What is the process for obtaining a retirement visa in Thailand for Americans, specifically regarding the authentication of Social Security documents?

retirement visa NON-O visa American expats Thailand immigration Social Security Administration document authentication bank account requirement

Feb 16, 2024

9 months ago

C **************

ORIGINAL POSTER

Allow me a question please... about retirement visa process for Americans...  I'm over 50 and have pensions... my SSAN alone is over the 800,000 baht requirement...

Recently, I obtained a "pdf" soft-copy letter from the US Social Security Admin... Thai immigration says get the US Consul in Chiang Mai to authenticate it... I've contacted the Consul... but their automatic responses are as clear as mud...

Do I make an appointment for notary services or what?  They have more info about what they will not do... than what they, will do to help citizens in Thailand.

Any Americans in Thailand who have dealt with this stamping/notarizing and accomplished this?

Informed input will be appreciated.  T I A

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TLDR : Answer Summary

An American expat over 50 with a pension is seeking clarification on the process of obtaining a retirement visa in Thailand, particularly related to authenticating a Social Security Administration letter. The Thai immigration requires this document to be authenticated by the US Consul in Chiang Mai, but the consul's automated responses are confusing. One comment indicates that the US embassy no longer offers notarization services and advises that the primary requirement for the retirement visa is to show proof of 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account.

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.

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

The US embassy, along with many others, stopped offering this service years ago.

The ONLY option you have if you want to apply for the initial non-O visa in Thailand, and the ONLY option you have for the first 1 year extension, is showing proof of 800,000 baht in your Thai bank account.

9 months ago

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

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Can I use an authenticated SS Income verification letter to meet the retirement visa income requirement in Thailand?

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