
How do I get a Thailand retirement visa?
If you wish to retire in Thailand, you will need to need to get a retirement visa, also known as a Non-Immigrant Long Stay Visa. It’s possible to do this in Thailand or at a consulate in your home country. The process for getting a retirement visa is relatively simple,...
Can a US citizen retire in Thailand for 5 years?
Residents of the U.S., as well as those of a handful of other countries, are actually able to obtain five-year retirement visas, although the threshold to do so is more rigorous. Instead of 800,000, you’ll need at least $3 million baht in a Thai bank account, and you’ll need it at least 12 months prior to your application. Healthcare in Thailand
Is Thailand expensive for retirees?
The following countries all work out cheaper than Thailand for retirees: Singapore is very expensive at $946,993, as is Hong Kong at $871,578. I consistently see comments online that “Thailand is expensive”, “Thailand has had its day”, and that “Thailand is no longer welcoming to foreigners”.
What is the five-year Thai retirement visa?
The five-year Thai retirement visa lets affluent retirees from 14 countries stay in Thailand for up to five years. Here are those countries: Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Finland, France, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, and United States.

How do I get a Thai retirement visa?
How to Obtain a Retirement Visa in Thailand:STEP 1: OBTAIN A NON-IMMIGRANT “O” VISA.STEP 2: OBTAIN A ONE-YEAR RETIREMENT VISA EXTENSION.STEP 3: OBTAINING A RE-ENTRY PERMIT. ... STEP 4: REPORTING YOUR STAY EVERY 90 DAYS and VISA EXPIRATION.
What are the financial requirements for a retirement visa in Thailand?
Retirement Visa Qualifications Applicant must be 50 years of age or over. Must meet any of the financial requirements: Security deposit of THB 800,000 in a Thai bank account for 2 months prior to the visa application. Monthly Income of 65,000 THB regularly deposited in a Thai bank account.
What are the requirements to retire in Thailand?
Getting an Initial Retirement Visa for ThailandHave a Thai bank account with at least 800,000 baht (about $24,500)Have a monthly income or pension of at least 65,000 baht (about $2,000)Have a combination of the previous options, if they bring your total funds to at least 800,000 baht ($24,500)
How long does a retirement visa last in Thailand?
1 yearA Thai retirement visa will allow you to stay in Thailand for a period of 1 year (12 months), and it can be renewed annually. There are no limitations on the amount of times you can renew a Thai retirement visa as long as you continue to meet all the visa requirements.
How much is a 1 year retirement visa in Thailand?
2,000 Thai BahtFor a 1-Year Thai Retirement Visa (Single-Entry): 2,000 Thai Baht. For a 1-Year Thai Retirement Visa (Multiple-Entry): 5,000 Thai Baht. For a 5-Year Thai Retirement Visa: 10,000 Thai Baht.
Do you need health insurance for Thailand retirement visa?
As of 31 October 2019, foreigners entering Thailand on a Retirement (O-A) Visa will be required to purchase adequate health insurance, and this will form a mandatory part of the visa requirements.
How much bank balance is required for Thailand visa?
It is also necessary to prove that you have funds of at least 10,000 THB per person and 20,000 THB per family for your stay in Thailand. A fee of 2,000 THB (INR 4,460) is payable upon entry and is subject to change without notice.
What is the cheapest place to live in Thailand?
The cheapest city in Thailand is Chiang Mai, where you can escape the crowds of Bangkok and enjoy ancient architecture and excellent street food on a shoestring. The estimated living costs per month in Chiang Mai are $800 with cheap rental accommodation and great local food spots.
How much does a condo in Thailand cost?
Cost of a Thai CondoLevelPrice per m²Mid-Range฿70,000 – ฿89,999Upper-Mid-Range฿90,000 – ฿119,999High End฿120,000 – ฿199,999Luxury฿200,000 – ฿299,9992 more rows•Jan 18, 2022
What are the requirements for a retirement visa?
You can apply for a retirement visa if you meet the following criteria: You are over the age of 55 (65 in some countries). You have a specific monthly income (the amount varies from country to country). You are from a country with a retirement agreement with your destination country.
Can I change from tourist visa to retirement visa in Thailand?
The foreigner on a visa exemption stamp or a tourist visa can still apply for a retirement visa given that the foreigner has already met the requirements for the non-immigrant O visa and for the one year extension visa applications. This can be done at the immigration office in Thailand.
How much bank balance is required for Thailand visa?
It is also necessary to prove that you have funds of at least 10,000 THB per person and 20,000 THB per family for your stay in Thailand. A fee of 2,000 THB (INR 4,460) is payable upon entry and is subject to change without notice.
What are the requirements for a retirement visa?
You can apply for a retirement visa if you meet the following criteria: You are over the age of 55 (65 in some countries). You have a specific monthly income (the amount varies from country to country). You are from a country with a retirement agreement with your destination country.
How do I get a 1 year visa for Thailand?
One Year Extension of Stay It is valid for 90 days and it can be issued by the Thai consulate or embassy from the country of residence or it can be issued in Thailand. Once the applicant receives this visa, he/she must open a bank account in Thailand and transfer the required funds of 800,000 THB.
How can a Canadian retire in Thailand?
The Thai retirement visa for citizens of Canada is issued to applicants who wish to visit and retire in the Kingdom of Thailand. Please note that you must first obtain a 90-day visa or a 1 year non-immigrant O visa from your home country or country of residence prior to your application for the Thai Retirement visa.
How long does it take to get a retirement visa in Thailand?
We suggest you arrive on a TR tourist visa (60 days) or Visa Exemption stamp (30 days, extended to 45 days during COVID) and start the process within your first two weeks in Thailand.
Is Thailand a bureaucracy?
The Thai government is no less a bureaucracy than any other government, and you are also forced to do much of the process in a language you don't speak. Luckily, Thailand welcomes Westerners to retire in Thailand (compared to many Western countries, like the United States, that do not make the same options as available for foreign citizens wishing ...
Can I retire in Thailand?
Luckily, Thailand welcomes Westerners to retire in Thailand (compared to many Western countries, like the United States, that do not make the same options as available for foreign citizens wishing to move to the U.S.)
How to get a retirement visa in Thailand?
How to Obtain a Retirement Visa in Thailand: STEP 1: OBTAIN A NON-IMMIGRANT “O” VISA. Requirements: Passport (at least one year remaining before expiration) You must be holding nationality or permanent residence of the country of application. Proof of Funds. STEP 2: OBTAIN A ONE-YEAR RETIREMENT VISA EXTENSION.
What to do if you can't get an extension in Thailand?
If you cannot obtain your extension inside Thailand, you will have to get a new non-immigrant visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate abroad.
Is Thailand a relaxing place to retire?
Thailand’s majestic landscape, formed by its rich foliage and scenic beaches make for a very relaxing and soothing environment one could live in forever. It’s not surprising that foreigners find themselves enchanted and wanting to spend their retirement days in this breathtaking piece of tropical paradise. If you are interested to do the same, ...
How old do you have to be to retire in Thailand?
To get a retirement visa in Thailand, you must be at least 50 years old, have no criminal record in your home country and in Thailand, and have no prohibitive diseases, which the Thai Embassy lists as Leprosy, Tuberculosis, drug addictions, Elephantiasis, and Syphilis in its third phase.
Where can I renew my Thai visa?
If you want to renew your visa outside of Thailand, you can re-apply at the nearest Thai Embassy.
What is the best thing about Thailand Elite?
The best thing about the Thailand Elite Visa is that it significantly decreases the time and headaches of dealing with paperwork and immigration officers, and it keeps you updated with the everchanging retirement visa requirements.
How long before Thai visa expires can I renew it?
The process is the same as when you first applied. But you should start your renewal process about 15 days before your visa expires. This will give you plenty of time for adjustments if Thai Immigration asks for more documents.
What to do if you don't have a Thai bank account?
If you don’t have a Thai bank account yet, it is possible to get a financial statement or a proof of income from your home country.
What is the difference between a non-immigrant visa and a re-entry permit?
The application process is the same as applying for a non-immigrant O visa. The only difference is that at the end of this process, you must get a re-entry permit.
What are the options for a non-immigrant visa?
You’ll have two options when getting your non-immigrant OA visa: single-entry or multiple-entry.
Why is Thailand so attractive to retirees?
One of the main reasons Thailand is such an attractive destination for retirees is because there are different standards of living available. You can live dirt-cheap or super expensive in Thailand. Therefore, people will no doubt comment that you can live on half the amount I've cited above. It's true.
How much less is Thailand than the UK?
Thailand is only $125,000 less than the UK, but the UK is cold, grey and rainy for 6 months of the year!
How Accurate is This Retirement Study?
It's easy to criticize this study for what isn't factored in , and the fairly simplistic financial calculations it uses.
Which country is the most expensive to retire in?
Switzerland – $842,790. Germany – $508,656. Sweden – $569,809. The most expensive country in the world to retire in is Bermuda: $1,065,697. The cheapest country to retire in is Pakistan: $182,018.
Is Thailand a colorful country?
Thailand is a very colorful country in terms of travel, people, heritage, music, dance, celebrations, markets, socializing, etc.
Is Thailand worth money?
Considering the people/culture, weather, variable living standards, and beach get-away options, I think Thailand is still value for money.
Do expats have to pay rent?
Also consider that some expats live in the family home of their partner, or a home they have built, and therefore don't have to pay rent.
How much does Thailand cost for Social Security?
Thailand is an affordable travel destination, and a budget of $1,500 each month is enough for many people to live comfortably. As it happens, this isn’t much more than the average Social Security benefit. To see how far your benefit could take you, try this Social Security benefit calculator.
Why retirees come to Thailand?
Many retirees are drawn to Thailand for its affordability and rich culture. Here's what you need to know about costs, taxes, healthcare, visas and more.
What to do when your retirement visa expires?
Once your retirement visa is nearing expiration, you will need to apply for a visa extension. This application is similar to the initial application with some additional requirements. For example, you will need to provide proof of address, copies of a bank statement and pictures of every page of your passport.
How much baht do I need to get health insurance in Thailand?
Instead of 800,000, you’ll need at least $3 million baht in a Thai bank account, and you’ll need it at least 12 months prior to your application. Healthcare in Thailand. Healthcare is important to factor into your budget. There is no public health insurance for expatriates in Thailand.
How much does a one bedroom apartment cost in Sarasota?
And a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Sarasota costs roughly $1,600 in rent per month , almost 2.5 times more than Bangkok.
How old do you have to be to get a retirement visa?
To get a such a visa, you have to be at least 50 years old and pass a criminal background check.
How to save money in Thailand?
In general, you can save the most by living and eating like a local . For example, international foods often cost significantly more than buying local produce or eating out at a small, local restaurant. The cost of alcohol can also add up quickly. Getting an Initial Retirement Visa for Thailand.
How long does a non-Thai visa last?
Single-entry Non-Immigrant Visa: Grants non-Thai visitors one 90-day entry into Thailand.
How long can I volunteer in Thailand?
Foreigners who are volunteering for 90 days or less. Foreigners who are visiting Thai family members for 90 days or less. Teachers (who will later apply for a visa extension) Students who are enrolled in a course that’s 90 days or less OR who are enrolled in a longer course but will later apply for a visa extension.
What is a multiple entry visa?
A multiple-entry Non-Immigrant Visa grants non-Thai visitors multiple 90-day entries into Thailand. This category of visa is most commonly used by:
Can I get a Thai visa in Thailand?
NOTE: You cannot apply for a Thai visa in Thailand. You must apply for it at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate General in another country.
Is Thailand a non-immigrant country?
Thailand’s Non-Immigrant Visas are the best option for people interested in staying in the country for a long time. This includes working, studying, volunteering, or retiring in Thailand. The cost of a Thai Non-Immigrant Visa depends on whether you apply for a single-entry or a multiple-entry visa and which country you apply for it in.
Are there other costs?
Yes, there are “hidden” costs to keep up your Thai Non-Immigration Visa after you initially buy it. These maintenance costs include money spent on:
sdweller
My wife and I are trying to decide between the Retirement Visa and the Elite Visa ... (we are both obviously in our 50's). I know what the Elite costs...but can anyone be so kind as to give me an idea of approx costs to aquire the retirement visa for both of us? And do we have to make border runs every year and do we have to re-apply every year?
jacko45k
Which country will you be obtaining the Visa (s) in? There are 3 types of 'Retirement' Visa that might be associated with what you are asking of . A simple Non-Imm-O based on being retired can be obtained in some countries, but only permits a single 90 day entry. There are also long stay Visas designed for over 50s, the Non-Imm-OA and OX.
sdweller
We are US Citizens... both over 50 years old...looking for the long-stay visa I believe Non-Imm OA
jacko45k
We are US Citizens... both over 50 years old...looking for the long-stay visa I believe Non-Imm OA
Delight
To answer your Q. directly -A retirement visa costs 1900 Baht per applicant. That is the easy bit.
Sheryl
To answer your Q. directly -A retirement visa costs 1900 Baht per applicant. That is the easy bit.
zzzzz
We are US Citizens... both over 50 years old...looking for the long-stay visa I believe Non-Imm OA
How long is a retirement visa valid in Thailand?
Retirement visas for Thailand are available to foreigners 50 years of age or older. These visas are valid for only one year and employment of any kind is strictly prohibited. According to Thai immigration, applicants must meet the following qualifications:
How long is a Thai work visa valid?
Once obtained, the work visa is valid for one year. For more information, please consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Royal Thai Embassy in Washington, D.C. websites.
How long can I stay in Thailand?
If an individual wishes to remain in Thailand for more than 30 days, he/she may wish to obtain a tourist visa at the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in the United States, prior to arriving in Thailand. The tourist visa must generally be used within 90 days from the date of issue and allows an initial stay of 60 days. After arrival in Thailand, a tourist visa may be extended at the discretion of an immigration officer once for an additional 30 days with the total period of stay no longer than 90 days. There is a 1,900 Baht fee for the extension. Interested Americans should contact the Thai Immigration Bureau located at Government Center Chaengwattana Building B, No. 120, Moo 3, Chaengwattana Road, Tungsonghong Sub-District, Laksi District, Bangkok 10210, 66-2-287-3101 through 66-2-287-3110. For more information or additional Thai Immigration Bureau locations, please consult the Thai Immigration Bureau website.
What happens if you don't leave Thailand?
If an individual does not depart Thailand prior to expiration of his/her airport permit or visa, the individual is in the country illegally. In order to depart Thailand, it will be necessary to pay an overstay fine. The fine for overstaying a visa is 500 Baht per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 Baht. The fine is payable to the Immigration Bureau, ...
Can a short term visa be extended?
Expired short-term visas can be extended after paying a fine, but the number of days elapsed since expiration is subtracted from the extension period. Application for extension must be made by the next working day after visa expiration to avoid a fine.