Thailand is an ideal country for retiring. Tens of thousands of foreigners have retired to different parts of Thailand and there is something for everyone. Beach-lovers might stay in Phuket or Pattaya while the ones who prefer tranquility and mountains stay in Chiang Mai.

To stay hassle-free in the country you need to get a retirement visa, also called, Non-Immigrant O-A Long Stay Visa. To get this retirement visa for Thailand you need to be at least 50 years old and in this guide we will tell you all that you need to know about this visa.

Eligibility Criteria for Thai Retirement Visa

• Age: Must be at least 50 years old.
• Financial Requirements:
  • A bank deposit of THB 800,000 in a Thai bank account for at least 2 months prior to visa application, or
  • Monthly income or pension of at least THB 65,000, or
  • A combination of the above, with the total annual income and bank deposit equalling THB 800,000.

Required Documents

• Passport: Valid for at least one year.
• Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.
• Financial Evidence:
  • Bank statement showing the required funds in a Thai bank, or
  • Income statement or pension proof.
• Medical Certificate: Stating you’re free from prohibited diseases, issued within the last 3 months.
• Criminal Background Check: From your home country or country of residence.
• Photos: Passport-sized photos, taken within the past six months.

Application Process for Retirement Visa for Thailand

1. Gather Documents: Ensure all required documents are ready and meet the specifications.
2. Apply at Thai Embassy/Consulate: Submit your application at the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or current country of residence.
3. Visa Issuance: If approved, the retirement visa will be issued. The initial visa is valid for one year.

Staying in Thailand

When you are actually staying in Thailand, do not forget to remember the following:

• 90-Day Reporting: You must report your address to Immigration every 90 days.
• Annual Renewal: The visa must be renewed yearly. Ensure financial requirements are maintained.
• Health Insurance: It’s recommended to have health insurance coverage for your stay.

We also recommend you to read our guide called The Best Places to Retire in Thailand.

Additional Tips

For a smooth application process, it’s advisable to start the preparation several months before the planned move to Thailand. As rules and requirements may slightly vary, consulting the nearest Thai embassy or consulate for the most current information is crucial. Applicants may also consider seeking legal assistance in Thailand for additional support and guidance.

Conclusion

Obtaining a retirement visa in Thailand is an excellent opportunity for those looking to spend their retirement in a serene and culturally rich environment. However, it is vital to prepare thoroughly and stay updated with the latest visa requirements and procedures. The funds required to retire in Thailand are still quite reasonable but there is a chance they limits will increase in the future. With proper planning and understanding, retirees can still look forward to a pleasant and fulfilling stay in Thailand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Thai Retirement Visa?

The Thai Retirement Visa, also known as the Non-Immigrant O-A Long Stay Visa, is for foreigners who wish to retire in Thailand.

Who is eligible for the Thai Retirement Visa?

Eligibility is primarily for individuals who are at least 50 years old.

What are the financial requirements for this visa?

Applicants must have a bank deposit of THB 800,000 in a Thai bank for 2 months prior to applying, a monthly income or pension of at least THB 65,000, or a combination of both, equalling THB 800,000 annually.

What documents are required for the Retirement Visa application?

Necessary documents include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, financial evidence (bank statement or income statement), medical certificate, criminal background check, and recent passport-sized photos.

Is health insurance required for a retirement visa in Thailand?

Yes, to get a Thai retirement visa you need a health insurance covering at least a minimum of ฿40,000 for outpatient care and ฿400,000 for inpatient care.