Answereda year ago
What should I consider when applying for a retirement visa to Thailand with an old police record?
Hi All
We are retiring to Thailand beginning of 2026. My initial plan was just fly to thailand with my wife whom holds Thai citizenship and then i was going to apply once we were in the the country sounded like it was easier but now with banking accounts being more difficult to open i am on the thought of applying before we leave the states but with this i have minor police record from 30+ years ago. Nothing felony or serious has anyone ran into issues when applying at a Thai Embassy in their own country with very old issues.
We are retiring to Thailand beginning of 2026. My initial plan was just fly to thailand with my wife whom holds Thai citizenship and then i was going to apply once we were in the the country sounded like it was easier but now with banking accounts being more difficult to open i am on the thought of applying before we leave the states but with this i have minor police record from 30+ years ago. Nothing felony or serious has anyone ran into issues when applying at a Thai Embassy in their own country with very old issues.
Answer summary
A user is planning to retire to Thailand in 2026 and seeks advice on applying for a retirement visa from the US, given a minor police record from over 30 years ago. The community responds by confirming that the NON-O visa, specifically for retirees, does not require a background check or police clearance. They suggest applying for the visa before leaving the US to simplify the process and mention that opening a Thai bank account may have specific requirements. It's noted that various visa categories exist under the NON-O designation and that proper financial documentation is necessary for the visa application.
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Richard ********
Definitely easier to apply online while you're stateside.
Nev ********
I’m Australian for the AO visa I needed a federal police clearance, had minor stuff from 30 years ago police clearance came through clean. Ask the police to check prior to getting your certificate.
Laetitia ******
To open a bank account under a tourist visa is not possible anymore. You will have to apply to a thai embassy with your bank account statement. There're different ways to handle this problem. About criminal records, they don't check so don't worry.
Erik ***********
@Laetitia *****
what are you talking about? He has been told to go for the non O as the best way to go and there is nothing involving bank a/c in Thailand doing this. In Thailand you go to immig with TM 30 etc get a letter from them and open an account. Might want to avoid Bangkok Bank though with their rule of 4 month seasoning of funds.
Robert ******
OPthanks Laetitia you have been very helpful in pointing me in the right direction.
Laetitia ******
@Erik **********
The "Non-O" visa in Thailand is a broad category for various purposes that don't fall under other specific non-immigrant visa types (like "B" for business/work or "ED" for education).While sometimes referred to simply as "Non-O," it encompasses several sub-categories based on the purpose of stay. The main options for a Non-O visa include:
* Non-Immigrant O (General "Other Purposes"): This is a broad category covering various reasons, such as:
* Visiting family: For foreign nationals who are spouses, parents, or children of Thai nationals or non-Thai nationals residing in Thailand with a valid work permit or stay permit.
* Volunteering: For individuals performing duties for state enterprises or social welfare organizations.
* Medical Treatment: For those seeking medical care in Thailand.
* Sports Coach/Contestant/Witness: For specific roles in sports or judicial processes.
* Former Thai citizens: For those who used to have Thai nationality and wish to visit Thai relatives.
* **Non-Immigrant O-A (Long Stay Retirement Visa): Specifically for applicants aged 50 years and over who wish to stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding one year without the intention of working.
* Non-Immigrant O-X (Long Stay 10-Year Retirement Visa): A longer-term retirement visa available to nationals of specific countries with stricter requirements than the O-A visa.
It's important to note that the specific requirements and availability can vary depending on the applicant's nationality and the Thai embassy or consulate where the application is made. Always check with the official Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate website in your country of residence for the most up-to-date information.
Laetitia ******
@Erik **********
strange how people get grumpy and agressive over an answer to a post...Laetitia ******
@Erik **********
are you aware of thai regulations. he said he wants to retire with his wife. Non o for retirement visa you have to show money. That's it. And even for a Non O spouse visa, you have to prove incomes and statement. And now it's getting difficult and quiet impossible to open an account with a tourist visa
Yo ****
You need to open Thai bank account under your name to apply for retirement visa. And the money normally need a proof transfer from overseas. Or your Thai wife can get the information at the immigration for all the documents that you need
Brenda *********
How long does it take to get the retirement visa after arriving on the 60 day ?
Brandon ************
@Brenda ********
You can't if you don't already have a Thai bank account when you arrive.If you have a Thai bank account already, then it takes 15-21 days depending on the immigration office. You apply and get an "under consideration" stamp in your passport telling you to return on that date to get your visa.
Brenda *********
Thanks for all the feedback!!! Lots to think about.
Brenda *********
@Brandon ***********
can you do the 90 day visa, then apply for retirement visa once there? Or is it better to apply for retirement visa in own country?
Doug ********
@Brandon ***********
this is the correct way I agree, but I did this last month by coming back from Laos. Got the 90 day visa non O within three working days.However getting the bank to open an account was still difficult even though I had the non o,passport,proof of residence,letter from at etc.
Still three banks refused
Peter ****************
@Brenda ********
When you have a non imm. O visa, this visa is "USED" entering Thailand. After e.g. 60 days you can arrange a "Year EXTENSION", this isn't a visa anymore. Best indeed to get the non O visa in y'r home country, to open a bank account and put the required funds (400k฿/800k฿) in it, because they have to be in the bank for 2 months before you can apply for the year extension.Brandon ************
@Brenda ********
A 90-day non-O visa IS a retirement visa. You get it from your own country before traveling. And that will allow you to open the bank account you need to apply for the 1-year extension (not a visa, an extension).
Lynnette *******
Don't need a police check with a nonO based in retirement. So get it in USA. Then open your bank account when you arrive.
Robert ******
OP@Lynnette ******
thanks Lynnette I’ll go that way with the visa.Lynnette *******
@Robert *****
now banks want proof of a visa to open accounts it's the best way.Brandon ************
The non-O visa does not have a background check requirement.
Robert ******
OP@Brandon ***********
thanks very muchActivity
11 joined11
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