How far in advance do I need to apply for a retirement visa to move to Thailand in September?

Apr 13, 2024
8 months ago
Chuck ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello, I am hoping for some information. I plan on moving to Thailand in September. How far in advance do I need to apply for a retirement evisa?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The timing for applying for a retirement visa in Thailand varies depending on the type of visa. For a Non-O visa, applicants can apply anytime between 90 days and a month before their trip. The Non-OA visa, which is valid for a year, should ideally be applied for right before the trip, allowing enough time for processing. It's also advisable to experience Thailand on a tourist visa for a couple of months before moving permanently.
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.
Todd *********
There is no such things as retirement evisa
Gordon *******
Have you been on to Thailand longer than 2 or 3 weeks?
Henrik *****
Before moving you should try to stay a long period (ex. 60 days touristvisa + 30 extension at least) in Thailand, since the dreamscenario based on a few weeks holiday, may be far from what everyday life is.
Brandon ************
Depends on which retirement visa you'll be applying for.

A non-O visa is valid for entering Thailand for 90 days from the day it's issued. So you can apply any point between 90 days before your trip up until about a month before to be safe.

A non-OA is valid for a year and if you want to maximize your time with it, you'd want to apply as close as possible to your trip while still giving yourself enough time for the visa to be issued before you leave. But the validity of the visa starts ticking the day it's issued.
Chuck ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
thanks Brandon, just a follow up question. Can I apply for my non- OA retirement e-visa after I arrive?
Brandon ************
@Chuck ***********
No. You can only apply for an OA in your home country. You can only use evisa if you are physically in a country that supports it. Otherwise you apply in person. E-visa hasn't changed the rules about applying for a visa that you apply where you are at physically.
Frank **********
Check the Thai Embassy website in your country.
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