@Jerome **********

Health insurance is important, but it’s clearly an advantage to be able to choose the insurance you prefer, rather than being tied to a Thai health insurance policy approved by Immigration for the rest of your time in Thailand. That’s why most people opt for a regular Non O visa as the basis for a long-term stay in Thailand. There’s really nothing to gain from choosing a Non O-A visa when you plan to apply for an extension of stay in Thailand. In fact, you’re only making things more complicated for yourself, as you’ll also need to obtain both a medical certificate and a police clearance.

If you are planning to move more permanently to Thailand, it is recommended that you apply online for a standard 90-day Non O visa through the Thai embassy or consulate responsible for your region. This way, you avoid being tied to a Thai health insurance policy indefinitely related to a Non O-A visa.

You apply on the basis of being over 50 years old, with either a monthly income equivalent to at least 65,000 baht or a lump sum of 800,000 baht in your bank account.

Shortly after arriving in Thailand, you must open a local bank account and deposit 800,000 baht, ensuring the funds remain there for at least two months before applying for your first annual extension of stay. You may use your American bank for the transfer.

@Jamie *****

If you don’t receive a monthly bank statement, you’ll probably just need to request one from your bank. If you’re applying based on income, you can include three months of payments from your pension provider or your last three payslips.

@Gregor *********

I note that the current equivalent values now stand at £1,483 for the monthly income requirement and £18,250 for the lump sum. Nevertheless, the official requirements published on the embassy’s website appear to remain conveniently unchanged.

To qualify for a Non-O visa based on retirement through the Thai Embassy in London, you must be over 50 years of age and have either a lump sum of £ 18,000 OR a monthly income of £ 1500.

Here's the general requirement and form for transferring stamps from an old passport to a new one.

/Transfer-Stamp-to-New-Passport-Form.pdf

If you're a UK or AUS passport holder, you can enter with a 60-day visa exemption and receive a free stamp on arrival.

Just make sure he has your full address in Thailand. He’ll need it to complete the TDAC arrival card and in case Immigration asks, which they rarely do.

The processing time stated on the website is 10 business days; however, this is merely an estimate. You may wish to wait a little longer and contact them if you have not yet received any update by email.

@Greg **********

Hehe, just save that one for when the question comes up again — it was a very clear, informative, and well-written comment.😉