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Should I apply for a retirement visa before traveling or after returning to Thailand on a tourist visa?

Visa Types Retirement Visa Non-O Visa Thai Immigration Bank Account Requirements Tourist Visa Expat Life in Thailand

Sep 9, 2025

4 days ago

Michael ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi All

I'm finishing up working in Thailand, so my non-imm B visa will be cancelled.

I plan to travel for a few months then come back for retirement.

Wondering if it is easier/better to come back on a tourist visa and do the retirement visa process, or sort it out before travelling?

Also, most of my Thailand funds are in stock and crypto, are those account balances accepted for the 800k, or will I need to take some out and deposit it in a regular bank?

Thanks in advance for responses 🙏

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user plans to leave Thailand after their non-immigrant B visa is canceled and is considering whether to apply for a retirement visa before traveling or upon returning on a tourist visa. The community advises that it's typically easier to process a retirement Non-O visa before traveling to simplify opening a Thai bank account and avoid immigration visits. Additionally, it is noted that funds held in stocks and cryptocurrencies are not acceptable for the required 800,000 THB; the user must deposit this amount into a Thai bank account.

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.
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Michael ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks everyone for your responses. Very helpful.

4 days ago

Jesper *******

Assuming you already have a bank acct since u have worked in thailand just deposit 800k into the acct and apply for your 90days nonO in thailand

4 days ago

James **************

Before traveling if you wanna DIY due to recent bank account opening issues. No, u need 800k in a Thai bank.

4 days ago

Shane *********

You'll need an account, and don't use Bangkok Bank. My primary bank and all sorts of issues! Any other bank! Krungthai, Kasikorn.....

4 days ago

Stuart *********

The reason many get a “retirement” Non O before coming is because it’s way easier to open a Thai bank account (and saves one visit to immigration).

If you already have that then no issue applying for the Non O in country

4 days ago

Stuart *********

Stock and crypto are not accepted. It’s cash in a Thai bank account only that is.

4 days ago

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Stuart *********

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