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Can I sponsor my elderly mother for a visa in Thailand, or should she apply for her own?

DTV Visa Elderly Dependent Parent Spouse Visa Retirement Visa Thai Cooking Class Soft Power DTV Visa NON-O Visa Visa Application Process Immigration Help

Sep 24, 2025

7 months ago

Jac ************************

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi Members,

I have A DTV Visa. I intend to stay in Thailand approx 123 days.

I have an elderly mother who is 80 years old and relies on me as her carer. 

I understand the spouse Visa is for a wife and Children under 20.

1 - Will they make any exception to allow me to sponsor a Elderly dependant parent if paperwork (Medical - birth certificate etc) is provided to show the dependancy.

2 - If this is not possible, and we apply for her own Soft Power DTV Visa, can anyone recommend a Thai cooking class Close to Pattaya who we can book with,  Ideally a company that can provide the relevant paperwork for the Visa Application.

Any help would be appreciated, I just want to decide which is the best route to go down.

Many thanks 

Jac

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user inquires about the possibility of sponsoring their elderly mother (80 years old) as a dependent for a visa in Thailand, given their caregiving role. They mention the spouse visa requirements and seek advice on whether exceptions can be made for elderly dependents. Additionally, they ask for recommendations on Thai cooking classes in Pattaya that provide necessary documentation for a Soft Power DTV Visa if they pursue that route for their mother instead.

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Anonymous ******************

Retirement if she qualifies. From Thai Embassy site - To apply for a retirement visa, you need to meet these key requirements:

You must be at least 50 years old.

You’ll need to have 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account for at least two months before applying, or show proof of a monthly income of 65,000 THB.

Alternatively, you can combine both savings and income to total 800,000 THB annually.

A valid passport with at least 12 months of remaining validity.

Proof of health insurance that meets the requirements set by Thai authorities. No Criminal Record. No health diseases etc. There's a whole list. Good Luck 👍

7 months ago

Joseph **********

Medical or retirement, maybe question her ability to attend classes

7 months ago

Wannikea *********

Soft power medical if she has chronic or ongoing needs and sees a doctor to get treatment on a regular basis

7 months ago

Elías ********

As she's over 50, then get a retirement visa for her.

7 months ago

Delfina *********

Non o