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What are the options for obtaining a long-term visa in Thailand as a veteran planning to relocate to Pattaya?

Nov 16, 2025
a day ago
Gwennie *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you, I am planning to relocate to Pattaya Thailand 2026. I am gathering all my ddocuments presently. As a Veteran 100% I want a long term VISA.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The individual plans to relocate to Pattaya in 2026 and seeks a long-term visa as a 100% veteran. Comments suggest applying for a NON-O visa based on retirement if over 50, which requires depositing ฿800,000 in a Thai bank after securing a 90-day visa for entry. Alternatively, a wealthy pensioner visa is available for those with significant passive income. While being a veteran brings no special advantages with Thai immigration, it is advised to consult with an agent for assistance and to stay updated on changing regulations.
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Russell *********
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Russell *********
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Christian *******
Do your homework. Everything seems to be in constant change around here. Also, I would recommend you look at Vietnam as an option.
Todd *********
@Christian ******
do your own homework. Vietnam has no retirement visas. And 90 days max stay.

I would recommend you cease making recommendations
Christian *******
@Todd ********
have and love here in Thailand for 5 years. I’m simply telling the man to do his homework before he makes decisions. Man asked a question and I answered. No need for your smug bs. Keep to yourself
Todd *********
@Christian ******
you gave him a shite answer. If you don’t have a clue what you are talking about, save your finger exercises
Christian *******
@Todd ********
okay wonder boy.
Gwennie *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
They have the FMP and Veteran Social Centers who assist veterans.
Gardar ***************************
Apply non o based on retirement before you travel that give 90 days on entry when you in the country open bank account and deposit 800k then take a trip to immigration ask for the list of requirements for one year extension and repeat to end of time. If you wish to leave the country buy a reentry permit to keep your visa alive
Von ***********
Being a VETERAN doesn’t account for anything with Thai immigration, only means something in your own country, doesn’t give you any PULL or extra benefits here.

You are just another number on the system. Welcome to Thailand.
Gwennie *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Von **********
They have the FMP and other organizations created by veterans to assist travelers,
Greg *********
@Gwennie ********
FMP sucks, by the way. Only for service connected conditions and it takes forever to get reimbursed.
Von ***********
@Gwennie ********
which has nothing to do with IMMIGRATION which is WHO you are dealing with in Thailand,

Jus telling you how it is, listen or don’t, you asked for advice.

My advice for you is get an Agent like Siam Legal and they make it very easy, not without cost, but EASY.
Rick ********
Get an agent to help you is your best bet.
Bill *********
@Rick *******
Great advice; it really helped me.
Gwennie *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Rick *******
I am in contact with one also. Thanks
Rick ********
@Gwennie ********
Good luck enjoy. Thank you for your service.
Kim **********
How old are you? If you’re over 50, and you can scrape together ฿800,000, a retirement visa is probably your best bet. You can apply for a non o in your home country. It’s good for 90 days. Once you arrive, you put ฿800,000 in a bank account in Thailand, which you can open because you have your long-term visa. And then once the money has been in the account for two months you apply for a one year extension.

Alternatively, if you have $80,000 in passive income per year and you are over 50, a long-term resident wealthy pensioner visa is also very good.
Steven *******
@Kim *********
The passive income approach works only if you're from a country whose embassy will certify your income. US and UK, for example, stopped doing so years ago.
Kim **********
@Steven ******
passive income is for the ltr visa.
Steven *******
Of course. My comment is valid for LTV.
Cathryn *****
@Kim *********
what is the visa called for $
*****
positive income? Thanks
Kim **********
@Cathryn ****
ltr the wp option
Darren *****
@Kim *********
doesn't 65k thb monthly qualify also. If he's 100% he's definitely got that cocered.
Kim **********
@Darren ****
not for the first year. The US won’t certify pensions, etc..
Darren *****
@Kim *********
good to know
Gwennie *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Kim *********
60yrs old
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