Retirement Visa (O-A)

Secure a 1-year Thailand retirement visa from the comfort of your home.

Who it is for:

The Non-OA Retirement Visa is designed for retirees aged 50 years and above who wish to retire in Thailand. This visa is specifically for individuals who apply for the visa before coming to Thailand.

Who can get it

  • Persons of age 50 years old and above
  • Who apply from their country
  • Having a monthly income of not less than 65,000 THB or 800,000 THB in a bank Account

Where to get it

  • Local Thai embassy
  • Online visa website (only some countries)
  • Thai Kru service (See below)

Required Documents to Apply:

  • Passport
  • Passport size photo (or digital photo from your phone)
  • Flight booking
  • Hotel booking or your own property in Thailand (rented or owned) or letter from friends/family who you are staying with.
  • Bank statement showing monthly income THB 65,000 or THB800,000 Baht in the bank account
  • Proof of residence (utility bill, drivers license, bank statement with address)
  • A medical certificate 
  • A criminal record certificate
  • Health insurance which should include general illnesses, COVID-19, with an insured sum of not less than 100,000 USD or 3,000,000 THB. 
  • An additional application form for the Non-Immigrant “O-A” (Long Stay) visa

Period of Stay :

  • 1 year (renewable at the end of each year)

What it Costs:

  • Visa Fee: $200

How long to apply

  • 14-21 days (depend on the consulate)

Our Service Cost:

We offer professional assistance in the Non-OA Retirement Visa application process. Our service cost for helping you with the visa application is $300.

This fee includes the following services:

  • Guiding you through the entire application process.
  • Document verification and assistance in completing the required forms.
  • Submission of your visa application to the Thai Immigration Office.
  • Regular updates on the status of your application.

Watch the Video!

Learn more about Retirement Visa (O-A)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew the visa after the initial 1-year period?

The Non-OA Retirement Visa (outside) is initially issued for a period of 1 years. After the initial period, you can renew this visa in Thailand every year as long as you continue to meet the visa requirements.

What is the Non-OA Retirement Visa (outside)?

The Non-OA Retirement Visa (Outside) is an ideal choice for retirees seeking long-term residency in Thailand. This visa can be applied for online or in person at a Thai consulate or embassy in your home country. Unfortunately, you cannot apply for this visa while in Thailand. It grants a one-year stay, and you can renew it annually.

Can I work in Thailand with a Non-OA Retirement Visa ?

No, the Non-OA Retirement Visa is typically not intended for employment in Thailand. It is designed for retirees who want to live in Thailand without engaging in formal employment or work activities. If you wish to work in Thailand, you would need to explore other visa options, such as a work visa or business visa.

Can I extend my Non-OA Retirement Visa in Thailand?

Yes, once you obtain this visa and have been residing in Thailand for nearly a year, you must ensure that you continue to meet the financial and other requirements. It can be renewal generally granted for one-year periods, and you can apply for them at the closest Thai Immigration office in Thailand.

Can I bring my spouse or dependents on this visa?

Certainly, once you have obtained your Retirement Visa, you can include your spouse and children to be dependent on your retirement visa. They can apply for a Non-O immigrant visa, but it’s important to note that the Retirement Visa must be approved first; the visa applications cannot be submitted simultaneously.

Is health insurance required for this visa?

Yes, health insurance is required for this type of visa. which should include general illnesses, COVID-19, with an insured sum of not less than 100,000 USD or 3,000,000 THB.

Can I import my personal belongings and assets to Thailand with this visa?

Yes, you can import your personal belongings and assets to Thailand when you have a Non-OA Retirement Visa. Thailand has specific regulations and duty exemptions for retirees bringing in personal items like household goods, furniture, and personal clothes.

Can I apply for a Non-OA Retirement Visa (outside) at any Thai embassy or consulate?

Yes, you can apply Non-OA Retirement visa at Thai consulate or Embassy in your home country.

Can I own property in Thailand on this visa?

As of now, retirees can only purchase condominium units in Thailand. All foreign nationals, regardless of their nationality, have the right to own condominiums. They can purchase condominiums if they are able to sell them under the foreign quota. There are laws that allow the sale of unit space up to 49% of the total area. At least 51% of the condominium area must be registered under the ownership of Thai nationals

Can I volunteer or engage in unpaid work on this visa?

The Non-OA Retirement Visa is primarily for retirees, and it does not typically permit formal employment. If you are eligible for Non-OX visa, you can apply for this visa instead. Non-OX can allow work as a volunteer (in accordance with the list of volunteer work as stipulated by the Department of Employment).

Is there a restrictions on leaving and returning to Thailand while holding a Non-OA Retirement Visa ?

There are no restrictions on leaving and returning to Thailand while holding a Non-OA Retirement Visa (outside). You can travel in and out of Thailand as long as your visa remains valid. In general, a Non-OA retirement visa is a long-term, multiple-entry visa, allowing you the flexibility to enter and exit Thailand as frequently as you desire.

How much does it cost to apply for the Non-OA Retirement Visa ?

The cost can range from approximately $200 depends on currency and the country you’re in.

Are there penalties for overstaying on this visa?

Yes, there are penalties for overstaying your visa in Thailand. Overstaying can lead to fines, detention, or even deportation. You will be fined of 500 THB per day, with a maximum limit of 20,000 THB (for overstay of 40 days or more). If the overstay exceeds 90 days, it can lead to deportation and a ban on re-entry into Thailand.

Can I open a bank account in Thailand with this visa?

Yes, you can typically open a bank account in Thailand with a Non-OA Retirement Visa. To do so, you will usually need to visit a Thai bank in person. Requirements for opening an account may vary between banks, but you may be asked to provide your passport, visa documents, and proof of your address in Thailand. The bank may also request additional documentation depending on their specific policies.

Do I need to prove my income with a bank statement?

The embassy doesn’t specifically require a bank statement. They only need proof of income to demonstrate your financial capacity. This proof can include a bank statement, pension, or funds invested in companies, as long as it meets the minimum balance of THB 800,000 or a monthly income of THB65,000.

Can I apply for this type of visa in Thailand?

No, you cannot apply for a Non-OA Retirement Visa while in Thailand. This type of visa is usually obtained from a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or a country where you have a legal residence. It is recommended to apply for this visa from outside Thailand before your intended date of arrival.

How long does it take to process the visa application?

The processing time for a Non-OA Retirement Visa (outside) can vary depending on the Thai embassy or consulate where you apply. Typically, the processing time ranges from 15-21 days.

What is the process for converting a tourist visa to a retirement OA visa?

You cannot convert tourist visa to Non-OA Visa inside Thailand. If you would like to do this type of visa, it typically involves leaving Thailand and applying for the Non-OA Retirement Visa from a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or a country where you have a legal residence. You’ll need to meet the specific financial and other requirements for the retirement visa application.

Do I need to provide a criminal background check to obtain this visa?

Yes, Obtaining a criminal record check in your country is a straightforward process. Simply visit the website we’ve provided, submit a request, and follow their instructions, which may include fingerprinting. After a few days, you’ll receive the results in your email.

Can I sponsor family members with this visa?

The Non-OA Retirement Visa is typically issued for the retiree or the principal applicant only. If you wish to bring family members to Thailand, they can apply for the Non-O visa following the retirement visa holder in Thailand which allows them to stay up to 90 days. And yes, you have to sponsor your family by providing the proof of your income to support visa application.

Are there annual reporting requirements for this visa?

It’s not an annual report; it’s a 90-day report, which requires you to update your status and address with the immigration office every 90 days. It can be quite a hassle, but if you’d rather not deal with it yourself, Thai Kru offers an online service for handling your 90-day reporting, so you won’t have to worry about it.

Are there any travel restrictions within Thailand with this visa?

With a Non-OA Retirement Visa, there are generally no specific travel restrictions within Thailand. You can freely travel within the country like a local.

How long should the money be deposited in a bank before I can renew for a Retirement Visa?

The money has to be deposited at least 2 months prior to a Retirement Visa application not less than THB800,000. Alternatively, you can put THB6 65,000 into Thai Bank account for 12 months before renewal

Can I apply for permanent residency while on this visa?

To apply for permanent residency in Thailand, you must have paid taxes to the Thai government for three years and have continuously stayed in Thailand for a period of five years. However, since the Thai retirement visa does not permit work, you might want to consider applying for a Long-Term Residency Visa instead. This visa allows you to stay in Thailand for a duration of ten years.

Do I need to show proof of accommodation in Thailand when applying for this visa?

yes, only a few day stay in a hotel can used as a proof of accommodation in Thailand

Can I apply for this visa through an agent or service provider?

Yes, you can apply via Thai Kru. We provide expert support for your visa application, including document verification, form completion, online submission to the Thai embassy, and continuous updates on your application’s progress.

Can I travel to other countries with this visa?

Certainly, the Non-OA retirement visa is a multiple-entry visa, which provides the advantage of traveling in and out of the kingdom as you please. However, it’s important to check the entry requirements of the country you plan to visit to determine whether they require a valid visa for nationals of your country

What happens if my financial situation changes while on this visa?

If your financial status changes during the period of holding this visa, ensure that you maintain the required THB 800,000 in your bank account two months before the renewal. You can use this amount of money after your visa is approved, but make sure to replenish it before the renewal, at least two months prior.

What healthcare options are available to retirees in Thailand?

Thailand offers a range of healthcare options for retirees. Many retirees choose to use the country’s private healthcare system, which is known for its quality and affordability. You can purchase health insurance or access healthcare services on a fee-for-service basis. Additionally, Thailand has several international hospitals and clinics that cater to expatriates and retirees.

What is the maximum age limit for applying for a Non-OA Retirement Visa (outside)?

There is no maximum age restriction; the requirement is a minimum age of 50 years old or older.

Can I bring pets to Thailand on this visa?

Yes, you can bring pets to Thailand while holding a Non-OA Retirement Visa. You will need to follow Thailand’s pet importation regulations, which typically involve providing proof of vaccinations and a health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian. Feel free to reach out to us for more details; we offer a company service that can handle this matter on your behalf.

What happens if my visa expires while I'm in Thailand?

If your visa expires while you are in Thailand, you could face fines and penalties for overstaying. The specific consequences and fees may vary depending on the length of your overstay. To avoid issues, it’s crucial to extend your visa or leave the country and re-enter with the proper visa if you intend to stay in Thailand.

Is there a limit on the number of times I can renew this visa?

There is usually no strict limit on the number of times you can renew a Non-OA Retirement Visa, as long as you continue to meet the visa’s financial requirements and other conditions. You can renew it multiple times, allowing retirees to stay in Thailand for an extended period, often up to ten years or more, with the appropriate renewals.

Can I own a business or invest in Thailand on this visa?

A Non-OA Retirement Visa is intended for retirees and typically does not allow you to engage in business activities or employment in Thailand. If you wish to own a business or invest in Thailand, you would need to explore other visa options, such as a Business Visa which have specific eligibility criteria related to business and investment activities.

How does taxation work for retirees in Thailand?

The positive aspect is that if you choose to retire in Thailand, you won’t be subject to taxes on income received from abroad. This includes pensions, interest, or any other income from your home country. In Thailand, taxes only apply to income earned within the country.

Can I drive in Thailand with my home country's driver's license?

Tourists and residents with a valid international driving permit or an official translation of their home country’s driver’s license can drive in Thailand for short-term stays. However, for long-term residents, including retirees, it’s advisable to obtain a Thai driver’s license. If you already have a driving license from your home country, you can easily convert it to a Thai driving license in just a few hours. However, if you don’t have a foreign driving license, you can use your retirement visa, passport, proof of address, and a medical certificate to apply for a Thai driving license. In this case, you will need to take a test, similar to Thai citizens, which may take an entire day.

What are the requirements for opening a Thai bank account with this visa?

To open a Thai bank account with a Non-OA Retirement Visa, you generally need the following documents. Simply bring your passport, valid visa, and proof of your current residency in Thailand. You can then visit any branch of a bank in Thailand.

Can I bring a vehicle to Thailand with this visa?

Generally, it’s possible to bring a vehicle to Thailand, but the process can be complex, and regulations may change. You will likely need to pay import duties, provide relevant documentation, and adhere to Thai customs and vehicle safety standards. It’s advisable to consult with Thai customs or a specialist in importing vehicles for the most up-to-date and detailed information on this process. Additionally, driving a vehicle in Thailand may require a Thai driver’s license, which you can obtain by passing a written and practical test.

Can I extend the visa within Thailand without leaving the country?

If you’re referring to renewing the Non-OA retirement visa in Thailand, the answer is yes. After obtaining the visa and staying in Thailand, you can renew it annually by preparing your financial documentation as the visa’s expiration date approaches.

Where is the best place for my retirement life in Thailand?

Thailand offers various options for your retirement, depending on your preferences. If you enjoy the hustle and bustle of a city and modern life, Bangkok is the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you are drawn to beaches and beautiful sunsets, places like Phuket, Samui, or Krabi are stunning island destinations. If a peaceful life surrounded by nature is your preference, then Chiang Mai is the answer. Feel free to get in touch with us, and we can assist you in finding the perfect place for your retirement. We can work our magic to make it happen.

Is there elder care available for foreigners if I gets sick during my retirement life in Thailand?

Certainly, there are many elder care facilities in Thailand, particularly in popular areas like Samui, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and, most notably, Bangkok, with English-speaking staff available.

Can I use my US or UK bank account for my Retirement Visa OA type?

Yes, for the Non-OA Type visa, you can apply for it from your home country and use your home country bank account as proof of financial stability when applying for the visa.

Can I apply for a Retirement Visa for me and my wife?

A retirement visa is individal application. You and your wife can apply seperately if you both are above 50 years old. If you wife is less than 50 years old, she can apply for dependent visa after you get a Retirement Visa.

What is the Non-OA Retirement Visa (outside)?

The Non-OA Retirement Visa (Outside) is an ideal choice for retirees seeking long-term residency in Thailand. This visa can be applied for online or in person at a Thai consulate or embassy in your home country. Unfortunately, you cannot apply for this visa while in Thailand. It grants a one-year stay, and you can renew it annually.