Can I switch to a DTV visa from a retirement visa while in Thailand, and what are the requirements?

Thai retirement visa DTV visa Visa renewal Thailand immigration Health insurance requirements Thai bank account rules

Jan 16, 2025

2 days ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi all,

I'm a couple of weeks away from needing to renew my retirement visa but thought I'd explore the possibility of going with the DTV instead. The main reasons are that I thought it might be easier and cheaper. My Thai bank account has dipped well under the 80000 baht which means I have to pay more for the retirement visa and I don't think I need to pay for health insurance with the DVT. I do have much more than the 800k btw, just prefer to keep in in my investments if possible at this point.

So, some questions:

1. I read somewhere that I can't apply for the dtv within Thailand. True or false?

1. I also read that I can't apply for a Thai bank account with a dtv but does that mean I need to close my current Thai account?

2. Do I need health insurance with a dtv?

3. Regarding the need to leave the country after 180 days how long do I need to be away for? Can that be done 20 or 30 days before if it's a more suitable time to travel for me?

4. I read that I may be able to just pay more after 180 days rather than leave. Is that true and if so how much?

Finally, if there are any Thai visa services business reading this can you please pm me. 

Thank you, Stuart

931

views

likes

all likes

replies

images

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is considering switching from a retirement visa to a DTV due to financial constraints related to the retirement visa's requirements. They seek clarity on several aspects: application location for the DTV, bank account implications, health insurance needs, and travel rules post-visa issuance. Responses indicate that the DTV must be applied for outside of Thailand, existing bank accounts can be retained, health insurance is not necessary, and there are flexible travel options regarding the 180-day rule. Ultimately, the user decides to renew their retirement visa after consulting with an agent.

DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
Explore recent discussions by using the DTV 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.

Stuart **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks for all the comments. Just met with an agent and I'll get my retirement visa renewed. Just takes a bit more time and money. Much appreciated.

a day ago

Pomm ****

If you have been extended for the last 3 years the dip below 800k but not below 400k from after your visa was issued between 4th month - 9th month then it's acceptable. 800k has to be put back in again for 3 months before your renewal date.

2 days ago

Tony ********

While the DTV appears a cheaper option upfront, your still going to paying around 10k bht pa on forced travel to keep below 180 days and possibly a couple of trips per year to immigration do your 90 day reporting (unless you travel a lot, and its a great visa in those circumstances). There is no insurance requirement for a non-O retirement visa. But if you've got the money an LTR might be a better bet.

2 days ago

Phil *******

Renew your retirement visa in a couple of weeks? If you haven't got the funds in the right place to extend, then you haven't got the funds to get a new visa. Sounds like you fcuk'd up big style.

2 days ago

John **********

You won't be able to get an extension of stay as you won't meet the 800k for 2 months before applying criteria. An agent might be able to help but I've no idea on that.

As to the DTV you have to be outside Thailand to apply for it as its only available at consulates. You can leave and return anytime within the 180 days and get a new 180 day stamp. Also you can get 1 180 day extension on an entry but it looks like you have to show proof you still meet the criteria for that so probably easier just to leave and return. You don't have to be outside Thailand for any length of time although the country you visit might want you to spend a day or two there. You can keep your bank account

2 days ago

Brandon ************

1) you can only get a DTV from a Thai embassy outside of Thailand. You must be physically inside the country the embassy is at in order to apply.

2) you don't have to close your current bank account. You just cannot open a new open.

3) there is no insurance requirement.

4) you don't have to be away for any amount of days. You can return whenever you want. You can also get a 180 day extension from immigration.

2 days ago

Reply to

Brandon ************

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

... members · 60% approval rate

The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.

Join the Group

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

View the Conversation

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

Can I switch from a SMART T Visa to a DTV while in Thailand?

12 comments