What are the options for obtaining long-term visas to Thailand with a pre-existing condition and insurance challenges?

Dec 2, 2024
10 days ago
Chris **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi All, I am investigating longer term Visas for Thailand. I am from the UK. I have a longterm girlfriend here and have recently retired. A marriage visa is the ultimate goal. However on some of the Visa requirements proof of Medical Insurance is required. I had a Heart Attack in 2018 which required a stent, on speaking to AXA, they told me it will be impossible to get any Insurance. I understand pre-existing conditions maybe excluded, but they said "not possible to get any insurance". Has anyone had recent experience of this and can point me to a solution? Thank you in advance.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is from the UK and is exploring long-term visa options for Thailand due to retirement and a long-term relationship. They express concern over medical insurance after experiencing a heart attack, which complicates their ability to obtain required coverage for certain visa types. Many commenters clarify that insurance is not necessary for a NON-O visa or marriage extensions, which could be a feasible route. Suggestions were made for alternatives like Pacific Cross Health Insurance, which accommodates pre-existing conditions, as well as advice to apply for a 90-day NON-O visa without upfront insurance, and self-insurance as an option.
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.
Paul *******************
Try WR life I use them for expat insurance in Thailand they're pretty lenient I can send you my broker's name if you're interested
Chris **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Paul Eugene RainwaterYes please. Thank you very much that would be very kind of you.
Paul *******************
He's on WhatsApp too +66 94 896 1727, tell him I referred you. If you're in Thailand you don't need the +66 just put in a zero.
Paul *******************
Peter *******
I used these people to help me though the minefield that is Medical Insurance and was very happy with them
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Nick ************
Others have advised on Visa. Try earlier. Talk to them and try and work something out. I had TIA in 2015 and after haggling they insured me but with a 1 year moritorium for anything heart related. I am now full covered.

Wrlife.net
John ***********
Me no insurance and have o visa 12months
Steve *******
They're talking bullsh*t. I had 2 stents fitted and have no problem getting long term health insurance for Thailand. It's not cheap but easily accessible from most Insurance companies in the UK.
Chris **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
A big thank you for all your comments and advice.
Martyn ***********
If your over 50 get a retirement visa.. Much less hassle.
Loic *******
Pacific Cross Health Insurance might be a good alternative as they are popular for retirement visa insurance and accommodating applicants with pre existing conditions.

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Damien ********
@Loic ******
Pacific Cross have a bad reputation for refusing claims . They will find a policy sure and take his money but will not pay out as they will blame his pre existing heart condition
Henry *********
No insurance required for an O visa or retirement/marriage extensions. Only required for OA and OX longstay visas.
Malcolm *****
The big question is - do you have sufficient funds for “self insurance” (cover your own medical costs in Thailand) ?
Chris **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Malcolm ****
i am putting aside a fairly substantial lump sum but would prefer insurance in the longer term if possible.
James *********
Non O has no insurance requirements
Malcolm *****
Insurance will be a big challenge. Are you old enough for a retirement visa (50+)?
Chris **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Malcolm ****
Yes. I am 67.
Lynnette *******
You don't need to get insurance. That's for the O-A.
Jan ******************
Apply for a regular 90 days Non O Visa based on retirement without health insurance requirements online through your embassy before you leave and do yearly extensions of stay in Thailand.

Only the one year Non O-A visa requires a mandatory health insurance.
Joseph *******
@Jan *****************
And the non O-X, as well as the ten-year LTR.
Jan ******************
@Joseph ******
That’s correct 👍
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