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Why does the Thai embassy recommend a non-O visa for retirement while the online application does not clearly reference this?
Non-O VisaRetirement VisaThai Visa RulesLong Stay VisaExpat Visa InformationVisa Application ProcessThailand ImmigrationVisa Requirements for Over 50s
Sep 8, 2022
4 years ago
Tulip ********
ORIGINAL POSTERCould someone tell me why the Thai embassy says to get a non O visa if wanting to retire to Thailand, but the online application site makes no mention of a retirement visa in its lists of reasons for a non o visa. I have been teaching some kids online for a couple of years and want to go for a longstay with the family. I understand I need a non o visa. I am well over 50. But nowhere on the online site does it mention retiring. Also it says a non O can be used to visit friends, but then only mentions family relationships. Can someone help me out.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion revolves around the confusion regarding the Non-O visa application process for retirement in Thailand. While the Thai embassy suggests applying for a Non-O visa for retirement, the online application site does not explicitly mention 'retirement' as a reason for application. Responses indicate that although there is no specific 'retirement visa', many expats successfully obtain a Non-O visa stamped with 'Retirement'. Other reasons for the Non-O visa include family connections and other circumstances such as voluntary work. It's crucial to understand the different terminologies used and requirements such as age, financial proofs, and insurance.
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.
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Tulip ********
ORIGINAL POSTERThanks for all the useful and helpful comments. Nice to have the support and expertise of this forum.
Jim ********
Just go with the flow. Enjoy the rest of your life.
Steve *******
It's issued for many reasons, one being over 50 years old, not retirement. Other reasons are marriage to a Thai, having Thai dependant relatives and undertaking volunteering work in Thailand
Adrian ******
Terminology is the thing
Philip **********
There’s no such thing as a retirement visa. There’s an extension of stay based on retirement.
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Jeffrey *********
@Philip *********
That's technically true, but since the Non-O visa I received from immigration has the word "RETIREMENT" stamped on it, I would say it's a distinction in search of a difference.Reply to
Jeffrey *********
Reply
Billy *******
We are in the same suitation can't find a nearby Thai embassy that will issue the type O for my wife to be a rider on my retirement visa inside Thailand before vietine loas did now it's not in there list.
Stuart *********
There actually is no “retirement” visa. Many references to one or more found online. The three variations are actually a visa for those over 50. Employment status, whether you are actually retired is irrelevant.
David *******
I just applied for, and was issued, a Non O ‘for Retirement’ from RTE London via the e-visa site. You need to be over 50, have proof of a pension or £10k in your bank account for 3 months. Plus insurance, flight, some accommodation booked.
Nick ************
@David ******
its *****
0 baht in Thai bank account for three months to get non o based on retirement.David *******
@Nick ***********
Not when you get it from the Embassy in London before travelling.Nick ************
@David ******
to get the12 month extension you need *****
0 baht in a THAI bank account. It's easier to apply for the 90 day non O in Thailand.David *******
@Nick ***********
I’m not going to argue with you, you seem to have joined the thread just to be difficult. The question was about getting a Non O from the Embassy and I answered the question. It suited me, and it suits many others, to do it this way.
Nick ************
@David ******
to get the 12 month extension based on retirement you need *****
0 baht in a Thai bank whether you get the non o 90 days in Thailand, London or anywhere else. Not being difficult, just telling you like it is .David *******
@Nick ***********
Which has nothing to do with the question that was asked. Good bye.Reply to
David *******
Reply
Wyn **********
@David ******
How long can you be on that O visa before showing the funds in a Thai bank.David *******
@Wyn *********
Mod already answered but just to confirm it’s a 90-day visa on entry. I’ll then be getting the first annual Extension. 800k needs to be in bank 2 months before applying and 3 months after to do it officially.Brandon ************
@Wyn *********
the visa is issued for a 90 day entry. After that you must extend or leave Thailand. The 1 year extension requires seasoned funds in the bank.Reply to
Brandon ************
Reply
Bonnie *********
Please be aware that the embassy requirements and envisaged requirements are not the same.
Brandon ************
I'm not really sure what you are looking at.
When you're in the evisa application there is a section for "Non-Immigrant Visa" and then under that there is an option for "Retirement." It seems pretty self explanatory to me.
When you're in the evisa application there is a section for "Non-Immigrant Visa" and then under that there is an option for "Retirement." It seems pretty self explanatory to me.
Reply to
Brandon ************
Reply
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