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What is the best visa option for expats looking to retire in Thailand, especially for those married to Thai citizens?

Mar 18, 2025
16 days ago
Rick *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I wanted to say it’s amazing how much conflicting information you can get regarding all the different visa options for entering/retiring to Thailand. I saw someone say if you talk to 10 different agents/experts you will get 10 different results and that appears to be true. So after much reading and deliberation and asking questions here I believe I have finally arrived at the best option; GET DRUNK! No just kidding.

My best bet appears to be the Non-O marriage visa as I am married to a Thai woman. It requires the fewest hoops to jump through and has the smallest amount of required money I need to keep in a Thai bank, etc. I am still not 100% sure if I have to apply online here in The US, or if I can come to Thailand and then apply for the visa, but I am going to go with what Brandon Thurkettle has told me because he seems to be extremely knowledgeable on the subject; I will do the application here and then get the bank account after arriving there and do whatever else I have to to secure our retirement in my adopted country.

Thanks again for all the help and I hope to run into some of you Farangs when we get there in the next couple months. Peace from Seattle, Washington, USA.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The author discusses the challenge of navigating conflicting information about Thai visa options, eventually concluding that the Non-O marriage visa is the most suitable choice for them as they are married to a Thai citizen. They express uncertainty about where to apply for the visa, whether in the US or upon arrival in Thailand, but plan to follow advice from a knowledgeable community member. Comments from the community highlight the widespread confusion regarding visa rules, and a mix of supportive advice and caution regarding potential complications, such as the impact of divorce on a marriage visa.
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.
Lennart **********
You have done a very good decision Brandon are one of the best πŸ‘
Bent *************
No matter what your question is you will get conflicting, misleading and incorrect answers when you ask on Facebook
Ian ******
Don't forget with a marriage certificate visa.

God forbid but if all goes down divorce road you have 7 days i believe to leave thailand as your marriage visa is null and void.
Graham ******
@Ian *****
You convert your Extension of Stay on the day of your divorce or leave Thailand. Don't count on the "Extension denied, 7 days to leave Thailand" stamp as you should have planned your stay status in advance of the divorce, a divorce doesn't just happen overnight.
Ian ******
Ian ******
David *********
There going to make a new horror movie called

"The Thai Visa that ate the Farang
Mark *********
The bigger issue, in fact core problem, is ten different answers from ten different immigration officers!
Bill ********
Good luck to you and hope you enjoy being retired in Thailand as much as I do!
Robert ******
Good luck on your new chapter of life. I have been exploring all the visas for a Thai move we are making in 23 months and counting.
Wayne *********
Brandon has given you good advise and your correct he is extremely knowledgeable on the subject.
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