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What is the best visa option for Australian retirees staying in Thailand for a year with strategic border runs?
Thailand VisaRetirement VisaNon-O VisaMultiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV)Long Term Resident (LTR) VisaDigital Nomad Visa (DTV)Expat Immigration
Dec 5, 2025
5 months ago
Lorraine ********
ORIGINAL POSTERHi we are thinking about staying in Thailand for a year, both retired. We would leave Thailand every 5 months then come back. With all the drama over the crackdown on border runs etc, what is the best way forward? Which visa?
Edit Australian both over 60yrs.
Edit Australian both over 60yrs.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation discusses visa options for retired Australians looking to stay in Thailand for a year, suggesting various strategies to manage stay requirements. The most recommended visa is the Non-O Retirement Visa for those over 50, which allows for a one-year extension without the need for frequent border runs. Other alternatives mentioned include the Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV), which permits strategic border runs, and the Long Term Resident (LTR) Visa, especially if qualifying as a wealthy pensioner. Users highlight the ease of managing stay duration with the Non-O visa compared to potential complications with frequent border bounces.
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Jim *******
OP said Australia. Non O retirement visa, 90 days to sort out bank account and 1 year extension. Multiple entry (1,900 THB) I think it would suit them. That what I am on.
Peter *********
Bob **********
The non-o based on retirement and extend for a year is the way to go if you want to stay a year without any drama you won’t get two 30 day extensions on two exempt entries in the same year
John *********
DTV
Ossie *********
Look at The 5 year DTV
Todd *********
@Ossie ********
if you don't qualify for LTR, can't afford Thai Privilege or can't get a Non-O.... DTV is a good backup plan. Easiest and cheapest in Thailand.Reply to
Todd *********
Reply
Richard *************
LTR is the best visa in my opinion.
Especially the wealthy pensioner if you qualify. Not a single down side.
Especially the wealthy pensioner if you qualify. Not a single down side.
Ron ******
@Richard ************
To stay for a year?Richard *************
@Ron *****
It's a 10 year visa.Ron ******
@Richard ************
Yeah I see now. They want to stay a year and come and go every five months. Bit confusing!Reply to
Ron ******
Reply
Todd *********
@Richard ************
There is really no doubt LTR is the best visa thailand has ever offered. By an enormous margin.Reply to
Todd *********
Reply
Tony **********
Just go with the non-o over 50 and get 1yr extension. No need for border bounces or other manipulations.
Jeremy ********
Buy the 6 month month METV you can get 9 months out of it with a strategic border bounce in the last few days
60 day stamp, extend for 30 days at ฿1,900 at your local immigration office
Border bounce, microcation minication vacation.
Return 60 day stamp extend for 30 days at ฿1,900 at your local immigration office
Last few days do a border Bounce
Get stamped in for 60 days extend for 30 days for ฿1,900 at your local immigration office
There is no limit on the amount of METV Visas you can buy back to back
These do not count against your 2 border bounces per year
Good luck
60 day stamp, extend for 30 days at ฿1,900 at your local immigration office
Border bounce, microcation minication vacation.
Return 60 day stamp extend for 30 days at ฿1,900 at your local immigration office
Last few days do a border Bounce
Get stamped in for 60 days extend for 30 days for ฿1,900 at your local immigration office
There is no limit on the amount of METV Visas you can buy back to back
These do not count against your 2 border bounces per year
Good luck
Bob ********
What country from? What age? 50yr old is the magic number for retirement visa
Reply to
Bob ********
Reply
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