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Answered6 days ago

Do both Non-O and Non-OA retirement visas in Thailand now require health insurance?

Khan ********
asked Nov 6, 2026
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Was just told both retirement visas now require health insurance. Is that true? Is the health insurance expensive??
Answer summary
There is confusion surrounding the health insurance requirements for Thailand's retirement visas. Most comments clarify that only the Non-OA visa requires health insurance, while the Non-O visa does not. Several users have shared their experiences of renewing their Non-O visas without being asked for insurance. Although the requirements seem stable at the moment, some anticipate that immigration regulations may continue to evolve. Additionally, the cost of health insurance can be quite significant, especially for older individuals, prompting many expats to consider private insurance options.
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Scott ********
Scott ********
Question is why would you want to have no health insurance in Thailand but ride a scooter everyday 🤔 🤦‍♂️
Robert ****************
Robert ****************
I don’t bet against myself. I’ve been healthy on my life. I’ve had an accident or two but nothing too bad. I’ve saved a lot of money not paying life insurance or health insurance because I’m healthy.
Hardy ******
Hardy ******
About 83k baht I got at Bangkoklife.com

I have retirement visa but never was asked. I just wanted it. Zero deductible 5 million coverage per incident unlimited times
Robert ***********
Robert ***********
A visa extention and a new visa are different things. Rules governing health insurance apply to new OA visas but not to new O non imm visas. Health insurance is required for extentions to OA visa's THAT ARE BASED ON RETIREMENT but NOT to extentions based on marriage.
Neil ***********
Neil ***********
Retired in Thailand last few years never been asked to show proof of, however I do have health insurance but never know if their payout!!
Richard ********
Richard ********
Just renewed my Non O (switching to Retirement) and no mention of Health Insurance
Matt *******
Matt *******
No
Terence **********
Terence **********
Not sure I not have get another year next February , they did say changing a little bit but not say get insurance
Alan **********
Alan **********
Where you been for the last 10 years
Vincent ***********
Vincent ***********
there are many variables just like in your home nation. health issues, gender, age, ect.

you can get a minimal that is just the required i think $100,000 3M baht. or a REAL policy.

pacific cross, allianz, CIGNA, AXA and others. CIGNA and others cover you worldwide except for in the US with direct payment. the Thai company's are less expensive as they are only good in thailand and limited outside of thailand with re-embursment.

i-brokers for one is a good agent.

unless a person has severe issues or age to get insured. YOU are foolish to not have REAL policy. not a $30 a month policy with a $15,000 deductible. have a bad broken are lay in bed days in the hospital MRIs, food, doctors coming and going and maybe a surgery and a "hope you feel better" as they hand you a $25,000+ bill.

you say you will go to a government hospital. great. first you do not speak thai and 2nd the bill in now $12,000. then what.

payable in full before you leave. how does that factor you your budget?
Billy *******
Billy *******
Maybe we need to start our own insurance company.
James ***********
James ***********
Difference is applying from your country or applying inside Thailand. Come on tourist visa and do the application here its much easier
Motivated**********
Motivated**********
Google says for the O type visa , health insurance not required . Only applies to the AO visa .
Peter ********
Peter ********
If you have to ask you can’t afford it. You need it in Thailand. So shop pay and STFU.
Paul **************
Paul **************
I got my second year without 800,000 in the bank. I put 65,000 in every month, then spent it every month. 65,000 x12 ?
Asbjørn *******
Asbjørn *******
Only Non im OA, Not Non O Ret/Thai family required that. Nothing change.
Brian *******
Brian *******
Health insurance is not required for the Non-O. It is only required for the Non-OA.
Les ***********
Les ***********
The OA Retirement Visa.

Health insurance is required.
Gibson *******
Gibson *******
"Was just told..." Ha ha ha
Alan ******
Alan ******
As for the cost depends on age and re-existing medical problems anyone aged above 75 look out. I just did some medical insurance costing and brother were they high
Robert ********
Robert ********
Depends, Non-OA and Non-OX require health insurance. However, a standard Non-O does not.
Martin *********
Martin *********
No
Joshef *********
Joshef *********
stop posting BS you retard
THAI ******************************
THAI ******************************
Be careful, especially if they are trying to sell you insurance.
Gias****
Gias****
Ask the one who told or better yet ask the immigration 🙃
Robert *********
Robert *********
Travel Insurance is not expensive

If you need emergency medical care that’s every expensive in Thailand

Especially in a private hospital like Bangkok/ Pattaya hospital

You’ll receive excellent care but a short stay could easily cost

Hundreds of thousands of Thai baht

But if you do happen to need emergency medical care

you’ll thank the guy up there that you did have insurance

Don’t go “ Cheap Charley “ on your self

“ Up2U”

PS

Thailand is still number one in motorcycle fatalities
Christian ********
Christian ********
That was easy
Christian ********
Christian ********
How is it possible to have so many different answers?

I’ll ask Ai
StunningP**********
StunningP**********
Tricare should cover you.
Digby ********
Digby ********
Lateral thinking... would you, even in current good health, and looking at the expense of major procedures even in government hospitals, not consider some kind of insurance (including self-insurance), even if the visa terms didn't require it?
Robert ***************
Robert ***************
Some insurance companies will not insure people in their 70s and have lived here years so what will happen to them , and if the do insure you it will cost a arm and a leg and might not be able to pay the amount,
Billy *******
Billy *******
Robert A Calderbank There's a video out there on YouTube. You're pretty much painting yourself into a corner.
Robert ***************
Robert ***************
Billy Billy I’ve had a couple of quotes and they are not good at that age . So explain why I’m put in a corner
Larry ***************
Larry ***************
You don't have to have health insurance for a non-o you do have to have a tattoo and a note from your mother though
Sam *********
"both" ^= FourIt seems three of the 4 types require health insurance.
David *********
David *********
Non-O retired = NO

Non-OA retired = yes
Sam *********
Sam *********
"both" ^= Four

It seems three of the 4 types require health insurance.
10
THAI ******************************
THAI ******************************
Please avoid using AI for this. If you absolutely need to use it, at least avoid Google's AI-generated search summaries, as they are notoriously unreliable and often provide misleading or inaccurate information.

The sources cited in your screenshot are a fake, outdated Thai embassy website and a YouTuber's channel. Neither is a reliable or authoritative source for immigration information.

😅
Sam *********
Sam *********
And...
Jeff **********
Jeff **********
I just got my 15 month visa, there was no mention of health insurance.
Robert *********
Robert *********
Jeff Breeding what kind of visa you got for 15 months with no health insurance
Jeff **********
Jeff **********
Retirement O, multiple entry 15 month. You need to get your visa HERE, not in your home country. I will definitely get insurance, it just wasn't required
GoldLiz*******
GoldLiz*******
You can definitely find low cost HI, even from bigger firms like Allianz. But it'll be feck-all use if you actually get sick.

You need to decide: saving vs. risk.
Graham ******
Graham ******
ok half a story again, who told you, someone over a beer?
Jay *****
Jay *****
What is the name of the visa agency that tells that nonsense?
Graeme ***********
Probably as the Thai government changes the rules every day.
Arlene **********************
No, that is not true. Only the Non-OA retirement visa requires health insurance.
Björn **********
As a Swedish citizen applying for the retirement visa, which I have done for the past three years, I am required to have full health insurance coverage. I have to provide proof that I have purchased the insurance, and every year when I enter Thailand, Immigration stamps my passport with the date corresponding to the period covered by my insurance.What I also find difficult to understand is how anyone can even consider staying in Thailand for an extended period without having health insurance. In fact, I don’t understand how anyone would consider travelling to Thailand without insurance at all.Over the past three years, my health insurance has saved me approximately 400,000 baht in hospital expenses. None of these treatments involved any major medical procedures, but I have seen the actual amounts that the insurance company has had to pay on my behalf.
Kent *********
Kent *********
None the less always have insurance, you never know when that bus will hit u when you fail to look both ways crossing the street. Better safe than a go fund me campaign
Reinhard ********
Reinhard ********
No. If you take a non o visa for 90 days first you must have an insurance for that time. For the extension to one year it's not needet and yes its expensive and it gets expensiver every year and former illnesses will be excludet. So in my case I builded reserves and pay cash.
Charlimo *********
Charlimo *********
I had an anaphylactic shock one day in a temple in Kanchanaburi. The nun rushed me to the hospital and I was treated like a Queen.i. Immediate attention and great care. I had Nothing with me...no PP, I had no insurance atm. But Noone really asked. I stayed there about 4 hours, I needed an Adrenaline injection and oxygen, than got 5 days medication. All they wanted was 8.00$. the Friendliness and care was amazing. That was about 8 to 10 years ago
Björn **********
Björn **********
As a Swedish citizen applying for the retirement visa, which I have done for the past three years, I am required to have full health insurance coverage. I have to provide proof that I have purchased the insurance, and every year when I enter Thailand, Immigration stamps my passport with the date corresponding to the period covered by my insurance.

What I also find difficult to understand is how anyone can even consider staying in Thailand for an extended period without having health insurance. In fact, I don’t understand how anyone would consider travelling to Thailand without insurance at all.

Over the past three years, my health insurance has saved me approximately 400,000 baht in hospital expenses. None of these treatments involved any major medical procedures, but I have seen the actual amounts that the insurance company has had to pay on my behalf.
13
Tim ***********
Tim ***********
Björn Nordberg it must be so good to be so perfect
Björn **********
Björn **********
Tim Lievesley / And the winner of the award for the worst contribution to the conversation goes to…
Nicholas ************
Nicholas ************
Björn Nordberg US citizens over 65 have Medicare which unlike other countries you don’t have to establish or prove intent of permanent residency
MotivatedRa***********
MotivatedRa***********
Björn Nordberg 400k over 3 years would be less than my premiums. That's why I self insure.
Marc ******
Marc ******
Björn Nordberg it is because of health irresponsable people like you who run all the time to the private hospitals that I do not have health coverage. Why should I pay for you irresponsible guys who drive up the cost for instance?
Vincent ***********
Vincent ***********
Björn Nordberg you are 100% correct. many people are dumb, naive or broke or all three and do not care. I have CIGNA Global for years now.

I was in Bangkok Hospital with bronchitis. 2 nights in, IV, medicine, doctors came to $1,300. stamp on the bottom: PAID by CIGNA. wheeled out the door.

two months ago i am at the same hospital for a doctors check up and at the cashier paying 1000 bht. the guy next to me from a western nation about 35yoa had stitches and maybe sprained arm and crutches. $750. the guy was asking for a payment plan. no money.

i cringered.

I agree do you homework and have a policy.
Björn **********
Björn **********
Vincent Calderone / So he stayed in Thailand without insurance and did not have $750 to bail himself out of the hospital.

Wow that is really gutsy/stupid
Brian *******
Brian *******
Björn Nordberg Some people choose to self insure. They decide that if they require medical treatment, they will finance it themselves.
Björn **********
Björn **********
Brian Judge / Yes. I do understand that.

If you have a $million that you dont need it might be a risk worth taking.

I am just talking about myself.

I could not afford to get in a serious traffic accident and be charged 2 million THB.
Don *******
Don *******
Björn Nordberg You had medical expenses of 400,000B over three years, but how much did you pay in premiums over that time?
Björn **********
Björn **********
Don Smith / I have paid about 90.000 THB over 3 years.

I spend about 6-7 month in Thailand so it would be about 50.000 THB a year if I stayed here all the time.

And I had more then 400K THB in medical expenses. What I told was what the insurance saved me
Björn **********
Björn **********
Ryan Johnson / Yes. Its a swedish insurance company namned Folksam. You do need to have your home insured by them to get access to the travel insurance though
Ryan *********
Ryan *********
Björn Nordberg can you share your insurer please ?
Paul ***********
Paul ***********
Björn Nordberg Not for the Non-O you did.
Björn **********
Björn **********
Paul Bengtsson / Paul, yes, I have a Non-OA visa, not a Non-O. But that is not really the point I am making.

My point is that I find it difficult to understand why people choose to live in Thailand for extended periods without health insurance.

We regularly see Facebook posts asking for donations to help people pay their hospital bills because they cannot afford the treatment, and in some cases they are not even allowed to leave the hospital until the bill is paid.

That is exactly what I am questioning. Regardless of which retirement visa someone holds, I believe having adequate health insurance when living in Thailand is extremely important.

As I am planning to extend my visa before leaving Thailand this spring, I will naturally make sure that I have full health insurance coverage for every single day I spend in Thailand.

My own experience over the past three years has only reinforced that view
Nils ********
Nils ********
Björn Nordberg what insurance do you have? My understanding is that you need to buy an insurance from a thai only company. And they really paied?
Björn **********
Björn **********
Stuart Chiverton / That is a valid point thou.

Maybe it will change for me when I get ”older” and have to pay more then I do now for my insurance.

I have compared my insurance from Sweden to what other local insurance company charge and I can say I dont pay that much right now and every time I needed medical care its been really smooth.
Ian *******
Ian *******
Henrik JN last time I checked the main OA insurance restriction was that you had to select an approved Thai insurance company.
Henrik ****
Henrik ****
Stuart Chiverton, the restrictions are mainly about coverange.
Gianni ******
Gianni ******
Björn Nordberg

Your mind is biased and only see what you want to see

You come here occasionally and you spend time in hospital: you should have a vetter approach to your health

You mentione people who ask for donations: name them. How did tbey get it? Who are they? Age?

For "average" people who pay attention, the risks are reduced.

There are reasonably priced private hospitals and government hospitals

Health insurances most times dont respect the contract and (unless one pays outrageous premiums) dont cover OPD

If you are sick and tend to spend your thailand time more in hospitals than on the road, that s your very unique experience. You shouldnt even be allowed in, maybe you are infected and contagious.

Your experience Doesnt classify for the general public.
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
Björn Nordberg you can still get insurance if you apply for the non-O, it simply means your insurance options are not restricted, like they are with the non-OA.
Arlene **********************
Arlene **********************
No, that is not true. Only the Non-OA retirement visa requires health insurance.
Graeme ***********
Graeme ***********
Probably as the Thai government changes the rules every day.
Kevin *******
Clickbait!
Mike **********
I’m getting well up into being old. I carry insurance for piece of mind.
Harald ************
only for OA not for O
Lennart ***********
It is much more expensive to not have the insurance…
William **********
I just extended my visa, family visa, and was not asked for insurance. At my age I know of no company that will actually sell me insurance that would cover anything.
Rich ************
I just got my retirement visa in October was never asked for proof of insurance, but I do have it if needed
Steven ********
Do you need health insurance when old? My Dad retired to Petchaburi, had been getting his UK pension about 20mins and then had a heart attack, all the graft he’d put in to amassing the cash he’d been saving was worth it because he had no insurance and when he woke up the Bangkok Hospital took 1.3M off him for his troubles, which was nice. Quite fitting because he just would not shut up about how Thailand was better at everything than the UK, and they got their chance to prove it. The relationship with his idiot wife got worse. It was 2022 and he also and being paranoid he thought that immigration would want him to be jabbed to get a retirement extension. He went and got jabbed, it had been nearly 3 years since Cvd had started and he was still alive so it made sense. 2023 relationship breaks down, leaves the farmland mansion,Toyota Vigo and heads back to UK. Then develops cancer of the tonsils and starts radiotherapy? This burns his voice box but he lives but sounds like he’s been shouting from the touchline for hours and voice is gone. Now back in England. His final last compliment to Thailand was “ Thailand so good that they take £20,000 off you which you just forget about but then when you have to go back home you’ve got £20,000 to start again” Now 75 in Jan.
Steven ********
Steven ********
Do you need health insurance when old?

My Dad retired to Petchaburi, had been getting his UK pension about 20mins and then had a heart attack, all the graft he’d put in to amassing the cash he’d been saving was worth it because he had no insurance and when he woke up the Bangkok Hospital took 1.3M off him for his troubles, which was nice. Quite fitting because he just would not shut up about how Thailand was better at everything than the UK, and they got their chance to prove it. The relationship with his idiot wife got worse. It was 2022 and he also and being paranoid he thought that immigration would want him to be jabbed to get a retirement extension. He went and got jabbed, it had been nearly 3 years since Cvd had started and he was still alive so it made sense.

2023 relationship breaks down, leaves the farmland mansion,Toyota Vigo and heads back to UK. Then develops cancer of the tonsils and starts radiotherapy? This burns his voice box but he lives but sounds like he’s been shouting from the touchline for hours and voice is gone.

Now back in England.

His final last compliment to Thailand was “ Thailand so good that they take £20,000 off you which you just forget about but then when you have to go back home you’ve got £20,000 to start again”

Now 75 in Jan.
Rich ************
Rich ************
I just got my retirement visa in October was never asked for proof of insurance, but I do have it if needed
William **********
William **********
I just extended my visa, family visa, and was not asked for insurance. At my age I know of no company that will actually sell me insurance that would cover anything.
Lennart ***********
Lennart ***********
It is much more expensive to not have the insurance…
Mike **********
Mike **********
I’m getting well up into being old. I carry insurance for piece of mind.
Harald ************
Harald ************
only for OA not for O
Kevin *******
Kevin *******
Clickbait!
Willi*****
Willi*****
Bullshit.Stop posting click bait ffs ,grow up 🙄
John **********
John **********
There is still no requirement to have insurance for a Non-O visa based on retirement or an extension thereof
Ron *****
Ron *****
Health Insurance policy usability depends on the verdict of the underwriter investigation of your medical history. The exclusion list of non-coverage for many will shock them, especially when the premium is so high and it’s possible only half of you is covered! The insurance companies don’t want to lose money. Many older expats go the ‘self-insured’ path when they see what their true coverage is, then decide if Company Plans is worth it.

Get Non-O Visa in order to be self insured. Available only in Thailand.
David **********
I've seen numerous stories of insurance not paying out on claims. Especially when your insured with pre existing issues. Even when they have taken the policy on knowing the pre existing situation. any one have good advice or knowledge?
Alan *****
Alan *****
Not for the non O
Natalie *****************
Natalie *****************
@Pru ****************
can you help?
David **********
David **********
I've seen numerous stories of insurance not paying out on claims. Especially when your insured with pre existing issues. Even when they have taken the policy on knowing the pre existing situation.

any one have good advice or knowledge?
Billy *******
Billy *******
David Withnall They always find a reason to not pay after you spend 10's of 1000's on premiums.
David **********
David **********
Billy Billy I think self insuring ( if possible ) is a better option. I've heard some worrying stories about claim denial.
Charlimo *********
Charlimo *********
David Withnall I never trust insurances anymore. Never ever had a good or positive experience with them
Bob ******
Bob ******
Charlimo Sawadee I had hip replacement surgery at Bangkok hospital last year. Top quality stay and service. My Insurance Allianz Ayutthaya agreed on upgraded materials, 5 days private room, physical therapy while in the hospital and paid out over 535,000baht minus my deductible. All paid for on the day I was discharged. Never have I had such a good experience with an insurance company.
David **********
David **********
Bob Haas hip replacement is a standard item unlikely to be refused 535,000 is not a large amount. What happens if you have a stroke or heart attack and the bill runs into several million ? Would they still cover?
Geert ********
Geert ********
Charlimo Sawadee it is true. There was a Belgian citizen who had taken health insurance but suddenly fell ill and developed cancer. He became too sick and too weak to return to Belgium. He died and his heirs are now faced with a hospital bill over eur100 000, anyone who believed thai or even international insurers are going to reimburse these higher amounts is just living in la la land. Thailand is good for your later years but not your final years, unless you're specifically covered by the thai government social security which you can only get after having paid contributions for 1 year after being employed. Anyone who believes these insurance companies will pay out unlimited amounts lacks realism. Its incomparable to social security from your developed Western home base.
Billy *******
Billy *******
Geert Prodan Probably have to get a lawyer every time you want to make a claim.
Marty *********
Marty *********
David Withnall I just renewed my Thai insurance. You declare your pre-existing conditions when you first buy the policy. The pre-existing conditions are list on your policy.
David **********
David **********
Marty Pollard I understand that. As I said in my post ive read stories of insurance companies finding a way to decline paying claims even when the pre existing illness was listed when taking out policy. I'm asking if anyone has experienced this themselves.
Arve ****************
Arve ****************
Only on O-A, but will be wise to get anyway.

The price depends on age and current health.
Stewart *********
Stewart *********
Health insurance is expensive especially if you are over a certain age my foreign people do self insured
Mark *******
Mark *******
Here is the best advice....ask at embassy or local immigration...save time and stress
Mark *******
Mark *******
Non o retirement extension no insurance reqyired...only change is that they now require 12 months bank statements....Bkk app Will download them...but get then stamped at bank when you do book update and balance certificate.......this was my experience 1 week ago.....cheers.
Daniel **************
Daniel **************
I have health insurance but during my Non-O on Monday, nothing was mentioned here in Hua Hin. The only difference this time was the bank book and letter had to be from the day of application.
May ******
May ******
Extended yesterday, Chonburi…insurance not required non O retirement 50+
John **********
John **********
Uk O retirement visa no insurance AO or OA needed I think
Chris **********
Chris **********
If you get the retirement visa other than in Thailand I believe you need insurance. Best to apply here then you’re ok. Like most insurance policies if your medical conditions are poor then it’s more complicated
Les ********
Les ********
23k using a major insurance company I'm 61.
Richie *******
Richie *******
Les Norton Which one, please 🙏
Les ********
Les ********
Richie Bates AXA
Latrice ********************
Latrice ********************
Non O or Non O-A?
Penny ******
Penny ******
I am on a marriage visa so insurance is not required but I have insurance, I am 68 with no pre existing conditions: AIA, I have 5,000,000 medical policy with cancer coverage and my policy covers accident policy and life insurance too. It cost me

111,614 baht per year or about $277 per month
Hendrik ******
Hendrik ******
Lucky I get free health care coz my wife worked for the Education department

I hope that’s enough ?!
John ********
John ********
I renewed 2 days ago in Nonthaburi and didn’t need insurance non O retirement
Lawrie *******
Lawrie *******
Not at my Immigration office.
Robert ********
Robert ********
Non O does not. OA does
David *****
David *****
Who are you talking to?
Baron ***********************
Baron ***********************
Not true.

You should contact the Thai Visa Center. They’re great, and will sort this all out for you.
ConfidentR***********
ConfidentR***********
No official confirmation ask immigration for a list of requirements for retirement visa
Ralph *******
Ralph *******
Insurance is on an individual basis based on age and existing health conditions.
Phil ********
I renewed my non o last month with no mention of health insurance It’s just a Non O A but I’m sure it will change like everything else changes
Andrew ********
Apply from overseas you need insurance.Renew or applying in country no insurance requirements YET!
Stuart ***********
The non-O does not require health insurance. The whole point of having to deposit 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account is to show that you have the necessary funds available to pay for an emergency situation.
Mau ********
Follow
Raymond *********
It's only required for a non O-A but it's wise to have something in place I use WR Life which is approximately 1981 THB per month I'm 68
Raymond *********
Raymond *********
It's only required for a non O-A but it's wise to have something in place I use WR Life which is approximately 1981 THB per month I'm 68
19
Ken ******
Ken ******
Raymond Dowling wrlife, what it covers for you? 3 million baht?
Raymond *********
Raymond *********
I don't have a huge amount of cover I think 150k and no outpatient cover but it's better than having nothing in my opinion I did sing up a few years ago and the monthly cost is fixed unless you make a claim
Peter ************
Peter ************
Raymond Dowling very good price. I also have WR Life but I pay double that, and I’m a few years younger. No out patient either. I would love to compare policies because maybe I’m getting ripped off by the broker.
Raymond *********
Raymond *********
@Peter ***********
I signed up directly on their website
Peter ************
Peter ************
Raymond Dowling ok thank you.
Richie *******
Richie *******
Raymond Dowling Thank you. Some useful information 👌
Charlimo *********
Charlimo *********
Raymond Dowling that's a good price
Dimitri ********
Dimitri ********
Charlimo Sawadee Do you believe that good health insurance is available for less than THB 2000?
Tony ********
Tony ********
Raymond Dowling wr life is crap just spent 7 days in hospital never spent any time in hospital before, they were looking for excuses not to pay all the time ,they are cash bandits
Warren ***********
Warren ***********
Tony Watson I have WR Life and three years ago I have a very severe accident.

They did give me a lot of hassle because I didn't get a blood Alcohol test.

In the end they did pay!

I sure am not going to dump them and hope for better at 71 years old.
Dimitri ********
Dimitri ********
Tony Watson What can you expect? Someone above posted that he pays less than THB 2000. You cannot have good health insurance for that amount of money.
Tony ********
Tony ********
Dimitri Visser you talk rubbish, I paid 17,041 every 3 months for over 3 years and got nothing back
David ******
David ******
Dimitri Visser I used to have one about that price covering me for minor illnesses but that was back in 2000. Now I self fund due to Terminal Cancer no one will insure me.
Mark ********
Mark ********
Tony Watson it’s not just them it’s the name of the game
Raymond *********
Raymond *********
They are probably trying to milk you
Kevin *******
Kevin *******
Raymond Dowling are you crazy ? Just put that money in a bank and self insure ! 80? Time to check out maybe ! 🤔
Khan ********
Khan ********
OP
Raymond Dowling a visa agency told me today health insurance is now required for both
Chris ****
Chris ****
@Khan *******
is the owner of the agency married to an insurance broker?
10
Mark ******
Mark ******
@Khan *******
Not true. I just renewed my non O and no insurance is required, but as Raymond suggested it is advisable. I also use WR Life.
Sujeeth *******
Sujeeth *******
I’m 53. I paid $2000 with Pacific.
Mau ********
Mau ********
Having a health insurance when you are traveling or residing abroad is very much recommended
Tim ***********
Tim ***********
Mau Morris why thank you for stating the bleeding obvious.
Mau ********
Mau ********
Tim Lievesley Don Smith I’m paying for 20 years and never used it , now age 64 I suddenly got colon cancer. One treatment payed by the insurance company is the equivalent of one year pay. Can you imagine how important it is?
Don *******
Don *******
Mau Morris I think it's mostly recommended by insurance companies and their brokers/agents.
Mau ********
Mau ********
Don Smith I’m paying for 20 years and never used it , now age 64 I suddenly got colon cancer. One treatment payed by the insurance company is the equivalent of one year pay. Can you imagine how important it is?
T **************
T **************
Mau Morris unfortunately most retired people cannot get because of underlining conditions
Mau ********
Mau ********
T Tiger Grace thats understandable
YuMi ******
YuMi ******
@Khan *******
Health insurance requirements can vary depending on the type of retirement visa.

If you are planning to stay in Thailand long-term, I can help you explore health insurance options through Macquarie Insurance Broker and check which plans may suit your needs.

Feel free to send me a private message. 😊
Guy *********
Guy *********
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
The non-O does not require health insurance.

The whole point of having to deposit 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account is to show that you have the necessary funds available to pay for an emergency situation.
34
Lonnie ********
Lonnie ********
Stuart Chiverton That’s a shortsighted interpretation of the 800,000-baht requirement. What happens when someone has a major accident or medical emergency during the five months when the full amount must remain in the bank? Even outside that period, the balance cannot fall below 400,000 baht. One hospitalization could wipe out their savings and jeopardize their next retirement extension. These are precisely the circumstances that could leave an elderly retiree financially stranded or even homeless. The 800,000 baht is an immigration financial requirement, not a substitute for health insurance or a separate emergency fund.
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
Lonnie AtWork and that's a naive response. I am not saying people should not have insurance. I am saying the Thai government introduced it because foreigners were coming to Thailand with little money, AND without insurance. The introduction of 800,000 baht covers at least some of the expense of someone having an emergency. Instead of complaining about me explaining this, perhaps focus on the people actively avoiding this requirement.
Ian ********
Ian ********
This wife visa is best 400k b and no insurance
Neil ********
Neil ********
Stuart Chiverton oa visa needs the 800k deposit and health insurance
Terry *******
Terry *******
Neil Deeker Since when ???
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
Neil Deeker why would anyone choose the non-OA visa if that was correct?
Neil ********
Neil ********
Stuart Chiverton i dont know also need a police check. The 800k baht is a requirement according to the australian thai visa site. I went with o type because it didnt have the insurance requirement and only have inpayient cover
Reinhard ********
Reinhard ********
Neil Deeker Only if you do it direct from your homecountry. For the extension in Thailand you don't need it.
Tony ********
Tony ********
Stuart Chiverton don’t choose OA. After 10 years I now have to leave the country and reapply for the O visa. I have 800k and insurance that covers US $1M
Peter *******
Peter *******
that what required 800k you can extend year to year the other one with insurance you can use for 2 years
Peter *******
Peter *******
Stuart Chiverton that what required 800k you can extend year to year the other one with insurance you can use for 2 years
Björn **********
Björn **********
Stuart Chiverton / I can only speak for my self, but I think it was the at the time the best option for me. You get the full 1 year and only have to do the 90-day report.

You have some work to collect the documents before getting the Visa, but now after 3 times its actually not very time consuming.

But I will now extend my Visa instead before I go back.

I dont really like the idea of being forced to have 800.000 THB just sitting in the Thai bank so I will try the other way.

Since more then a year I am transfering more then 65.000 THB to my Thaibank.

From what I can read that would be the same as long as I keep doing that. And ofcourse since my life in Thailand cost more then 65K THB/month its actually no effort.

Just make sure to transfer every month.
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
Ian Thomas so, why would anyone choose the non-OA?
Cameron *******
Cameron *******
Reinhard Martin I have just done this and it requires insurance
Ian ********
Ian ********
Stuart Chiverton Thailand
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
Reinhard Martin I presume you mean they need to show they have 800,000 baht equivalent in their home country, not Thailand?
Ant ***********
Ant ***********
Neil Deeker

No it does not

Only health insurance
Graham ******
Graham ******
Ant W Tailor the Non-OA visa and the extension has the same 800k/65lk as the Non-O ;)
Ray ******
Ray ******
Ant W Tailor absolutely correct
Darlene ********************
Darlene ********************
Hi I receive a pension and social security for about 6,000 dollars a month will I qualify for a non O retirement visa with out having 800,000 tb in a bank account
Mick *********
Mick *********
I think if you apply from your own country you need proof of insurance but if your entering on a 90 day non o there is no requirement. I did that last year and very recently and no mention of insurance, however I would advise it. Even if you only get a policy for major illness or accident.
Wayne ********
Wayne ********
If that’s the case, they should reduce the mandatory amount of money that’s required to be held in a Thai bank account because I have always heard that the Thai government says that Money is to be used for medical emergencies if you don’t have insurance.
Charlimo *********
Charlimo *********
@Wayne *******
that's a good one!
John **********
John **********
@Wayne *******
a Non-OA extension inside Thailand requires both insurance and the same financial requirements as a Non-O extension based on retirement
Jim ************
Jim ************
Depends on visa.
Marianne ********
Marianne ********
Who told you that?

Still only Non-OA and subsequent extensions that need the health insurance.
Arve ****************
Arve ****************
Marianne Holmen don't matter who told him.

It's a easy question, who don't need to be answered by a new question.

It's totally irrelevant who said what.
Graham ******
Graham ******
Arve Lufc Pedersen it is very relevant as most of these "I was told" stories originate in a bar over a beer
Marianne ********
Marianne ********
Arve Lufc Pedersen I disagree.

But you are entitled to your opinion.
Khan ********
Khan ********
OP
Marianne Holmen a thai visa agency told me today
Marty *********
Marty *********
@Khan *******
Not required for the O visa. Only required for the OA and LTR visas and a visa agency can’t help you with an OA anyway. You can only get an OA in your home country.
Donald **********
Donald **********
@Khan *******
Don’t believe everything you’re told outwith official channels. I renewed last week and the Immigration literature specifically states that insurance is not required for Non-O, only Non-OA! Why do you keep disputing this?
Marianne ********
Marianne ********
Well, they are wrong. Not a agency I would even consider using.
Paul ***********
Paul ***********
Jakob Raschle No
Ant ***********
Ant ***********
Jakob Raschle

Only for OA

Never for Non-O

Get insurance when you get here ( your choice )
Marianne ********
Marianne ********
Jakob Raschle The 90 day Non-O required a health insurance?
Jakob *********
Jakob *********
Marianne Holmen well I was told that I needed health insurance by the Canberra embassy in Australia when I applied for the non-O, so it depends on the embassy
Peter *********
Peter *********
At which immigration office was this ?
ConfidentP**********
ConfidentP**********
No
Rok ********
Rok ********
Yes True: for Non-OA and Non-OX.
John ********
John ********
Rok Ziherl what's an non-OX?
Steve *********
Steve *********
John Tidona Like OA but gives you a 5 year Visa from memory
Rok ********
Rok ********
Steve Pettman But only available to few countries - a pretty complicated application process if i remember when I was considering it
Peter *******
Peter *******
I saw for over 70s is very expensive a d immigration tightening up on that age and above more so.
Bob **********
Bob **********
Not true only if you apply for an OA visa
Jay ****
Jay ****
BS. Living here on non o and has never been a requirement, only for non oa. Just renewed my extention and still not a requirement nor has there been anything in that post or anywhere else I've seen.
Alison ********
Alison ********
Just got our retirement visas in krabi no insurance needed
Steve **********
Steve **********
the "buzz" on insurance is political. the law says NOT needed... results may vary.
Jesper *********
Jesper *********
I will try to ask again do i need a healthy note from a Doctor when i have health insurance and i will apply for a N-Onon immigration visa please reply back to me
John **********
John **********
Nigel **************
Nigel **************
Not true
Andrew ********
Andrew ********
Apply from overseas you need insurance.

Renew or applying in country no insurance requirements YET!
John ********
John ********
Andrew Murphy you're saying nothing. If you apply for a retirement visa from out of the country on the EVisa site the non-o Visa requires no health insurance & only the OA does.
Paul ********************
Paul ********************
John Tidona because the OA is the retirement visa... A non O can be for multiple things, marriage, holiday etc
Stuart ***********
Stuart ***********
Paul Anthony McDermott non-O and non-OA are both retirement visa options. The non-O is the most popular because there is no mandatory insurance or police checks.
John ********
John ********
Paul Anthony McDermott yes and one of those things is a retirement Visa.
KindWal********
KindWal********
"I was just told" by who?
Sue **********
Sue **********
no, who told you? Non-O doesn’t require health insurance only non-OA
Arve ****************
Arve ****************
Sue Heimchen does your answer depends on "who told him" ?

Why answer whit an irrelevant question ?
Sue **********
Sue **********
Arve Lufc Pedersen no, but as you can read his answer it was an agency who told him what is really interesting as they should know better.
Phil ********
Phil ********
I renewed my non o last month with no mention of health insurance

It’s just a Non O A but I’m sure it will change like everything else changes 🤔
18
Graham ******
Graham ******
Phil Sadler why should it change because the Non-O would then become a 90 day Non-OA so pointless?
Arve ****************
Arve ****************
Phil Sadler it's a visa, not extention.
Greg *****
Greg *****
Phil Sadler renewed Non O Retirement yesterday. No additional requirements.
Gary *******
Gary *******
Phil Sadler same...I renewed non-o last month in Pattaya (Jomtien) and no mention of health insurance.
Sue **********
Sue **********
@Gary ******
you mean the 1 year Extension of stay?
Gary *******
Gary *******
Sue Heimchen yep
BlueLyc*******
BlueLyc*******
Phil Sadler renewed non-O oct 28 in Chiang Rai, no mention of insurance.
George ************
George ************
BlueLychee3932

It will come you watch and see .
Sue **********
Sue **********
BlueLychee3932 you renewed your visa or the 1 year extension of stay? 😉
BlueLyc*******
BlueLyc*******
Sue Heimchen of course
Andy ********
Andy ********
Phil Sadler same here petchubun
Chang ******
Chang ******
I'm 67 years old recent cover cost
*****
thb a year so it's about 4-5000 thb a month , in US 😮

Medicare b is about same amount right $220 a month?
John ********
John ********
Chang Wada if you're in the US you better have more than just part b and here for the premium that you're paying either you have absolutely nothing wrong with you or you have many exclusions on the policy.
Herbert ******
Herbert ******
In my case, if that is another rule. I'll just past on going there and spend my money in other countries.
Anthony ********
Anthony ********
I just had my visa extended for a year all they ask is bank statement till the day you apply past 6 years never asked for a insurance but insurance is a must cause no health benefits here must pay private hospitals and also government

Including 25% extra for a foreigners I know I been to 6 different hospitals as I was thrown 15 meters by a truck waiting on red light and cracked my collar dsic s
Steven ********
Steven ********
Anthony Balzan

Oh, wait there in a minute this is an education. I’m getting here.

Are you trying to tell the people in this comment section that Thai hospitals have to be paid?

Are you trying to get the point across that if we go to Thailand they’re not just gonna treat us for free?

It’s lucky you’re on hand to pass that on because I was totally oblivious. I thought they were linked to the NHS. 
Gwyn ********
Gwyn ********
Steven Hoxton you pay in government hospitals as well as private.
Steven ********
Steven ********
Gwyn Morgan

Noooo!!!! Are you insinuating that Falang have to pay in government hospitals, where Thais also pay? This is an education.

And now you bring this up i actually recall the time in 2021 when I needed a Covid test for a Lao border run, not Vaxed, after the nose investigation I took the paper work to the payment counter and the fantastic clerk said to take the bill back to the nurses. They’d just marked the test x2 so that I would pay double. So yes I can confirm that government’Long Baan’s’ do charge everyone.
Reg ***********
Reg ***********
Gwyn Morgan yes you do but they work out cheaper than the nhs for certain things if you are below 60

I've just had an ear infection total cost for doctors consultation, a course of antibiotics, painkillers and ear drops 250baht equivalent to 6 pounds

What would 3 prescription items cost in the uk
Reg ***********
Reg ***********
Anthony Balzan I've just had cataract surgery at a government hospital

I paid the same as a thai
*****
baht
Charlimo *********
Charlimo *********
Reg Wilkinson May I ask where you did the surgery ? I soon need one as well. Thank you
Reg ***********
Reg ***********
Charlimo Sawadee
Reg ***********
Reg ***********
Charlimo Sawadee makarak hospital tha maka kanchanaburi

It was about 1500 baht for the pre checks then
*****
for the operation including one nights stay in a private room

I know it was the same as the thai price because when I paid 2 thai women paid the same

My Australian mate paid 280,000 in a private hospital for both eyes and is still having trouble with one of them ,im happy to help if you want me to enquire at the hospital for you
Sue **********
Sue **********
Anthony Balzan he is not asking about the EoS only for the visa
Jesper *********
Jesper *********
What about N-O non immigration 1 year Visa
Paul ********************
Paul ********************
Jesper Poulsen you mean the extension of stay for retirement which is not visa... 🙄
Jesper *********
Jesper *********
Paul Anthony McDermott i whant that Visa there gives 90 days and i can go and get 90 days more
Marianne ********
Marianne ********
Jesper Poulsen you can't get just 90 days more. It's a year or 60 days if you have Thai wife or kids and the family relationship is registered in Thailand.
Paul ********************
Paul ********************
Jesper Poulsen that's not a retirement visa then..
David *******
David *******
A flat rate 1000 baht per arrival I've suggested several times before.

Regardless of stay length.

30 million people a year.

Many would not use it.

30 billion isn't to be sneezed at.

555
Bernard *********
Bernard *********
A real one is really expensive. If you are over 80, it's quite impossible...
*****
thb a month for me with preexisting heavy health issued but 100%.
Steve ******
Steve ******
Bernard Rouhaud Try unavailable to anyone over 75
Bernard *********
Bernard *********
Steve Tate just what I said... I am lucky to be french with our healthcare system ...
Daniel *******
Daniel *******
Bernard Rouhaud the OP was about immigration issues. If you want to know about what insurance to buy, start your own post
Bernard *********
Bernard *********
Daniel Wolfe dont understand what you mean I dont need insurance I got a good one !
Rodney *******
Rodney *******
Bernard Rouhaud Good afternoon Could you kindly tell me what healthcare provider you have and the agent to contact...😉🙏
Bernard *********
Bernard *********
Rodney Brown my health care is french but just for french living abroad...
Daniel *******
Daniel *******
Bernard Rouhaud It's entirely dependent upon the immigration office what they are willing to accept as proof of insurance. I've extended my O-A for 5 years running using a ฿7k policy from CHUBB. Far below the stated mandatory minimum, but they don't seem to care..
Bernard *********
Bernard *********
Daniel Wolfe i dont mind how much you pay, I just want to know if to morrow they will pay a 3.2 millions bahts fees !
Bernard *********
Bernard *********
Daniel Wolfe price of insurance doesnt depend on immigration issues !
Christian ********
Christian ********
Bernard Rouhaud it depends. axa with 300.000 baht you pay first is cheap. your only risk is the 300.000 but i think this is ok. you pay about 79 euro a month and is garanted for the visa.
Bernard *********
Bernard *********
Christian Vogler a cheap insurance couldnt be a good one. My next surgerie will cost 3.2 millions bahts, dont think your insurance will accept to pay the bill with such a ridiculous amount....
Christian ********
Christian ********
Bernard Rouhaud yes covert 4 Mio like the restriction of the goverment say.
Ant ***********
Ant ***********
I think it’s a BS

Post

Poster looking for likes and followers
20
Arve ****************
Arve ****************
Ant W Tailor well.

Likes and followers will gaine this group, not poster.
Ant ***********
Ant ***********
Arve Lufc Pedersen

No

You are missing the point

The poster wants people to click on his profile & follow him
Khan ********
Khan ********
OP
Ant W Tailor relax colonizer. I was told this by a visa agency
Steven ********
Steven ********
@Khan *******
Coloniser? You really have got inferiority complex there lad. Are you from England? Do you fancy swapping that British passport for a Pakistan/Indian version.
Malcolm *******
Malcolm *******
You only need health insurance for an O.A visa . No change .
10
Alan **********
Alan **********
Malcolm Pogue For NOW. But there's already discussion about TOURISTS having mandatory health insurance, never mind retirees.
Andy **********
Andy **********
Alan Rothwell Non immigrant visas anr NOT tourist visas
Potpon******
Potpon******
Interesting

There is no official change but maybe the immigration office you’re going through has decided to enforce it for all retirement visas
John ********
John ********
Potpong_Life

NON- Immigrant O-A Health Insurance

NON- Immigrant O

(No health Insurance)

This is “enforced” everywhere!
Proficient**********
Proficient**********
Funny the admin removed my comment but left all the crap from potpong nonce. Just boot me now if you dont like the truth
Potpon******
Potpon******
ProficientTurtle7614 o speak truth

The truth is the truth and the truth hurts people

Deal with it
Proficient**********
Proficient**********
Potpong_Life bellend..
Potpon******
Potpon******
ProficientTurtle7614

The truth is the truth TiT deal with it
Potpon******
Potpon******
John Robert is it or did a regulation get dropped or a new section chief get promoted and this is their standing order
John ********
John ********
Potpong_Life “enforce it”

So it’s not “enforced” now or something?
Potpon******
Potpon******
John Robert each immigration office has its own rules they enforce

It’s disjointed at best or just TiT
Khan ********
Khan ********
OP
Potpong_Life a visa agency told me today
Kev *********
Kev *********
@Khan *******
they may just be trying to sell it to you for commission
John ********
John ********
@Khan *******
I don't believe you
Potpon******
Potpon******
John Tidona obviously you have never dealt with Thai immigration

Most people say this before they get defeated and realize TiT is real
Potpon******
Potpon******
@Khan *******
check with a second visa agency to just make sure
Paul ********************
Paul ********************
@Khan *******
go back as ask them again..
Paul ********************
Paul ********************
Potpong_Life well that's fine as an extension of stay for retirement is not a visa anyway... 👍
Potpon******
Potpon******
Paul Anthony McDermott

TiT 🤣🤣
Potpon******
Potpon******
moo_daeng_is_here yep my name is a sign 🤣🤣
moo_daen*********
moo_daen*********
Potpong_Life nomen est omen
John ********
John ********
Potpong_Life as much as it seems that they make up much of their own rules I don't believe that they would do that
Potpon******
Potpon******
John Tidona TiT
Potpon******
Potpon******
John Tidona

I understand you’re a rookie when dealing with immigration so you want to huff and puff to look smart

When in reality it’s just TiT…it’s thats simple
John ********
John ********
Potpong_Life try using your words
Christian ********
Christian ********
Potpong_Life why should he do that. even on the offical imigration side you can read that you not need this. When it is in the power to the officer to change the rule he also can say you need 2 Mio in a bank account.
Potpon******
Potpon******
Christian Vogler each immigration office has its own protocols that they enforce

TiT deal with it
Potpon******
Potpon******
Christian Vogler

Wow you have finally received your PHD in Thai immigration policies

Dr Volger I commend you
Potpon******
Potpon******
Ulf Öberg no

Actually I’m that smart to understand the Thai immigration hierarchy and the disjointed system they use

You on the other are not only stupid but naive to think otherwise

That’s facts
Ulf *******
Ulf *******
Potpong_Life Are you that stupid?
Christian ********
Christian ********
Potpong_Life ok. so one officer say you need 2 mio, the other 5 Mio, the next say you need 2 bankaccounts and you have to earn 200.000 every month. and all is legal because the officer makes the law ?
Steven ********
Steven ********
Potpong_Life your such a 6ick
Paul ********************
Paul ********************
No it's only the O-A
11
Christian ********
Christian ********
Paul Anthony McDermott
Paul ********************
Paul ********************
Christian Martin yes that's an O-A visa aka the retirement visa

An extension of stay for retirement which is another route, which is not a visa does not require medical insurance, however one would be postively mad not to have some form of medical insurance

To summarize

O-A visa = retirement visa = requires medical insurance

Annual extension of stay for retirement = not visa = no medical insurance required but highly recommend

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