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What visa options should I consider for retirement in Thailand if I can only apply for a DTV in April?

Thailand Visa Retirement Visa DTV Visa Exemption Long-term Stay Bank Requirements Expats in Thailand Non-O Visa

Oct 16, 2025

2 months ago

Chris *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello, my situation seems complex. I want to go to Thailand in January for eventual retirement. I receive a yearly payout of nearly 800k on January 1, not monthly payments. But I will need some of that to live on, so can’t tie it up in a Thai bank for months. 

I don’t currently have 500k for the DTV, and I understand that I need to show a bank statement with that amount for 3 months before applying for a DTV. So, I can apply April 1. 

What visa makes the most sense when I go in January? 

Is it reasonable to have “some kind” of visa until April 1, then apply for a DTV, then get an over 50/retirement visa when I can leave 800k in a Thai bank?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on which visa to obtain for a trip to Thailand in January, coinciding with their plans to retire and apply for a DTV visa by April. They face challenges regarding the 500k baht bank statement requirement for the DTV visa and have concerns about living expenses while waiting for the necessary funds. Community comments suggest entering Thailand on a visa exemption, obtaining extensions, and considering the logistics of applying for the DTV visa from a neighboring country.

DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
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Nawapol ***********

Please inquire about this information.

a month ago

Glenn *****

If you have money in your home country you can apply for an O A visa but you will need to apply for Thai health insurance.

a month ago

Frankie *****

When you do come here, remember to live within your expenses

All the best !

a month ago

Chun ****

I am surprised nobody mentioned that you cannot open a Thai bank account with a tourist or DTV visa.

a month ago

Mike ********

@Chun ***

from the sound of it , it’s probably for the best , I’m just following, but all the nightmares I’m seeing about bank ac accounts, I would not have one ,, transfer to someone else account to pay them from wise sounds way better

a month ago

Todd *********

@Chun ***

agent. Although it is more difficult than ever to accomplish

a month ago

Reply to

Todd *********

Ralph *******

The best long term strategy is the non O visa with annual extensions. But you can’t afford it. I would wait until you have the 800k to deposit in a Thai bank.