Retiring in Thailand offers a warm climate, low cost of living, and a rich cultural experience. However, a successful Thai Retirement Visa requires a valid passport and minimum financial stability evidence (800,000 in a bank account for 2 months or income of 65,000 per month).
Document requirements vary depending on the type of visa (OA or OA-X), with all visa holders required to have mandatory health insurance coverage that meets specific outpatient and inpatient minimums.
Age Requirements
If retiring in Thailand is part of your retirement dream, then understanding the country’s visa requirements is a must. Our guide delivers essential eligibility criteria, financial requirements and application steps, along with practical tips on ongoing visa maintenance. These include mandatory 90-day check-ins with Immigration, re-entry permits for international travel and adhering to strict health requirements, including not having Leprosy, Tuberculosis, Elephantiasis or Third Phase Syphilis.
The most popular long-stay option for retirees is the Non Immigrant O (Retirement) Visa, which is available to people over 50 and can be applied for from overseas at a Thai Embassy or Consulate or whilst in Thailand by converting a Tourist visa or visa exemption. This option offers the least benefits, such as a prohibition on working and no path to Permanent Residency, but it is still an excellent choice for those who want to retire in Thailand. It is also the easiest to obtain. Documents required include a passport with six months of validity and two blank pages, an official visa application form and notarized bank statements proving you meet the minimum annual income requirement.
Re-entry Permit
A re-entry permit is required for visa holders to return to Thailand after their trip. This permit can be purchased at the airport or at the immigration office before departing for a trip. Visa holders must report to their local immigration office within 90 days of returning from a trip, and they can do so in person or through an agent.
The Non-Immigrant O or OA (Retirement) visa is designed for citizens of selected countries who wish to live in Thailand without working. It is valid for a one-year period and can be renewed annually.
The visa requirements are: a passport with at least six months of validity and at least two blank pages, Visa Application Form, proof of meeting the financial requirement (bank deposit or income statement), medical certificate stating that the holder is free from prohibited diseases, criminal background check and recent passport-sized photos. Those seeking the visa are also required to obtain health insurance coverage with minimum out-of-hospital and in-hospital coverage of 10,000 baht per month.
Monthly Expenses
The cost of living in Thailand is low, especially for those on a retirement visa. However, the monthly expenses can quickly add up, especially for those with a luxury lifestyle. Things like foreign food, imported wine and golf courses can add up quickly.
Whether it’s relaxing on the beach, exploring ancient temples or trekking through the mountains, Thailand has something for everyone. But if you’re thinking of retiring to the Land of Smiles, it’s important to understand the requirements and costs.
A single-entry Thailand retirement visa will run you around 1,000 THB, while a multiple entry permit costs 3,000 THB. But these fees are only part of the picture. Retirees in Thailand must also consider their monthly expenses, including housing, utilities and health insurance. Plus, they must be aware of the cultural differences. They must report to immigration every 90 days and aren’t allowed to work or travel out of the country during their first year of residence.
Health Insurance
A retirement visa is a popular choice for many international retirees who want to live in the Land of Smiles. However, there are several important requirements that must be met. One of the most significant is having compulsory health insurance coverage, which covers outpatient and inpatient expenses.
In addition, all visa holders must report their current address to the immigration bureau every 90 days. This can be done either personally or through a representative.
Retirees must also have a valid passport with a minimum of six months validity and a medical certificate stating that they are free from leprosy, tuberculosis, elephantiasis, or third phase syphilis. They must also have a minimum deposit of THB 800,000 in a Thai bank account or an income or pension of at least THB 65,000 per month. Finally, they must have a criminal record check issued by the police in their country of origin or residence. Applicants can submit all of these required documents to their local Thai Embassy or Consulate.
