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What are the best long-term visa options for a 39-year-old U.S. Military Veteran with a monthly pension living in Thailand?
Thai Visa OptionsLong-Term Stay in ThailandMilitary Veteran VisaEducation VisaElite VisaRetirement VisaLiving in Thailand as an ExpatThai Immigration LawsMedical Disability VisaThailand Expat Community
Sep 10, 2022
4 years ago
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERI'm a U.S. Retired Military Veteran. Full pension $4,400 per month. However I am only 39. I am wondering is the best way for me to stay there long-term, like indefinitely. Very frustrated that my pension is worth several million long-term net worth, but ageism.
TLDR : Answer Summary
A retired 39-year-old U.S. military veteran with a monthly pension of $4,400 seeks long-term options to stay in Thailand. The best suggestions from the community include options like obtaining the Elite Visa, which allows for a 5 or 10-year stay, or looking into an Education Visa through language schools or programs, which can provide a year or more of legal residence. Other suggestions include obtaining a spousal visa through marriage, enrolling a child in school, or even considering a work visa. However, the veteran expresses frustration over ageism in visa regulations, as the standard retirement visa requires the individual to be at least 50 years old.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
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Maple *********
I just wonder you can´t grow cannabis. And I think it´s better step by step. Just wait I heard Thai goverment they will have more type of visa long term for 10 y and it´s possible if you have statement of100,000$ in 1 year on you bank account. marriage for visa it´s not good idea.
Karim ***************
@Maple ********
farang cannot do any kind of farming… So he cannot grow. He can open a dispensary, if he wants to sell cannabis.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Karim **************
Do you think that would likely bring any problems with the locals or the place that's what someone was trying to insinuate on here. Thanks. Also it sounds like I would need to hire 4 Thai people in order to open a business there..BlessingsKarim ***************
@Charles *********
with a normal business, yes you would need to employ 4 Thai workers. It’s only with the new LT visa that the 4 Thai workers stipulation is not compulsory. I have a friend who owns a bar and within that bar, he has a dispensary. No one has any issue with him selling cannabis products. It’s based in Chiang Mai, where locals and farangs live in harmony. If you were to open something in an area where Thai mafia were previously selling cannabis, for example (most places in the south), Ao Nang, Samui, you may face some issues from the locals.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Karim **************
The thing is I'm 39..I don't have a ton of upfront capital. $4,800 Net month retirement pension per month. Too young for the retirement Visa there. ANY suggestions in my case. I've tried email an Visa immigration firm and they seem like they're not gonna say much until I pay a consultation fee I would at least like to know exactly how that could help me before doing that thank you so muchReply to
Charles **********
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Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Maple ********
I'm 39 not 50.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERI'm not a liquid millionaire. $4,800 net per month.
Maple *********
@Charles *********
yes I know you’re 39. I not talk about retirement visa. I talk about new types it’s look like visa for high wealth.Reply to
Maple *********
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Mark ******
Your military background counts for absolutely nothing with respect to a Thai visa. There is absolutely no way you will get a Retirement Visa before you turn 50. Farming is out, marriage is a possibility, but a "marriage of convenience" is no more a good idea in Thailand than it would be to someone wanting to settle in the US. Your best bet in the circumstances would seem to be the Elite Visa
****************************************
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Nick ********
How difficult is it to start a business there? How expensive is it I don't know if you saw the part of my post where I mentioned that I'm on a medical disability retirement that's my main focus. However I appreciate the thought. I thought about maybe doing a small cannabis enterprise and just being a grower. Don't know if you think that'll be problematic or difficult for an expat right now. I seem some things online..However I think a lot of people are not necessarily filing or try to do it as a formal business enterprise. I'd be happy to just grown for myself for personal health reasons. I've been that juicing the plant would really help me with a few health conditions I have. ThanksNick *********
@Charles *********
you need to speak to a lawyer bKarim ***************
@Charles *********
there are many jobs that foreigners cannot do and farming is one of them. Growing cannabis would fall under that. Opening a coffee shop, doable. But who knows what Thais will do with cannabis laws… They might totally change next year.Nick *********
@Charles *********
I blocked Steve you should to . he is an azzholeKarim ***************
@Nick ********
I can’t see anywhere in his comments where he is saying anything bad. What has he said that offends you Nick?Nick *********
@Karim **************
instead of making his own comments he always has to but into other peoples conversations with his know it all attitude . I was not speaking to him . if he wanted to tell everyone how smart he is he can do it on his own comments , he won't be butting into my conversation's again . most of what he says is redundant anyway .Reply to
Nick *********
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Steve ********
@Charles *********
My advice is if you are genuinely looking for a wife, wait until you get here. The internet is full of scammers, and it's difficult to weed out the genuine ones. If you're in the country you can still make the intro on the internet, but at least you can meet them in person and suss them out before you start putting your hand into your pocket! If you get the METV, you'll get almost nine months here anyway, with two strategic border bounces, which will give you time to check the lay of the landSteve ********
@Charles *********
Many immigration obstacles can be by-passed by paying under the table, this is usually not having to show large sums of money in bank accounts with the help of "friendly" bank officers and a friendly immigration officer. There has been a crackdown in recent months on bogus education and volunteer visas, which are now no longer available. But no-one has been able to massage a date if birth, so unless you can get a passport which shows a different date of birth, you're stuck with your present age. And by the way, it's a lot more than a couple of hundred bucks! The Elite Visa program is run by the government and is very lucrative for them, so they're not likely to offer "Elite-style" visas at a fraction of the cost of the real one. They have the mindset that if someone retires before 50, it means they've got stacks of money. Nothing will change that mindset. I've been in Thailand for 15 years full time, and around 20 all up. I started on the Elite for the same reason, because I couldn't be bothered with all the immigration shit if trying to stay in the country. I worked out it was around $10 a day, so it seemed to make sense to meCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Steve *******
Thank you so much for the information I greatly appreciate it so you have any idea on if there's any chance at all of me finding a sincere woman that's looking for a legitimate marriage and not a sham or a hoax cat catfish type situation if I look online or would I really have to wait until I actually get there in personCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERI would not mind getting married and I actually prefer it
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Charles **********
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Steve ********
@Charles *********
Before you look at this option, keep in mind you will need to employ four Thai people and pay them a defined monthly salary (not sure what it is but it might be 20,000 baht), and also pay their social security payments. So you might be looking at 100,000 baht income per month to justify the business.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Steve *******
Thank you yeah I'm not doing that so do you think there are any chance at all that any of the immigration officials could be convinced into using some type of discretion to offer me a retirement Visa since I'm retired military I know I posted this before and some people were a bit rude about it but in all honesty maybe regular civilians are ungrateful unpatriotic US citizens that are snarky don't care what Thailand has done military operations with the US I've read about it they've done joint operations and I'm wondering if there's any chance to get a retirement Visa before 50 like someone else said it sounds like they have a non O retirement Visa or something to that effect and I feel like they probably have a chance to use their discretion if they really wanted to It seems like most people are going to say no.. However it seems one of the person here thinks hes heard of such a thing and I feel like I heard an attorney drops hands about that as well and sometimes the immigration officers using discretion sorry if this is repetitive I'm using text to speech while trying to cook dinnerSteve ********
@Charles *********
@Charles *********
Irrespective of what anyone has said in this thread, you cannot get a retirement visa until you are 50. You will find out in time that "empathy" and "sympathy" are not words familiar with Thai immigration. Whereas officers do have limited discretion, to bend the rules to that degree is a no-no. Realistically your only options to stay long-term without perpetual border bounces and visa runs is either Elite Visa or ED visa doing a university degree which you can probably stretch to four years.Steve ********
Or get married of course!
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Steve *******
Thanks. I see there's a few Christian churches there. I realize it's a Buddhist country and I don't have any prejudice in my heart or anything like that. However I'm wondering how difficult is it going to be to find someone that speaks English and is open to judeo-christian mindset. Anyways I appreciate the feedback so even if I get a fancy lawyer you don't think they'll be able to convince the immigration officials to budge. I have a veterans disability attorney they kind of half jokingly said I could just plop a couple hundred bucks down on the table and see how that goes, with the disclaimer that he wasn't actually advising me to do that lol. Appreciate the feedback because I'm tryteal hard to not end up in legal hot water etc. One of the big draws pulling me there was the new legalization with cannabis and I also thought finding a foreign wife might make things a lot easier for me. Maybe I need to look at some other country for a whileReply to
Charles **********
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Aaron *************
I think most expats here have dealt with this. I know a local agent with reasonable prices who could help you find solid options. Feel free to PM me and I’ll connect you.
And thank you for your service!
And thank you for your service!
Nick *********
Don't think about forever , Thai immigration law changes with the wind . try to get a job or start a business .
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Nick ********
I am on a medical Disability Pension right now and I'm quite frankly dealing with a lot of Health matters that are taking up the majority of my time if I did pursue anything at all in a business standpoint it would possibly be trying to be a small medical cannabis grower I'm not sure if you have any idea though if that would be very expensive to try to get going with the business license and everything else and for my understanding even if you do own a business you have to be less than a 50% owner I wonder how viable you think this is for someone that doesn't have a ton of startup capital I feel like in some ways a cannabis business could be low startup depending on what type of scale you're trying to do it at I pretty much feel like I have enough on a monthly basis to get by but not a ton of working capital outfront is what I'm trying to say and I'm not really trying to make a bunch of money or deal with that my health is way more priority right now but I'd love to find a way to stay there without too much hassle or stress or expense I've been trying to reach out to an immigration online the post videos online Integrity legal for the past few months and haven't been able to get through to the right peopleReply to
Charles **********
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Rob ******
Girlfriend wife .
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Rob *****
Yes absolutely. One of the main reasons I was considering going there. However I don't want to have a forced or sham relationship. I have developed the conclusion that pretty much all the dating sites are worthless unless you know of any decent ones. I feel like my only opportunity to find someone decent is I'm going to have to get there in person and I'm a little bit concerned about the language barrier as well. I could get better options as the veteran with healthcare in the Philippines for sure and I know English is more common there but they have absolutely no cannabis protections whatsoever even though they're supposed to have a compassionate drug use act it's basically defunct from the sounds of it.Rob ******
@Charles *********
Go shopping in supermarkets .Bank staff and police plus hi so are the most likely good language and society women . Don't aim young , go for your own age its not drama . Many rich indep women in Bangkok .
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Rob *****
some people have been telling me to go to Chiang Mai to avoid the bar scene and things like that and because I've expressed interest in organic food but from my understanding they have organic import food in Bangkok and they also probably speak a little bit more English there the one thing that I'm uncertain about and I really don't know because I haven't been there yet is the air quality because I am pretty respiratory challenged for example I could not handle more than an hour or so time in Pittsburgh and I had to get the hell out of there because of all the air pollution. I actually could handle LA 10 times better except for when I got near the refineries and whatever.Reply to
Charles **********
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Terary **********
I did visa runs for several years. Once got stopped by immigration officer. They told me it's best to stay way a couple of weeks each time.
Your other options are all a pain but maybe worth it.
You can:
- study (ED visa)
- get a job (teach or scuba)
- get married
- adopt
- buy elite
There have been some promises of other visas that do not look appealing.
I came here I was 39 have very little interest in leave, except for travelling.
Your other options are all a pain but maybe worth it.
You can:
- study (ED visa)
- get a job (teach or scuba)
- get married
- adopt
- buy elite
There have been some promises of other visas that do not look appealing.
I came here I was 39 have very little interest in leave, except for travelling.
Joe *****
@Terary *********
How much did you Pay $$$$ in total to stay away for a Couple weeks ??Terary **********
@Joe ****
Its about the same cost as a Elite visa factored over time. You can live in a cardboard box for next to nothing if you want to save money.Also you can live in a cardboard box in Thailand and bring the same box with you wherever you travel avoiding the 'two househould' issue.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Terary *********
well okay how about this just for argument's sake if someone's on a medical retirement and on a pension wouldn't it be a lot less expensive for them to volunteer or do the education track if they have the time for either and are not heavily pressed for time?Terary **********
@Charles *********
I don't recommend volunteer visa. It's kinda made people into pariahs. An IO told me once the ed visas for older folks aren't a great option either. It maybe good for single use but for several years maybe not the best option.
But if I were in the situation - I would try either.
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Terary **********
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Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Joe ****
Exactly that's not what I want to be doing and paying to maint rent / housing costs in two different areas simultaneously.Reply to
Charles **********
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Jo **********
i thought of one thing that was mentioned earlier with the Dollar being extremely strong against the Thai baht i would consider a 5 year elite visa the cost would be about 16,500 USD.
Sam *******
Education visa, volunteer visa. Thai elite visa. With that money you could probably afford one
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Sam ******
4.400 USD per month.Reply to
Charles **********
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Anjli ***********
I haven’t read all the posts here but an education visa is a great one. For a year learning Thai and then keep renewing on some other education after 5 years, I think… not sure of the limits but I think you can renew and if that runs out, change to another education visa.
We are in Chiang Mai and I have that visa with Lanna Language School with the Assist Thai Visa company. Both have been really good. They work in partnership.
We are in Chiang Mai and I have that visa with Lanna Language School with the Assist Thai Visa company. Both have been really good. They work in partnership.
John **********
@Anjli **********
to get 5 years out of it you need to be at universityNewton **********
@Anjli **********
Hi,can you work with an education visa?Eric *******
@Newton *********
No, you absolutely can't work with an education visa.Newton **********
@Eric ******
Thank youReply to
Newton **********
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Anjli ***********
@Newton *********
as John said… unfortunately, you can’t.John **********
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John **********
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Anjli ***********
By the way, you will love it here! I hope you find the solution you’re looking for. Good luck and thank you for your service. 🙏
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Anjli ***********
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Marc *******
Check about the "retirement visa". Some cases in the past got it without being 50 years old.
Al ********
@Marc ******
yes trueJohn **********
@Marc ******
it's not a retirement visa, it's a visa based on being over 50. It's not officially known as a retirement visaMarc *******
@John *********
As I wrote allready. Some ppl got it without being 50. Thats the key info. And if you look, for example, at the Thai Embassy hompage Berlin it's called "Non O RETIREMENT". But what's the officially Embassy knows compare to you.Anyway thanks for your input.🤣
John **********
@Marc ******
it really makes no difference what the embassy calls it. It's a common name for it. The fact is it has nothing to do with retirement, it's completely age related. You can retire at 40 but you for sure aren't getting a visa based on being 50Marc *******
@John *********
You said it's not officially known. And i showed you ITS officially known. And some ppl got it under 50. Are you able to read? I don't waste more time with you now.Steve ********
@Marc ******
Can't get it under 50. Easy to say that, but cannot be doneReply to
Steve ********
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Jeff *********
Just marry a beautiful Thai girl 😊
Serge **********
@Jeff ********
that becomes also expensive.Jeff *********
@Serge *********
oh yes it sure does! lolReply to
Jeff *********
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Otto *********
@Jeff ********
Oops, no, never marry a local person for the purpose of obtaining a visa...Reply to
Otto *********
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Gray ******
Use the GI bill for college, many colleges assist with an education visa
Danny *******
Why Thailand? How about Mexico or somewhere else in Central America?
Ryan ***********
@Danny ******
Mexico is a shítholeDanny *******
@Ryan **********
Not most of it; besides, parts of Thailand are shitholes too.Ryan ***********
@Danny ******
Yeah you don’t have to worry about drug cartels here and locals robbing and killing you unlike MexicoDanny *******
@Ryan **********
Well, you might “fall” off a high rise balcony though. 😮Ryan ***********
@Danny ******
you mean a angry Thai woman might push you off of one 😂Danny *******
@Ryan **********
That’s one way.Reply to
Danny *******
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Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Danny ******
the recent change in cannabis laws and due to the sheer size of Bangkok I have better odds at finding import grocery stores that will cater to the organic diet that I'm trying to follow sadly many people are under the illusion that all the food in South and Central America is organically grown and naturally grown in this absolutely is not the case the only stores that have stuff like that that is legit organic or almost always imported it and that means a very large city. The one other place that I thought about maybe was in Columbia,. Medellin.. I thought Thailand might be a bit safer than some of these places Malaysia might be opening up their medical cannabis Market here in the near future however that's yet to be determined.Jo **********
some of my friends who were in the military and in a similar situation stayed for your years doing border bounces or visa runs. you can fly cheaply to Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia and Singapore
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Jo *********
thank you I thought they got kind of upset with that when they saw the people were doing that to try to stay there and definitelyJo **********
@Charles *********
it’s not optimal and it’s better to get a long term visa. But avoid volunteer visas as they can cause problems in the long term. Best is to initially get a long term tourist visa to start with, see where you want to live and learn a bit.Reply to
Jo **********
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AliJames *****
@Charles *********
I live in Bangkok, you could find some places that would cater to you, but you'd be best off living in a place like Pattaya or Phuket where all the expat stores are. Also central Bangkok is good for expats, but outside the central hub, you'd need good Thai language skills. Phuket and Pattaya you won't need to worry about that.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James ****
I honestly think for my research that Bangkok is going to have more opportunity for organic food options I may be wrong though. I'm also trying to get a clear handle on if an individual expat can grow cannabis for personal cultivation for medical reasons I'm not talking about in a commercial sense it seems that information on this as far as I even tried to ask on a page that's devoted to cannabis and not a single person gave me an answer which was really upsetting a bunch of expats that couldn't even write a simple yes or noJo **********
@Charles *********
the best organic options are in Chiang Mai. This is a large city but it’s the type of expat community there. Basically in the North it’s not a sexpat crowd like in the south but the more health conscious nature lovers. And beautiful mountains up there.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Jo *********
I'm super intolerant to cold weather which is why I'm trying to move there anything below 70° gives me problems so I'm not quite sure how cold it gets there up in the mountains and also is English proficiency going to drop down a lot I'm definitely not looking for sex tourism I'm actually looking for and trying to find a wife. Hopefully there's English speaking doctors there thank you so muchJo **********
@Charles *********
yes understand you very well. The winter in Chiang Mai can get down to 50-55 but that’s only December and early January. If your looking for a wife the best place is the far North. More family oriented people, the Lanna cultureCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Jo *********
I'm presuming it only dips that cold in the evening time as long as it's up close to 70 during the daytime or more I should be fineJo **********
@Charles *********
in the daytime it’s always 80 -87 ,,, everyday with extreme exceptionsAliJames *****
@Charles *********
A quick google search answered your questions. You can cultivate it at home but you'd need to register first. Also you must only use it for home use and not smoke in public as it comes with a jail sentence if they catch you.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James ****
Is that a specific reference to foreigners or for locals I have Google searched I'm asking about someone who is there on a Visa it's a given that the Thais can do this.AliJames *****
@Charles *********
Visitors coming for ganja therapy must first obtain a license from the FDA to “import, export and possess” the necessary amounts of marijuana prescribed for treatment.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James ****
I'm asking specifically about cultivation not importing or exporting I think you're talking about people that are doing this more from a commercial business standpoint I was specific about mentioning just for individual medical use. Thanks. So it sounds like perhaps what the doctors recommendation you can grow there even if you're a foreignerAliJames *****
@Charles *********
What I'm saying is that foreigners are excluded from the new laws, but for someone like you who needs it for medical treatment you'd need to obtain a licence from the FDA. Cultivating for personal use in my book means possess. But you can ask about it when you get your licence. IF not, no big deal you can just buy from a shop.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@James ****
well it kind of is a big deal so I'll have to keep researching because I need to be able to juice full plants Raw for particular health issues. Thanks. No dispensary is going to be selling full plants like that or it won't be likely and I'm not sure it might be pretty risky for me to try to buy it outside of a dispensary not having the right connections there are knowing peopleReply to
Charles **********
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Bill **************
Nice situation to be in enjoy life today tomorrow may never come....good luck my friend
John ******
I'm excited for you bro. That money is gonna' help you live like a king here. I make only a fraction of that and I count my blessings every day. Stay positive and you'll have a great life! 😀😀😀
John ******
No problem Charles. I've been teaching in Thailand for the past 12 years on a work visa. I just now got a retirement visa because I am 50. Just keep asking around and you'll get all the info you need. Incidentally, I just heard that Thailand is now allowing foreigners to own property for the first time. Good luck to you brother. 😀
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *****
Seriously like actual property or condos is this something that's extremely recent?John ******
@Charles *********
Yes. Actual property, not just condos and it is VERY recent. Some Thais are not happy about this of course. 😄Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *****
It has to be more than 1 million dollar investment apparently. It could be worse for our Thai friends. They could be suffering even worse like the poor (rich people) in Martha's Vineyard who had immigration reality slap them in the face for few microseconds recently. lolJohn ******
@Charles *********
Oh, I see. They want to attract only big business I suppose. Who's got a million dollars? 😂😂😂Reply to
John ******
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Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *****
Thanks less than a handful of people here have been this courteous. Quite a few offered some decent helpful advice a few thank my for my service and quite a few other ones were outright confrontational and nasty God only knows why. If it isn't too personal can I ask how you've managed to stay there long-term or anything that you care to share about that.Reply to
Charles **********
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Kimberly *******
The new 10 year visa requires 80K USD a year in income. I really like the thai elite visa. Pay and be done with the headache of visa worry.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kimberly ******
for 17,000 or $28,000?Kimberly *******
@Charles *********
The 5 year was 500,000. It may have gone up in price but should be able to negotiate??? I wouldn't negotiate in USD- it takes the head out of the reality of the local economics, After 5 years, they were running a program to add an additional 15 years for 500,000. However there are some who opt for 10 or 20 year up front-- I think 1 million and 2 million. If you need a contact, I can refer you direct to the corporate office with no middle man. I am not an agent, just happy with no visa worries. Immigration gives a little nicer attention too. I had a lovely welcoming at the airport and they handled everything with immigration. Sometimes they make appointments or help with communication. I do check in every 90 days and have to report when changing house, but I'm very happy to pay without worry about what is happening next. I'm over 50 now, and considering a renewal. No thinking about needing a thai spouse, providing account info, no insurance issues, making up fake business, lawyer schemes, schools that go under or re-entry issues/extortion, no buying condo issues, etc..... There are issues living here long term, it is good to keep a clear head while investigating. It takes a long time to get to know the issues and if the compromises are acceptable.Karim ***************
@Kimberly ******
it’s 600k (baht), for 5 year now.Reply to
Karim ***************
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Brandon ************
@Charles *********
different prices for different durationsReply to
Brandon ************
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Don *********
Try ltr.boi.go.th - new 10 year visas that started from Sept 1st. Just THB50k for 10 years if approved
Kool *******
@Don ********
do not overlook the financial asset requirement. The visa itself is only bt50k, but the required assets is US$1,000,000Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
Wondering if there's any legitimate foreign dating services if I want to legit authentic marriage.Kool *******
@Charles *********
there are, but they get expensive, and there are more scams than ligitimate sites. Before I moved here I used Thaifriendly dating site. About half are actually honest lonely women looking to get married, but the other half are prostitutes. You just have to use some street smarts, and filter those that contact you down to a manageable number to meet once you get here. Make a good profile, with pictures, and just stay on the site. Don't try contacting women first. Let them contact you, and they will, lots of them. Over a six month period before I moved here, I narrowed down a list of 62, down to just five that I actually met after I got here. The first one I chose didn't work out after 4 years so I didn't marry her, but the second one I met from that site did work out, and we've been happily married now for 6 years. It is a free site, with a limit on the time between free messaging. With the paid option you get unlimited messaging, but, for the free option after just a few messages with someone you move to Facebook messaging, or talking on the Line app, as most everyone in Thailand used the Line app. Understand that for a marriage visa extension for the first year you will need bt400,000 in a Thai bank account in your name only for at least two months. Then you can set up your pensions to be transferred directly into your Thai bank account, and Bangkok Bank works the best, because after 12 months of monthly deposits from overseas sources of at least bt40,000 a month you qualify for that financial requirement instead of the bt400,000 method. Something to keep in mind if you intend for a marriage to last long term, is stay away from the ones that work in bars. Lots of women that work in ligitimate jobs don't go to bars to meet people. They use dating sites, with Thaifriendly the most popular. Good luck. You can message me with questions if you want. I am disabled and am knowledgeable about Bangkok, and visa requirements. If you can drive a motorbike it makes it so much nicer living in Bangkok, and being disabled.
Reply to
Kool *******
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Don *********
@Kool ******
there are 4 categories for this Visa - I was referring to the Wealthy Retiree category, but our friend Charles will need to wait a while to qualify...Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Don ********
Thanks friend somebody tell the friend Bonnie that I may not have too much money necessarily and that's a subjective opinion based on how scorned someone is apparently.Don *********
@Charles *********
you've done your hard yards buddy, now it's your time to come to paradise and enjoy. Worst case you can pay for an overpriced Elite visa but I am sure there are other options listed above that will be more economical. Where are you planning to live ?Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Don ********
Probably Bangkok because of how much options they have for organic food I'm just hoping that I don't have serious breathing problems because of air pollution I will say that I've been able to handle being in LA even as long as I wasn't close to the oil refineries. I'll put it to you like this I don't know if you've ever been around Pittsburgh but that's also a place that I absolutely could not wait to get out of town I lost there for like an hour or so and had to leave immediately and I made a special trip like I was trying to go there to get some help with some medical treatment but the air quality was way too difficult for me to handle.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Don ********
is this the one that's like 17,000 in US Dollars I'm definitely not paying that much no way JoseDave *********
@Charles *********
until u attain the age of 50 you can’t use the L”Wealthy Pensioner “ category.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dave ********
so my income is more than $40,000 US dollars per year for sure so basically I could just purchase a condo for 250k?.Dave *********
@Charles *********
Yes. $250k USD or more. When u become 50.Don *********
@Charles *********
and be 50 years oldCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Don ********
I know some of the Visas have a 50-year-old requirement but the screenshot you something doesn't say anything about it so I just want to be clearReply to
Charles **********
Reply
Dave *********
@Charles *********
plus, since u r not 50 you would still need to invest $500k in Thailand, plus a net worth of $1M AND $80k annually. It won’t work in your situation.Don *********
Ah sorry mate I had a look: you would qualify if you were 50 and invested USD250k in Thai property. Maybe become a student for the next 11 years :)
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERReply to
Charles **********
Reply
Dave *********
@Charles *********
that’s not how it works. Net worth is based on current worth. You would need to show bank statements showing deposits, IRA deposits, Real Estate appraisals, etc totaling $1,000,000. Future earnings won’t be considered Net Worth. If u died tomorrow what would be your net worth today? They will NOT count future earnings as a basis for Net Worth.
Dave *********
@Charles *********
under the New LTR visa u gotta show $1,000,000 in net worth and $80,000 a year income AND invest $500k in Thailand.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dave ********
what if I have a pension that's worth several million in the long term technically by some bookkeeping standards a pension is considered an asset however to be clear I am not at all liquid for this amount or even close it's not even technically 80,000 a year although it's close to it if you factored in what most people pay in taxes but that's why I explained by income is 4,400 net per monthReply to
Charles **********
Reply
Don *********
@Charles *********
THB50k is around USD1,400, for 10 years. You may be thinking about the Elite Visa which is stupidly expensive
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Don ********
what is the age requirement on this homie I'm 39 which is why Bonnie was flipping out she thinks I have too much money, 😂 she mad AF.. what is the Visa called do you have to make 80,000 a year? There's a reason I put my income in the original post even though several people have cautioned me against it and I've had some people getting really nasty with me over it and one person even questioning my freaking military service.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTEROne person on here suggested a volunteer visa for me
John **********
@Charles *********
you would have to be genuinely volunteering. Volunteer visas came under a lot of scrutiny since Covid came alongDave *********
@Charles *********
Volunteer visa is only valid for 90 days. A extension of stay is at the discretion of the immigration officer. Extension application can be made at the Office of Immigration Bureau (visit
*********************
for more information)If the O Volunteer Visa holder breaches the entry conditions, the stay permit will be revoked and he/she will be prohibited from entering Thailand in the future.
So u r taking a huge chance that u may or may not get a extension after 90 days. Up to immigration officer.
Reply to
Dave *********
Reply
Steve **********
I see Elite visa is off the table... Perhaps contact the Bangkok VFW chapter and see what advice they have?
***********************************************
Steve **********
Elite.
Bonnie *******
You are the ONLY person ever that I recommend for an ELITE VISA. Young with too much money.
Daniel ************
you have a Master Degree?
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Daniel ***********
I'm not sure if you're speaking to me or someone else I've attended several universities. I've attended Masters level college courses. I think the last time I checked I have about 96 college credit hours.Kool *******
@Charles *********
this only applies if you actually graduated. Thailand doesn't care about what classes you took, only that you graduated.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
to be clear I wasn't even sure what you were talking about you didn't specify so I didn't know if you were trying to give me a litmus intelligence test or suggest some types of Visa because I've had so many people picking out me today I don't even know anymore lolKool *******
@Charles *********
okay, to be clear. You can not get a medical visa. You don't have the funds to get an Elite visa. You don't have the funds to get an investment visa. If you don't have a university degree you can't teach English as a way of staying long term on a business visa. You can get an ED visa, but if you don't go to classes regularly, at least 160 hours a year broken down into each week, you won't make it past the first 90 day extension, and if you aren't learning Thai even though you are going to class regularly, you won't be approved for a second year. To start your own business it takes at least bt2million in registered capital, and hiring 4 Thai employees. There is a way around this, but only because you are American, but you will still be required to meet the bt2million in registered capital within one year, but you can own 100%, and don't have to hire any employees, but, if you aren't making a profit within either 3, or 5 years (I can't remember), you won't be extended. Thailand does not care if you are disabled, in fact they despise it, and will not change any requirements because you are disabled. You could hire shady agents to buy you some questionable work visa options, but if you, or them, are caught, you will be deported and banned from returning to Thailand for at least ten years. Those that used shady volunteer visas to stay in Thailand during the covid lockdowns are now finding they aren't being allowed back in Thailand, if they haven't returned to their home countries for a significant length of time. You have very few options to stay here long term. That is reality.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
to be clear you're saying 160 hours per year that's a little less than 4 hours per week I could certainly handle that..I was a full-time university student in the past. Are there other things you can do other than study the language I'm not opposed to that but I've heard people mentioning dojos as well.. I think you or someone else was saying most of those are in Bangkok which is probably where I need to be considering I'm trying to be close to stores that have organic food.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
usually countries require a four-year degree to teach English don't they or TECL certification? I guess I'll look more into the study option. Thanks.. Honestly that option doesn't sound too bad and someone told me the price was around $1,200 a year. I wouldn't particularly mind doing that I'm fortunate enough that I don't have to be working or whatever it's kind of God it's pros and cons I don't want quite say a gift and a curse cuz I don't want to curse myself but I have some medical issues going on but at least I have good compensation but yeah I could take the time to do language studies while I'm at home doing medical treatments for myself.Daniel ************
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
What is the point though are you talking about their highly skilled working program? Seems like my easiest option after hearing from other people wouldn't be to just be a student for a few years or so until I end up possibly getting married or perhaps purchasing a condo for 250k being that my income is more than $40,000 per yearReply to
Charles **********
Reply
Alex ********
Get a student visa.
If you intend staying long term, why not study Thai.
You can drag that out for 3 years.
If you intend staying long term, why not study Thai.
You can drag that out for 3 years.
Colin ********
@Alex *******
actually 8 years, just fail and redo the course. You can stay signed von to a university as a student for up to 8 yrs, but then just resigned up and you're good for another 8.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Alex *******
and then what I wonder how expensive or difficult it would be to get a business Visa like if I said I wanted to have a small business of just growing legal cannabis plants for the medical marijuana program on a small scale. I guess within 3 years time hopefully I can find someone to get married or figure out whatever else I'm going to do but yeah it's kind of frustrating to think about trying to move somewhere with the risk the risk that you might have to leave and go somewhere elseAlex ********
@Charles *********
getting into weed for medical isnt a "cheap" option.You will also have to find Thai partners whi have to have at least 51% of the company.
Of course you can give 51% and in company memorandum give yourself 100% voting rights. Effectively giving you full control.
But still a risky endeavour
Reply to
Alex ********
Reply
Tez ******
Age is no good for retirement visa. Why not go for an education one and learn about your country of vhoice.
Kevin **********
Pension or disability?
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kevin *********
in my contacts the terms can be used interchangeably I'm not sure what difference it makes but since you're asking it's a medical military retirement for service-connected injuries it's also referred to as a pension or disability compensation I'm trying to stop labeling myself as disabled though but that's what I'm getting compensated for. I'm reading that Malaysia is also considering medical cannabis and that the health minister of Thailand is supposed to go speak with them about this and share knowledge with them in the near future I'm not sure how long it takes for an Asian country like Malaysia to actually Implement medical cannabis but they apparently have their eye on it because of the revenue and I would hope from a humanitarian standpoint as well because it truly does have medical value. I'm really trying to convey to people that I'm really not trying to go there on a business venture or to go so my Wild Oats I would love to find a woman and get married and have something authentic and I just want to live a low-key lifestyle eat healthy food and take care of my health I can't find anyone worthwhile on online dating sites though and I wonder if Malaysia might be a better place for me to get my feet wet since they speak English a lot more over there. I'd be curious to hear what people here think about Malaysia I appreciate the recommendations from the Philippines I've heard that the Philippines is a little bit more rundown and more poverty and things like that over there it would certainly be easier for me with my Veterans Medical Care they actually have a us-based Veterans Affairs Clinic there believe it or not and several hospitals in Manila that treat US Veterans as well. However I'm trying to be able to do most of my medical care on my own with equipment that I've purchased for self-care. I do qualify for medical care overseas for any injuries that are connected to my military service. I may have a lot more comprehensive medical coverage in the future I'm working on getting some things straightened out as far as that goes with my military discharge which was supposed to have been for medical reasons I'm waiting on an appeal on for that. I'm currently rated as a 100% permanently and totally disabled veteran.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Crystle ********
Wants long term. Cries about jumping through hoops. 🙄
David ********
@Crystle *******
not everyone can just buy their elite visaReply to
David ********
Reply
Gerry ***********
Make sure you look into the income tax situation in Thailand . I know this will get many responses say no expat pay. But over a certain $ amount they are supposed to. Just do the homework and make decisions based upon facts, not forums.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Crystle *******
I'm glad everything is so amusing, no what?.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Gerry **********
Thank you some people think I was narcissistic for bringing this up or mentioning this which I'm not at all but I'm on a medical military pension it is not taxed at all it is disability compensation zero tax liability. This is compensation for my United States military service and service connected injuries. I don't expect Thailand about down to me but I don't think it was really narcissistic for me to ask simply if there's a chance that they might do a waiver on the age requirement they normally ask retirees to be 50 years old but I was hoping they might give me some consideration because I'm on a early retirement because of military related service and disability and considering they also have a military that's done joint operations with the United States in the past I didn't think it was so out of hand to merely ask if it's a possibility they might use some discretion at immigration officeGerry ***********
@Charles *********
Ask, and ask more than one person in immigration. Different people, different answers. Normally I would not suggest using a agent ( I never did ), but in your circumstance they might work with particular people in immigration and have connections you would not have....talk to them anyway. You may consider going on a tourist visa specifically for the purpose of dealing with folks in person, not the immigration folks really, but agents. Don't quit after one negative experience. If it fails you can try some of the options mentioned here. On these forums you will get so many different answers your head will spin - so if serious , make a 30 day trip (or longer ) . The medical thing could well be an issue - you could be asked fo real insurance guarantees ...Reply to
Gerry ***********
Reply
Scottie ***********
Elite visa. I’m 31 and When I finish paying off my house in australia I’ll be semi retiring soon. Elite visa seems to be the only magic bullet, you don’t have to stuff around with minimum bank account balances and monthly deposits
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Scottie **********
I wondered about trying to get a long-term medical Visa or get one based on a business venture even if it's not something that I'm really doing full-time just to meet the requirements. It seems like you might have to have an endorsement from a local business there in order to do that though. The laws have changed with cannabis, so I don't know if it would be difficult to even try to apply for some business Visa like some formal small-scale self-employment like just growing some herb plants legally of course (if I did try that) although it might be a bureaucratic nightmare with all the paperwork and expenses.Scottie ***********
@Charles *********
yeah I wouldn’t bugger around just for a visa. With the exchange rates better in recent months I’d be inclined to do it now incase the exchange rates get bad againCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Scottie **********
I'm still trying to research if there's any way to get a long-term medical Visa I just thought doing the business route might help me find a way to stay there longer with less hassle in the long run unless I could just keep renewing an education Visa each yearBrandon ************
@Charles *********
there's no such thing as a long term medical visa. The longest possible is 90 days and they don't like doing that. They prefer to do 30 days at a time with a strong need proven by documents from a doctor/hospital. There is no way to stay long term on a medical visa.
Reply to
Brandon ************
Reply
Beverly **********
You have a few options at your age. An Ed visa is a possibility. You can also just travel around using tourist visas and explore the area around SE Asia so that you know for certain that Thailand is the spot. I recommend that you open a Thai bank account when you arrive so that you have the option of slowly dumping in "spare change" into that account and build it up. That is what I did and am currently doing. I was on a retirement visa but not yet ready to fully retire, but I do just that (stashing a little cash) and when I return back I'll have plenty of funds to begin the next chapter.
Tez ******
@Beverly *********
similar to meReply to
Tez ******
Reply
Craig ********
The truth is it might be a little difficult. Another option might be to stay in Cambodia instead. Right next door and it's very easy and cheap to get a 1 year business visa there.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Craig *******
Thanks. I've had some pretty difficult and devastating health complications and I feel that being able to have the option to have raw juice cannabis might be extremely beneficial for me and that is something that is a potential reality in Thailand without fear of legal repercussions now thanks to changes in the law. That's why I keep trying to ask people about a medical visa and if they think it's possible that I could stay there for a year or so on a medical Visa if I kept getting it renewed and was like legit getting medical treatment while there.Marc ********
@Charles *********
You can do the weed too in Cambodia. Police don't care. You cannot find a single tourist got arrested for weed in GoogleCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Marc *******
Growing it?Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERI wonder if I could get away with that in India that's where my aunt is suggesting that I consider I am legit not trying to smoke it I'm trying to find people that cultivate it or that I could grow it myself so that I could juice it raw and not have to get involved so much with criminal element that I'd be risking my safety or livelihood..Thanks. the entire reason that I was thinking about Thailand is so that I wouldn't have to be discreet or worry I want to be able to grow it or find people that are growing it legally in large volume so that I can basically use the trim or the parts that they would normally discard and juice them for some extremely difficult health issues I've been dealing with for almost a decade.
Kool *******
@Charles *********
the final legal details are still being worked out, and should be finalized by the end of this month by parliament. As it is now you can personally grow 15 plants, and registering to do that is very simple. There is also a requirement that no extract, or edible, contains more that 0.2% THC. I can line you up with the government clinic to get free CBD oil though. Cannabis flowers are expensive, running from bt500-bt700+ a gram for the good ones, or bt50-bt300 a gram for the low grade smuggled over from Laos. The old illegal cannabis operations are still going strong, they are now legal with correct import licenses, and coming in from Laos. As more crops start being harvested in Thailand the price might come down, but as it is right now, it is expensive. The new rules will limit commercial growing operations to Thais only. Just some things to keep in mind.For what you want to do there is no medical visa. The medical visa in Thailand is for people that come to Thailand to have medical procedures done, and then recover to the point that they can fly home. It is not a long term visa option. Just because you are disabled does not mean you qualify.
The one thing in your favour though is the amount of money you get in your pensions. That is enough to live very comfortably, with personal servant, cook, and driver hired. This can be just one person, live-in, and would cost about US$600+ a month.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
well there's a thing called a veterans foreign medical program so I'm wondering if I was getting ongoing medical treatment if there'd be any chance to have it covered that way not necessarily a surgery or one time procedure but ongoing care. I hear what you're saying about a disability not automatically qualifying but I wonder if I was getting legit medical Care there if that would matter. Yes you can private message me I'll be interested to know what you're talking about with the government clinic and how somebody that's not even a citizen there would be able to get CBD oil complimentary. To be honest with you I've had some infections that have been resistant antibiotics and what I was really trying to do is find a way that I could choose raw plant matter even stuff that would normally be thrown away like the stock of the plant or parts of the leaf that wouldn't be used for trim that has components in it that are still antibacterial and antiviral and I'm trying to juice that raw. However you have to find someone that's growing in order to do that I'm not sure how difficult you think that would be for someone that's not native to doMarc ********
Reply to
Marc ********
Reply
Craig ********
make sure to get in touch with the school early though it takes time to process the paperwork and if you sign up too late you'll over-run your tourist visa extension and be fucked
Craig ********
@Charles *********
ah, I see. So specific reasons for Thailand yeah I understand.Look man my personal approach to this would be to figure out the best way to get started and then figure it out once I have boots on the ground.
I would get a tourist visa online (do not enter visa-exempt). That can be extended and can also be transitioned into other visa types, but as soon as you arrive find either a thai language school or a muay thai school and get a visa that can be extended for up to 12 months.
The timing won't be perfect but that will be you around 14 months or so of time in country. Sign a 1 year (or shorter) lease on a condo, and figure out your next step during those 14 months
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Craig *******
I really appreciate the suggestions I'm going to try to look into and research more about the odds of me getting a medical Visa that would last that long or the odds of me being able to request a waiver on the age requirement given that I'm on a military medical retirement perhaps they would take some sympathy on me for example I'm not saying it happens all the time but the US military has worked jointly with the Thai forces. So I'm hoping and praying there might be a little bit of reciprocity. For example in the Philippines I could literally get official Veterans Affairs Healthcare there and it would be a lot easier but they have no chill in regards to cannabis. Blessings.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERSo when people say $1,200 for an education Visa is that in addition to the actual cost for the school?.. Thanks
Kool *******
@Charles *********
schools list their costs, and the visa is a freebie that comes with school.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
do you have a ballpark idea for the average costCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERWhat about the volunteer option that some mentor agency suggested. Thanks
Craig ********
yes medical visa and age exemption are two good options I've heard listed in this thread. Both worth researching
Craig ********
@Charles *********
it varies widly by school. The actual cost to the government is 1900 baht per extension and most extensions are 2 months at a time so 6 extensions times 1900 baht divided by 35 baht per dollar.... $350 for the year.The school I went to was a total of about $1200 US for all their fees... but they do offer online thai language classes if you want to learn it. That is in addition to the 350 to immigration
Reply to
Craig ********
Reply
Dave *********
First I would get a 1 yr ED Visa. The while u r in country find a decent immigration attorney OR do it yourself and apply for a age waiver? That will give u 1 year to make sure u want to stay and also 1 year to see if u can somehow get a long term visa for 5-10 years. Also, Visa requirements change often so u may get lucky and it changes during the year. IF NOT then u might consider the Elite 10 yr visa at 800,000 Baht ($22k). That comes to about $183 USD per month over the 10 years. Not that bad considering u would prob spend more than that just in utilities back in the states. And then at the end of the 10 years u would now be 50 and can apply for retirement visa. U gotta decide if u want to retire in Thailand and relax. Its only $183/month and u gonna be saving alot more just by living in Thailand compared to USA. And alot happier.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dave ********
I've also wondered about a medical Visa because I legitimately do have medical issues and could see myself paying for and seeking Medical Care thereDave *********
@Charles *********
not a viable option for the medical visa. It’s 90 days. Your education visa is prob gonna be the best bet to at least get u in the country for a year. Take Thai language lessons.
Then that gives u one year to speak w immigration about a age waiver. Never heard anyone doing that so I can’t say weather it’s doable or not.
And I highly doubt they would even give a waiver for age. If they did there would be 100,000 others who would immediately apply. 800,000 Baht in the bank is peanuts for a lot of people so I would assume tons would try for a age waiver as well.
Dave *********
@Charles *********
the medical visa requires that u set up a appt in advance w the hospital. Then to keep it “ongoing” u would need to show proof each time u renew the visa.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dave ********
is this not a viable option for long-term though someone was giving me the impression that they really don't like to do these and they usually only want to do them for a maximum of 90 days I'm not just trying to go there for 90 days.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dave ********
so would it be exponentially more difficult for me to try to apply for an age waiver up front would they be less likely to do it because they wouldn't know what my behavior is like Etc I'm wondering if any type of so-called immigration expert office would be worthwhile to help me with this or if I could just do it on my own and write a letter to the immigration officials or just petition my case in person to them my concern is spending all the money on flights and basically moving over there and air travel and everything and then being told no which is why I was trying to deal with this in advance if possible although that brings up another good point it could take months or longer to get this resolved. When people say education visas I'm wondering if they're talking about something where they'll basically just give me a stamp of approval and not care what I'm studying or not I heard they're cracking down on that a lot thank youReply to
Charles **********
Reply
Stéfan ********
Just buy an elite visa and stop crying
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Stéfan *******
Bugger Off, and STFU talking to me with your rudness!. I'm on a full medical military retirement! I'm not going there as a capital venturist or to try to reduce my tax liability. There is now reason on God's green Earth for me to pay that absurd of an amount. Also why do people like to run there gosh darn mouth so much online and say things that they would probably get socked in the mouth for in real life. I was asking for good advice, not some run of the mill comment from someone with an agenda to act like a pri#k. Thanks for nothing.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Karim ***************
Get an ED visa over there for a year ($1200). Lower your monthly outgoings and save up for the elite visa.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Karim **************
Education VISA? I heard they are cracking down on the VISA mills.Karim ***************
@Charles *********
not at all. As Craig suggested below, do a Thai language course. It will only benefit you while living in country anyway. You will lower your monthly outgoings by 75%, compared to living in the US. Save up for your elite visa and enjoy Thailand 👍Craig ********
@Charles *********
plenty of legit language schools you can enroll in. I've never heard of a single one that requires you to actually go to class. Most are online now. You learn Thai if you want.The only school being "cracked down on" are the ones that don't actually have thai language classes
Kool *******
@Craig *******
that is not true. The ministry of education does not accept online schools for a ligitimate ED visa. You are also required to extend your ligitimate ED visa every 90 days with the paperwork the ligitimate school gives you, certifying that you are in fact attending classesCraig ********
@Kool ******
that's funny since I've been here almost a year. My "legitimate" school offers most of their classes online (you can choose), does all my paperwork for me, but requires an extension every 2 months (not 3).So I can assure you it's "true". I have been doing exactly that since Feb 2022 and will continue to do it until Feb 2023.
Kool *******
@Craig *******
just don't get caught. You used an agent didn't you.Craig ********
in fact the ministry of education comes in and inspects the school once a year. The school is legitimate, I can assure you. They have a brick and morarter school with 4 or 5 instructors and an administrator. And most of the classes are offered online visa skype.
I can assure you, it's legitimate
I can assure you, it's legitimate
Craig ********
@Kool ******
no I did not use an agent. .... the school is not online, the CLASSES are online and there is nothing to be "caught" about This is one of the largest language school in bangkok.
You don't know what you're talking about
Kool *******
@Craig *******
Duke Language school?Craig ********
@Kool ******
SandeeCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Craig *******
Can you name drop please or D.M. can you give me an idea what the cost would be please?. ThanksCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Craig *******
thank you so can you do this in definitely for a year after year and you have an idea approximately what the cost is for this?Craig ********
@Charles *********
I am not sure, I'm pretty sure you can do a year of thai language and a year of muay thai, but I think that might be the end of it.Then you can volunteer, you can also get a company to sponsor a work visa.
Reply to
Craig ********
Reply
Francesco *****
Retired at 39.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Francesco ****
Yes. This was clearly explained and why in my original post. Hence the tongue in check comment about Agesim. Medically Retired Military on a full and permanen medical retirement which is why I was hoping I could maybe get some age exemption waiver from the immigration authorities if I wrote a nice letter of explanation. I'm glad at least several people on here have pointed out the irony in people suggesting I get the Elite Visa. That is more designed for very busy high-end business people that are traveling in and out of the country frequently and don't have time for paperwork and nonsense which is understandable but that's not at all the type of category I'm in. Those people are exchanging a lot of money for convenience and time and so be it. Someone suggested that I got a loan if need be to pay the fee for the late Visa that seems ludicrous to me.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Terry ********
Thanks for your service.
Otto *********
Either you try using an agent or you go to Immigrastion and explain your situation and ask, what they would recommend you to do.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Otto ********
So do you thinks there's any chance at all I could get a waiver on the age requirement if I explained I was on a early military medical retirement and made a promise to not tear sh#t up over there or cause any problems. 😂Kool *******
@Charles *********
no, they will not budge on the age requirement. They do not care about your medical situation as you are not Thai. That is the reality.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
Do you think even with a good Attorney that they would be able to use any "discretion" on this possibly. If not so be it but I'm pretty sure I got the impression that immigration offices sometimes use discretion for extenuating circumstances etc.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
your US military status doesn’t mean squat in Thailand, give it a break, FFS.Otto *********
@Charles *********
The chance is there, albeit rather slim. Have you thought about anyother kind of visa?Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Otto ********
I have and I feel like I've been researching this heavily for months on end and I feel in my heart of hearts because I'm on a medical retirement for military service and have a really good pension and don't drink alcohol and have a clean criminal record and I'm going there with good intentions that I feel like it would at least be worth asking could you give me any advice at all on who or how I would ask about a waiver or exemption without breaking the bank? I thought about like a medical tourism Visa perhaps although I'm not sure how long those last or an education or volunteer Visa if it's not heavily involved but I am spending the majority of my time dealing with medical needs to be honest I couldn't tell but someone else on here was laughing about the fact that I said I have medical expenses I don't know what being medically retired from military service is amusing to people although maybe he was just trying to suggest the cost for medical care wouldn't be too much there I'm not sure.Otto *********
@Charles *********
I fully unbderstand your point, but the problem is, that the Thai Immigration consists of civil servants with all the shortcoming of such a position, and that they would have to find a way around regulations, that are meant for the majority. IF an immigration officer gives you such a visa, he might be liable to malfeasance charges, which is the least thing any of them wants to encounter.Have you ever thought about alternatives to Thailand, e.g. Vietnam or Cambodia or any other Southeast Asian country, where the visa regulations are not so strict?
Reply to
Otto *********
Reply
Brandon ************
@Cliff ********
military pension + social security isn't likely to meet the requirements for LTR since it's aimed at high income/high wealthCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brandon ***********
Exactly. I'm not poor at $4,400 net USD per month. However I'm enthusiastic about dropping 17 to 28k and making it rain like that, for a convenience fee. I was hoping people would understand that I would have already known about that program given that I know what the retirement age is there clearly I've been doing some research. I couldn't explain it all in the initial post.Brian ********
@Charles *********
have you thought about Elite visaCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brian *******
This has been brought up ad nausem already. I've given lengthy explanations as to why the this giant Heck No for me. It might be right for some people or people that have no other type of medical coverage for insurance Etc are extremely busy and extremely wealthy professionals. However that's not the situation that I'm in at all. I'm not poor or anything like that but I don't have an extra 20K to just throw away I guess I need to change the title of my post.Steve *********
@Charles *********
don’t that’s stupid… travel and your fine visa starts over every time you return to ThailandCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Steve ********
I thought they were starting to crack down on that are getting upset about people that were making frequent so-called VISA runs. So I would just have to do short-term rentals and keep living like a minimalist IE very little belongings in order to make that work I don't think it would make much sense if I had a lease or rental there and was traveling plus all the costs for plane flights and everything else I eat organic food which is expensive and my pension is $4,400 net per month I'm trying to find a wife and settle down somewhere I would like to see some other parts of the world but I feel like constantly traveling could get a bit expensive even with the conversion ratios. The airlines still want their money. ThanksSteve *********
@Charles *********
well good luck to you.. I think your going to need it… Hope it works out for you.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Steve ********
Okay thanks and I appreciate your advice and best wishes for luck... lol. I've researched online and listened to people talking about living there and whatnot and I got the impression that if you do Visa runs too much they start to get upset over that is that not correct?Steve *********
All other visas cost more.. go see many places… only have to go once every three months… stay as little or as long as you want…
Reply to
Steve *********
Reply
Brook ********
Thank you for your service and welcome to my new home.
As a fellow American, I worry that your feelings about age discrimination and Thai immigration laws will only be the beginning of your frustrations.
Thailand is not America. Many of the rights and laws you are used to don’t exist here.
That’s part of both the good and bad of living here.
Other examples of discrimination, such as racism (ie: dual pricing) and other issues of Thai life might make this a very unhappy experience for you.
As a fellow American, I worry that your feelings about age discrimination and Thai immigration laws will only be the beginning of your frustrations.
Thailand is not America. Many of the rights and laws you are used to don’t exist here.
That’s part of both the good and bad of living here.
Other examples of discrimination, such as racism (ie: dual pricing) and other issues of Thai life might make this a very unhappy experience for you.
Brook ********
@Charles *********
Well, that’s quite a long post. For the record, I was a member of Infraguard.
Based on what little I know, Thailand might not be good for you. As the king once said, “Thailand is a land of comprise.“
At the very least I would not share your income publicly.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brook *******
I'm willing to compromise. What is it that she think I would not be willing to compromise on I'm on here obviously asking for a creative solutions and to do just that without having people rudely attack me like several others have done unprovoked.Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Moteaze ***************
Come On Vacation It's Nice To Travel In And Out See The World Beautiful All Will Fall Into Place At The Right Time
Jonas *************
Western style vegetables are already often more expensive than in the west. Cheese, beef not good quality :-( ), organic even more expensive...
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Moteaze **************
One person on here was surprised my retirement income isn't more. It's better than being poor living off just social security at least and I may go back to work and or education studies in the future. However I'm not trying to spend on a bunch of money just go there for a few weeks or a few move. I live pretty conservatively with my money ie no debt, no credit cards. I'm not interested in paying $20,000 USD upfront just for the privilege of being an extended guest. I'm bothered because I have more than enough to sustain myself. I'm on a permanent permanent pension. My age should be irrelevant.Shayne **********
@Charles *********
per capita Chiang Mai has more vegan restaurants and infrastructure than anywhere else in the world. Plus many bulk food supply options for bakery and grain supplies.Almost everything is cheaper and more relaxed than BKK.
Plus a huge range of international people to meet.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Shayne *********
I'm not Vegan. I said Organic / not Vegan.. there's a difference. Thanks 🙏Shayne **********
@Charles *********
**********************************************************************************************
Reply to
Shayne **********
Reply
Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
why do you think Thailand should bend to accommodate you? Sounds pretty narcissistic me.Have you even visited Thailand?
Airfare is around $1,500.
Moteaze ***************
@Charles *********
I Feel The Same Way Do What Is Right For You I'm Going To Visit L A Tomorrow Keep Your Life Open Spread Your Wings There Are Other Options U Can Msg Me If You Need To Talk Life Is Beautiful AllAllAllTheTimeShayne **********
@Charles *********
there's plenty of ways to stay in Thailand long term and I live on $400 a month for the last 12 years. Feel free to contact me if you want to live in Chiang Mai. There is lots of things to keep you occupied and out of mischief.Bonnie *********
@Shayne *********
please no, send him to Phuket, seems more his style.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Shayne *********
Thanks. Eating an organic diet is extremely important to me I figured that Bangkok might have more options for this IE import grocery stores..Christian *********
@Charles *********
Organic food is rare in Thailand, but in Bangkok you do have some options. The best place for you to stay in near Ortorkor market, that's Thailands organic food hub. Also Chamlongs Asoke is basically across the street from it, which is another great place for organic food.Reply to
Christian *********
Reply
Ray *********
@Charles *********
you are still given more options than the US provides. The US doesn't have a retirement visa, even for family members, at any age.Reply to
Ray *********
Reply
Bobby ********
Get a 10 year Elite Visa. Easiest way to put in ten years. Get a one year extension on that, and then you'll be eligible for a retirement visa.
Craig ********
@Bobby *******
Only problem might be this is beyond his budget. Also you need to be REALLY sure you want to stay if you're going to put up that kind of cash up front.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Craig *******
Excatly. Thanks. Some rude condescending person tried to tell me to just get that and quit crying I'm not crying I gave an explanation for why I'm not going to do this under any circumstance and I appreciate some people understanding this and having some humanity and not just looking for a chance to run their mouth I'm a freaking medically retired veteran with service connected disability and I have people making disparaging remarks towards me about not wanting to plop down 20k. Does visas are for people with extreme wealth that are trying to reduce their taxes that want to be flying in and out of the country frequently and are probably already married or don't want to get married because of potential Financial Risk Etc there's something in it for the people that are doing that and extreme benefits. I have enough more than enough to be self-sufficient not enough to just throw 20 grand down the drain though I had one person tell me that I would long run but I'm not going into debt just to move to some country like that where some people are telling me I might not even like it. Good Greif. ThanksCraig ********
@Charles *********
consider cambodia... it's quite different, but if you set up a home base there (which you can do very cheaply) you can travel in and out of thailand when you want for periods of time on tourist visas. And you may end up loving it there.It's quite easy and cheap to do a 12 month visa there without any documentation other than your passport and you can do it every year forever
Reply to
Craig ********
Reply
Joe *****
@Bobby *******
Yup !Reply to
Joe *****
Reply
Bonnie *******
You can fly in and out to Singapore a couple times a year
Christina ****
On a regular VOA?
Bonnie *******
@Christina ***
we are old enough now but we used to take the train to Malaysia take a cruise or two from Singapore and then come back across on the trainBobby ********
@Bonnie ******
I think the OP is talking about settling in Thailand, not travelling through other countries and taking cruises!Reply to
Bobby ********
Reply
Bobby ********
@Christina ***
He's from the US, not eligible for VOA. He can enter without a visa, but can't keep flying in and out every couple of months. Eventually he'll be denied entryBonnie *******
@Bobby *******
it's not every couple of monthsBobby ********
@Bonnie ******
Perhaps you should explain the strategy?Reply to
Bobby ********
Reply
Maya *******
You get so much money per months you have no problem with anything
Joe *****
Elite… And you better get it now while it’s Cheap ! Don’t think of the Heavy upfront Cost brake it down month to month then it makes more sense of what you would be paying state side for the same comparable living… And that’s all you need to know…
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Joe ****
I simply don't have that much in a lump some right now. I've had a lot of out of pocket travel and medical expenses. Thanks. Maybe if my rent wasn't $1600 a month plus utilities I could save faster. I could maybe save up while there for a year or two.Patrick ************
@Charles *********
medical expenses???? LolCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Patrick ***********
What is so amusing. Are you laughing about what the cost for medical care is in Thailand? I am medically retirement from the military. Rated as a 100% percent permanently and totally disabled veteran and have had an insane amount of out out pocket medical expenses here in the U.S. I'm not particularly ROTFL LMAO over this but whatever lol.Steve **********
@Cha****
why would you have out of pocket medical expenses. If you are retired and 100% you have full Tricare and VA coverage at home for free. In Thailand you can use Tricare select and get reimbursed 75%. In a select few hospitals in BKK and Chiangmai there are in network hospitals. Also a few are in the VA FMP as well.
Reply to
Steve **********
Reply
Joe *****
@Charles *********
like I said I would eat the cost upfront for what you going to get in return… I’ll do the math for you right here bro no worries. Let’s say with utilities Cable Electric water etc $1800 a Month you are paying right now from what you just told me. And you get the low end 5 year Visa which 600,000 Baht / USD let’s say $16,800 depending on Exchange Rate and you get a loan for that amount. For 36 months at $500 a month. Now I’m assuming you live alone. You can find an excellent place here with Swimming Pool and Gym and Close to the Beach for $500 a month with everything included. I just literally put $800 in your pocket. Do you know what you could do or not in Thailand with an Extra $800 / $29k Baht a month. Don’t over think it bro. See you when you get here !!!Reply to
Joe *****
Reply
Alan *******
Ageism lol. Yeah because 39 is a very typical retirement age. Next you’ll be saying it’s ageism that 3 year olds can’t buy alcohol and cigarettes.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Alan ******
It was kinda a joke, like a quote from the sitcom the "Office" Yes I am somewhat on an early retirement. However anyone that joined the Military at 17 or 18 and did 20 years could also be retired at my age. I would appreciate other countries realizing this. It's a permanent and total retirement pension. No chance of me getting an exception waiver if I write the Royal family a nice respectful letter of intention?Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
you realize that not everyone embraces US pop culture.Reply to
Bonnie *********
Reply
李**
Come in as tourist, travel around Asia, then decide
Christian *********
@李**
Very good advice. You should live a at least half a year to a year in a country before you decide to settle long term.李**
@Christian ********
Yes, in Asia Malaysia also not bad .. follow by Thai ..Reply to
李**
Reply
Daniel ******
Elite Visa 10 years
Richard *********
Elite Visa all the way. 👍
Stuart *******
Elite visa
Steve *******
It would be a much better choice to take that pension to the Philippines where you can stay 3 years at a time on a regular tourist visa. No bribes, no shady agents and no risk to be denied for having too many stamps every time you enter the country.
Guillaume ********
@Steve ******
Philippines also has a 35 to 49 years old special retiree visaCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Guillaume *******
I hate their COVID restrictions and you can't grow cannabis there. Even with a special medical permit, I don't think they would allow it.Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
oooh, the world needs to revolve around you, eh? Piece of advice, we all know your politics, leave that crap in your home country.
Reply to
Bonnie *********
Reply
Richard *******
Steve Demir, I agree with you and it is exactly what I would do if in the same situation. No language problems since English is spoken everywhere in the Philippines.
Steve *******
@Richard ******
that is another huge pro with the Philippines yes!Reply to
Steve *******
Reply
Yiba *******
@Steve ******
i heard Philippines is corrupted as bad as Thailand . It is not?Steve *******
@Yiba ******
the corruption has nothing to do with it. The tourist visa in the Philippines is easy and extendable up to 3 years.Yiba *******
@Steve ******
How is that possible ? 🙄Steve *******
Reply to
Steve *******
Reply
Oliver ********
Steve *******
@Oliver *******
it's not a story. It's their tourist visa rules. At every entry you are allowed to extend your tourist visa up to 3 years.Oliver ********
@Steve ******
super infoReply to
Oliver ********
Reply
Philip **********
@Steve ******
And the girls will lub you long time.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Philip *********
Wouldn't they love me just as long in the Kingdom of Thailand? Truthfully I want a wife. I'm a God fearing me and I don't even drink. However I appreciate the humor.Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
great, religious colonization. You sound like such a catch.Christian *********
@Charles *********
What denomination do you belong to? I married a Buddhist girl from Thailand and it does present some challenges, but I married her because she has a good character. Had I found a Christian girl with a character similarly good as hers who wanted to marry me first I would have gone for her. You can find Christian girls in SEA, the Philippines are mostly Catholic and Vietnam has a Catholic minority. In Thailand however there are only a few. You could however try your luck here, visit a Church and see if there are any bachelorettes around. They have several churches in Bangkok, Catholic, Eastern Orthodox and I'm sure a variety of protestant churches. Personally while I do not belong to a denomination anymore the only one that I would even consider joining is the Orthodox church.Reply to
Christian *********
Reply
Ernesto ********
I can see why military veterans continue to work after service. 4400 seems small after 20 years
Leszek *********
@Ernesto *******
my pension after 20 years is a bloody joke !!£500!!!!Bonnie *********
@Leszek ********
and, are you unable to work?Leszek *********
@Bonnie ********
me???? I’m working in UK so hard 😊Reply to
Leszek *********
Reply
Ray *********
@Ernesto *******
try working for most companies in america. The pension is zero even if you work 50 years.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ernesto *******
That's net, plus medical coverage and it may go up..to be fair this is.from a early medical retirement. However this is for me being considered 100 percent disabled and $1,100 is from social security. I thought of maybe getting involved in a legal medical cannabis venture there. However it isn't a necessity, just a thought. Might be too much risk. Yes with the average rent being like $2,000 in the U.S. right now plus the cost of organic food I'm a bit frustrated. Not too mentioned I've been harassed and targeted for being politically outspoken. ThanksKool *******
@Charles *********
being 100% military disabled, if that means you have serious mobility issues then understand that Thailand is NOT disabled friendly. There are lots of places you will not be able to go simply because they have no handicap access, even on many of the public transportation options. Thailand, and specifically Bangkok, is a great place to live, with the most people speaking some English, world class medical, world class food, great people, but sadly lacking disabled access at most places. As far as visas go, the best, if you can initially afford it, is an investment visa. The biggest factor in getting that visa is the initial requirement of at least bt10million invested in approved financial instruments. How this visa differs from the rest is that when you decide to leave Thailand, and cash out you can make a profit on the investments. This is one visa that the government wants you to be profitable with so it doesn't get a bad name with other investors. The cost is just bt1900 baht, not bt1million, or any other outrageous cost that the Elite visa has. As long as you have the initial bt10million to invest, the rest is easy, and cheap, and that you can pass the extensive background check. They don't want criminals, or money launderor types. It is the best visa for long term stays. Just keep in mind that Thailand in not disabled friendly, and the farther you get away from Bangkok the less amenities you have. If you are wheelchair bound consider that where there are sidewalks you'll have to wheel on the street because the sidewalks are in such poor shape. These are things to keep in mind. There is a pretty good, but clickish VFW here.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
Thanks. There are plenty of 100% service connected veterans that are not in wheelchairs. I'm not in a wheelchair. Thank YouKool *******
@Charles *********
another thing to understand about Thailand, if you are politically outspoken, you can end up being deported under some situations. Thailand is not a free speech venue for foreigners. It's good you're not in a wheelchair, but also understand that when I say "not disabled friendly"that also means things like no handrails on lots of staircases. The one thing is, people will treat you as being 100% healthy unless you have a visible body part missing. The other thing is Thais do not like confrontation, and will ostracize you if you are.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kool ******
I don't like confrontation either as I mentioned to someone else on here I'm pretty much a pacifist unless someone starts asking me on constantly yeah my apologies if I'm seeming stress but I've had this psychotic woman Bonnie and other people like trolling me all day and I just realized from someone else posting on here that she has a track record of basically making road remarks towards people on provoked so anyways. To be clear I do have some chronic pain issues and I have mild scoliosis and what's rated as degenerative disc I used a cane in the past for a small amount of time but decided not to because I don't want to give myself too much of a crutch and I'm trying to recover myself and push myself to recovery and don't want to weaken myself if that makes sense. I'm really not that mobility limited. That's not really the extent of my medical conditions chronic and severe pain is but that doesn't mean someone's in a wheelchair or can't walk. There are veterans with 100% service connected just for mental health reasons alone okay and I've got a handful of things I've been through and I'm going through. Appreciate the feedbackReply to
Charles **********
Reply
Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
So you want to take all of your baggage to Thailand Aren’t the Thais a lucky group.Ernesto ********
@Charles *********
medical disability from coast guard ?Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ernesto *******
What is your point and why are you even asking me this offensive comment?! I was in the ARMY and the US Coast Guard I'm so sick and tired of the snotty condescending remarks I've been getting from people all day from people that are misinformed or don't know it all what they're talking about? Did you serve in the military? Are you aware that the Coast Guard's been involved and deployed in every war since the beginning of this country (correction when I say this country I'm in the US I have no idea where you're from and I'm not going to take the time to look at your profile right now and create any more drama I'm so sick of this all day long people have been fussing with me) are you aware of the Coast Guard deploys I deployed several times do you want to see my freaking DD214 with National Security Homeland defense and special operations ribbons? I've obviously already been put under scrutiny thoroughly if I have this type of compensation would you imagine?.. why am I be pestered by people only about semantics about whether or not it's a pension which it is ETC. The Coast Guard is part of the Department of defense especially during wartime which was the case while I was in. We have weapons were issued weapons we have law enforcement and combat units and special operations units and boats with 50 cals. Who do you think was driving most of the boats up on the beaches in Normandy, during WW11.Ernesto ********
@Charles *********
too many cowards pleading for disability. I served in desert storm and would never ask for money as you have. Grow up and quit skating life on handouts.Reply to
Ernesto ********
Reply
Darrell ********
@Ern****
, some military vets work after retirement because they have/want to. Some don't and you don't even have to do 20 for a full pension. ;-)Bonnie *********
@Darrell *******
and whine about it, no matter what. It is all about choices.Ernesto ********
@Darrell *******
it such a small pittanceDanny *******
@Ernesto *******
Do you know what an annuity for the rest of your life in that amount would cost on the open market?Leszek *********
@Ernesto *******
well , better I went retired. Still young and can work. In a few years I’ll get my British pension as well. Then I’ll be okDarrell ********
@Ern****
, 🤷🏾♂️Reply to
Darrell ********
Reply
Danny *******
@Ernesto *******
Where else can you retire with a full pension after just 20 years?Leszek *********
@Danny ******
use to be in Poland mate. My work was so risky every day. That’s whyCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Danny ******
I could easily name at least 20 different countries off the top of my head where I make enough for an early retirement. Organic food and legal cannabis and nice women (hopefully) was the drawn.Danny *******
@Charles *********
I can think of a few too, maybe not 20 that I would want to live in, but the comment was about a pension received after only 20 years of work. That's a very valuable asset worth several million dollars as the poster says. I don't know of a job in the US, outside the military, where you can get that after 20 years of work. Where you chose to spend it is another matter.Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
then go to those countries.Reply to
Bonnie *********
Reply
Ernesto ********
@Danny ******
yeah but you have to leave your home country for it to be worth anythingDanny *******
@Ernesto *******
What’s wrong with leaving your home country if it’s for a better place? I retired to Thailand 13 years ago and don’t miss the U.S.Reply to
Danny *******
Reply
Sam *******
Or get married 😂
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Sam ******
Yes I would love to. The dating sites are all Fake News though.. also I'm Christian. So pretty I would have to go to a Christian Church there and make a nice tithe to the Pastor?.. lol. I would like a genuine marriageBonnie *********
@Charles *********
you need to get your head on straight before you can have a good relationship. Good luck on that.Reply to
Bonnie *********
Reply
Terry **********
@Sam ******
555Reply to
Terry **********
Reply
Jorge ****
First, test the waters before dropping anchor. I heard of a US guy who liquidated everything he had, came here, stayed three months, didn't like it, then went back home.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Jorge ***
Thanks. I am already pretty liquid now..no vehicle in my name, no home in my name. I've already downsized and sold some furniture and or got rid of a few things. Everything I own was able to fit in a Ford Edge crossover SUV. I've been owning the bare minimum for awhile now, with the thoughts of making a plunge somewhere. I've been harassed and politically targeted in the U.S. for over a decade on and off again to varying degrees. My biggest concern is the language barrier. Would be willing to hire a guide probably..ThanksJorge ****
@Charles *********
do not close bank accounts, credit cards, and leave an address, preferably that of a close relative. If not expensive, keep a US phone number. While it is possible to jump off the grid, some services are really there to your advantage. No need for a guide unless you intend to climb Mt. Everest. Many people land here at zero and get on rather well. Most locals who deal with tourism will speak some English. The local language is tonal but simple and not difficult to pick up. If you hire a "guide", you will owe him/her, and they won't let go. Have known people who have ended up being "owned" by the helping hand. Take it easy, one step at a time. Hitting the ground running puts you closer to crashing and burning. While the ATM's, Toyotas, and blue jeans look all the same, the ballgame here is different in subtle ways. Most people who come to live in this part of the world are known to experience "culture shock". Can take three weeks to six months to hit but we are all fine after the initial burst of anger. It may recurr. Many tourists come here to live like a "two week millionaire", and they have a ball while at it. But they go home to a high salary job. The minimum wage here is 300 Baht per day. If one could work non-stop for 30 days, the salary would be 9,000 Baht, about $260 USD at today's rate. A foreigner working as an English teacher earns about 40-50k Baht a month (~$1,150-1,400 USD) Not bad. Live like a local and you will have money leftover. Live here permanently as a "two week millionaire", and the chance of falling off a condo balcony inches closer. Happens often enough in a place called Pattaya. Keep readind and keep asking. But like Captain Kirk said, "keep her steady, Zulu". Good luck! 🙂Reply to
Jorge ****
Reply
Rob ******
Ed Visa. There are a number of universities that you can utilize your GI Bill on. That could get you 5 years plus if you use it correctly.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Rob *****
G.I. Bill isn't an option for me. A different education program for disabled veteran is a possibility though.. However it could take me several months or longer before I could get approved perhaps even 6 months or a year's worth of jumping through hoops. It's a rehabilitation program. Since my disability rating is so high, they've been making this VERY difficult for me. They are looking for excuses to not help me. I wonder about a medical VISA though. In the U.S. they were trying to get me to basically do volunteer work at a VA Hospital for at least 6 months to prove myself and my ability to go back to work. It's a huge oxymoron though. The rehabilitation program is supposed to help you with a degree for example, so that you can find work that doesn't aggravate one's medical issues. Forcing me to do grunt labor for 6 months is insulting and pitiful. I have a 100 percent disability rating. However because of these they play games, (like how do we know you can return to work) they are putting a stumbling block in front of the program and undermining it's entire purpose to give a short answer and it makes my blood boil..They really shouldn't be turning me down..they are being cheap and trying to save themselves work.Rob ******
@Charles *********
if you’re talking about the VRE- it is possible here in Thailand, but you need to prove WHY you’re here/need to stay to use it here in addition to all the other rules when you go through the process.Bonnie *********
@Charles *********
you poor baby, they don’t think you’re special.Rob ******
@Bonnie ********
hey, it’s Bitter Old Bonnie again making negative remarks about how people think they’re special when actually they’re are explaining a situation. You really are a resentful person.. what happened some guy you had a thing for ignore you and now in attempt to fill the void, you have to attack every guy on here?Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Rob *****
Thank You. Jesus Christ that woman is one of the most bitter spiteful people I've encountered online and it was totally unprovoked and out of nowhere like I wasn't even speaking to her at all I didn't even communicate with her and she just started attacking me on pretty much every post I made I think she's psychotic. She probably has an antichrist spirit I don't want to get into it too much because people will think it's odd but just a quick glance at her profile I can tell she's extremely pro-abortion, extreme atheist and clearly has a mocking condescending spirit. Oh and lastly totally disrespectful towards Veterans and no respect whatsoever. I think she has an agenda basically or God only knows. I'm not even sure if she deserves any prayers considering how nasty she was ,/ is. Really appreciate this for the sake of my mental health my God what is wrong with people. I'd say something about the Golden rule and treating others the way you want to be treated but she plays by a different set of rules clearly.Rob ******
@Charles *********
she’s made similar comments to other guys on a topic about trying to get Visa’s for their Thai GF. Seems to be a scorned bitter woman.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Rob *****
She is completely insane and psychotic and she just created a new profile on here with a different name just so she can continue to try trolling me like she has some vendetta. I seriously hope people report her to the admins I don't understand what her issue is. I think some people get off on trying to attack other people or something it's funny because she used the term narcissistic and that's exactly how she's acting. Ever heard the term gaslighting for example?.Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTERSo yeah just discovered she has at least more than one profile that's a pretty big red flag right there in itself and should say something.
Reply to
Charles **********
Reply
Ադամ ********
Elite Visa best for under 50. Time flies
Helpful ********
Education visa work visa
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Toohotma *******
I'm medically retired and dealing with legit medical issues that have been a bit time consuming and been cooking all my own food from scratch for health reasons. I may be ready for work or school at some point. However I've been doing health treatments almost ****
. I'm not exaggerating. It's at home treatments that I can multitask while doing so. However it's still time consuming. I've wondered about a medical VISA or maybe a volunteer Visa if they didn't require too many hours out of me.. thanksBonnie *********
@Charles *********
have you checked the embassy website, the medical is not open ended.Reply to
Bonnie *********
Reply
Ադամ ********
@Toohotma *******
Work gives a route to PR too.Reply to
Ադամ ********
Reply
Will ***********
20 year elite visa for like 28k
Bobby ********
@Will **********
He doesn't need 20 years. In 10 years he'll be close to getting a retirement visa. So a 10 year Elite will suit him fineWill ***********
@Steve *******
can you send a link with the info?! I'm interested for myself.Will ***********
@Steve *******
I don't think a 10 year elite is available. I could be wrong. I think 20 year Elite is the best value imo. Least amount of headache as well.
Garrett ***********
@Will **********
There is a 10 year, but it's the same price as the 20 year (but lets you add family members).Will ***********
@Steve *******
So if a 20 year is 1 mil, and a 10 year is "half price" that means a 10 year is 500k.Steve ********
@Will **********
I think you should. Twenty minutes ago you were denying the existence of a 10 year elite, now you're taking about a 20 year EXTENSION. You're talking out of your arse. I'm outReply to
Steve ********
Reply
Christian *********
I would stay here on an ED visa, some Muay Thai dojos for instance offer one year and IIRC even multiple year visas, and then after you've lived here a long enough time you can decide if you would like to stay in this country and buy a 10 year elite visa.
Mma *******
Don't rush into anything come over and do 2 back to back tourist Visas or a 1 year Education visa; that will give you plenty of time to sift thru and plan your options.
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Mma ******
I heard they are cracking down on the education VISA'S. Any idea how many hours per week I would need to be in school if I'm trying to do that legitimately and not just with a fake school? ThanksJohn **********
@Mma ******
A sane and good reply ! :-)Michel *************
@John *********
He is totally right... In the long run, you will for sure have a very different view of the country! I have been through that and I finally invested a lot here. I may not have done so during the first year...Reply to
Michel *************
Reply
Billy *******
What does C.A.B. stand for?
Crystle ********
@Billy ******
cant afford a bisa 😜Billy *******
@Crystle *******
notReply to
Billy *******
Reply
Garrett ***********
Buy an elite visa, $17k for 5 years or $30k for 20 years. Otherwise play the game like everyone else and get education visas, volunteer visa, or Non-Bs.
Greg *****
@Garrett **********
then you’re not an elite. No problemCharles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Garrett **********
Non-BS? Yeah I'd rather go to school or what about a medical VISA if I'm legit wanting and receiving medical care. Thanks. I'm definitely not interested in paying for an Elite VISA. That is insane how much they are asking.Todd *********
@Charles *********
it’s very, very cheap for a guy with several million inbound. It’s not enough to get you an LTR visa though. It’s not ageism, it’s just how the system works. Elite visa is best answer for you until 50Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Todd ********
or working on my education or volunteering apparently which sounds a lot more interesting to me than throwing away 20 grand or more that'll never get backRyan ***********
@Charles *********
I wouldn’t do volunteer I know people who could not get an elite visa after they did volunteer the company that does elite Visa wouldn’t even accept themTodd *********
@Charles *********
a legit education visa is not a bad plan if you can’t afford Elite or qualify for LTR. ‘Volunteer’ visa tend to attract unwanted attention if you hope to stay long term in ThailandReply to
Todd *********
Reply
Brandon ************
The "easiest" option is just pay for an elite visa for 10 years to cover you until you're old enough for retirement visa.
That's 1 million baht for a 10 year elite though.
The other long term options are get married to a Thai girl, get a job in Thailand, have and support a half Thai child, or enroll a child in school in Thailand.
(You say ageism, but most countries in the world won't just let you live there indefinitely because you want to)
That's 1 million baht for a 10 year elite though.
The other long term options are get married to a Thai girl, get a job in Thailand, have and support a half Thai child, or enroll a child in school in Thailand.
(You say ageism, but most countries in the world won't just let you live there indefinitely because you want to)
Steven *********
@Brandon ***********
It's been lowered to .5 million baht.Brandon ************
@Steven ********
they raised the price of the 5 year to 600,000 last year. The 10 year is still 1 million like I said.Reply to
Brandon ************
Reply
李**
@Brandon ***********
Why spent 1mil baht & limit yourself?Brandon ************
@李**
I listed many more options than thatReply to
Brandon ************
Reply
Charles **********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brandon ***********
Many will with how much my pension is. I should be easily able to support myself to the point I probably wouldn't even need a job. I would be bringing commerce to the country. What's the problem..I heard the main reason for the age issues here and in other Asian countries is that they are trying to filter out too many wealthy Chinese from buying everything up.. I have no idea if that's true. I'm not broke for Christs sake, especially with the cost of living there. I'm willing to file for the proper VISA etc. I even qualify for some medical expenses even while overseas. So again that would benefit local Doctors and Hospitals etcBonnie *********
@Charles *********
pretty full of yourself, eh?Go live in one of those countries that you say wants you.
Graeme *******
@Charles *********
let me ask you a question, you think you are entitled because you have money so you can live anywhere you want? Your own country wouldn't let someone live there year round with only 4k pension. I worked in the US, employed over 100 US people and every year it was a pain for me to renew my visa. If you want to live in Asia then pat the price, buy an elite visa for 10 years, then once you are 50 you can get a retirement visa. Much easier than anyone trying to live in the USA.Brandon ************
@Charles *********
foreigners thinking they should be able to do anything they want and live anywhere they want just because they have money might have something to do with itReply to
Brandon ************
Reply
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