60-day tourist visa for instance can be extended for one month after paying a fee a certain amount.
Thai Visa Conversion is the process by which an individual switches from one type of visa to another such as when a holder of a business visa converts it into a retirement visa. There are certain visas which may be switched without the need for the holder to leave Thailand. One may be able to do this with the help of a competent and experienced visa agent.
Thai Visa Renewal refers to the process by which an individual is able to renew his/her current visa. Most long term permits may be used for one year although these are subject to certain requirements. A retirement visa for instance, will only be renewed for another year if the visa holder is able to prove that he/she has the adequate funds to continue living in Thailand. What is noteworthy about this type of renewal is that it is simple and straightforward as long as applicants are able to meet the requirements.
Thai Visa Validity refers to the entire time period in which the visa is valid. The validity of a visa is typically stamped on the passport upon entry into Thailand. It is very important that visitors take note of this date to avoid overstaying and having to pay a fine. This is not the same as the validity of the visa which is actually the grace period prior to arriving in Thailand. On the visa, this grace period can be identified by the phrase “ENTER BEFORE (DATE).
The best way to master Thai Visa terminology is through experience but understanding and being familiar with these basic terms will enable you to confidently handle your next Thai visa application.
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