What are the insurance requirements for expats in Thailand, specifically for those married to Thai citizens?

Thailand expat insurance visa rules NON-O visa health insurance Medicare citizenship Thai gold insurance expat healthcare

Feb 8, 2023

2 years ago

Jennifer ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello. I’m an American married to a Thai man for nearly 30 years. I am unable to do citizenhhip application for another 2 years. I am wondering what the rules are regarding insurance for me in Thailand. I have Medicare but nothing here. Husband has Thai gold insurance card.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

An American married to a Thai citizen for nearly 30 years is inquiring about health insurance requirements in Thailand, especially since their Medicare does not cover medical expenses outside the US. Responses indicate that those holding a NON-O visa, related to their marriage, do not require additional insurance. Users discuss the implications of Medicare coverage in relation to living permanently in Thailand and share advice on whether to maintain or cancel Medicare Part B as they approach retirement age.

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Dave *********

I’m not 65 yet but I’m wondering if it’s worth paying for Part B “just in case” I need it and I’m seriously injured or disabled and need to return to USA? Any thoughts on this as it’s not that much monthly money.

2 years ago

Kool *******

@Dave ********

You still have the free part A, which is in-patient care for serious injuries, and health issues. Part B is outpatient treatment. I you cancel part B, and want to get it back, you have to do it during the enrollment period in the fall, then there is a 10% per year penalty increase in the premium you pay.

2 years ago

Dave *********

@Kool ******

good to know. Thanks

2 years ago

Reply to

Dave *********

Jennifer ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Dave ********

I think if that’s your backup plan then I would say buy part B.

2 years ago

Reply to

Jennifer ********

Kool *******

If you are making Thailand your permanent home now, as it looks like you are doing, then be fully aware that your Medicare does not cover any medical outside of the US. Part A is free, but you are paying for Part B which is worthless outside the US. Most that made Thailand their home cancelled Medicare part B. It gives you a little over bt4000 extra on Social Security, which it sounds like you are on, or you wouldn't have Medicare.

This group can help with your citizenship.

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2 years ago

Jennifer ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Kool ******

yes I only have A as I knew B would be worthless

2 years ago

Reply to

Jennifer ********

JP **********

I could be wrong but I think a woman that marries a Thai man can get citizenship quickly. If yu have been married 30 years you may qualify.\

2 years ago

Jennifer ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@JP *********

husband needs to make

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baht a month and show taxes for year previous to application. My husband and I are both retired but he is only 60 so won’t get his USA social security for two more years.

2 years ago

Reply to

Jennifer ********

Brandon ************

If you got a non-O visa for married to a Thai or an extension based off that, neither of those require insurance

2 years ago

Reply to

Brandon ************

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