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

Question

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

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user is exploring the possibility of switching from a retirement visa to a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) due to financial constraints with the retirement visa. Key questions include whether the DTV can be applied for from within Thailand, the implications for his Thai bank account, health insurance requirements, and the rules regarding leaving Thailand every 180 days. The community clarified that the DTV must be applied for outside of Thailand, he can keep his existing bank account, there is no health insurance requirement, and he does not need to be away for a specific number of days. Additionally, several users advised that staying on the retirement visa might be more practical given his situation.

Roberto ********* · Answer

Many non-O retirees are switching to DTV, but it's more worthwhile if you travel regularly out of the country. You can save a bucket load of cash if you've previously used an agent and the bonus is there's no need to visit an immigration office for five years - that's the biggest plus for me.

Stuart ********** · Answer

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.

Pomm **** · Answer

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.

Tony ******** · Answer

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.

Phil ******* · Answer

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.

John ********** · Answer

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

Brandon ************ · Answer

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.

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

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