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What is the process for applying for a Thailand Retirement Visa extension and what should I know about leaving the country during this period?

Dec 19, 2025

4 days ago

Hi all... A quick check-in on the Thailand Retirement Visa process (Non-Immigrant Visa Category “O” – Retirement Extension).

I entered Thailand in late November on a 90-day Non-Immigrant Visa Category “O”, with the intention of applying in-country for the one-year extension of stay based on retirement.

Completed so far:

* Opened a Thai bank account in my name

* Deposited 800,000 Thai Baht (treating the funds as frozen)

* In the process of completing residence registration (TM30 / address confirmation), including a notarized passport copy from my embassy and an official Thai translation (should be completed next week)

* My understanding is that Thai medical insurance is not required for an in-country retirement extension (please correct me if wrong)

* The two-month seasoning period for the 800,000 Thai Baht deposit will be reached in early February.

Questions:

* Is early February the correct time to go to the Immigration Office with the full set of required documents?

* Is this typically walk-in or appointment-based?

* I have read that the funds must remain untouched for three months after the retirement extension is granted — does this restriction affect my ability to leave Thailand during that period? I need to return to the United States in March for pre-existing obligations and requirements.

Thanks very much — appreciate any firsthand experience or recent confirmations 🙏 ~mb

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on the process for applying for a one-year extension of stay in Thailand based on retirement. They have prepared necessary documents, including a Thai bank account with 800,000 baht deposited for the required seasoning period. The key inquiries are about the timing for their immigration appointment, whether an appointment is necessary, and the impact of retaining the funds in their bank account on their ability to leave Thailand for a short trip back to the US.

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.
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