What steps should I take to prepare for retirement in Thailand three years in advance?

I assume you have been to Thailand before and been to the various places that are popular with retirees and also decided where to settle.

If yes, it's best to join Facebook groups for these areas to get a feel of the local Expat community and their general advice on the immigration office and agents in that area.

If you haven't been to Thailand, don't worry about Visas. Get on a plane and come here for 1-2 Months to see for yourself if Thailand is the right place for you.

Coopers Thai adventure

A lot can change in 3 years. I can decide to move to Thailand and the next day get a plane and be here, living in Thailand. It's really not much more complicated than that, for the Thai side of things... For the Canada side of things.. I would make sure you have a phone set-up, current driver's license, all your banking needs arranged.

In the US, the state where you reside, determines your tax liability, not sure how its done up north but you want to look into best tax situation.

The team at

@Tenzing ********

, the leading expat insurance broker in Thailand has made this guide for all things health insurance in Thailand

Just get on a plane and go.

The laws will change in 3 years

Far too early

Overall, this is a very simply process, but people seem to love making things more difficult than necessary.

First, if you qualify for LTR, this is the no brainer move. Best visa Thailand has ever offered. If you qualify, it’s easy. If you don’t qualify, things are a bit harder. But not much.

You can get your retirement either in Canada before departure (health care insurance required) or after arriving in Thailand (no insurance requirement). If you have a pension exceeding 65k baht monthly, embassy will issue a letter of affidavit and no need to deposit 800k in Thailand bank. Which is foolish anyway.

Check with CRA about your intent to establish non-residency with Thailand.

CRA can be very helpful, and no need to waste money on a tax consultant living in Canada with minimal experience.

If federal govt employee, simply switch to comprehensive coverage and you are fully covered in Thailand. If not, you will want to get local medical insurance IN Thailand after arrival.

We have been here since before COVID, and it’s pretty amazing overall. A serious life upgrade over life in Canada. Enjoy the transition

Hi. I am going through the same process right now. And like you, I am a planner. So, what I have done is 1. Consulted with a Canadian tax accountant to understand the financial implications of a relocation. Depending on your circumstances you will either become a non resident of Canada or retain residency status. You can then understand the tax repercussions and the health benefits which are tied to residency. You may want to consult a tax accountant in Thailand to understand Canadian/Thai tax treaties and any implications for you. 2. Discussed with my financial advisor and bank regarding where my money will reside and if remaining in Canada how money will be transferred from bank to bank 3. Visa - I am using an agent in Thailand to expedite my retirement visa and the paperwork. I agree it’s doable online through the Thai

Embassy in Ottawa. I find this easier 4. Global Health Insurance options and costs - an agent is very helpful since there are many global companies and many options with varied costs within each company. And, it’s very different to what we experience in Canada. 5. Where you want to live and options (rent/ purchase). 6. Shipping of possessions- I’m not taking a lot (no furniture or electronics) but I do want somethings. I’m researching shipping companies and steps, costs and timing required.

I started my research last Spring and while early I’ve been able to research a lot. I’m in Thailand this winter and will meet with Thai contacts I’ve made and begin to fine-tune the details prior to my permanent move in November 2025. Good luck. Hope this helps

Just beware that advice/information about Thailand's regulations and procedures given now for an event that is happening in 3 years may not be particularly relevant when you are ready to start the process. I understand the desire to feel comfortable about something, but if possible just relax and as you come up to that 6 month mark you can check/ask and get feedback that will reflect better the reality you will be dealing with.

You do not need an agent.

It is very simple to get a visa for Thailand.

As you stated you are too far in advance now, but 6 months before use the good people here to advise you on the process.

It's very easy, enjoy your retirement.