I intend to retire to Thailand within the year. Do I go on a tourist visa then apply for the retirement visa after arrival? What are the first steps to take. Thanks for any info. This seems to be a great group :)
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The post discusses the intentions of an individual from the USA to retire in Thailand and seeks advice on the initial steps for obtaining a retirement visa. Key advice includes the use of a Non-OA visa application from the Thai Embassy, financial requirements such as proving a monthly income or sufficient savings, and the option of converting a tourist visa to a Non-O after arrival. Community responses emphasize the importance of knowing specific financial thresholds and considering local embassy rules depending on the applicant's home country. Helpful tips on utilizing visa services and alternatives like the Thailand Elite Visa are also mentioned.
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.
There's that Elite Visa for ~$17,500USD which provides a lot of nice perks. If you're financially able, you might want to check into that one, while you're at it.
There are several agencies which can assist you with it; here's one I just found by Googling:
I first got the O-A visa. It took about 2 months from start to finish. But if you can just get a physician to sign the medical certificate then you can knock off 3 weeks. I spent nearly 800 USD and waited 3 weeks to get all test results back to get the document signed. Other people said their doctor just signed it for free in seconds. The next time I got a "retirement" visa I just arrived non exempt and I paid a reputable visa agent around 25k Baht to do all the paperwork. I used Wise to transfer the 800k Baht. This is the simplest but most expensive option.
they recommended Bangkok bank. I don't recall how long it was. But I arrived on visa exempt and just left it in their competent hands. They responded to email questions.
BTW, 5k of the "around" cost was to open a bank account. They are good about breaking down the costs. I could have spun the wheel to open an account on my own but decided to pay for a sure thing
They are actually one of the ones im considering due to reviews. It is good to hear from someone who actually used their services. How long did it take to get the visa? You can choose the bank you want to open with or they have one they recommend?
There are 2 of us and we've gotten rid of 95% of our possessions and downsized to a small apartment in preparation. We're very excited to start our next chapter and appreciate all this good info!
Thai****
ORIGINAL POSTER
I've actually never been to Thailand, but I know people who've been and I've watched SO many videos. I look forward to getting there by early 2024 to see for myself :)
We just want to go there & stay. We have no fear or qualms about living in Thailand. If we don't care for a certain area, we'll move on to another. Once we leave USA we'll be without a home.
sorry i dont mean area as in land. I mean area as in living issues. Police, visas, buisness, locals, health services etc. You need to go first.
Reply to
Ste *******
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Steve *******
Get the Non Imm O visa before you go.
Terry ********
By the way, there is no such thing as a retirement visa. You can convert a tourist visa to a Non-O and ask for the retirement extension.
Thomas *********
Apply on the online portal:
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Wyn **********
Apply for OA retirement visa in your Country only have to show money in your bank not in Thailand. Must have health insurance. Can get 2 years out of it.
not all countries that apply for OA or OX allows you to leave your money in your own bank. Australia Sydney consulate is one of the few that allow it. Even Canberra Embassy says you must have in Thailand bank
I was suggesting that if its your first OA visa applied for in your own Country you only need to show you have the money in your home bank account.Maybe the person has never been to Thailand before so you wouldn't have a Thai bank account when you apply.
clearly mentions Thai baht doesn't mention aud either
Steve *******
Wayne Roberts That's because of the exchange rate, they'd have to change the amount in AUD everday. It's the equivalent of 800,000 or 65,000 per month.
Many times the easiest way is to start out with a Non-OA from the Thai Embassy in your home country. Most likely they will accept your annual tax report as financial evidence of having at least a net 65,000 THB per month. The Non-OA is a multiple entry visa giving you 1 year each time you stamp into Thailand. Ultimately, it will give you 2 years in Thailand.
Stephen *******************
Depends on your financial status to apply for a retirement visa ?
Are you aware of the amount required to apply for a retirement visa?
Sorry your post is a little vague to give you a correct answer
Good Luck 🙏
Thai****
ORIGINAL POSTER
I receive a monthly pension that meets that requirement. Do I also need to keep a minimum amount in a Thai bank as well? I've done research, but have only gotten info overload & confusion :(
you'll need to start with 800,000 baht in a Thai bank. After a year of monthly deposits of 65k from the US, you can switch to the income method.
There are a few different ways you can do it. I'd suggest getting a non-O visa in the US. I believe that will give you 90 days in Thailand.
You can get everything arranged and apply for a yearly extension in that 90 days. That includes getting a bank account and getting the 800k transferred in.