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Can I get a retirement visa in Thailand with a monthly income of £33,000 instead of the required £65,000?
Retirement VisaThailand Visa RulesMinimum Income for VisaExpat Life in ThailandFinancial Requirements for VisaCost of Living in ThailandPension ConsiderationsVisa AgentsAlternatives to Thailand
Jul 6, 2025
10 months ago
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTERHi everyone. Just a quick(ish) question as having done my own research into it I’m pretty sure of the answer but would just like a second opinion. Recently reached retirement age here in the UK and I receive £920 a month and that equates to roughly B40,000 a month, I don’t have a private pension so only have the state pension to rely on. I know the minimum is B65,000 a month to qualify for applying for a retirement visa or you can have B800,000 in a bank account, but that is not an option for me. Recently saw on a video on YouTube (I know, not always the best font of information) that in certain circumstances you can get a retirement visa and you only need to have a monthly income of around B33,000. I’ve spent quite a bit of time trying to find info on this but haven’t discovered anything, so I’m guessing that information was incorrect. Was just wondering if anyone had ever heard of the B33,000 option or it it was just false information. TIA
TLDR : Answer Summary
A user asks whether they can obtain a retirement visa in Thailand with a monthly income of 33,000 Baht, despite knowing that the official requirement is 65,000 Baht or 800,000 Baht in a Thai bank account. Comments confirm that the 33,000 Baht claim is false, reiterating that only certified embassy income can be counted and that the UK does not provide such certification. The conversation also explores living costs, alternative countries for retirement, and the potential use of agents to navigate visa requirements.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
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Simon *********
Am I right in that if you stay in Thailand for over 180 days in the year you have to pay tax on everything that goes through the Thai bank account?Are you double taxed or is there a tax credit. At what % are you taxed? Is there a way round it?
Robert ********
Just not enough
Tez ******
How can you expect to exist on that
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Tez *****
From the research I’ve done and from some of the answers on here I should be alright. I’m 66 not 26 so don’t need much.Reply to
Nick ********
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Kim ********
😭😭😭
Kim ********
Good point ,I know an English & an Irish citizen,both retired in Cambodia,as a lot cheaper!!!
Andy ************
@Kim *******
Cheap Charlies do prefer Cambodia, but realistically it's third world compared to ThailandKim ********
@Andy ***********
rubbish, opinionated bull,up to people what they want !!!Andy ************
@Kim *******
It is my opinion, but it seems those that complain about price are those who always carry on about Cambodia. If it's so bad in Thailand, just go. You don't have to make an announcement! If you think Thailand is expensive, I'd say you're strapped for cash! 😂😂😂Kim ********
@Andy ***********
ok example!!! I guy I know,lived in BKK for years2 kids,in BKK wife estranged,could not afford,rather than go back UK,can exist in Cambodia,other guy, good pension,just loves it there !!! Choices....Andy ************
@Kim *******
"can EXIST in Cambodia". You said it! Maybe many expats in Thailand with a bit of coin want to do more than "exist". Fortunately for me it's not about "cheap". Of course I enjoy the lower cost of living in Thailand compared to western countries, but too many creature comforts for me in ThailandKim ********
@Andy ***********
yes personally I would not ,live Cambodia myself,if you get sick, Thailand anyway,I loved the Cambodian people!!! Thailand is switched on as in tourism, ok if you can afford & health, Insurance,etc, obviously that guy,won't be able to do it,not with that budget,need more!!!! Heard so many horror stories over the years!!! End of the day,need a few shillings behind you !!!!Reply to
Kim ********
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Kevin ***********
Yes of you move back home your pension will be re adjusted
Keith *******
My advice is unless that information is coming from the Thai government, don't trust it.
Peter *********
Use an agent and go life is short work the rest out when there
Peter *********
Think about health care
Kjetil **********
That was a really low pension mate. I not think anybody here in Norway get less than 60.000 THB. I hope something works out for you. Good luck
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTERNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kjetil *********
That’s all you get in the UK, and if you were born before 1951 you only get about £700 a month. Hopefully I can work something out. Thank youKjetil **********
@Nick *******
Very bad yes. Not easy to pay rent and food ++ in UK with that. I will move to Jomtien 23.august. tell me later if you want to have a Coffee 🙂Reply to
Kjetil **********
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David *********
@Kjetil *********
it’s the uk government they don’t want to look after anyone after they retire… we are on the lowest pension anywhere in Europe by far ..😡😡😡😡Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@David ********
So trueReply to
Nick ********
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Paul *******
If you declare you live in Thailand to uk you may want to check if you’ll get any further annual increase in you pension each year too
Kevin ***********
@Paul ******
no you wouldn't bcoz Thailand and UK have no reciprocal agreements but the phillipinrs doesPaul *******
@Kevin **********
that’s what I thoughtKevin ***********
@Paul ******
if you return to UK it would be adjusted again in line with current rates, simple answer is keep a UK address, IE member of family and they can forward any mail to youReply to
Kevin ***********
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James **************
I live on 30k a month.
Tim *********
@James *************
30 k bahtJames **************
@Tim ********
yupReply to
James **************
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Andy **********
An alternative to buying full medical cover, is to buy separate policies, for accident cover and critical illness cover, and pay when you need to see a GP because that is not expensive, just use an agent for your visa, thousands do it without any problems, there are lots of retirees, living in Thailand on the UK government pension, you can just live a simple life in the sunshine, way better than staying in the cold miserable expensive UK.
Glenn *****
Look at YouTube. "Retire in Cambodia under $1000/month". Great information
James **************
Use an agent
Andy ************
@James *************
He's strapped for cash as it is!James **************
@Andy ***********
sure hes got enough saved for the initial hit ....Andy ************
@James *************
It appears he has little or no savings as he can't do the 800k route. I'm looking at the bigger picture. At face value we have a guy who's *****
, has no savings, no private pension fund and an income of 40,000 baht per month. I'm thinking "poor money management" as he's gone through say 50 years of working life and has nothing to show for it, and now he's going to try to live on 40k per month, with no safety net. The UK has government housing, rental assistance, free healthcare etc. It doesn't seem to equate, but it seems there's lots here saying he'll be right. I don't knowReply to
Andy ************
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Adam ******
Take a look at potential medical costs here in Thailand. These could decimate your budget.
Frank **********
You have to think about Healthcare and how it will impact your monthly pension. Most policies do not cover pre-existing conditions and even though Healthcare is relatively cheap a trip to the hospital for something major will cost you.
Peter *********
With state income only not worth you considering retirement Thailand unfortunately 😕
Beverley *******
Why do Thai Immigration offer visa exempt to countries like Australia where I am from and then bitch about it when you try to use it. Why offer it at all if they are going to interrogate you on entry.
Paul ********
@Beverley ******
Because that's just the way of the world. If you think Thai immigration is fierce, you should attempt to visit the USA.The realities of the 21st century are often bleak, irrational, unfair and unkind.
You can complain and stomp your foot in annoyance, but this is serious sh*t going on. Better to keep your wits, keep your eye on the ball and protect yourself as best you can against what is quickly becoming a very cruel world.
Beverley *******
@Paul *******
I don't have a problem with Immigration interrogating people. Let's face is there are so many people who live in Thailand doing border runs it's ridiculous. What I am saying is don't have visa exempt just make everyone get a tourist visa online.Reply to
Beverley *******
Reply
Osian ********
Look into Albania (stop laughing peeps) its so cheap and all the scum leave there and operate in other European cities, the crime rate is very low and the people are very friendly. Front line, ocean view condos for 2mTB. Vlore looks like the best option
Willy *******
@Osian *******
Yes. I have spent some winter months in Vlore. Really nice place and country we know so little.Reply to
Willy *******
Reply
Mark *********
Even though your monthly income is smallish you will still have a much better life than in the UK weather is great all year round you're not going to be a party animal but you are going to be able to have a few drinks at home on the balcony,there's a lot in the same boat just not on this ,everyone is rich and has 300k a month to waste 😁
Paul ********
I've been retired in Thailand for 6 years now.
Honestly, I can't imagine trying to subsist here on 40k baht/month. I would consider twice that amount to be adequate for very frugal living.
On the other hand, if that's what you've got and the alternative is living in the UK. . .well I suppose broke in Asia COULD be a preferable level of hell (from your perspective) than back home.
A lot of people giving black and white responses. And how dare you impose yourself on the people here. You have no right to live in poverty here. Be gone. Etc.
Fair enough - looks like you did some bad planning, and that's on you. But what are you supposed to do NOW? Suicide? Live on the street back home?
So SE Asia may be the only choice for you, despite you being more or less unwelcome. A very modest perhaps non-aircon room, frugal eating, no dating, no vices of any sort, and you could barely survive.
Probably easier to do this in Cambodia than Thailand.
One thing you must sort or at least come to terms with - health care. No NHS for you here, and insurance is not cheap. If you get ill or injured, you MUST pay yourself. There are few bleeker places on earth to be penniless AND presented with a crushing medical bill. Truly. So, while some illnesses or accidents may be recoverable conditions for the wealthier, you may need to accept the fact that for you, these things may have to be faced without doctors or hospitals.
Realistically, you will probably need some form of work to survive. Likely (but not necessarily) illegal and prohibited. But I'm not going to suggest it is better for you to just suicide; you must do what you must to survive, provided you harm no one. Many see no difference between illegal and criminal activity. Nice to have enough wealth to be so upright. But for you, that sort of high morality may not be an option.
Very little is black and white in SE Asia. There are ways to get almost anything done, if you are determined and resourceful. And the advice you receive from people who were better planners, luckier, whatever will often be a bit unsympathetic and self-serving.
So. . .tough choices ahead for you. If you choose to live in SE Asia, I strongly recommend Cambodia over Thailand as being slightly cheaper and having a less aggressive immigration team discouraging/targetting subsistence-level foreigners.
And like the poor anywhere, you can expect the better-off to look down on you and wish you to simply disappear from their world. You're gonna need a thick skin, a functioning brain, above all self-control and some luck.
Honestly, I can't imagine trying to subsist here on 40k baht/month. I would consider twice that amount to be adequate for very frugal living.
On the other hand, if that's what you've got and the alternative is living in the UK. . .well I suppose broke in Asia COULD be a preferable level of hell (from your perspective) than back home.
A lot of people giving black and white responses. And how dare you impose yourself on the people here. You have no right to live in poverty here. Be gone. Etc.
Fair enough - looks like you did some bad planning, and that's on you. But what are you supposed to do NOW? Suicide? Live on the street back home?
So SE Asia may be the only choice for you, despite you being more or less unwelcome. A very modest perhaps non-aircon room, frugal eating, no dating, no vices of any sort, and you could barely survive.
Probably easier to do this in Cambodia than Thailand.
One thing you must sort or at least come to terms with - health care. No NHS for you here, and insurance is not cheap. If you get ill or injured, you MUST pay yourself. There are few bleeker places on earth to be penniless AND presented with a crushing medical bill. Truly. So, while some illnesses or accidents may be recoverable conditions for the wealthier, you may need to accept the fact that for you, these things may have to be faced without doctors or hospitals.
Realistically, you will probably need some form of work to survive. Likely (but not necessarily) illegal and prohibited. But I'm not going to suggest it is better for you to just suicide; you must do what you must to survive, provided you harm no one. Many see no difference between illegal and criminal activity. Nice to have enough wealth to be so upright. But for you, that sort of high morality may not be an option.
Very little is black and white in SE Asia. There are ways to get almost anything done, if you are determined and resourceful. And the advice you receive from people who were better planners, luckier, whatever will often be a bit unsympathetic and self-serving.
So. . .tough choices ahead for you. If you choose to live in SE Asia, I strongly recommend Cambodia over Thailand as being slightly cheaper and having a less aggressive immigration team discouraging/targetting subsistence-level foreigners.
And like the poor anywhere, you can expect the better-off to look down on you and wish you to simply disappear from their world. You're gonna need a thick skin, a functioning brain, above all self-control and some luck.
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Paul *******
Yes, going to do more research into Cambodia. Thanks for your reply.Tom *******
@Paul *******
I think he has already received a fair amount of advice. Good and bad. I said 20% wasn’t drivel, what more do you want? And no, I don’t believe I missed your point, spectacularly or otherwise. Your point was wrapped up in copious amounts of condescending, unhelpful, smug drivel. All the doom and gloom comments about suicide were in my opinion, uncalled for. And it is just my opinion. If you feel you have given good advice, that’s ok too. That’s your opinion. Have a good day.Tom *******
@Paul *******
do you have a side job as a motivational speaker? Mentioning suicide as an option, (twice) is a pretty shitty thing to do. Just makes you sound smug, arrogant and thoughtless. In my opinion, 80% of what you said is just drivel and not at all helpful to him.Kim ********
@Tom ******
agree with you tom ,it's depressing reading, sounds like a complete A hole !!!Paul ********
@Tom ******
You are entitled to your opinion. But I suspect you completely, rather spectacularly misunderstand my point. Hint: sarcasm is involved here, in sympathy with the original poster's plight.Interestingly, despite having no lack of words to criticise my "smug arrogant and thoughtless drivel", you don't seem to have a moment to offer him advice of your own.
So what is YOUR advice to your fellow human being?
Would love to hear it when you can afford to take a moment off from criticizing my shitty drivel.
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Paul *******
I got the sarcasm, being British we are experts at it 😂 All the advice I have received on here whether it has been good, bad or indifferent has helped in its own way and I’m grateful people took the time to read my post and then comment on it.Reply to
Nick ********
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Eric *******
@Paul *******
Vietnam is also a good option.Kim ********
@Eric ******
Cambodia slower pace than Vietnam,& not millions of peoplePaul ********
@Eric ******
Yeah, but the visa situation in Vietnam currently adds a lot of expenses for the "marginally-incomed."Cambodia's one-year visa availability with no need for border runs is pretty compelling. I also think the rock-bottom cost of living there is a bit cheaper than Vietnam.
But I think you are right, Vietnam IS an option worth considering, depending on an individual's circumstances.
Reply to
Paul ********
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Damien ********
There are thousands of people from many countries that don’t have the cash for retirement visa or don’t want to put a large amount of money in Thai banks
So they go to Visa Agents who will do your retirement visa for about 30 to
These agents look after everything needed to obtain a visa for you
I met many foreigners who used these agents and it’s a proper real visa
Research on line
Watch YouTube videos of expats who have YouTube channels and live in Thailand
So they go to Visa Agents who will do your retirement visa for about 30 to
*****
bhat . You’ll get 3 months and then 12 months giving you 15 months to see if Thailand is right for youThese agents look after everything needed to obtain a visa for you
I met many foreigners who used these agents and it’s a proper real visa
Research on line
Watch YouTube videos of expats who have YouTube channels and live in Thailand
Bill *********
@Damien *******
You're not Thai either so who cares what you say or do.Damien ********
@Bill ********
no I’m not Thai butI married a Thai
Helped pay for a house to be built for the Thai family
I can speak enough Thai to get by
I’ve studied Buddhist and Thai history and culture
I’ve lived in Thailand after going there for 3 decades
I understand Thais a lot more than you ever will you ignorant
Muppet !!
I told the author of this post how he can get a retirement visa
Maybe he cares ?
Reply to
Damien ********
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Pete *******
@Damien *******
your advice is terrible, keep it to yourself.Pete *******
@Damien *******
so you are advocating fraudulently obtaining a visa?Reply to
Pete *******
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Charlie ********
Hi nick , don’t be put off by people saying you don’t have enough income. That’s all very subjective as different people have different needs. If you want to live in a pool villa or beachside apartment eating at top restaurants and drinking every day then stay in the UK on that income. If you are content with a small room no aircon, swim in the sea not a pool and eat street food or cook yourself you will survive. But there is a massive gulf between survival and living. As for your visa get an non O-A visa in UK , that’s 12 month multi entry visa , you need to show three months consecutive payments into uk account of 65,000 baht equivalent , you need to pay for health insurance , a health certificate and a police check.
The other way to get around the income / capital requirement is to use a visa agent. That will cost you 20-40k baht depending who you use. To do that route you need to get a 3 month non O visa before travel.
Hope some of that helps
The other way to get around the income / capital requirement is to use a visa agent. That will cost you 20-40k baht depending who you use. To do that route you need to get a 3 month non O visa before travel.
Hope some of that helps
Damien ********
@Charlie *******
bullshitMany fly in get 60 days go to agent and get visa
You don’t need any visa before travel to get an agent to get
Retirement visa
Osian ********
@Damien *******
u r right, in fact u can't get the non-o retirement while in UK without showing the equivalent of 800k in uk bankCharlie ********
@Osian *******
that’s not strictly true. It’s 800k baht in uk savings or UK bank statements showing monthly deposits of 65k baht equivalent for the three months prior to the visa application. I’m not saying is wrong for his opinion I’m saying he’s wrong for shouting bullshit from the safety of his keyboard.Reply to
Charlie ********
Reply
Charlie ********
@Damien *******
hi it’s not bullshit it’s a proper way to do it , you can get a non O outside of Thailand travel on the visa then if you use an agent they will get the extension of 12 months for a fee. Another way is to enter visa exempt for 60 as you suggest and then get an agent to get your visa and 12 month extension. But please don’t forget using an agent to get around the capital / income requirement is actually illegal despite it being common practise.
David ******
@Charlie *******
very true spoke to a well known agent 2days about he advised. me to get 90day non imagrant visa as it make it easier for bank acount be cause not tourist visaReply to
David ******
Reply
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Charlie *******
Hi, thanks for the visa info. My pension only comes to about B40,000 a month, so would have to use an agent. It’s only me, so would only need a one bed studio or similar. Quite happy to cook for myself and prefer eating where locals eat rather than at fancy restaurants. Will do more research into using a visa agent. Thank you for the adviceCharlie ********
@Nick *******
BTW I’m not being righteous about using an agent thousands upon thousands of people do it. I’m just pointing out whilst it’s accepted it’s not legal. Your agent is bribing an immigration officer on your behalf to bypass the financial requirement. You also need to budget for the repeat agent fee as every year you must pay again. Another thing to consider is medical expenses as many sensible people have mentioned. You will need health insurance or you could end up with substantial bills in the event you need treatment. Anyway best of luck to you.
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Charlie *******
Thank youReply to
Nick ********
Reply
Andy *******
@Nick *******
don't worry agents are fine ignore the righteous folks on here ,as for money (ok we have our own house and land in remote ish area of southern Thailand but serously wife and me live comfortably on 30k a month and no we don't starve have a few beers have 5 dogs motorcycles car ok we cook and eat at home we are not rich but not poor as you said better be poor here than freeze to death in UK ....possibly the only thing I would suggest us look for best health insurance as possible as peace of mindFrank **********
@Andy ******
it's not about being righteous when using an agent. It's about the fact that agents are fraudulently obtaining visas by bribes and bypassing Immigration Law. I prefer to do things the legal way because if a crackdown on agents ever happen I will wave goodbye to the ones who used an agent. LololAndy *******
@Frank *********
my agent is the immigration officer when you have been in thailand (Asia) for a long time (me 25 years plus) you cultivate ties and ride the Cuture to suit when possible as the thais doCharlie ********
@Andy ******
I fully accept understand that but 20 years + ago ex pats didn’t do boarder bounces in some remote villages unless they had to. The local immigration cop would collect all the ex pats passports and for a small fee they would drive the passports to the boarder, stamp them out and in again. That’s stopped many years ago. If you read Thai immigration law using an agent or bribing a government official to circumvent immigration law is a serious offence. Do you really think that your defence of “doing as the Thais do” will help if the powers that be get a hard on for you or your corrupt official? Anyhow hopefully there never will be a crackdown as there’s not enough space in prison for all the offenders if it came to that. Another factor is that deportations would be in the thousands and that would seriously harm the economy.Reply to
Charlie ********
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David *******
800,000 in the bank !
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@David ******
Unfortunately I don’t have £18,000 lying aroundDavid *******
Reply to
David *******
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David ********
I'm in sakhon nakhon.renting house 5000 ,other bills low 930 would be fine.
Frank **********
I reckon you could top it up to the 80 k baht needed by falling off a scooter, mangling your leg, and getting a begging bowl…
San *******
You can stay 3 years on a tourist without leaving, the philipines isn’t the same as Thailand but it sure beats the uk
John **************
Stay where u are and take a long holiday each year
Paul ********
@John *************
On a thousand quid a month? How does that work, exactly?Reply to
Paul ********
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Leon ********
Nick, i know you would like to live in Thailand like all of us. But honestly, your dream and finances dont meet up. Please believe me if i say this kindly. Rather be poor in your own country , than be poor in another nation's country. Visit, go back a year later and repeat.
Bill *********
@Leon *******
Exactly right. I too wanted to come to Thailand a long time ago but only recently had everything aligned to be able to do so. Now I'm enjoying the lifestyle and doing everything properly regarding visas so I have no worries about just getting by.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Leon *******
At least I’d be poor in a warm country 😂 Know what you mean though, might just have to stick to “extended” holidays.Doug *******
@Nick *******
I strongly suggest ignoring the negative or discouraging comments. There is a certain faction of financially comfortable foreigners (mostly Caucasians) in SE Asia who want to flaunt their coinage and mock all adventurers who are of lower monetary stature. I recommend discussing options with a reputable agent and I’m confident you can live a great life here. 👍
Fear is the wall.
Hope is the window.
Courage is the door.
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Doug ******
Seen those sort of comments on other Facebook groups, though to be honest everyone who has answered me on here has been really helpful. Definitely thinking of going the agent route, though like you say I need to make sure they are reputable. Thank youReply to
Nick ********
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Osian ********
@Nick *******
if u ain't got a property in UK and u gotta rent, pay gas/leccy and council tax, u r fookd in uk, im in a 1 bed condo (54sqm), run 2 ACs constantly and my bill is £21 a month, water £4 and no other charges.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Osian *******
Don’t have a house in the UK. Pay £500 a month for a room in a shared house, though all bills are included. But I’ve been looking at condos in Hua Hin for around £170/£180 a month and I reckon I could manage on £920 (40,000 baht) a month.Paul *******
@Nick *******
you can easily manage on 920 a month. Don't let people put you off from at least trying. I live a fantastic life here on £650. I am not at a beach town though.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Paul ******
Nice one. Doesn’t necessarily have to be a beach town where I end up, Hua Hin was just the first place I looked at.Osian ********
@Nick *******
stay away from tourist hot spots prices are always inflated, I'm in Bang Saray, a sleepy beach side fishing town, loads of units around for 6-8kReply to
Osian ********
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Stephen *********
There’s an expat always posting on FB or instagram. I a video of him today and he seems confident that you can have 800k in the bank or 65k pm, or even a combination of 33k pm and 400k in the bank
Greg ***********
@Stephen ********
if you are a citizen of a country whose embassy stil issues a legalized "income affidavit", Immigrations allow the income method, and SOME Immigrations (not all of them!) allow the combination methodGreg ***********
@Stephen ********
well, but US Americans, the Brits, the Australians, the Canadians and the Norwegians, cannot use the "combination method", because their embassies in Thailand do not issue any "income affidavits" anymore. The onlyoption for citizens of these countries is the 800,000 THB depositNick **********
@Greg **********
I am U.S citizen in Thailand for 15 years. I have "extension of stay for 365 days for purpose of retirement(there is no so called " retirement visa".) I am using my social security direct deposit every month to my bank in Thailand, as I get over the 65,000 baht minimum requirement. I do immigration myself and costs me 1900 baht per year. No affidavit from embassy, just statement from my Thai bankCherie ********
@Greg **********
I gather that includes NZ too?Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Greg **********
That’s me definitely out of the picture thenReply to
Nick ********
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Raymond *********
The requirement to get a re5tiree visa in Thaïland is having 800 000B. It can be in one lump sur or being able to prove 65 000B/ month or a mix of both equaling 800 000B. The catch is that money has to be in a Thaï bank account so even ic yoh get 100 000B/month, you cannot prove it the first year.
Another option that is borderline illegal is to use an agent that will loan you the money ... for a fee
Another option that is borderline illegal is to use an agent that will loan you the money ... for a fee
Dennis *********
Well you could find a Thai wife and get a visa with only 400,000 baht.
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dennis ********
She would have to have the B400,000 as I haven’t got it 😂James ********
@Nick *******
You can have an agent deposit the money into the account, they then take it once the paperwork is complete showing the funds in the account.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James *******
Really? Interesting 👍Dennis *********
@Nick *******
only a problem if you get caught. Evaluate where you think you want to live and what the costs are. I’m sure there are places you could live a basic simple life.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dennis ********
Been looking at Hua Hin. Condos appear relatively cheap and a nice beach, at my age that’s all I need.Dennis *********
@Nick *******
I get it. Look around reach out to a couple of agents but make sure you figure in the costs for the agent each year. I’m heading to Thailand in October and don’t plan on leaving.
Reply to
Dennis *********
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Bent *************
Not true, sorry!
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Bent ************
Didn’t think it was, but wanted to make sure. Thank youReply to
Nick ********
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Abey *********
£920 pounds monthly pension is nowhere enough to retire in Thailand. by the time you paid rent, health insurance, energy you might just have enough left for food to survive.
James **************
@Abey ********
not true Sir, i live in lessKeith *****************
@Abey ********
I know people that do it. They either get a little bit of help here and there and so they don't really do it or they're as miserable as hell. Realistically 60k will do it....just....if you have accommodation ie bought a condo then on 60k you'd be in clover and 40k you'd be okOsian ********
@Abey ********
yes but he'll live a better more enjoyable life in Thailand on that money than he could in uk.Nick there are AC apartments around for £100pm, if you look hard enough.
If you can keep an address in UK and don't tell the powers that u live in Thailand, your pension will remain index linked, but they're getting more and more powers to hunt u down so u gotta box clever. Keep ur current account free of transfers to Thailand, etc
Judy *******
@Abey ********
you can but it would be just making it and no room for extra.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Abey ********
Been looking at studio condos in Hua Hin for about £170 month, realise there are bills on top of that. Would eat in most days, but I know eating out is pretty cheap anyway. Recently spent 10 days between Bangkok and Phuket and didn’t pay more than £3 for a decent meal in those 10 days. Not a party animal so won’t be going out drinking. I think I could survive on B40,000 a month.Dave *******
@Nick *******
Bangkok Phuket not the cheapest places to live tbhRobin *******
@Nick *******
I do and have a good lifeRalph *******
@Nick *******
Yes. Eating ‘local’ is very cheap. I survive on ฿20,000 a month - but I don’t have rent.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ralph ******
That’s encouraging to hear 👍Reply to
Nick ********
Reply
James ********
@Nick *******
for £920 a month you be fine 👍🏻 If I’m looking after the money including rent, bills, food, motorbike & anything else I needed (within reason) it would only come to £700-750 or so a month 👍🏻Luc ************
@James *******
you forgot to mention health insurance and that is not cheap.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James *******
That was my reasoning as well, but without a bike. Quite happy to use public transport.Reply to
Nick ********
Reply
Abey *********
@Nick *******
The way you put it yes, retiring in Thailand we all need that extra that we don't have in UK, I think you know what l mean.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Abey ********
I have no idea what you mean 😂🤣😂Reply to
Nick ********
Reply
John **********
Yes the UK pension is not indexed linked in Thailand, mores the pity. There is a great YouTube channel on Cambodia, which still appeals to me it's called, FOR RIEL, as in the Cambodian currency. What you get for your money is well worth a look. This is the site
************************************************
their names are Claire and Jeremy and its a brilliant site. Good luck.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *********
Will check it out. ThanksJohn **********
@Nick *******
Also, Nick. The Visa rules are the easiest in the world!Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *********
Just subscribed to that channel 👍Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTERReply to
Nick ********
Reply
Kevin ********
Do you know that your gov pension will be frozen at £920 if you more to Thailand, it might be ok now but in years to come
Dave *******
@Kevin *******
if your out of the country for more than 6 monthsRichard ******
@Kevin *******
why should they freeze it.your choice where you live.if your a British citizen surely they should pay you what your owed.mind you i don't think the government really care about its own citizensPaul *******
@Kevin *******
you can always relocate to another country for 190 days or so every few years and it'll adjust to the new rate.Chan **************
@Kevin *******
I think you make a really important point. Over 10 years you can lose 30-40% of your purchasing power to inflation, making a move to thailand a non-viable long term solution if this is your only income. Do you know if you move back to the uk will they readjust your pension to the current minimum or are you still stuck at £920 as your base?Kevin ********
@Chan *************
that i dont knowChan **************
@Kevin *******
I shouldn't have been so lazy before and checked. Apparently when you return your pension is adjusted to the prevailing rate. I am not sure how they determi e residency for pension increase applicability but if it is aligned with tax residency then keeping a home and staying there for a limited period each year can qualify youReply to
Chan **************
Reply
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kevin *******
Didn’t know that!!! Thanks for the info 👍Steve *********
@Nick *******
Get a Uk address. Ie your son or daughter. You need a non-0 retirement visa , 3 months. Get it on line ok. When you get here You can get 12 month extension. You need a bank account. The. Get hold of the Thai visa centre. ( I can’t write too much here but pm if you need more info )Peter *********
@Nick *******
dont officially leave the uk care of address at one of your kids live no fixed abodeJames **************
@Nick *******
don't tell them for a couple of years 😂... occasionally visit the uk and keep all your stuff phone nos, bank accounts address (family or friends) etc valid....Pete *******
@James *************
that would be fraudulent.Keith *******
@Pete ******
Getting visas from agents because he can't meet the financial criteria is equally fraudulent. In for a penny in for a pound. Might as well go the whole hogNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James *************
Was going to keep my bank account as I can use it with no fees and opening a Thai bank account seems a hassle. Good advice about using family as an address, thank youJames **************
@Nick *******
easy if use agentNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James *************
Might have to be the route I go 👍Peter *********
@Nick *******
internet number £10 per month including calls texts english mobile number and ring tone if abroad no one will knowNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTERPeter *********
Devyce
James **************
@Nick *******
keep a uk phone number. The bank will use it to send you sms for security reasons if required....I was defrauded and needed it for security checks....keep the SIM active by using occasionally or topping up occasionally
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James *************
Thanks for thatReply to
Nick ********
Reply
Ricky ******
@Nick *******
Only if you become a permanent resident.Pete *******
@Ricky *****
not true.Kevin ********
@Pete ******
what not truePete *******
@Kevin *******
Ricky Hill’s comment.Glenn *****
@Pete ******
depends on the meaning of "permanent residence". Non permanent meaning that you have frequent stays in the UK or meaning that the Cambodia government considers you a permanent resident, which doesn't normally happen.Reply to
Glenn *****
Reply
Glenn *****
@Nick *******
however, for some unclear reason, that does not apply to the PhilippinesJames **************
@Glenn ****
got a mutual agreement with phillsPhil ********
@Glenn ****
all down to agreements between the respective governments. “Reciprocal” agreements are listed here ************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Reply to
Phil ********
Reply
Glenn *****
Look into retirement in Cambodia
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Glenn ****
Will look into it more, was just going off what it said on a Retirement in Cambodia page. Thanks for the extra informationNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Glenn ****
Have done, but you need a minimum of £1100 a month in income and I am about £180 short of that at the current exchange rate, but thanks for the suggestion.Al ********
@Nick *******
look at Sri Lanka … better beaches also great food and less tourism … at least for nowNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Al *******
Will do 👍Al ********
@Nick *******
I forgot to mention the lower cost and requirements for long term visa and after 5 years one can even apply for citizenship… seems much more straight forward…. Love Thailand 🇹🇭 and Sri Lanka as well ..I am a hard core snorkeller so Sri Lanka wins ..Reply to
Al ********
Reply
Tony ***
@Nick *******
if you are over 55 you only need to pay an agent around 350 USD and provide a couple of photos and you get a year extension on a business visa. takes about a week in Phnom Penh. This is what I have done. I save so much more as a result of not having to have 800k paying low interest in a Thai bank account.Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Tony **
Thanks, will look into itReply to
Nick ********
Reply
Glenn *****
@Nick *******
I'm not sure that is correct. I was never asked. Most of the time it is stated as "sufficient". There is no medical insurance requirement but you need to factor in medical expenses as NHS will not apply.
Reply to
Glenn *****
Reply
Michael ********
False info
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Michael *******
Guessed as much. ThanksReply to
Nick ********
Reply
David ******
With that kind of budget, I wouldn't bother.
Stephen ********
@David *****
where would that budget go further, Thailand or the UK?David ******
@Stephen *******
until he has a unforseen problem or health issue.Stephen ********
@David *****
fair point 👍Reply to
Stephen ********
Reply
Paul *******
@David *****
what absolute garbage advice. I have a lovely condo in Bang Bo for 4,800 a month on a 6 month contract. (It will be 4,000 after October when I sign a 12 month contract.) Add on water and electricity and my monthly cost is £142 a month. The condo complex has a restaurant where a meal is less than £2 , A free 25mtr swimming pool, Gym and sauna. I Spent less than £600 last month and the same the month before. I don't drink alcohol or smoke. I love to fish and I have a river less than 10 minutes walk away and free fishingRalph *******
@David *****
That’s a fair comment. It depends on personal situation too. E.g. if you are able to stay with a Thai partner your expenses are likely to be less than if you are paying for accommodation.Reply to
Ralph *******
Reply
Brandon ************
There's no way to qualify for a retirement visa with 33k baht per month.
And all of that is irrelevant because the only way to use income in Thailand to apply for your extension is with embassy certified income. The UK embassy does not offer this for many years already. That means your ONLY option for the first year is 800,000 in your Thai bank account.
If you cannot meet the requirements, your only other option is paying an agent who will then "pay" immigration to look the other way.
And all of that is irrelevant because the only way to use income in Thailand to apply for your extension is with embassy certified income. The UK embassy does not offer this for many years already. That means your ONLY option for the first year is 800,000 in your Thai bank account.
If you cannot meet the requirements, your only other option is paying an agent who will then "pay" immigration to look the other way.
David ****************
@Brandon ***********
It appears the option of paying an agent to fund the 800k is coming to an end. Banks are required to hold the funds for 4 months now. Agents cannot deal with this requirement.Have been so advised by Bangkok Bank this week.
Brandon ************
@David ***************
That is only going to affect people trying to do it legally. There will ALWAYS be bank staff willing to take money to produce whatever paperwork is needed. Maybe agents need a week or two to find a new bank branch willing to do so, but it certainly won't stop the status quo.David ****************
@Brandon ***********
interesting - thanks. Hard to plan with reliance on corrupt banking individuals....Reply to
David ****************
Reply
Dek ******
@Brandon ***********
how much will that costBrandon ************
@Dek *****
first year like 25-30k baht. Subsequent years like 12-15Dek ******
@Brandon ***********
maybe tempted to go that routeNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brandon ***********
Do many people do it? How “safe” is it?Greg ***********
@Nick *******
many people do it. However you have to use the agent year for year. It is not easy to get out of the "agent hamster wheel"Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Greg **********
OK. ThanksGreg ***********
@Nick *******
It's like @Brandon ***********
quoted: around 28,000 to 32,000 for the first one-year extension , and around 15,000 for all subsequent yearly applicationsPaul *******
@Greg **********
I haven't come across any agent in Bangkok that is 28 to 32k , I have been in contact with 3 and lowest was 39k single entry and highest 55k . I need multiple entry as I need to go to the UK every 4 to 6 months to see my grandchildrenReply to
Paul *******
Reply
Nick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brandon ***********
That’s what I thought, it sounded too good to be true. Not sure about the final option you mentioned!!! Seems like you have to know people who know people etc. Will just have to stick with applying for the six month tourist visa and do a couple of border runs to Vietnam and back and hope I can squeeze a years travel out of doing that. Thanks for the reply.Greg ***********
@Nick *******
you can't squeeze a year of travel out of a multi re-entry tourist visa. You best option is getting almost 8 months out of it. People in the past used to squeeze 9 months out of it but recent reports suggest the last 30-days extension will be refusedNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Greg **********
Have heard they are cracking down on the multi entry tourist visaDave *******
Nick copper .How can they when it’s a official visa from embassy sorry doesn’t make any sense at all
Greg ***********
@Dave ******
It's like I said - you can wring 6 months stay out of the METV, but the very last entry shortly before the expiry of the 6-months validity is upon the discretion of the border official. Normally this last re-entry is not a problem and you can achieve almost 8 months of stay. After the Thai government introduced the new taxation regulations, which makes you a tax resident if you stay in Thailand longer than 180 days per calendar year, this may have confused many border officers, so they refuse to stamp you in any longer than 6 months . . . . We don't know. This is Thailand - nothing is clear, everything is possibleGreg ***********
@Nick *******
I am not sure that they do . . . I have read reports that one guy was refused the 60-days stamp which he expected to receive on a re-entry close to the expiration date of the visa validity. But until now this is only ONE report in a period of the recent 6 months. It might have been due to a border official having had a bad hair dayNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Greg **********
Had heard they weren’t too bothered with people going away for a couple of weeks then coming back in and were concentrating on people doing the long term entries. But I suppose it’s all speculation and hearsay until it actually happens to you 👍Greg ***********
@Nick *******
if you are on a valid visa, they treat you differently to those who try to enter visa-exempt. That multi-entry 6-months Tourist visa makes you a legit touristNick ********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Greg **********
That’s the one I was thinking about 👍John **********
@Nick *******
but you won't get a year out of it. It's good for 6 months from the date it is issued so get it close to when you plan to leave and make your last bounce close to when it expires then you are done. Probably closer to 8 months in reality. But I'd say 33k baht a month will be difficult to live on in Thailand, particularly as a tourist if you're staying in hotels and travellingReply to
John **********
Reply
Brandon ************
@Nick *******
there's dozens of visa agents. Mostly in Pattaya but a few in Bangkok tooReply to
Brandon ************
Reply
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