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What is the best way to apply for a retirement visa in Thailand while currently on a tourist visa?

Thailand Retirement Visa Non-O Visa Visa Application Process Bank Account Opening in Thailand Expatriate in Thailand

Apr 27, 2025

21 hours ago

Tom *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi guys,

I’m so pleased I found this forum, it’s been a big help reading a lot of posts. I’ve decided that I wish to retire in Thailand. I’m currently in Thailand on an extended 90 day tourist visa, which expires shortly. 

I’m a little confused over the best way to proceed. When I return to UK, should I start the visa process at the Thai embassy to enable me to open a bank account here ? Is it easier to apply in the UK, or to return here and apply ?

Many thanks for the advice.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on the best way to transition from a 90-day tourist visa to a retirement visa in Thailand. They are currently in Thailand and plan to return to the UK. Community members suggest that the user should apply for a 90-day Non-O visa from the UK, as it is simpler and allows for easier banking services in Thailand. They recommend using the Thai e-visa system for an easier process and mention that having a genuine resident situation aids the 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.

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Nicholas ******

Tom..when you make your move into Thailand I recommend you use an agent to help you. You will have to pay but I found it very helpful

19 hours ago

Tom *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Nicholas *****

yeah thank you for that, I’ve read a number of posts that recommend this option. I’ll definitely go that route.

19 hours ago

Reply to

Tom *********

David **********

I do so it was so easy to get marriage visa here

20 hours ago

David **********

It is straightforward and easy to get just make sure you have a genuine resident situation and is easy if you're lucky enough to have a thai wife you only need 400k in the bank

20 hours ago

David **********

Apply for 90 day non o visa in home country when you get here go to immigration and get a residency certificate and ask for a letter for the bank to open the account

20 hours ago

Tom *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@David *********

thank you, that’s very helpful

20 hours ago

Reply to

Tom *********

Dora *******

Definitely 90 day Non O

20 hours ago

Brandon ************

If you're already planning to return to the UK, then it's 1000 times better to apply for the 90 day non-O visa while you're there. Not only will it let you open a bank account in Thailand, it will also save you at least 2 trips to the immigration office, which in some cases can be an all day affair. Instead you just submit a few documents online from your computer to the Thai e-visa system and wait.

20 hours ago

Tom *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

Hi Brandon, I just had a look at the Thai Embassy website. Forgive me being a little thick here. Is the non-O-visa a standard 90 day visa ? There seems to be numerous visas available, but I just wanted to clarify with you before hand. Once again, am grateful for the help.

20 hours ago

Tom *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

thank you so much.

20 hours ago

Stuart ***********

@Tom ********

as always Brandon is the 'Oracle' as far as visa advice goes.

Another bonus of doing it in the UK before you come, is that you then do not require an onward flight.

20 hours ago

Reply to

Stuart ***********

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What are the advantages of processing a retirement visa in Thailand versus the UK?

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