I wanted to say itβs 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.
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.