@Chasity **************

I completely get it, but obviously you're not like most people. Let's face it, most people can't understand why anyone would do what you and I have done/are doing.

As you stated, unfortunately a lot of people in these groups aren't very helpful. I offered help by stating the financial requirements (or lack thereof) for the DTV. There is a Facebook group that is more specific to the DTV where you can get better advice.

The reason for the assumption is in my original comment. So many people actually just think "wow, it's so cheap to live there and it looks wonderful so I'll just move there". If you're already comfortable with the Thailand lifestyle, you'll do just fine. Sadly, the question we got asked the most when we left the states (almost 4 years ago) was " What are you going to do with all your stuff?" The materialistic mentality of most westerners doesn't work in this culture.

@Us ****

I think that's the downfall of many farangs 😂

Serious question - have you visited Thailand before? I ask this because so many people have this 'dream' and because everything looks so wonderful on YouTube and Instagram, but the reality isn't quite the same. We live here now and are quite happy, but it takes some SERIOUS adjustment to your western lifestyle.

That being said, the DTV doesn't have specific income requirements. The only financial requirement is 500,000 Thai baht (a little over $15k) in any bank (liquid like checking or savings) and the application fee.

@Brook *******

this is great advice. However, I have a question - what is the EASIEST way to lose money? (I have several guesses 😂)

Based on all the comments and your age and desire to stay long-term, I would also recommend the DTV. It requires 500,000 Thai baht in the bank - but NOT in a Thai bank. 500k is currently $15,323. I personally know several people who have recently done this visa by going to Vietnam. Depending on where you stay in Vietnam will dictate if you use Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. The DTV allows 180 days at a time and is valid for 5 years. There is also an application fee (I believe it's almost $400) so be cautious when entering your info because that fee is non-refundable. There is a Facebook group that focuses on the DTV which will also be helpful. Good luck 😊

@Clifton **********

Yes, but Da Nang uses the HCM Embassy

@Clifton **********

there are no appointments any more. Everything is done online. We submitted the application on the first Monday after we arrived (we got to Da Nang on Saturday). They did ask for further proof of being in Vietnam. We had submitted our Airbnb receipt, but I guess that wasn't enough by itself, so they asked for the picture of our arrival stamp for Vietnam from our passport and also a picture of our boarding pass. I sent these immediately and still got my E-visa within the 5 business days.

We had no issues with the Ho Chi Minh location for our Non-O. Took 5 business days to process. Perhaps a few extra days if they require additional info, but remember it's working days, so allow for that.

@Andy ***********

true for the initial visa. However the bank wanted proof of retirement/no income before opening the account (at least in our case)