Answered2 years ago
Can someone with an old drug felony conviction obtain a Thai Retirement Visa?
Quick question about potential problems w/criminal background checks, and getting approved for a Thai Retirement Visa. Here’s the situation: this person (let’s call him Joe) had a Federal, not US state, drug felony conviction about 40 years ago. The offense was a non-violent one, he served his time, and has had a spotless record since. Joe’s been very successful at business and would love to retire to Thailand. (He'd have no problem paying for an Elite visa if needed)
And no, his record cannot be expunged or pardoned. Its permanent.
Is there anyone here with either 1) direct experience in this matter or 2) is a real Visa professional? Traveling there on a regular tourist visa does not appear to be a problem but its hard to get answers on residency.
And no, his record cannot be expunged or pardoned. Its permanent.
Is there anyone here with either 1) direct experience in this matter or 2) is a real Visa professional? Traveling there on a regular tourist visa does not appear to be a problem but its hard to get answers on residency.
Answer summary
The primary concern is whether Joe, who has a 40-year-old non-violent federal drug felony conviction, can overcome potential issues in obtaining a Thai Retirement Visa. Insights suggest that a Non-O visa is more suitable as it typically does not require a criminal background check, unlike the Non-OA visa. Several commenters highlighted that the LTR Wealthy Pensioner visa also doesn't require a check. Overall, traveling on a tourist visa initially and then converting to retirement status may be the easiest path, avoiding disclosure of historical offenses.
31 repliesnewest first
Click comment and we will ask for your email, then OTP, then name.
John ********
I wouldn't report or admit to a drug related offence to Thai authorities no matter how historic . There are other options
Key ****************
It’s totally not an issue 😊 easiest way is come to Thailand on a tourist visa and we can help you convert to retirement
Jesse #19FDEmail was verified
Anyway to get more info from you about this issue?
Isabelle M. #8123Email was verified
You can reach out to them directly through their page or contact info on the forum, they usually respond pretty quick and can guide you step-by-step on converting from tourist to retirement visa. Good luck!
Brook ********
A non O visa is a better choice anyway.
The requirement for a OA visa criminal background check is about as vague as the check for elephantiasis. Go to your state LEO or county sheriff, not the FBI.
And yes, 40 year old criminal records can often be expunged. State laws are changing every year.
The requirement for a OA visa criminal background check is about as vague as the check for elephantiasis. Go to your state LEO or county sheriff, not the FBI.
And yes, 40 year old criminal records can often be expunged. State laws are changing every year.
Warren **********
OP@Brook *******
Federal is forever.Robert ********
Do not try the non-OA.
All other visas do not require any check.
All other visas do not require any check.
Joseph *******
The LTR Wealthy Pensioner visa does not require a criminal background check. If you have enough passive income to qualify, it’s much cheaper than the Elite visa.
Keith *******
If he does require a non OA he could always do the police check before applying
Wayne *********
@Keith ******
he has to do the police check prior obviously because you need to supply it when you do apply not after you applyKeith *******
@Wayne ********
thanks for agreeing 😊Phil ******
@Warren *********
apply for a non O based on retirement within Thailand. A criminal check is not required
Brandon ************
@Phil *****
it's not required applying from the embassy either
Floyd ******
@Phil *****
any ideas on an agent who can get you a bank account to go with the non-oh VISA retirementRobert ********
@Floyd *****
If you’re asking to get around the 800k requirement… don’t, just don’t. If you start with bribing an officer there will be no way back as there are no records of you ever having a bank account in your name.
If you don’t have the 800k, send 65k every month and use the bank statement to get your retirement extension.
Andy *******
@Robert *******
if you don't like my answer I really can't help.it.. whatever this EOS is you can't be the only one so agents must know about it and if you want to use your own money am sure they would be able to help for a slightly reduced feeRobert ********
@Andy ******
is that an answer to my question?Every year I need to provide info about my 800k with a letter from the bank when I do the EOS. You don’t?
If you do it with an agent, then you’re still in wheel with bribery. If the immigration officer is checked, all their visas will be revoked. Good luck with that.
Andy *******
@Robert *******
No agent bank and immigration work togetherRobert ********
@Andy ******
Does your immigration never verify your money via statement and certification from your bank that it’s your account and money came from outside the country?Floyd ******
@Robert *******
shouldn't the bank be able to set up direct deposit I'll say social securityAndy *******
@Robert *******
you have to accompany them to their pet bank for account opening and photograph if you are using the agent method and they are putting up 800k Don't know what you mean about statements ...aha oh unless you mean you are putting money up
In that case I have no idea
Carsten ************
@Robert *******
I was never asked for such a statement.Robert ********
@Carsten ***********
If you know that so well then go ahead….Why don’t you explain how you can get a statement showing that you lawfully had the amount in your account over 5 months in each of the last 3 years?
Carsten ************
@Robert *******
if you don't know the process, please stop spreading nonsense. Thanks!Robert ********
@Floyd *****
Yes. 65k per month *every* month. I did it wrong the first time, believing that the average is counted - but no, it must be every month.
Robert ********
@Andy ******
They open one for you? How without you ever being there and signing?And where are the statements that you have the money 3 months before and after the day each year in that account?
Andy *******
@Robert *******
note if you use the agency method 800k is paid into your account ( albeit for just seconds) they would open one for you so in fact you do have a bank accountFloyd ******
@Robert *******
I would never try to bribe an officer it's just confusing I understand you just have to show consistent deposits into any bank account is this correctPhil ******
Phil ******
@Floyd *****
yep many. @Tik ************************
and @Mots are just 2.Brandon ************
A non-O retirement visa and the subsequent extensions in Thailand do not require a criminal history check.
Only the non-OA visa has this requirement, and that's not the visa most people want or need.
Only the non-OA visa has this requirement, and that's not the visa most people want or need.
Activity
15 joined15
people
Related
25What are the steps to apply for a retirement visa for a 62-year-old military retiree moving to Thailand?
2.4k241914d
What are the financial requirements for a retirement visa in Thailand?
10.1k571922mo
Can someone transition from a BOI visa as a dependent to a retirement visa in Thailand?
1.1k1152mo
What is the best visa option for a retired Austrian wanting to spend 4-5 months in Thailand during winter?
2.8k26263mo
What do I need to know about applying for a Non-O visa for Thailand, including bank account requirements and criminal checks?
3.8k14884mo
What are the differences between the Non-O and Non-OA retirement visas in Thailand, and why do many expats prefer one over the other?
17.6k943406mo
What is the best visa option for retirees who want to spend 5 months in Thailand each year?
9.8k551796mo
What documents are required for applying for a 50+ visa in Thailand, particularly for a couple moving to Hua Hin?
4.1k21277mo
What documentation do I need for a retirement visa application in Thailand, specifically regarding medical certificates and police clearance?
7.3k48871y
Can I use Medicare and supplemental insurance for a retirement visa in Thailand, and can I self-insure?
2.3k12301y
Are there affordable Thai insurance options for an expat applying for a retirement visa from Ireland?
1.5k1281y
Can I transition from a Non-OA Visa to a Non-O Visa while in Thailand?
1.4k1351y
What are the rules regarding maintaining the 800,000 baht for a retirement visa in Thailand?
8k19531y
Should I apply for a retirement visa for Thailand before or after arriving in the country?
4.3k36352y
Is medical insurance compulsory for a Thai retirement visa (non-OA) or can I pay as I go?
1.6k8222y
How can I get a Type O retirement visa in Thailand without a Thai bank account?
14.2k1161632y
What are the key differences between Non-O and Non-OA retirement visas in Thailand?
9.7k71962y
Can I switch from a Non-OA visa to a Non-O visa while using monthly income transfers?
1.4k4263y
Can I include my wife in my Non-OA visa application if she is under 50 years old?
1.2k6133y
What are the steps and requirements for converting a Non-OA visa to a Non-O visa for expats in Thailand over 50?
1k3124y
Will a criminal record affect my retirement visa in Thailand?
9.5k661084y
What are the requirements for obtaining a 1 year retirement visa in Thailand as a US expat?
1.7k13105y
What are the advantages of Non-O vs Non-OA visa for retirees planning to travel from Thailand?
4.2k35375y
What are the financial requirements for a Retirement Visa in Thailand, and does property ownership affect these requirements?
3.3k20425y
Do I need a criminal background check for my ED visa application in Vientiane?
870558y
Resources
Need help with your LTR visa?
#1 visa agent · 4,000+ reviews · 100,000+ expats served