As of October 1, 2022, Thailand lifted its mandate requiring tourists to have health insurance for entry.  Therefore, obtaining health insurance is not a requirement when entering Thailand on a tourist visa. However, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare costs can be significant in case of illness or injury during your stay. 

It’s great that you’re doing thorough research before planning your retirement in Thailand! The Thai visa process can certainly be complex, with varying rules and requirements. I can help clarify some of your questions based on the most up-to-date information.

1. Income and Bank Deposit Requirements for the O and OA Visa:

The O-A visa (long-stay visa), which is commonly used by retirees, requires meeting specific financial criteria. Here are the details:

• Income Requirement: You must have a monthly income of 65,000 THB or a bank deposit of 800,000 THB.

• Combination of Income and Bank Deposit: Yes, you can combine the two. For example, if your monthly income is less than 65,000 THB, you can make up the difference with a bank deposit, but the total combination must equal 800,000 THB (i.e., your monthly income plus your bank deposit must add up to 800,000 THB in total).

So, to clarify, the annual income plus the bank deposit must meet 800,000 THB, but this can be through a combination of both.

2. Application for O-A Visa from Abroad:

You are correct in your understanding that you can apply for a Thai visa, including the O-A visa, from abroad. Specifically, you can apply at the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country (France in your case). You do not need to be in Thailand to apply for the visa for the first time; you can apply for it directly from France, as long as you meet the visa requirements.

When applying for the O-A visa from abroad, you will need to provide:

• Your bank statement showing the required balance or proof of income.

• Other required documents such as health insurance (mandatory for this visa), passport copies, and proof of residence in the home country.

3. Address of Residence Requirement:

While it is common for some types of visas to require proof of residence in Thailand, the O-A visa application from abroad does not require a Thai residence address to be provided upfront. The embassy or consulate will generally ask for proof of income, bank statements, health insurance, and other documents. So, you can apply from abroad (France) without having to already be in Thailand.

4. Youtubers Charging for Advice:

Regarding the Youtubers charging for advice, while some individuals can offer valuable insights, it’s always wise to double-check the information through official channels. The Thai embassy and official Thai immigration websites are the best sources of reliable information. It’s understandable to be cautious, as you’ve mentioned, given the contradictions you’ve encountered. It’s always safer to get official and up-to-date information.

Conclusion:

• Yes, you can combine the required income and bank deposit to meet the 800,000 THB total requirement for the O-A visa.

• Yes, you can apply for the O-A visa from abroad (in your case, France).

• There is no need for a Thai address when applying from abroad, as long as you meet the financial and other document requirements.

I recommend visiting the Royal Thai Embassy website in your country (France) for specific details on how to apply and what documents are required, or contacting the embassy directly for assistance.

As a Norwegian residing in Laos, you are currently eligible for Thailand’s visa exemption, allowing you to enter Thailand without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 60 days. 

Regarding the Frequency of Visa Exemption Entries:

• By Land or Sea: Norwegian passport holders are permitted to enter Thailand under the visa exemption scheme twice per calendar year when arriving by land or sea. 

• By Air: The visa exemption allows for a stay of up to 30 days when entering by air. 

Upcoming Changes:

Starting in June 2025, Thailand will implement an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system. This means that all travelers entering Thailand under the visa exemption program will need to register for an ETA before their trip. The ETA is expected to be free of charge and will enable travelers to use automated immigration gates by scanning a QR code provided with their authorization. 

Recommendations:

• Stay Updated: Keep an eye on official announcements from Thai authorities regarding the implementation of the ETA system to ensure compliance with new entry requirements.

• Plan Entries Accordingly: Be mindful of the current limitations on the number of visa-exempt entries per year, especially if you plan to travel frequently between Laos and Thailand.

For the most accurate and current information, it’s advisable to consult the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane or visit the official Thai immigration website before making travel plans.

Yes, it is common for Thai immigration or the Ministry of Education to keep a passport for several days when processing a student visa or an extension of stay. This is standard procedure, as they need to verify your documents, process your application, and affix the appropriate visa or extension stamp.

However, if you are applying through an agent or a school, you should ensure they are trustworthy before handing over your passport. If you’re dealing directly with immigration, it is generally safe, but you can ask for a receipt or any official acknowledgment that they have your passport.

If you’re uncomfortable, you might inquire about alternative procedures, such as submitting a certified copy instead of the original passport until the final step.

As a 66-year-old British national residing in Egypt, planning to retire in Thailand, it’s important to understand the visa process to ensure a smooth transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you:

1. Visa Application Process:

You cannot apply for a Non-Immigrant “O” Retirement Visa upon arrival in Thailand. This visa must be obtained prior to your arrival. Typically, applications are submitted to a Thai embassy or consulate in your country of residence or nationality. Since you’re residing in Egypt, you should contact the Royal Thai Embassy in Cairo for specific application procedures. Alternatively, if you plan to visit the UK before traveling to Thailand, you can apply at the Royal Thai Embassy in London.

2. Financial Requirements:

You’ve indicated possession of the required 800,000 THB, which is excellent. Ensure these funds are transferred into a Thai bank account after opening one upon your arrival. This amount must be maintained in the account for at least two months before applying for the retirement visa extension within Thailand. Alternatively, if you have a monthly income or pension of not less than 65,000 THB, you can provide proof of this instead. 

3. Accommodation and TM30 Reporting:

Booking accommodation for the first month is a prudent step. The TM30 form is a notification from landlords or property owners to the Thai Immigration Bureau about the presence of a foreigner staying on their premises. Ensure your accommodation provider completes this form upon your arrival. When you secure permanent residence, your landlord should also file a TM30.

4. Onward Travel Requirement:

While not always enforced, Thai immigration regulations stipulate that travelers entering under the Visa Exemption Program should possess a confirmed return or onward ticket, indicating departure within the permitted stay period. To avoid potential complications upon arrival, it’s advisable to have a return ticket or proof of onward travel. 

5. Additional Considerations:

• Health Insurance: Some embassies or consulates may require proof of health insurance covering your stay in Thailand. It’s advisable to check specific requirements with the embassy where you plan to apply.

• Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of entry into Thailand and has sufficient blank pages for visa stamps. 

• Application Timing: Visa processing times can vary, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance of your planned travel date to accommodate any potential delays.

By following these guidelines and preparing the necessary documentation, you can facilitate a smooth relocation to Thailand for your retirement.

No this Will take longer time you not get new visa to 11 jan

Yes if you have monny in the bank🤓

You Can not make visa in the moment the Danish ambassade just close for visa today

Yes