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Can you relocate to Thailand on social security income alone with limited savings?
Retirement VisaThailand Visa RulesSocial SecurityExpat LifeVisa AgentsMedical InsuranceCost of Living in ThailandRetirement Planning
Sep 17, 2024
2 years ago
Pat *********
ORIGINAL POSTERHello everyone. I'm 71 years old and retired. I live on my social security income. Can I relocate to Thailand on this income only and have only 2k in the bank? Need advice.
Thank you
Thank you
TLDR : Answer Summary
A retired individual interested in relocating to Thailand on a limited income of social security (with only $2000 in savings) seeks advice regarding the feasibility of obtaining a retirement visa. It's generally noted that under Thailand's visa regulations, one must either have a monthly income of 65,000 THB or a bank deposit of 800,000 THB for a one-year Non-O retirement visa. Many commenters discuss the complexities of visa agents and potential legal implications while providing alternative options and mentioning the potential challenges related to healthcare coverage.
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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I used this agency for my DTV Visa...recently on Google
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Nathan *****
What is your current country?
Chris ************
Just encountered a new problem today, apparently because of my age (76) the obligatory 'insurance' for opening a bank account for me is 100,000baht.
Mark ***********
If you have under 65,000 a month in income, no problem. You just have to bribe any agent at any immigration office. They can all be bought.
Sharron *******
If you are from America you will still be able to get your SS. Make sure your passport is several years out. You will need to deposit $26,000. In new bank account and leave it there.. If your SS is $1,500.00 a month you should be OK. Unless you party or drink a lot.
..
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Anthony ********
Thanks for the advice i want to relocate to Thailand soon and would appreciate some tips. Ant
Edward ******
@Anthony *******
of the visa is the issue you can still retire in the region and divide your year as I do. I split my year between Thailand Vietnam and Malaysia. Vietnam has 90 day visas and you can repeat them. So does Malaysia. I rotate countries snd actually greatly prefer that anyway.Reply to
Edward ******
Reply
Ralph *******
Consider alternatives to retirement visa. For instance, 60 day visa exemption then a 30 day extension. Near the end do a border run and start again. It’s not 100% as immigration may eventually stop you entering.
Other options are to pay an agent. They can get the 800k bank account requirement. Then transfer 65k each month into the account so you qualify for the second year.
If you can’t afford the 65k a month then perhaps just be a tourist. But residency would be useful.
Other options are to pay an agent. They can get the 800k bank account requirement. Then transfer 65k each month into the account so you qualify for the second year.
If you can’t afford the 65k a month then perhaps just be a tourist. But residency would be useful.
Wai *****************
Go ahead idiots
Salim *******
How much is the social security?
Tobben ********
Have you thought about staying in The Philippines instead ? No 800.000 in the bank there.
Mike *******
How much do you get monthly? Because you won’t be able to live on your 2k in savings.
Frank ********
How much is the social security?
Higor *********
Those old retired ass dudes got nothing else to do in their lives... "I'm right" noo "i am fuckin right" 😂
David ********
@Higor ********
I don't know about that. I am a 73 year old widower and I am quite busy and moving to Bangkok in December.I will be even busier there - looking for an Asian wife and learning Thai.
David ********
@Higor ********
I can find a wife easily - several have wanted to marry me - the question is if they love me or the money they think I have.Higor *********
@David *******
😂😂😂😂Reply to
Higor *********
Reply
Higor *********
@David *******
at this age you not going to find an Asian wife... You'll find a sugarbabyReply to
Higor *********
Reply
Noi ******
F
Glenn *********
Many live here on pension money and survive we'll...can live on 40.000 Thai BAHT a month comfortable..
Daniel ******
50 k US $ is easy if you really worked before!
Paul ********
Pat, SS monthly payments can vary from what, $785 to ~3000/month, so it's hard to give a definitive answer.
I think the average is around $1700. I would say that's borderline doable. You'll have to be frugal and not risk-averse. Getting up to around $2100/month makes everything a lot easier.
The thing you have to beware of is health care. Insurance availability at age 71 here is limited, and very expensive. Especially compared to what you would pay with Medicare and a small supplement back home. What will you do if you have a heart attack or an accident? Big problem.
On the other hand, trying to live on $1500-$2000 a month in the USA raises immediate problems. You might not have to worry about health care costs if and when something goes wrong, but housing, hunger, safety and basic transportation are likely to be for-sure thorny daily problems, unless you have strong family support. Being homeless in America at 71 is no picnic.
On these forums, cut and dried black and white answers are popular, but sometimes rather moralistically dismiss situations where there is no good solution, only a difficult choice between two or three bad ones.
Sooo. . .it probably can be done, but with some risks.
I think the average is around $1700. I would say that's borderline doable. You'll have to be frugal and not risk-averse. Getting up to around $2100/month makes everything a lot easier.
The thing you have to beware of is health care. Insurance availability at age 71 here is limited, and very expensive. Especially compared to what you would pay with Medicare and a small supplement back home. What will you do if you have a heart attack or an accident? Big problem.
On the other hand, trying to live on $1500-$2000 a month in the USA raises immediate problems. You might not have to worry about health care costs if and when something goes wrong, but housing, hunger, safety and basic transportation are likely to be for-sure thorny daily problems, unless you have strong family support. Being homeless in America at 71 is no picnic.
On these forums, cut and dried black and white answers are popular, but sometimes rather moralistically dismiss situations where there is no good solution, only a difficult choice between two or three bad ones.
Sooo. . .it probably can be done, but with some risks.
Douglas *******
If I were you I would move to Vietnam 20% cheaper overall with a multi 90 day visa and just visit Thailand when you do a border run. 6 months Vietnam and 6 months Thailand.
Kate *******
You could get a loan for the amount they need to see in your bank and then just pay it straight back once you’ve got your visa. Might need to keep it for a few months so you can show the balance on a few statmenfs.
Stephen ********
@Kate ******
it needs to be there about 6 months every year-before and after applicationReply to
Stephen ********
Reply
Ron ********
Only need proof of income,
No need money in the bank...!
*****
B pr month. No need money in the bank...!
Kari *******
Reply to
Kari *******
Reply
William *********
You just need a Visa agent. They'll cost you around
*****
baht ($1000). Don't listen to people saying it's illegal. It's just a workaround for people like you and me. If you have your doubts come here for a vacation and talk to an agent yourself. If the law ever changes, a whole bunch of us will just move to the Philippines or Vietnam.Edward ******
Does not seem likely. Yes you could get by on 2k. But the process for a visa doesn’t seem to allow just staying here at that threshold. And what options would there be for medical care. Insurance isn’t really an option for you and with that much in savings there isn’t much cushion. Also you cannot earn money here.
I avoid the issues about visas by dividing my year between Thailand Vietnam and Malaysia BUT you still face the same medical situation.
So yes. 2k is enough to live in but for those other reasons there are issues.
I avoid the issues about visas by dividing my year between Thailand Vietnam and Malaysia BUT you still face the same medical situation.
So yes. 2k is enough to live in but for those other reasons there are issues.
David ********
@Edward *****
We only know he has $2000 in a bank - we don't know how much he gets monthly because he didn't say in his postReply to
David ********
Reply
Brian **************
Look at profile
Just a stupid troll ahole
Just a stupid troll ahole
David ********
... Experience, but no longer get a retirement visa. I now just go for 2 or three months at a time.
David ********
Experience!!!
Ralph *******
@Brian *************
What makes you think that?Reply to
Ralph *******
Reply
Dave **********
No
Pete ********
Pat Bartoli everything possible here in Thailand .. what the comments below say about monthly income or 800,000 in bank is true … BUT there is many many agents here in Thailand who can arrange the retirement visa for you with out having the 800,000 in the bank or the 65,000 income every months
And they only charge about 1000-1500 USD for this service
So yes you can come to Thailand and retire and live here with your social security money ..
Step 1 fly to Thailand spend some time here and figure out where you want to live ( you can stay 90 days on your initial period - 60 days entry and extension 30 days
Step 2
Find an agent who can do retirement visa for you
Pay them and they will do everything for you
Step 3 love the rest of your life in Thailand and enjoy my friend
Have a great day
And they only charge about 1000-1500 USD for this service
So yes you can come to Thailand and retire and live here with your social security money ..
Step 1 fly to Thailand spend some time here and figure out where you want to live ( you can stay 90 days on your initial period - 60 days entry and extension 30 days
Step 2
Find an agent who can do retirement visa for you
Pay them and they will do everything for you
Step 3 love the rest of your life in Thailand and enjoy my friend
Have a great day
Pete ********
The reality of what’s possible here in the ground in Thailand is different to you read online buddy
David ********
@Pete *******
This is a corrupt service by corrupt visa agents bribing Immigration officers in Thailand to issue retirement visas, but you can pay and likely get away with it or maybe get deported. Your choice?Reply to
David ********
Reply
Ralph *******
I don’t think you can get a retirement visa unless you use an agent.
David ********
@Ralph ******
...Well perhaps you should enquire at your local Embassy in your country about the requirements, they are not all that hard. In short. If you are over 50y/o, come to Thailand on a tourist visa and open a bank account (you might have to shop around), put Bt800,000 in the account for at least 2 months. Go to Thai Immigration with Bt1,900 and apply for an OA retirement 12-month visa. It is the simplest way if you are over 50 y/o and have a regular pension, as per requirements. That is how the one million or so other retirees do it in Thailand. If you don't have the Bt800,000, you should see a Thai visa agent. They will likely make it all happen for about Bt30,000.Ralph *******
@David *******
No point telling me - tell the author. But, he has $2000. Well short of the ฿800,000. That is the whole reason for his enquiry.
Ralph *******
@David *******
You addressed the wrong person. I’m not looking to get a retirement visa.Reply to
Ralph *******
Reply
Paul *********
No
Peter *********
Not really 😕
Pertti *************
Yes you can. You live good with 500€/month and can live better with that 1500 extra🙏 Annually visa us little expensive without assets but should fit your budget
Jim ************
Or use a visa service that does it for you
Robert *****
Pat…here’s an idea. First, if you leave the USA more than 6 months you lose you Medicare Part D. So one plan is just Fly in with just a passport. You get 60 days visa exempt, then you can extend another 30 by paying 1900 baht to immigration. That’s 90. Then you can pop across the border for a day (they have cheap bus rides for this) and get another 60 exempt. Then another 30 for 1900baht. That’s 6 months easy peasey.
จอห์นนี่ *******
I'm curious Robert, how would Medicare know if one were out of the country for more than six months?
Thom **********
@จอห์นนี่ ******
why would it matter if you seek medical attention in the USA if you are paying for Medicare?Thom **********
Medicare only pays for medical services in the USA. Medicare is worthless oversea.
Robert *****
@Thom *********
Medicare only works in the USA.จอห์นนี่ *******
@Thom *********
I'm seeking anything Thom.Reply to
จอห์นนี่ *******
Reply
Robert *****
@จอห์นนี่ ******
They don’t unless you tell them. The subject comes up when you ask your provider for refills of 3 months at a time.Reply to
Robert *****
Reply
Robert *****
Then go back to the USA and live in a cheap travel trailer then fly back for another 6 months and rathole money for the future. One possibility is marriage to a Thai women and get a marriage visa for 400,000 baht in the bank. Half of the 800,000.
Reply to
Robert *****
Reply
Nigel **************
Can do,just arrive on a Visa free
Kari *******
If you are over 50 years old and your pension is at least 65,000 bht, you can apply for an OA visa, which allows you to stay in Thailand for 12 months with multiple entries, and when you get the last entry stamp, for example a week before the 12 months are up, you will still get a stamp with which you can stay in Thailand for 12 months without leaving from there.
In this case, the OA visa does not require a deposit in the bank, it is enough to prove with a legalized document that the amount of your pension is at least 65,000 bht.
The living costs depend on you, but 50,000 baht per month is enough when you include the rent of nice apartment.
In this case, the OA visa does not require a deposit in the bank, it is enough to prove with a legalized document that the amount of your pension is at least 65,000 bht.
The living costs depend on you, but 50,000 baht per month is enough when you include the rent of nice apartment.
Andy *********
@Kari ******
But you are required to carry approved insurance, get a criminal background check- which in some states takes effort. Also a medical certificate. I had no problem getting one in NC, my Dr just chuckled and signed. In FL, it's been a different story. She did two, took her time, and told me not signing any more.Kari *******
@Andy ********
You should have insurance, even if you don't even travel to Thailand. A clean criminal record should be a prerequisite for admission globally in every country.
My doctor in Finland also laughed at the certificate required for Thailand..🙏
Andy *********
@Kari ******
We have insurance, 2 policies on me, and actually 3 on my wife. AFA the records check, it has to be state or FBI. NC required I get fingerprinted for the background check. FL requires no fingerprints, can do online, and they will notarize it too. Thinking the FBI check may take a month or more? The med certificate I've heard you can get it done online easy, no experience with that thoughReply to
Andy *********
Reply
Thom **********
forget Thailand, check out countries closer to the USA like Mexico
Paul ********
@Thom *********
Well it is true that if you are unable or unwilling to meet Thailand's arguably complicated visa requirements, there are other choices.Chief of which might be Cambodia. Visa is $290/year, no financial requirements to be met, no 90 day reporting, and they even throw in a multiple reentry permit.
Is it as nice a place as Thailand? Reasonable people can disagree. But it IS livable, inexpensive compared to the west, and a viable option.
Pete ********
@Thom *********
why ?! What absaloute garbage adviceThom **********
I think Mexico is the #1 destination for USA retirees. Close to the USA to get medical services. Mexico has a lower cost of living compared to the USA.
Danny *******
@Pete *******
What do you have against Mexico?Bruce *********
@Danny ******
Mexico is a great option and if there are any issues it's a very short distance to the US.Reply to
Bruce *********
Reply
David ***********
You can live on 70.000b per month, you can get a retirement visa as long as you a monthly income of
*****
b a month but you will need a Thai bank accountDavid ********
@David **********
7k ?David ***********
@David *******
sorry 70.000b 🤣David ********
@David **********
I was going to ask your budgeting advise 😄Reply to
David ********
Reply
Kal *********
With 2K in the bank , you're gonna have a miserable life in Thailand ...
no emergency money
no medical money
no crazy spend money
Not a good idea ...
no emergency money
no medical money
no crazy spend money
Not a good idea ...
Paul ********
@Kal ********
Yes. Far better to stay in the USA where an apartment will cost 75% of your monthly income, nutritious food is beyond your budget, a car you cannot afford is a near necessity, and crime is a real concern, particularly for the rapidly-growing number of retirees who find themselves homeless.You may be homeless, cold, hungry, and preyed upon by criminals, but no matter, because you have cheaper healthcare! Tada!
Simon ********
@Kal ********
right 👍Reply to
Simon ********
Reply
Brian **************
Stop asking here
Go to your embassy and thai website
Go to your embassy and thai website
Gregory ********
No
Sonny ******
In your situation, Cambodia 🇰🇭 is best suitable and Kampot will be your haven. Cambodia won't ask you show money, no income tax so on. You only pay under $400 for 12 months visa fee. I have Australian friend living there same age as you. If you want more info inbox me
Bruce *********
@Sonny *****
That may be true but I love thailand so much more than Cambodia.Reply to
Bruce *********
Reply
Andrew ********
Use a good VISA agent. All you need is your passport, bank book, and photo ID.
Edna *******
@Andrew *******
bad advice!Bobby *********
@Andrew *******
yepJoe *******
@Andrew *******
40,000 bahtAndrew ********
@Joe ******
That's twice what I pay.Joe *******
Andrew ********
@Joe ******
I don't know what agent you're using but you're being WAY over charged.Reply to
Andrew ********
Reply
Jacques *****
@Andrew *******
visa agent cost how much? I was told $1500 usdAndrew ********
@Jacques ****
Wide range but you can find them around the 20,000b range.Jacques *****
@Andrew *******
$600usd is alot to hold your hand putting money in a bank of thai. I mean for me its just a simple bank transfer. The rest is on me to go find a place and get the documents together. Im not helpless. If it was more like $300 then ide be onboard.Andrew ********
@Jacques ****
Who is holding your hand in depositing money in a bank account? You just need a Thai bank account with any amount. You have to provide a lot of documents and physically go to the office at LEAST once and usually more than once. Plus you need to go to your bank and pay fees for statements. I rather just mail in the 3 things I mentioned and wait for it to come back with my extension. To me, not having to do any of that other stuff is worth paying someone to do it for me.Jacques *****
@Andrew *******
and thats fine. But for me ide rather learn how to do it myself and save the money.Andrew ********
@Jacques ****
Sometimes you don't have the choice. I stupidly got into an argument with the head of my immigration office and now she won't even do a 90-day for me. Thank goodness I can do it online.Jacques *****
@Andrew *******
yeah im not arguing with anyone. That is most important i dont cause waves. Im already well versed in the process i just wanted to know what a agent would cost me and if its worth it to me. By the time I get there ill be 100% solidReply to
Jacques *****
Reply
David ********
You need to tell us your monthly social security amount.
My social security is USD$3200 per month - that is enough to live on in Thailand.
Also do you know you can't use Medicare in Thailand?
My social security is USD$3200 per month - that is enough to live on in Thailand.
Also do you know you can't use Medicare in Thailand?
Mark ********
@David *******
- hi. Curious as to how you would recommend a person insures himself against an unexpected ie car accident, heart attack etc that would require intake and stabilization in a thai hospital bf travel back to US to access one’s Medicare is even possible? And if that person has a pre-existing but minor heart condition, how does he seek the fairest premium to pay?David ********
@Mark *******
Several companies offer MedEvac insurance at a reasonable cost as long as you are under 74 years old.*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************
Reply to
David ********
Reply
Salim *******
@David *******
is agree, it depends on your income.Unless you have a lot of capital.
$3200 is sufficient for a good life, sometimes fancy, but always comfortable.
I think it’s doable with 2k a month.
Anything below that would not sit well with me, imagine the fridge and car break doen the same month.
Greta *****
@Paul *******
I knew I should have picked US over Australia. Australia is a shit place to live in and apparently even shittier place to move out from!Thom **********
@Greta ****
depends on where in the USA, dems bringing in 3rd world folks from all over the world.Paul ********
@Greta ****
We all have our crosses to bear. . .😂🤣Reply to
Paul ********
Reply
Greta *****
@David *******
So you get paid that amount even if you live overseas? Not sure about that. Definitely not the case in Australia. Well not at the moment under the socialist partyThom **********
@Greta ****
yes, our pensions are not reduced if we leave the USAPaul ********
@Greta ****
Yes, you can legally collect American social security payments even while living overseas for many years. The government will even deposit your monthly payments directly in a foreign bank if you wish.You also continue to receive any annual cost of living increases, even though overseas.
What you give up is your medicare coverage, which is essentially only usable within the USA.
Reply to
Paul ********
Reply
Marky *******
My Australian pension is 150k tbt.. so that should be sufficient
Robert ***********
The laws in Australia have changed with all pensions. Because u are on old age pension your pension will be cut in half after 1 year out of Australia. Also u must tell centre link your travel details or u will be cut off. i just traveled to Thailand i know. Good luck
Rob ******
@Robert **********
Please don't post rubbish .You know nothing really informing others like this is either lies or stupidlty.
Bruce *********
@Robert **********
Can't you have your checks deposited into a bank and then do a transfer to a Thai bank? If not then have someone deposit a physical check into your Australian bank account.Bill ********
@Robert **********
pretty sure that's not true.Lee *******
David *********
@Robert **********
well i don't know where your rules come from i have been in Thailand for 18 months on a retirement Visa and still receive my full age pension and i deal with Centrelink international who give the right information and have told me that my pension dose not decrease if you have notified them prior to moving overseas you lose only Medicare levyRobert ***********
@David ********
contact channel 7 and also it was all over Facebook.David *********
@Robert **********
you want to try talking to Centrelink international as i was told the same crap you're spreading from Centrelink but Centrelink International know the real rules i didn't even know they had a international branch so do your research from a the right sourceReply to
David *********
Reply
Robert ***********
@David ********
the rules have just come in have a look on computer.David *********
@Robert **********
i just rang them no change to my pensionRobert ***********
@David ********
the rule changes were on Facebook 6 weeks ago and on tv so who is lying ?Paul **********
@Robert **********
Tel lie vision we ALL know itRobert ***********
@Paul *********
we will see who is correct.Paul **********
@Robert **********
I know they Lie on TV. Not everything you see or hear is true.David *********
@Robert **********
really you take notice of what's published on Facebook you must be on drugs lolDavid *********
@Robert **********
well of course you rang Centrelink international for the right answers ?David *********
i only deal with Centrelink international i spoke to them 2 weeks ago when i came back for my son's wedding and my pension still has not changed which was paid into my account yesterday
Reply to
David *********
Reply
Bradley *********
@Robert **********
what a ridiculous rule. It’s your pension, not the governments.Reply to
Bradley *********
Reply
Bobby *********
Go to a agency that is what I done a few years ago everything is OK
Deb ********
If you're from NZ you will lose your pension, Australia may be the same.
Lee *******
New Zealand Superannuation and the Veteran's Pension
If you live overseas now
If you live overseas, you may be able to keep getting some or all of your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension.
Australian Aged Pension is potable
If you live overseas now
If you live overseas, you may be able to keep getting some or all of your New Zealand Superannuation or Veteran’s Pension.
Australian Aged Pension is potable
Deb ********
@Lee ******
I'll ring them tomorrow because the info on the internet is so different!Reply to
Deb ********
Reply
Lee *******
@Deb *******
incorrectDeb ********
@Lee ******
Please show me where it says that?Reply to
Deb ********
Reply
Ralph *******
@Deb *******
If from NZ you don’t lose your pension. It depends on how many years you have worked. If you worked 45 years before retiring, you still get full pension.Deb ********
@Ralph ******
Please show me where it says that?Ralph *******
@Deb *******
You can look it up as easily as I can.Reply to
Ralph *******
Reply
Allan **************
@Deb *******
I'm from NZ and get full NZ pension tax freeRalph *******
@Allan *************
Do you mean net if tax or tax free?Allan **************
I just had to do the forms they send each year for you to fill out to say your still a live last week
Allan **************
@Ralph ******
I get the full amount no tax as I'm living in Thailand full timeReply to
Allan **************
Reply
Deb ********
@Allan *************
Can you tell me where it says that ? Glad to be wrong.Allan **************
@Deb *******
when I first changed I got them to pay into my thai bank but there exchange rates are not good so emailed them and they changed it . But when they pay into your thailand bank it every four weeks or into your NZ bank it goes back to every 2 weeksDeb ********
@Allan *************
I'll ring them tomorrow because on the internet they say if you leave NZ more than 6 months they stop your superannuation payment, in fact you may have to pay it back if you stay somewhere permanently.Deb ********
@Allan *************
Thankyou, I'm calling them tomorrow! This is such good news!Allan **************
@Deb *******
Good hope it works out for you once you get all your papers to gether go to your local MSD center get them to sight your paper work passport ectopic then they can scan them directly to MSD international hope this helps youDeb ********
@Allan *************
once again, thankyou!Allan **************
@Deb *******
yes talk to them on 0800 number good luckAllan **************
@Deb *******
I moved to thailand 11 months ago and I get the full amount you can get them to pay it into your thai bank or into your NZ bank as I do just talk to MSD international not your usual MSD office they're very helpfulReply to
Allan **************
Reply
Shirley ********
@Deb *******
Australia not the same, you will not lose your pension.Danny *******
@Deb *******
He’s American.Brian *********
@Danny ******
it is sad how many people just start talking without taking 2 seconds to look at the profile! 🤣Rich ************
@Brian ********
and then hijack the post about a different topic.Deb ********
@Brian ********
Some of us can't see the profiles! I click on it and it doesn't open up...Brian *********
@Deb *******
really? Not sure why? I have no problem and I’m not special. 😳Deb ********
@Brian ********
I'm not tecchy enough to fix it!Brian *********
@Deb *******
should be nothing to fix. Click on a name and then view profile. If the person doesn’t want that they can prevent it but otherwise I shouldn’t be able to see anything you can’t. 🤔Reply to
Brian *********
Reply
Kel ********
@Deb *******
Not in Australia. If you’re born in Aust you can get a mobile pension, if not born here it will depend on how long you’ve worked here and paid taxes.Ross **********
@Kel *******
only partially correct. You need to have been on the pension for 2 years in Australia. After 2 years you can get the basic pension, sent overseas. You also , have to be in Australia when you apply for the pension.Lee *******
@Ross *********
that is not rightRoss **********
@Lee ******
what is not right ?Lee *******
@Ross *********
you do not need to be on pension for 2 years in Australia to make it potable.You can leave after your first payment.
Ross **********
@Lee ******
not what it says on services Australia web site. Would be great if that is the caseLee *******
@Ross *********
it says if you come back to Australia after moving overseas then you need to do 2 years to make it potable.If you where in Australia for 2 years before receiving you pension it can be potable from day 1
Barry **********
@Lee ******
true I went back 30 months before applying and was portable from day 1.the rate doesn't include all the extra.Lee *******
@Barry *********
nice work .It really is as simple as a phone call to cenrelink international who are absolutly amazing and know there stuff 100%.
I am just amazed by people who get on here with their expert advice they get from Facebook and are just plain wrong.
Barry **********
@Lee ******
agreedRoss **********
@Barry *********
I will take your advice that I am getting from you , on the internet. ThanksReply to
Ross **********
Reply
John **********
As an American your embassy won't authenticate your income. Therefore to get a Non-O retirement visa you need to put 800k baht in a Thai bank. You can get the initial 90 day visa in your home country but need the 800k for the 12 month extension. During the first year you can transfer 65k baht each and every month into your bank from overseas and use that from the 2nd year onwards
Rj ******
@John *********
get a agent for the 800kJoe *******
@Gregor *********
It’s still another way whether you like it or not. Agents are used legallyDanny *******
@Joe ******
How do they do it? Legally I mean.Gregor **********
@Joe ******
yeah, by illegal legality 😎😂Reply to
Gregor **********
Reply
Gregor **********
@Joe ******
yeah, "grease the wheels" with an agent, bribe Immigration to look the other way. Of course there are a few illegal methods. Thank you for your insightReply to
Gregor **********
Reply
Martin *********
You will need an agent to take care of the the 800k deposit for you but going forward you will need $2k per month minimum SS payment
Bobby *********
@Martin ********
$1785 is all you need I been here for 8 yearsPhil ******
@Bobby ********
please review your post. Currency?Bobby *********
@Phil *****
sorry $1785 A monthPhil ******
@Bobby ********
ok AUD or USD for instance? Baht would have been better.Yes aud$785 is a bit light on
Reply to
Phil ******
Reply
Bobby *********
@Phil *****
ssi in Thailand $785 a month you got it now 😄Reply to
Bobby *********
Reply
Danny *******
@Martin ********
Don’t tell him that! That’s not legal.Paul ********
@Danny ******
Are you saying that you know that immigration officials, visa agents, and Thailand's biggest banks are engaged in a massive criminal conspiracy and fraud involving retirement visas? This is an extremely serious accusation you are recklessly making in public. Especially in a country with such strict libel and defamation laws. Combined with very sophisticated social networking monitoring by law enforcement.
John ********
@Paul *******
what a bunch of complete nonsense boy. Lots of poor life decisions must follow you aroundDanny *******
@Paul *******
Explain to me what "an agent take care of the 800k deposit for you" means to you?Paul ********
@Danny ******
Basically what you are engaging in is a form of slut-shaming. You feel agents are immoral and illegal, so every time somebody mentions one, you turn all Trumpie and moralistic and try to shame people into complying with your point of view. Sort of like anti-abortion zealots, anti-immigrants (illegal! illegal!) etc. do.Why do you feel obligated to be the facebook visa agent police?
There are so many other interesting subjects you could troll on as well. . .let's discuss - right now in public - your honest opinion of the king, Lèse-majesté, the role of the military in the election process and the actual level of true democracy here. Let truth be told!!
🙄
Perhaps you could interrogate and scold every guy who appears to be a bar manager on his visa and work permit status. Remind them of the dangers, quick quick!
When someone is heading out to a bar, don't miss the chance to remind them that prostitution is illegal in Thailand.
And so forth. Look, Thailand is not the west, and getting all huffy-puffy about absolute legalities ignores the realities of virtually every level of society and how EVERYTHING works here.
As a man I suspect both of us admire (Tim Walz) has recently been declaring repeatedly lately, "mind your own d*^n business."
Literally 10's of thousands of expats use visa agents here every year, 9999% with no problems or difficulties with the law, decade after decade. You may have a very strong opinion on this, but who appointed you to be the facebook visa agent police?
Don't be that guy.
Phil ******
@Paul *******
thanks Paul. Its just another way for gaining g an Non O based on retirement.Paul ********
@Phil *****
If the Thai government wanted to end the use of visa agents as we all so clearly understand it, they could and would have done so years ago, overnight. All the levers are completely within their grasp.But, it's the Thai way, and it works. Quite well actually. End of story.
Danny *******
@Paul *******
So, now you both admit it’s illegal but certain elements in the process are looking the other way for whatever reasons. This is why I laugh at your slander charges warning Paul. 😂Paul ********
@Danny ******
What's the matter with you?Danny *******
@Paul *******
Ever read your own expat club's guidance on this issue. You should some time. **************************************
Paul ********
@Danny ******
I understand the situation, I think perfectly.What I cannot understand why you feel obligated to be such a moralistic crusader on the subject? What IS the matter with you? Where does this JD Vance-like fury come from?
In a part of the world with all the frankly horrific problems people struggle with on a daily basis, THIS is what you fasten on as an evil that you must personally stamp out?
What exactly is it about your perception of visa agents that makes you so doggedly obsessive?
I can't walk 100 meters from my home without seeing real tragedy, real injustice. What would make you pick THIS subject to attack like you're some sort of junior Donald Trump?
It's none of your business. The end.
Danny *******
@Paul *******
You feel better now?Paul ********
@Danny ******
Actually yes.Reply to
Paul ********
Reply
Phil ******
@Danny ******
if it wasn't legal it wouldn't exist.Danny *******
@Phil *****
You can’t be that naive. Don’t get the guy in trouble before he even gets here.Phil ******
@Danny ******
I haven't got anyone in trouble and he's an adult. Its not my opinion but Martin's. This type of Non O (retirement) has been going on for 13 years that I know of.Danny *******
@Phil *****
It’s still not legal and you know it just like Martin knows it and all of us that have been here a while know it. Yes, he’s an adult but that’s no reason to deceive someone that uninformed.Phil ******
@Danny ******
ok post your source please as I've been here 13 years and its widely advertised esp. By agents in Pattaya. BTW I have never required this.I'm not deceiving anyone
Danny *******
@Phil *****
Is that your definition of legal ... it is advertised by agents? 🤣 I see ads here by agents that say they will get you a driver's license and you don't have to come take the written or driving test. I'm sure that's legal too. 😂Phil ******
@Danny ******
the Thai govt are trying to shut DL's down. Retirement visas are advertised and if illegal then the government would shut this down.Danny *******
@Phil *****
Believe what you want. I believe the OP understands the issue now.Danny *******
@Phil *****
Why don't you show me were it says it's legal in the regulations? I can't prove a negative.Reply to
Danny *******
Reply
Ken ********
What would you do for medical expenses ?
Paul ********
@Ken *******
This position always perplexes me. You're absolutely correct. Someone could find themselves in a real jam someday. Or not.But the fact is, social security is not enough to cover the most basic living expenses in the USA. Which is why the homelessness rate for retirees who worked hard all their lives is skyrocketing.
So many make the best of a bad set of choices. Better to live somewhere where you have a chance of living with dignity, than live in the USA out of your car and hungry everyday, but at least you're covered if you someday have a healthcare crisis.
Frank ********
@Paul *******
pretty sure the homeless rate is mostly because of drug, alcohol addiction or mental health here in the USA. I agree that living on social security alone is difficult, but if you worked all your life, retirement planning is crucial.Ken ********
@Paul *******
I prefer living here to the UK. The weather over there makes me more ill. Yes, I'm sure plenty have been in a situ were they could not afford medication over here. Recently I helped repatriate an English man back to the UK cos he'd ran out of funds.
Paul ********
Yeah, I think the average American monthly Social Security payment is a good bit higher than the average UK pension. Not certain though.
I would never return to the US.
One thing hopefully everybody here agrees on - getting old sucks.
And when it's over, rich or poor, righteous or not, smart or irresponsible, we all end up in a very similar hole in the ground, stone cold dead.
I would never return to the US.
One thing hopefully everybody here agrees on - getting old sucks.
And when it's over, rich or poor, righteous or not, smart or irresponsible, we all end up in a very similar hole in the ground, stone cold dead.
Reply to
Paul ********
Reply
Rob ******
@Ken *******
You don't need them , you pay for doctors and hospitals at reasonable rates , not crazy .Chiang Mai Hospital is brilliant care and well priced.
Ralph *******
@Rob *****
Until you have a heart attack or a stroke. It will get expensive rather rapidly.Rob ******
@Ralph ******
Who do you know staying there that had a stroke or a heart attack ?I know people 80 plus in Thailand no health insurance .
You do realize each 5 years , is an nsurable sum for anything .
So if you live 5 years you can insure yourself to live another 5 . But you can't past a certain age get insurance at all , supposedly .
Ralph *******
@Rob *****
That is very silly. ‘Who do I know…’ that’s like saying it doesn’t happen in Thailand. Ridiculous. And it’s not life insurance you need, it’s health insurance.
Rob ******
@Ralph ******
I know hundreds of healthy people over 70 who live overseas with NO health insurance for the last 40 years .How much savings do you think they have ?
Fear drives one group of people only , interest makes anything happen . Lots of people travel with interest .
Danny *******
@Rob *****
You can live into your 70s fairly healthy but one day it will catch up with you and then what? If you’re over 70 you’re not working and adding to your saving. No you are spending that savings and a major medical issue will have you spend a lot of it quickly. Do you have a bunch saved up for the emergency? Most don’t and most never had it and that’s why they never invested in health insurance … they couldn’t afford ever. They gambled and they lost. Not all but some and then it’s GoFundMe. Don’t be that person.Rob ******
@Ralph ******
You do know that the USA is outsourcing to some of the Indian Hospitals , like heart transplants etc .Ralph *******
@Rob *****
I don’t see the relevance of that to the main topic of this post.Rob ******
@Ralph ******
The original post is on can you do it , you can .The post was hi jacked by the fear mongers .
Ralph *******
@Rob *****
Yes. I think he really needs advice on what visa he can qualify for that will achieve his objective of staying in Thailand almost permanently. He could do it simply with 60 day visa exemption plus 30 extension, then a border run and keep repeating this. It’s not 100% but suits a small budget.Frank ********
@Rob *****
been here 64 years, and never heard that one.Reply to
Frank ********
Reply
Ken ********
@Rob *****
I was thinking more of surgery, operations, heart problems etc. Yes, doctors are very reasonable prices, but surgery you need 1000sRob ******
@Ken *******
I know people who fly to Thailand from big treatments in USA including nurses of the USA .Many doctors at the top trained in USA .
I know of treatments for eyes and cancers personally from friends alive because of the quality of care .
Ken ********
@Rob *****
I assume they have more than 2000 in savings, and not 71 years old. I'm not sure what your trying to say Rob. I'm just trying to help a guy out who's thinking of moving here on a small budget and virtually no savings. I've been here many years now and my biggest concern financially will be , when and if I have need surgery.
Paul ********
@Ken *******
It's a simple difference in perspective. You want to make sure that if or when you face a major medical calamity, you'll be able to pay for good care.But others consider their quality of life during the weeks, months, years or decades before that calamity occurs as more important.
Both reasonable. We're all wired differently.
I know people who, when diagnosed with cancer, say, treatment? No thank you. When I die, I die.
Others want the best oncologist, at the best hospital with every possible treatment employed. Who is to say which is "right?"
It would be great if every human had the resources to live their life out with dignity, comfort and fiscal responsibility.
But millions don't have that option.
Reply to
Paul ********
Reply
Stuart ***********
Is your monthly money more than 65,000?
If it is, it depends which country you are from.
If UK, USA or Australia you need 800,000 to put in a Thai bank.
If you are from another country you may be able to get proof of income from your Embassy.
If it is, it depends which country you are from.
If UK, USA or Australia you need 800,000 to put in a Thai bank.
If you are from another country you may be able to get proof of income from your Embassy.
Ken ********
@Stuart **********
also, the exchange rate can change, so make sure your well in frontStuart ***********
@Ken *******
yes I agree, that's why I said more than 65,000 Baht.Ken ********
@Stuart **********
I know Stuart, just making sure the op see it. ThanksReply to
Ken ********
Reply
Stephen ********
You need to send
*****
bht a month to thailand to qualify for a retirement visa if you don't have *****
0bht to leave in a Thai bankBob *********
@Stephen *******
plus pay for monthly health insurance now i believe....plus when youve paid for even cheap monthly accommodation out the 65k baht yo certainly wont be doing much every dayDanny *******
@Mike ********
How’s that work? Does the agent give you 800,000 to open the account and let you keep it for 12 months? Interest free?Brandon ************
@Danny ******
of course not. They put the money in your account for 30 seconds, long enough to get proof. Then bribe the immigration officer to ignore that the money wasn't in there for the required timeDanny *******
@Brandon ***********
Illegal as I assumed. So, now you are locked into the scheme because the next year you have to do the same since you didn't have the required deposits all year.Brandon ************
@Danny ******
correctDanny *******
@Brandon ***********
Why do they allow these illegal schemes to be posted here all the time? Should be against the rules. 😡Brandon ************
@Danny ******
the owner of this group is a visa agency 😂Danny *******
@Brandon ***********
Well, that would sure explain it. No wonder @Mike ********
didn’t reply. 😜Reply to
Danny *******
Reply
Bob **********
@Stephen *******
the only two ways to get your first non-o and extension is bank 800K or an income certificate from your embassy if your country issues themBobby *********
@Mike ********
yepKen ***********
@Mike ********
using an agent and not having the actual funds is done, but people should be aware that is illegal.Chris ************
@Stephen *******
I am actually going through this process at the moment. In theory it is either or!! I wanted to do my visa on income alone which is perfectly acceptable. The catch 22 for me is that for proof of income it requires a certificate from your embassy, I am British but the British embassy no longer issues these certificates. I have spent the last 15 years in France declaring income for tax purposes there so I asked if they could issue me with a certificate - no reply!!! I am going to the bank this week to see what the manager proposes but I guess it will be go down the *****
0 route with the agency providing the money (for a fee!!) and buying the bank insurance (although she couldn't tell me what it insured!!).Dianne *****
@Chris ***********
Generally the bank related insurance is Life insurance with a small amount of health insurance tacked on ie a payout to your beneficiary if you died in an accident and enough health insurance to cover a broken bone, x-rays and patching up of grazing after a motorbike crash. But not enough to cover an ICU stay or multiple surgeries if you were seriously injuredAaron ******
@Chris ***********
that’s great info. Since someone is on it right now and I know at least it can be done with either or. Do you know what are the financial commitments for marriage visa to a Thai? I read it is half at 400k. What about health insurance? I read that health insurance purchase need to show as wellChris ************
@Aaron *****
Sorry I don't have any knowledge about that, not too many women marrying Thai men!!!Reply to
Chris ************
Reply
John ********
@Chris ***********
so you’re preparing to commit fraud against the Thai government and its people because you don’t have 800K? Thanks for letting everyone knowReply to
John ********
Reply
Aaron ******
@Stephen *******
if I’m not wrong. For retirement visa, you first need to open a bank account with 800k baht and at the same time you need to show that you have 65k baht monthly income coming in. Not either or.Robert *******
@Aaron *****
it is or not need bothRalph *******
@Aaron *****
I think it’s one or the other, not both.Achanster ******
@Aaron *****
it's either orTerry ********
@Aaron *****
it is either or but in the first year, you have to use the 800,000 in the bank method. During that year, bring in *****
/month and you can take out the 800,000 in the 2nd year.Vivian *********
@Aaron *****
one or the other no more no lessNick ************
@Vivian ********
it is NOT one or the other. To change to monthly payments of *****
baht you must keep *****
0 baht in you account for 3 months after the initial stamp is granted AND start tge monthly transfers. Tge account can then go down to *****
0 baht for tge rest if the year while you make tge other 9 monthly transfers. When you get your stamp based on monthly income you can withdraw the *****
0 baht. Personally I am keeping tge *****
0 baht all year while making monthly transfers just un case something goes wrong or my IO office will not accept monthly transfers which some dont. If you do not do this you have not fulfilled tge requirements if your initial stamp and would gave been on overstay since you removed tge money from the bank. Thus does not apply if your embassy will verify your income. UK does not.Vivian *********
@Nick ***********
no all depends where you live in ThailandNick ************
@Vivian ********
those are the rules and there is no argument. If you can make an alternative arrangement at your local io or with an agent then good for you.Reply to
Nick ************
Reply
Aake **********
The rules say 800k in the bank at least 2 months before applying for extension or 65k in monthly income from a country outside Thailand or a combination of both
Stephen ********
@Aaron *****
only if it's changed. I never showed 65k monthly. Never asked.Aaron ******
@Stephen *******
not sure about that but that’s what I read and stated on the immigration website. Maybe they weren’t strict to enforce both. After the bank account was proved with 800k baht. Myself, I’m aggressively getting the right info by reading Thai government official website rather to hearsay. Will be coming over to stay for good in 2 years time with my Thai wife. I will be on marriage visa.Stephen ********
@Aaron *****
it's either or. If you leave 800k in thai bank no need to prove incomeReply to
Stephen ********
Reply
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