What documents do I need for a Retirement Visa and NON-O Visa in Thailand?

Sep 4, 2024
4 months ago
Dawn ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi everyone, I am US citizen coming to Thailand for retirement visa. I already have a BBL account from a previous retirement visa (had to let it lapse because of a emergency). I paid an agent back then. Question - where do I find the list of required documents to do it myself? I know I need to change to NON O first 3 months and then retirement but cannot find a list of the documents required for either. TIA
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A US citizen inquiring about the process of obtaining a retirement visa in Thailand, specifically the documents required for converting to a NON-O visa first for three months, received advice to contact local immigration for specific requirements as they vary by area. Suggestions include applying for a 90-day NON-O visa from a Thai embassy or consulate in the US prior to arrival and securing documentation from the bank to demonstrate funds, which must be up-to-date on the day of immigration application.
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.
Ian ********
I just did my extension and followed the requirements to the letter and is a breeze
Dawn ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ian *******
thanks Ian! So the letter from the bank does t have to be dated for the day you go to immigration?
Ian ********
@Dawn *******
the letter/certificate lasts for 7 days, most people go to the bank on the day to pick up year statement, letter/certificate and update bank book. Bank book must be updated on the day you go to immigration.
Ian ********
Chiang Mai requirements for non O
Ian ********
This is for Chiang Mai immigration for the 1year extension
Khun *****
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Phil ******
@Dawn *******
your local immi office will give you a list
Graham ******
Look at the Thai Embassy/Consulates in the US to get your Non-O before you arrive so you get 90 days on entry and hit the ground running
Brandon ************
It would be easier if you get the 90 day non-O visa from the Thai embassy in your home country before you leave. That way you have 90 days to go to the immigration office and get their handout for the requirements for the 1-year extension and can apply directly for that.

If you still want to convert in Thailand, you'll need to go to your immigration office and ask them for their list of requirements to convert to the non-O based on retirement, as each office sets their own requirements. You'll also need to prove that the money in your bank was transferred from overseas, which is not required for the 1-year extension.
Dawn ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
So the immigration offices actually have a handout with documents required?
Brandon ************
@Dawn *******
yes, a different handout for 90 day visa conversion and then another for the 1-year extension since the requirements are different.
Chris *******
@Brandon ***********
Phuket has all the info for both on one handout.
Chris *******
It will be area dependant.

You'll need to post where or go to the local immigration when you get there.

They will give you the list.
Dawn ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I already have a Bangkok Bank account ๐Ÿ™‚
Chris *******
@Dawn *******
then you are good.

Get the money transferred, make sure it is marked as a foreign transfer and you are good to go.
Dawn ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Phuket
Chris *******
@Dawn *******
******************


You can download the current requirements.

Or go to rm 204 Phuket Main Immigration and speak to the volunteers on the desk.

They can explain the requirements in depth.
Dawn ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Chris ******
very helpful thank you. Seems a little overwhelming I'm guessing that's why alotnof people use an agent!
Dana *******
@Dawn *******
Very easy to do. No need of an agent.
Stuart ***********
@Dawn *******
it seems overwhelming, but it is easy really, just get a folder and put all of your documents in it with a few photocopies and go to immigration. It's actually very simple.
Chris *******
@Dawn *******
alot of people use agents for various reasons.

It is unnecessary if you can follow a list and and qualify.

** the one thing that you will need an agent for in Phuket is a bank account if you do not enter on a 90 day non-o.

Which you should do.**

Despite efforts you will expell much time and energy trying to open an account and may fail over and over.

Much easier if you apply and have visa before you get here, then won't need an agent at all.

The immigration desk can guide you at no cost, rm 204.
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