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What is the best visa option for retirees married to a Thai citizen wishing to spend more time in Thailand?

Retirement Visa Marriage Visa Non-O Visa Visa Extension Thai Immigration Re-Entry Permit Expat Life in Thailand Banking in Thailand

Jun 10, 2025

a year ago

Bill ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Good evening , I’ve been married to a Thai lady for 35 years. We’re both looking to retire and spend more time in Thailand.   I have a bank account that I’ve had for many years. Can you advise what’s the best visa for me to try obtain ? We would prefer if it’s possible to return back to Scotland when ever we like . You advice etc would be much appreciated

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A foreigner married to a Thai citizen for 35 years is seeking advice on the best visa option for retirement in Thailand while maintaining the ability to travel back to Scotland. Suggestions include applying for a Non-O visa based on marriage or retirement, both of which can be obtained prior to traveling to Thailand. For the Non-O based on marriage, maintaining a minimum balance of 400,000 baht in a Thai bank account is advised, along with a multiple re-entry permit for travel flexibility. Alternatively, the retirement option requires showing sufficient proof of funds (800,000 baht for the first year) or monthly income of at least 65,000 baht. Overall, the Non-O visa based on marriage or retirement provides a solid path to residency in Thailand.

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.

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Paul *******

You could apply for a Marriage Visa but a Retirement Visa (provided that you meet the requirements) involovess mush less hassle.

a year ago

Grant ***********

Can I just say what a wonderful achievement for 35 years married good for you both

a year ago

Bill ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Grant ***********

lovely

Bill ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Grant **********

thanks

a year ago

Reply to

Bill ********

Graham ******

You qualify for a Non-O based on Marriage or Retirement, both can be applied for before travelling to Thailand and will give you 90 days on entry. You then apply for a 12 month Extension of Stay (cost 1900B) based on the reason the Non-O was issued by meeting the Thai banked asmount requirement. A re-entry permit cost single 1000B or multi 3800B) allows you to keep your 12 month status live while travelling outside of Thailand.

a year ago

Jan ******************

You could apply for a 90 days Non O based on marriage through the Thai embassy in London before you go, put 400K baht in a Thai bank account two months before you apply for yearly extensions of stays. If you also purchase a multiple re-entry permit you’ll be able to come and go more or less as you like.

Alternatively a Non O based on retirement and bank 800K baht for the first year extension of stay and switch to monthly income for the second year by showing proof of twelve months consecutive transfers of min 65K baht.

a year ago

Rick *********

@Jan *****************

and the Non-O retirement or marriage visa has to be applied for BEFORE you enter Thailand, correct?

a year ago

Jan ******************

@Rick ********

It’s possible to apply for a Non O in country as well, but it’s almost impossible to open a bank account unless you enter on a long stay visum.

So the best option is definitely to apply for a visa online before you go.

***************************

a year ago

Reply to

Jan ******************

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What is the best and easiest visa option for retiring in Thailand as a UK resident married to a Thai citizen?