Not lenghty but more hoops to jump through. Photos. visit to you home by immigration, drae your house map, more paperwork, wife must go to immigration when you apply. May more questions from immigration. If you have the funds then entension of stay based on Retirement (you have an extension rather than a retirement visa) is much, much easier.

@Jerry *******

Many years ago (maybe 6) I entered the coun rty on a retirement visa from Brisbane, Australia. In January of this year, I applied for my first extention of stay based on Retirement. There was no mention of insurance.

YHou can do both on the one day. It does not matter which order.

The list varies in accordance with which Imm igration office that you need to use. Go to the office and ask for the list for there.

@Brendan ****

Yes.

@Anouch **********

Yes, or visa exempt stamp and then go to immigratio nand get the much better visa that suits you.\

@David *****************

I believe that you should buy insurance if you consdier it a good option for you, mnot if some Government tells you to.

@Steve ******

Agree. If you have to return to Immigration to get the stamp do not access the funds. If you have the stamp good to go.

@Darren ******

Anyway, probably much more qualified thatn the Thai school teacher who is teacing English but is unable to hold a two minute converstion with you.

Come to Thailand on a Visa exempt stamp and then apply for a Retirement Visa in country. Then insurance is not required/