I'm 54 and my wife and I are VERY worried about our future, gas and food prices rising daily. We have had our savings dwindle with the cost of living into the stratosphere, and we are finding it impossible to replace them. We can get by, but can't seem to get ahead. My condolences to anyone retiring in this crisis, 30 years nonstop just for a crooked system to take all you worked for...
I feel your pain mate, as a fellow retiree, I’d suggest you look into passive index fund investing and learn some more. For me, I had my share of ups and downs when I first started looking for a consistent passive income so I hired an expert advisor for aid, and following her advice, I poured $30k in value stocks and digital assets, Up to 200k so far and pretty sure I'm ready for whatever comes...
You don't need 800000thb in a Thai bank account for 2 months if applying from your own country. In fact,you can't even open a Thai bank account until your in Thailand. Also, it's far easier to apply first for a 3 mth O visa, then open the bank account in Thailand and apply for a 1 year extension to your O visa based on retirement. No need for health insurance, or criminal record check or the medical requirement.
I opened a Thai bank account with no trouble while not being an expat at the time. Thai banks are all different. Biggest problem is if you die in Thailand. The person if a foreigner that is listed as beneficiary has to travel to Thailand to claim the funds. And as America has a $10,000 limit you can import or export you may need several trips, then there is the Thai and home country tax matters. I am lucky my Thai spouse will, after taxes, get the money without travel or hoops to jump through.
@@thebangkokconnection4080 America does not have a $10,000 limit you can import or export. You can import or export any sum of money you like. Anything over $10,000 must be declared.
You can only get an O A visa from your own country. An O visa is only for those with an O visa in Thailand already and they are going to phase it out and insist that everyone has expensive health care insurance .
For everyone that I know that lives here and is retired here or married we typically love Thailand and it has so much to offer. What frustrates us the most is the mountains of paperwork required to do anything in Thailand whether it's retirement visas, marriage visas, or even getting driver's license. Paper paper paper sign sign phone number phone number phone number. The government always talks about wanting to have high-end tourists there's many of us here that have spent a lot of money purchasing houses or condos and they just forget about us and our investments and make it difficult to renew the visas every single year, and require us to do 90-day reporting. The system is so antiquated it's ridiculous.
@@dereksg1880 well it's easy to fly in and out when it's only a few hours but for some of us it was 27 hours plus to get here and when I was in business I was doing that six to seven times a year traveling to southeast Asia. After earning my million mile status that's not kilometers about 12 years ago yeah I don't need to fly anymore I prefer life on two wheels and I ride 50,000 km a year throughout Asia and that is a lot of fun
Natty has done it again! Thank you for the information! I am a Thai who has been living in US for 40 years and am married to my wife. If you can also include information regarding a marriage visa or permanent residence through marriage. I think many Americans retired to Thailand and marry to the Thais. This will be good information for many!!
Unless the the requirement process for an OA Retirement Visa has changed it can only be issued in a person's home country. Which is better because the applicant doesn't have to bring the 800K to Thailand. Please correct me if I'm wrong. Also as most of the Thai Consulates around the world have closed its easier to arrive on a 30 day visa exempt ( soon to be 45 days with a 45 day extension of 45 days.) During which time you can change your status in country, either using an agent or approach Immigration Office's to facilitate the change. Initially change to a 3 month Non O then to a 12 month extension of the Non O. Look forward to your reply. G
I lived in Thailand for 9 years before returning home. This go around I will retire in the Philippines under the military SRRV for 3K and visit Thailand when the urge occurs. Thanks for sharing your valuable information.
If you apply for the O retirement visa there is also the Non-O visa. This requires a verifiable income but does not require X-Baht to be left in the bank. The annual paperwork has changed and has become more convoluted than it was. But it is doable. Monthly costs? We live in a house and pay $1,742 per month in Baht, plus other associated costs. Utilities vary but electric is much higher than you indicate. No, we do not live in Bangkok.
I am an American from NYC living the past 30 years in Vietnam now retired in Saigon and totally content doing so. I enjoy watching regional vlogs since all of Southeast Asia fascinates me. Being married to a Vietnamese national makes it rather easy to stay. I'm sure that there are many foreigners married to Thai nationals living abroad who might want to consider retiring to Thailand and so I think it would be helpful to add some information about requirements in their case as I am sure things are much easier for them as well. I have been to Thailand many times over the past 30+ years and have always enjoyed the visits. One of my favorite foods in the universe is Thai green chicken curry. I can get it in Vietnam but not quite the same experience. Anyway... thanks for your videos....
There is no visa that guarantees that you can stay until the end of your days. Don't forget the problem health insurance. The older you get the more expensive it will be or you might not even get one anymore. Also try to understand the new tax regulations regarding foreign income if you transfer money to Thailand. And to make it worse they were talking about worldwide taxation. Philippines has better visa options and no tax on foreign income if you are not a citizen. But both countries are very different.
I think the information displayed at 4:30 is incorrect... AFAIK, if you make the 800K deposit, you don't need to show income. Those three items listed are each one option for qualifying financially. Please correct me if that's wrong.
Lived in Thailand for 4 years on a Retirement Visa in Phuket and Chiang Mai, the wait at both Immigration Offices every 90 days was a pain ( understand now you can do it online ), in Chiang Mai you had to be at the Immigration Office at 6am to line up, before they opened at maybe 8am or 9am, then you were given a number and told to come back after 1pm and you might get processed before 3pm, or pay the Agent a fee, who obviously paid an official at Immigration, and it was all done in a couple of hours ??? Yes you can eat cheap like a Thai off the roadside, but if you shop at the International Supermarkets because you like to cook yourself, then you are really paying extra's, and dont think you can drink cheap wine in Thailand, a $5 bottle of wine in Australia sells for about $15 to $18 Aust in Thailand. And the Health Insurance is a trap, you go to Hospital with full insurance, and show the hospital you have Insurance, but on being discharged you have to pay in cash your hospital fees, and claim it back from the Health Insurance company which takes months, so dont be getting sick and having no cash avaialble.
The 90 days things is easy as all you need to do is go to Malaysia , Vietnam or Singapore for a week break before the 90 days is up and come back to Thailand and you get another 90 days of no worries.
@@davidbrompton7235 Bruce seems to be talking about the every 90 day check in you have to do when you are on a year long retirement visa, which can be done online (if the system operational on the day you try), can pay an agent to do the check in for you, or do it yourself while possibly going through the crap Bruce had to deal with by standing in the immigration line. You seem to be talking about something else like a tourist visa. I would see it as painful and costly if a retiree is forced to leave the country every 90 days for a week.
@@johng5950 No I am talking about the retirement Visa, I had one for 3 years. The online system is not that reliable as IT knowledge in Thailand is not the best.
And the yearly renewal is the same procedure, queue up at 6am to get a number, and be back at 1pm and wait in hope. Not everyone wants to leave every 3 months to get a 90 day extension. Technically if you go to another Province for a week, you are to report to the local Police that you are there, but i never did that either. I just found all this paperwork tiresome and it felt like you were only ever a temporary resident.
Surely if you choose to retire in Thailand you want to do more than merely survive! You can live well in Thailand as I have been doing for the last 16 years on much less than $1,000 per month. The greatest treat to your wealth is the exchange rate. When I first came here it was 74 Baht to £1 now its barely 44 and has been as low as 37. However, if you cannot obtain a long-term visa to live in Thailand and there are many types other than a retirement one, then game over!
The "O-X" visa sounds great for a long term commitment. However, I would be concerned about the security of this arrangement if another 'health scare' developed and the government decided to ask all foreign nationals to leave before the term of their visa was up.
It should be mentioned that the income and/or bank account can be satisfied with an account in your home country if that is where you apply for the visa. In other words, you don't need a Thai bank account. I submitted a copy of my US bank account at the Thai Consulate when I applied for a retirement visa in 2017. I don't know if that rule has changed. Also, there are other documents you must submit not mentioned in the video. Make sure you go very carefully through the requirements listed on the website of the Thai Consulate.
Considering the restrictions Visa's, Foreigners not being able to buy land, Expensive health care (Insurance) Then needing a lump sum in a Thai bank. It's not for me no thank you, I can stay in Europe and in some tax free.
After conversion , my condo rent is 43494 a month in baht living in Vancouver BC Canada. This rental price is only for rent excluding utility bill and other necessary expenses. =D
The cost of living in Thailand I'm guessing only applies to those who pay big rent, I'm married to a Thai and we are building our home in Thailand where we will retire in about 7 years, we both work full time in Australia, but even so, when we go to Thailand we stay with relatives mostly, and we would struggle to spend 30,000 baht a month, (that includes her family), I guess if you're into bars and girls it can cost a fortune, but if you really want to retire and enjoy Thai culture, it's very affordable. We stayed at one apartment that cost 5000 baht a month, ate nothing but street food, (wouldn't eat anything else), and electricity was around 2000 baht a month. I would struggle to understand where you would need 68,000 baht a month, unless you're renting a high-end condo.
Mate, even though your seeing the real Thailand, you are still only here on holiday. Once you retire, and you age, trust me, you will pine for the (expensive) Aussie comfort foods you now take for granted, and unless you live in the North, your bill for aircon alone will never be under 4K especially as an old bugger. I have older friends and they cannot tolerate anything other than "Goldilocks" temperatures. You'll still spend a lot less than B68K a month, but if you think you'll realistically maintain the costs you enjoy now in old age, forget it. And I didn't even cover healthcare. It may be cheap, but not THAT cheap if something serious breaks.
@@LDW1961 I live and work in Townsville, the heat doesn't worry me, I also lived in Thailand for over a year when I first met my wife, and we both still eat mainly Thai food that she prepares, I understand where your coming from, but still 65,000 baht a month, that's $623, a week, my weekly costs in Australia are under $500, that's paying a mortgage, insurance, electricity, rates, car, food, etc. To be spending that sort of money in Thailand then I doubt they could afford to live in a western country either. Also we own our land and will build our home before we retire there, so one less thing for me to pay. Even with electricity at 4000 baht a month, I'd still struggle to be spending 30,000 baht between 2 of us.
Good on you, these guys are living large. Last year during the second wave peak, I sat in a farang restaurant and watched at least three mature foreigners arrive with two girls in tow. Given this is one random restaurant the mind boggles. I personally knew (he was murdered) a guy who would spend his vacay in a penthouse with a minimum of six girls on a weekly retainer of $200 USD each, plus meals, booze and board. for some guys B68K a month is a quiet month.
Good information and well presented.Just a couple of points: Some embassies/consulates have higher deposit and income requirements e.g. Los Angeles and Sydney. Also the insurance requirement for the OA visa rises to $US100,000 by the end of this year. Getting insurance after age 65 is quite expensive. Kind regards
@Steven Ryan I wonder if "Getting insurance after age is quite expensive" means for me, when I hit 65, it's cheaper to get my medicare and move back to expensive ass America for healthcare. If so, that's very disappointing.
People seem confused about insurance. The premiums do increase with age, but if you enter on a tourist visa, you can apply within Thailand and you don't need, the criminal checks the medical, or currently, the insurance. So don't wait! Once you get your annual extension you can go back home, just pay the $30 reentry fee before you depart, and return to renew it before it expires, or you have to start over.
@@johng5950 Not at all. Get health insurance from a reputable Thai company in Thailand. I use Pacific Cross, that's not a recommendation, but an option. Any procedure including dental in Thailand is ridiculously cheap compared to "the west" and I'm here to witness that I've had equal to better care here than in Australia.
If you build up a history with an insurance company, you'll get favorable rates as time goes on and you don't claim, another trick is to NOT renew when they first ask, eventually they will call you personally, with some juicy discounts to keep your business.
90 day reports are suspended when you're away. The 90 days starts over new each time you return, if you travel enough, even a flight to Cambodia or Vietnam, you can avoid 90 day reports forever! Having said that, in Chiang Mai they are drive through, like McDonald's and a breeze now.
there's a residential beachside development call the EnergyCity in Hua Hin, great for retirees at any age and they take care of your visa situation as well.
A lot of confusion in the video and the comment. OA visa is obtained in home country with money in a home country account. A much easier option is to get a retirement stay once you enter Thailand on a tourist visa. No insurance required. Agents can help get around most of the requirements. Apply inside Thailand with an agent, its no insurance, no money in the bank,
While expensive, an Elite Visa seems the least complicated. If the prices of Elite Visas were half of what they are now, Thailand may see far more people buying those visas.
Definitely the easiest long term visa. It took me 1-2 hours to upload the required info. 3 weeks to receive my approval. I then paid using a credit card which took about 5 minutes and a week later I received my welcome letter (last week). The only thing left to do is have my passport stamped which I'll do on my first visit back next month. This is for the Easy Access 5 year @ 600,000k. We'll see how it actually works in practice once I return as far as the arrival benefits and 90 day reporting. I wanted easy in and out privileges as I don't plan on retiring there at this point even though I'm over 50. (BTW, I applied using Jett's Elite Visa video link so hopefully he made a few bucks!).
@@exalhoa That's crazy money for just 5 years. It would have been better spent shuttle between Manila and BKK until it ran out then add B600,000 more to that budget and keep going. It may not last 5 years but at least you get plane tickets, tourist visas and some nice condo out of it rather than just freaking temporary VISA! In what world does that make any sense at all?
@@exalhoa Easy in and out priveleges? Pray tell, what are these? And what makes them worth $17,400 ? Do you know what that cash could buy you in terms of other goods and services in South East Asia? And your exit end entry is unlimited by air anyway. You've been taken, my good man.
@@LDW1961 Nope. I do my research. So the next time I decide to stay for 4,5 6 months, I do nothing. They do the 90 day reporting for me. The retirement visa is for pensioners. Too much hassle for me. I worked hard for my money and now I am going to enjoy spending it. I'm not wealthy by a lot of standards, but 600k baht is chump change to me at this time in my life. I entered Thailand in Dec on the 30 day VOA and then extended it at the CNX immigration office. It took 5 hours, essentially a wasted day. That was enough for me to decide I don't want to do that again. Depending on how the next year or so goes I'll probably pay the 400k to extend it to 20 years. Easy, done! Never have to concern myself with a visa for Thailand again. Thanks for your concern though.
May I know what year cost you have mentioned on your video? The cost of living you mentioned does not apply to current year. Can not find any apartment for 20,009 in CBD.
With a bank deposit of Baht 800,000/almost $25,000 US, it would not be feasible for me to retire in Thailand. Besides, I would like to work as long as I can. The restrictions seem too stringent for me at this time.
It wont after september when the hungry money grab insurance requirement kicks in and you have to pay for a ridiculous policy requirement kicks in for the O-A visa kicks in and that is what most who have entered recently have. Oh and thats if you can qualify for a policy as well.
Far easier and cheaper to retire in the Philippines. In a major city in the Philippines and even in some of the smaller cities far more Filipinos are likely to speak English. IOW it's easier and cheaper to retire in the Philippines. Never have understood why Thailand has never made learning English in school mandatory as the Philippines has done?
Because the Phillippines were ceded from Spain to the USA in 1898... then they had to learn English. Thailand was never colonized by a Western power (yay). That said, I am glad some of the Thais speak English. One of my best friends is Thai and lives in BBK and he speaks perfect English. Someday if I can retire in Thailand, I will try to take some Thai language classes... always good to learn more.
@@desrtfox Indeed-- in effect the Kingdom of Siam cut deals with the British and French and, during the height of Western imperial conquest, the Siamese colonized land where people aren't ethnically Thai but are, e.g., Khmer, or Lao, or Malay. That last one, especially, is still a sore spot.
l agree with you so much l did live in Thailand for many years then the military took over and we all left, all my friends have now gone from Thailand, the crap with visa got too much as well for all of us, they change the visa rules to many times and still do so it is to much hassel if you are retierd to stay in Thailand, they only want people how stay 3 weeks on hollyday, so they can get all there monye out of them. l did go to the Philippines and was so suprised how easy it was with visa they really got it and l was so happy and they all speak English as well so and allway have a big smile on, it is like the old Thailand, and l am trying to tell everybody to stop going to Thailand and go to the Philippines insted. l did meet my soulmat in the Philippines also, she is 25 years younger than me but now we have been marriage for over 4 years and suprise we have a baby 19 mounts as well lol. I didn't think my life could change like this. l have a great wife and a happy life, we now live back in my home contry because l want her to grow up here back home. When you have worked your hole life and you are alone then you want someone in your life that care about you, we all want that. l found that so l am lucky l manage to start all over again and my older daugther are best friends with my wife and they bout have a baby girl so everything is great, l hope everybody is luck like me
I have to leave 3 million baht to just sit useless depreciating in the bank while inflation eats it up? That’s a terrible thing to do with your currency.
If you don't have $25,000 emergency fund you should not be retired you should still be working. 800,000 THB is just $25,000 and 90% of retired people should have an emergency fund of $25,000
I think its "either or" for the O-A visa. You don't have to have all three, just one of the requirements. So, If I open a bank account with 800k Bhat, then it should satisfy the requirement? Is that true? How much is the health insurance cost per month?
No, that's badly phrased in the video, it's either, or, and also mix of both! The lump sum is the least hassle free. But the best option is to pass on ALL of them, and snowbird just under 9 months a year on a FREE extendable tourist visa. The catch there is, you still need to figure out where you'll stay for the rest of the year, Veitnam, Laos? Or head home?
@@LDW1961 how would you actually get a Thai bank account, deposit 800k there 2 months before you apply for a Visa from a country abroad? I guess you would need to do that as a tourist in Thailand before. But can tourists even get accounts? This doesn't sound that easy for me, haha
@@RolandW_DIYEnergyandMore If you get an OA visa then you meet the financial requirements using money in your home country bank accounts. You get one year in Thailand and you have plenty of time to open an account and deposit the 800,000 baht before your first visa extension. The monthly income method of 65,000 baht/month requires that you have a full year of deposits before you apply for the 1 year extension so it may be difficult to do for the first extension.
Marriage (to a thai) visa is yearly,,renew in Thailand, no insurance required, less money in bank, 400k baht OR 40k per month income. And you can work. Actual visa is 2,000 baht. A bit more documents but way cheaper.
It's half the annual price, but the annual "hoops" are humiliating, ridiculous, and complete authoritarian overreach. There are always those among us however, who will accept almost any intrusion by authority as a sign of benign avuncular affection? Bizarre the way some humans minds work. maybe they secretly enjoy being whipped after hours? Fine. But you don't need to bend over for "the man" too!
@@fhorst02 Thank you Frank for your information. Plan to marry Thai bride in less than 2 years when we move to Buriram. She can then retire from her restaurant job she's had for almost 18 years.
Great job Natty! Not sure where the money in a Thai Bank fits into the steps if you have to have it 2 months prior to application? Can you open a Thai bank account from Australia? My understanding was that you could only open a Thai bank account once you had a 12 month lease for accomodation in place. Thanks Thaiger members… watching you daily keeps the dream alive and getting closer! ☺️
When I applied for OA from Canada a few years ago, I only had to show funds in Canadian bank. Funds or 800000thb have to be in Thai bank a few months before you renew for second year, or be able to show deposits in Thai bank of 65000thb or more per month in Thai bank.
As a Canadian Expat previously employed as a Pilot based in Abu Dhabi, I have been living in Phuket for over 24yrs during my time-off from work. Over the years I had several 3yr Non-B Visa’s when I was under 50yrs, followed by multiple 1yr O-A visas. In Oct 2019, I applied for and was issued a 10yr O-X by the Embassy in Abu Dhabi. No big deal…..
The O-X is fine for those who don't miss the money. Lawd knows most of us are here because, whatever our incomes, we live the high life compared to any of our western peers, be they labourers or Lords. My argument is simply this. Everybody who can afford it, should think it through carefully. I would think an ex Captian would have travel perks up the wazoo, and a network of friends to mutually couch-surf with. Even so, long term Air BnB is cost effective too, there are even cheaper options such as professional house-sitting gigs. With a little planning, Thailand can be enjoyed without spending money better used on a cryptocurrency punt. Just to use a random example. Hell even burning it in a German or Spanish FKK club is better value. The system here can be gamed without compromising ones integrity in the slightest. Why throw good money away unnecessarily?
@@LDW1961 What many expats in T’land are unaware of are the recent changes with the “Deposit Protection Agency” (DPA) over the past several years regarding Insurance on your Bank Deposits. Previously the DPA would cover up to 10MTB, then it was reduced to 5MTB. Now bank deposits are only insured up to a maximum of 1MTB per bank. This is why many well off Thais have accounts with multiple different Thai banks. If one of their banks “Fails”, then their 1MTB is covered. Any funds / investments above 1MTB is lost. Many expats are also unaware of various investment opportunities offered through Thai banks. For example, 9 years ago I took out an Insurance Policy through UOB/Prudential that currently yields 8%. Regarding travel….. I don’t do that anymore, as I did not get the so-called Vax.
@@mapleleafdavid I left Canada back in 1996, with no intention of ever returning. In fact my entire family left. Through the mid-90’s I found myself traveling the Caribbean, looking for an island to call home. Then one day in Bombay India one of the other pilots I flew with asked if I had ever considered SE Asia. Two weeks latter, I was wheels down in Phuket. Haven’t been back to the Caribbean since. If/When you do leave Canada, make sure that you make application with Revenue Canada for official Non-Residence Status. If you don’t, you could find yourself liable for Canadian Taxes. Initially I bought a 40’ sailboat in Langkawi (Tax & Duty Free Port) and lived aboard between Phuket and Langkawi when not at work overseas. (I worked 2 months ON followed by 1 month OFF) Latter in 2003 I bought a home inside one of the local golf courses. I own the house and have my name in the Tambian Baan Yellow Book. I also have Thai I.D. (Pink Card) Both are great supporting documents when dealing with Immigration. Currently on a 10yr O-X Retirement Visa issued by the Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi back in 10/2019. Banking is offshore in the Channel Islands and here in Thailand. Note that the Thai Deposit Protection Agency (DPA) will now only insure up to 1MTB in any Thai Bank. A few years ago it was 10MTB. This is one of the reasons successful Thais have bank accounts across multiple banks, so as to protect their cash assets. In ‘96 I essentially divorced myself from Canada. No bank accounts, property, investments, not even a library card…… January and February each year are and always will be, much more comfortable here in Phuket, than at the corner of Portage & Main in Winnipeg.
@@verticalift Wow, thanks for sharing. Essentially living the dream I desire. Flight siming is as close as I’ll ever get to being the pilot I wish I was as a kid. Thanks for the banking tips, something really to make note of. Btw, what equipment did you fly? Cheers.
Thai banks as of March 31, 2023 will no longer open a bank account for a Foreigner without either a Thai work permit or already issued long tem visa, it makes a marriage or retirement visa impossible to obtain due to Thai mandates of bank deposits to obtain a long visa.
Your presentation was excellent. This is how an instructional UA-cam video should be. I'll be coming to Thailand for the first time this winter. I'm considering retiring there.
@@da-yi7im Tell that to Thai people. Argue with them that 35k is not even rent money, really antagonise them on that point until they send you back to States in a body bag so the rest of us can be spared of your BS
I just retired in my 60s and I will keep my insurance because my employer will continue to pay a large portion of the premiums as if I was still employed. (Aetna, MHBP and Vedvip). This includes dental and vision. But will I still have to get Thai insurance? Doesn't make sense. The coverage amount is way more than required, not to mention all three of AFLAC's policies as supplements. Hopefully that will be enough. Thai insurance probably would be cheaper for sure but if I leave Thailand I cannot get my old insurance back once I drop it it's gone. Any information on that perspective?
assuming that insurances is based outside of Thailand.... there is a good chance that it will not cover you in Thailand beyond a limited period or certain emergencies. You'll need to check carefully.
@@janhansen6195 I am in Vietnam where I have been for many years but have been to Thailand on various occasions. Not been to the Philippines since 1989. Being 68 I no longer buy health insurance as it would exclude anything important and direct costs in Vietnam are still fairly reasonable. Can also go to US for medicare if critical situation arose. The important thing is to know how to use the local system and to know exactly what you are covered for if anything. Wishing you well!!
Cambodia-Thailand border gate resumes operation from today (01 May 2020) but health measures are strictly implemented. For Thailand passengers, the number of those who are entering Thailand are (1) fully vaccinated passengers (2) non-vaccination passengers and (2) those who are people in border provinces holding border certificates. Presentation of Thailand Pass, vaccination card, insurance card within 10 income circle. $1,000, RT-PCR test results, and licensing are followed by type of passenger, as summarized.” ----------- Fully vaccinated need a health insurance worth $120 (covers one month) plus registration in the Thai Pass and the extra future $15 visitor’s tax will be implemented in August 2022.
Natty, great info! Please do a sequel for the people who just want to stay 3 months. I think that's maximum a tourist can stay, correct? And the details on the "visa run"? Thanks!
I was told I can arrive as a tourist go to a lawyer, open a bank account, transfer funds and change status to retirement visa is this wrong? Two lawyers told me that both in Bangkok at different times.
Hi Scott if l was you l stay away from Thailand they change the visa rules all the time you have no rigths in that country, try the Philippines 10 times better mate. l know l have lived in Thailand for many years and since the military took over in 2014 all my western frinds have left the country. And the girls are 10 times better and they all speak English mate and they have the same values as we have. lf you have lived in Thailand you understand what l am saying about this lol
My biggest headache is being fined by the Patong Police for not having a Thai DL. I have an International License that I have used in probable 10 different countries. I also have a DL from my home country. Both no good. I have been to the Phuket Transportation Dept/DL Bureau to be told the same thing. However I can't get a Thai DL unless I have a Visa (Immigration is working on my Retirement Visa which takes 5 weeks). Once I have that I must make an appointment with the Transportation Dept. Oh yea they are 2 months behind on appointments. Boils down to the Thai Police Department just wants money plain and simple. They set up check points on the two main roads in Patong and reel in tourists like shooting fish in a barrel!!! Hey, Tiger how about reporting on this scheme ???
Just use Grab. It's way cheaper in the long term. Unlike Uber elsewhere. With Grab being so cheap and the options so amazing, a car in Thailand is just an expensive flex.
@@gary8173 we know of course, every provincial centre does their own thing, stop yanking the poor guys chain! 😂 I had a great experience in my provincial centre, they even pulled me out of the afternoon nap, sorry, video session, while all the locals had to endure the boredom until 5pm. I still stand by Grab. Ended the corrupt double tier pricing of the old school transport options overnight.
Thailand needs to have a retirement visa for those of us who are under 50, retired and well exceed the income threshold. Constantly having to visa hop gets old
why go to Thailand try the philippines you have no problems with visa at all, l know l did live in Thailand for many years got so sick of all the changing of the visa rules in Thailand so l did go to the Philippines 10 times better mate and the girls are great there also, ps they all speak English as well
@@janhansen6195 I’ve been to PI. I’ve traveled all over Asia. I would like to find a place where an under 40yo who is retired can do so without having to Visa hope or renew every few months.
@@TheGreatEscape9833 Without Pension; 35 to 49 years old - US$50,000.00 time deposit. It was never 55 it's 50. Idk where 55 came from. 35 with a 50000usd deposit. Or shell out the 20,000 USD for a Thai Elite Visa
Not correct...pleas research more...I just renewed my retirement visa here in Thailand and no insurance or police check was required...but applying from ur own country I do believe it is required....so applying in Thailand is so much easier
Agreed. She should have better explained O vs OA visas, which would have made your point clearer. One you do inside Thailand and one you do from your home country and there's different requirements for each. Natty is awesome though, so I appreciate the effort.
I absolutely adore Thailand with having taken 12 trips there spanning 3 decades. I’ve spent the past 2 1/2 years researching this very issue. Also, I haven’t missed a single Thaiger episode. My ultimate conclusion is that I will enjoy taking awesome, extended vacations to Thailand. I will NOT retire permanently to Thailand for a variety of reasons. I foresee myself falling into the hi-so category, yet because of the tedious visa, accounting, medical insurance regulations, etc., I’ve carefully determined that enjoying several months a year vacationing is better than having to deal with the ever changing, tedious, and downright frustrating requirements of full time retirement. My wife, an accomplished accountant/financial analyst, is native Thai. Funny note, I actually miss Thailand more than she. Talk about irony!
If you are in the hi-so category consider the Elite Visa. I just received mine, the process was painless. I'm over 50 and retired but not ready for full time residency at this time so the in and out privileges of the Elite made it the one for me (for now anyway).
@@exalhoa Thanks for your thoughtful and insightful reply. I certainly will consider that option. Although I may be in the hi-so category, I would make it barely into that category (if that makes any sense). I’m about 10 years away from decision time.
@Scott D I would love to do the same strategy as you're mentioning. It would be my preference. Just wish the cost of medical care wasn't so damn high here in America. Its so high, I feel like I would be forced to continue working and never be able to truly retire until Medicare kicks in at age 65. Unfortunately, nowhere close to rich.
@@johng5950 You focused upon a very important issue, problem, and obstacle getting in the way of retirement prior to the age of Medicare! You articulated it perfectly. Also, the cost of International School ($30,000 U.S. plus) is another obstacle for those such as myself who had children later in life, etc. I can retire in six years but have children that will still be in school.
OX visa so called because only "Buffalo" farang will think it's a good deal 😂 If you can afford it you don't actually need to use it, there are free options, such as living elsewhere part of the year, and entering as a tourist. Duh!
Is Hi-So inclusive of farangs? For some reason I had thought it might be reserved for Thais only. I suppose if you've got your kids in private school, are paying for their polo lessons, and driving a Mercedes you could be Hi-So after all.
If u r above 50 you can easily pay an agent around 30,000 baht annually and they take care of everything you never have to go to Thailand immigration (and your 800,000 baht) stays in your bank account versus paying 600,000 cash you will never see-
Is it me or the money requirements are not clear? Here's what I understand (correct me if I'm wrong): For the O-A visa, I deposit 800k bahts in Thailand, then apply for the visa, showing I have a monthly income of 65k bahts. Once in Thailand, I can spend the 800k, but in order to renew at the end of the year, I will have to show that I have at least 800k per year (deposit and/or monthly income). Or do I have to keep 800k in the bank at all times ? The part that's confusing is the third point: a combination of the security... Or is it that we have to meet only one of the three points ? 800k in the bank at all times OR 65k per month OR a combination (for example 50k per month + 200k in the bank). Not clear. (All 3 would be overkill, especially since we need to have insurance on top)
Pretty sure it's 800k in Bank for 2 months before applying or 65k income. Didn't mention that you have to report to the immigration office every 3 months to renew
Because the American consulate no longer supplies a "proof of income statement" we were told that we had to have a minimum 800,000 B per person in the bank and that while we could use the account the account could not go below 800 K for two months and that to apply again at the end of the year we would have to bring the accounts up to 800 K two months before making the application to renew.
Have to get 90 day visa then and leave and reenter every 90 days. Thailand has vans that take you to Lao or Cambodia overnight on vida runs for a price to renew 90 day visas.
I didn't knew that in Thailand you can have bank account opened prrior to your arrival here. Need both bank balance and annual income, but am wondering if many retired people will have annual income.
Most US citizens will have monthly Social Security income. I have that plus a work pension plus some savings. Many people have property in their home country that they rent and receive income. Many on retirement extensions continue to work in their home country either remotely or by only living part time in Thailand.
@@jon-ie4li LOL, everytime I visit a forum that talks about this subject matter, there's instantly a fight back and forth concerning the legality of this. Some do it and some are too scared to try it. Not sure where I land on this just yet, but good to see that it's an option.
You can open bank account while in Thailand and it's one or the other, either 800k in Bank or 65k income. Money has to be in Bank 2 months before applying to renew visas. They didn't mention that you have to report to immigration office every 3 months to renew visas
HI Nat, Great video. Just want to know if I apply for Non-O Visa in Thailand during tourist visa, can I use police check & criminal check from Australia or do I need to get it done in Thailand?
Hi, This was an easy to understand informative ( excellent English ! ) video on Thai Visas. Was the Elite Visa mentioned ? Candidates should probably FIRST plan a trip to a few cities in Thailand to get a "on the ground" assessment of the weather, pollution, crowdiness, noise , safety and other factors. Ideally, the have a LOCAL Thai that they can befriend to assist them in all things THAI. Lastly, how much Thai language is needed and what is the best way to learn basic Thai ? Thanks !!!
Interesting, this seems to be circuitous: how can one get a visa if the money is first required to be in a Thai bank… and how can one open a bank account without a visa? (Perhaps a tourist visa will suffice to get the account opened?).
We didn't mention the elite visa as it is quite different from the retirement visa, but we did make a separate video to talk about it (watch here: ua-cam.com/video/gf89MV0D7H4/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TheThaiger)
Maybe in future I will benefit be retired in Thailand ,,I came from Vietnam 🇻🇳,,at morments I living in New Zealand,,so I decided to move going to Thailand in future
This would be my first choice were it not for the fact that I am about eleventh on Thailand's list. But I think I get it. They are after the asian money first and foremost that will buy their way in. But there will probably be less westerners not only vacationing there but certainly retiring there. When it comes to U.S. retirees they have probably conceded them to Central and South America. I wonder what the percentage is for American and Canadian expats to Europe/Baltic expats in Thailand? Probably 10 to 1,000
Visa requirements to retire are more than ridiculous. Only one year at a time....the money in the bank you can't use....90 day check ins....house visits....age requirements... and don't forget the money you have to slide them in the packet so it's actually approved in a reasonable amount of time.
Totally agree. I eventually gave up, and now spend only part of the year there. The tyrranical annual rules mean they have also lost the bulk of my discretionary spending. I can afford the cash deposit, but I can also afford to not, so it was a no-brainer. Spend that frozen B800,000 on crypto!
You can meet the financial requirements by the monthly income method of 65,000 baht/month and you can spend all of that money each month. There are only house visits if you extend as married to a Thai. They want to verify that it is not a sham marriage. There are no house visits for retirement extensions. I’ve never paid anything other than the official 1,900 baht for a retirement extension at the Bangkok office. It is relatively easy to do on your own if you are patient and organized. It takes about half a day once per year.
A way round it is to transfer 65k into the bank every month, and say you only need 45k to live. Send the 20k back and keep recycling it, of course you have to pay bank fees but it saves having to have 800k in Bank
your video was informative i am looking to retire in thailand those requirments are a little to much im looking to aquire an elite visa i would rather spend the money . what's your thought on applying for the elite visa
Thank you for watching and please check out all the latest headlines on Thailand News Today: ua-cam.com/video/IV19dqY3pjw/v-deo.html
BOGUS INFORMATION!!!
I'm 54 and my wife and I are VERY worried about our future, gas and food prices rising daily. We have had our savings dwindle with the cost of living into the stratosphere, and we are finding it impossible to replace them. We can get by, but can't seem to get ahead. My condolences to anyone retiring in this crisis, 30 years nonstop just for a crooked system to take all you worked for...
I feel your pain mate, as a fellow retiree, I’d suggest you look into passive index fund investing and learn some more. For me, I had my share of ups and downs when I first started looking for a consistent passive income so I hired an expert advisor for aid, and following her advice, I poured $30k in value stocks and digital assets, Up to 200k so far and pretty sure I'm ready for whatever comes...
@@chideraatuba9455 That's actually quite impressive, I could use some Info on your FA, I am looking to make a change on my finances this year as well
@@ElijahReuben- My advisor is VICTORIA CARMEN SANTAELLA
You can look her up online
Nah I Can't say I can relate, VICTORIA CARMEN SANTAELLA charge is one-off and pretty reasonable when compared to what I benefit in returns.
You don't need 800000thb in a Thai bank account for 2 months if applying from your own country. In fact,you can't even open a Thai bank account until your in Thailand. Also, it's far easier to apply first for a 3 mth O visa, then open the bank account in Thailand and apply for a 1 year extension to your O visa based on retirement. No need for health insurance, or criminal record check or the medical requirement.
Correct Neil and far easier
I opened a Thai bank account with no trouble while not being an expat at the time. Thai banks are all different. Biggest problem is if you die in Thailand. The person if a foreigner that is listed as beneficiary has to travel to Thailand to claim the funds. And as America has a $10,000 limit you can import or export you may need several trips, then there is the Thai and home country tax matters. I am lucky my Thai spouse will, after taxes, get the money without travel or hoops to jump through.
@@thebangkokconnection4080 America does not have a $10,000 limit you can import or export. You can import or export any sum of money you like. Anything over $10,000 must be declared.
@@thebangkokconnection4080 Don't let her know that lol
You can only get an O A visa from your own country. An O visa is only for those with an O visa in Thailand already and they are going to phase it out and insist that everyone has expensive health care insurance .
For everyone that I know that lives here and is retired here or married we typically love Thailand and it has so much to offer. What frustrates us the most is the mountains of paperwork required to do anything in Thailand whether it's retirement visas, marriage visas, or even getting driver's license. Paper paper paper sign sign phone number phone number phone number. The government always talks about wanting to have high-end tourists there's many of us here that have spent a lot of money purchasing houses or condos and they just forget about us and our investments and make it difficult to renew the visas every single year, and require us to do 90-day reporting. The system is so antiquated it's ridiculous.
@@dereksg1880 well it's easy to fly in and out when it's only a few hours but for some of us it was 27 hours plus to get here and when I was in business I was doing that six to seven times a year traveling to southeast Asia. After earning my million mile status that's not kilometers about 12 years ago yeah I don't need to fly anymore I prefer life on two wheels and I ride 50,000 km a year throughout Asia and that is a lot of fun
Great news for everyone with first- and second-phase syphilis!
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Thanks for this clear explanation of the topic . Kudos.
Natty has done it again! Thank you for the information! I am a Thai who has been living in US for 40 years and am married to my wife. If you can also include information regarding a marriage visa or permanent residence through marriage. I think many Americans retired to Thailand and marry to the Thais. This will be good information for many!!
Yes I have all the info to retire in Thailand except the money.
Unless the the requirement process for an OA Retirement Visa has changed it can only be issued in a person's home country.
Which is better because the applicant doesn't have to bring the 800K to Thailand.
Please correct me if I'm wrong.
Also as most of the Thai Consulates around the world have closed its easier to arrive on a 30 day visa exempt ( soon to be 45 days with a 45 day extension of 45 days.)
During which time you can change your status in country, either using an agent or approach Immigration Office's to facilitate the change. Initially change to a 3 month Non O then to a 12 month extension of the Non O.
Look forward to your reply.
G
Correct!
But you still need he 800 in a Thai bank if you get the O in Thailand
How about a video about Thai banking for foreigners and retirees?
Thanks for all the information, very helpful. Thanks Natty
I lived in Thailand for 9 years before returning home. This go around I will retire in the Philippines under the military SRRV for 3K and visit Thailand when the urge occurs. Thanks for sharing your valuable information.
If you apply for the O retirement visa there is also the Non-O visa. This requires a verifiable income but does not require X-Baht to be left in the bank.
The annual paperwork has changed and has become more convoluted than it was. But it is doable.
Monthly costs? We live in a house and pay $1,742 per month in Baht, plus other associated costs. Utilities vary but electric is much higher than you indicate.
No, we do not live in Bangkok.
Yes I got the non o Immigrant retirement Visa and that's the best one . why did she not mention that in the video.
I am an American from NYC living the past 30 years in Vietnam now retired in Saigon and totally content doing so. I enjoy watching regional vlogs since all of Southeast Asia fascinates me. Being married to a Vietnamese national makes it rather easy to stay. I'm sure that there are many foreigners married to Thai nationals living abroad who might want to consider retiring to Thailand and so I think it would be helpful to add some information about requirements in their case as I am sure things are much easier for them as well. I have been to Thailand many times over the past 30+ years and have always enjoyed the visits. One of my favorite foods in the universe is Thai green chicken curry. I can get it in Vietnam but not quite the same experience. Anyway... thanks for your videos....
There is no visa that guarantees that you can stay until the end of your days. Don't forget the problem health insurance. The older you get the more expensive it will be or you might not even get one anymore. Also try to understand the new tax regulations regarding foreign income if you transfer money to Thailand. And to make it worse they were talking about worldwide taxation. Philippines has better visa options and no tax on foreign income if you are not a citizen. But both countries are very different.
Planning on it later this year.
I think the information displayed at 4:30 is incorrect... AFAIK, if you make the 800K deposit, you don't need to show income. Those three items listed are each one option for qualifying financially. Please correct me if that's wrong.
@@scottpeterson8388 thanks for confirming..
Lived in Thailand for 4 years on a Retirement Visa in Phuket and Chiang Mai, the wait at both Immigration Offices every 90 days was a pain ( understand now you can do it online ), in Chiang Mai you had to be at the Immigration Office at 6am to line up, before they opened at maybe 8am or 9am, then you were given a number and told to come back after 1pm and you might get processed before 3pm, or pay the Agent a fee, who obviously paid an official at Immigration, and it was all done in a couple of hours ??? Yes you can eat cheap like a Thai off the roadside, but if you shop at the International Supermarkets because you like to cook yourself, then you are really paying extra's, and dont think you can drink cheap wine in Thailand, a $5 bottle of wine in Australia sells for about $15 to $18 Aust in Thailand. And the Health Insurance is a trap, you go to Hospital with full insurance, and show the hospital you have Insurance, but on being discharged you have to pay in cash your hospital fees, and claim it back from the Health Insurance company which takes months, so dont be getting sick and having no cash avaialble.
The 90 days things is easy as all you need to do is go to Malaysia , Vietnam or Singapore for a week break before the 90 days is up and come back to Thailand and you get another 90 days of no worries.
@@davidbrompton7235 Bruce seems to be talking about the every 90 day check in you have to do when you are on a year long retirement visa, which can be done online (if the system operational on the day you try), can pay an agent to do the check in for you, or do it yourself while possibly going through the crap Bruce had to deal with by standing in the immigration line. You seem to be talking about something else like a tourist visa. I would see it as painful and costly if a retiree is forced to leave the country every 90 days for a week.
@@johng5950 It is true John. If you leave the country before 90 days, your 90 days starts over again when you re-enter Thailand.
@@johng5950 No I am talking about the retirement Visa, I had one for 3 years. The online system is not that reliable as IT knowledge in Thailand is not the best.
And the yearly renewal is the same procedure, queue up at 6am to get a number, and be back at 1pm and wait in hope. Not everyone wants to leave every 3 months to get a 90 day extension. Technically if you go to another Province for a week, you are to report to the local Police that you are there, but i never did that either. I just found all this paperwork tiresome and it felt like you were only ever a temporary resident.
Surely if you choose to retire in Thailand you want to do more than merely survive! You can live well in Thailand as I have been doing for the last 16 years on much less than $1,000 per month. The greatest treat to your wealth is the exchange rate. When I first came here it was 74 Baht to £1 now its barely 44 and has been as low as 37. However, if you cannot obtain a long-term visa to live in Thailand and there are many types other than a retirement one, then game over!
The "O-X" visa sounds great for a long term commitment. However, I would be concerned about the security of this arrangement if another 'health scare' developed and the government decided to ask all foreign nationals to leave before the term of their visa was up.
Great video Natty 🙌🏼😃
Thank you this was very helpful I am thinking about retiring there within 3 yrs
Glad it was helpful! Best of luck to you in the future!
Thank you, Natty! Thailand is at the top of my list!
It should be mentioned that the income and/or bank account can be satisfied with an account in your home country if that is where you apply for the visa. In other words, you don't need a Thai bank account. I submitted a copy of my US bank account at the Thai Consulate when I applied for a retirement visa in 2017. I don't know if that rule has changed. Also, there are other documents you must submit not mentioned in the video. Make sure you go very carefully through the requirements listed on the website of the Thai Consulate.
Considering the restrictions Visa's, Foreigners not being able to buy land, Expensive health care (Insurance) Then needing a lump sum in a Thai bank. It's not for me no thank you, I can stay in Europe and in some tax free.
Check on the price of medical insurance if you are 75!
Cool. Enjoy winter.
Great information thank you so much
After conversion , my condo rent is 43494 a month in baht living in Vancouver BC Canada. This rental price is only for rent excluding utility bill and other necessary expenses. =D
The cost of living in Thailand I'm guessing only applies to those who pay big rent, I'm married to a Thai and we are building our home in Thailand where we will retire in about 7 years, we both work full time in Australia, but even so, when we go to Thailand we stay with relatives mostly, and we would struggle to spend 30,000 baht a month, (that includes her family), I guess if you're into bars and girls it can cost a fortune, but if you really want to retire and enjoy Thai culture, it's very affordable.
We stayed at one apartment that cost 5000 baht a month, ate nothing but street food, (wouldn't eat anything else), and electricity was around 2000 baht a month.
I would struggle to understand where you would need 68,000 baht a month, unless you're renting a high-end condo.
Mate, even though your seeing the real Thailand, you are still only here on holiday.
Once you retire, and you age, trust me, you will pine for the (expensive) Aussie comfort foods you now take for granted, and unless you live in the North, your bill for aircon alone will never be under 4K especially as an old bugger. I have older friends and they cannot tolerate anything other than "Goldilocks" temperatures. You'll still spend a lot less than B68K a month, but if you think you'll realistically maintain the costs you enjoy now in old age, forget it. And I didn't even cover healthcare. It may be cheap, but not THAT cheap if something serious breaks.
@@LDW1961 I live and work in Townsville, the heat doesn't worry me, I also lived in Thailand for over a year when I first met my wife, and we both still eat mainly Thai food that she prepares, I understand where your coming from, but still 65,000 baht a month, that's $623, a week, my weekly costs in Australia are under $500, that's paying a mortgage, insurance, electricity, rates, car, food, etc.
To be spending that sort of money in Thailand then I doubt they could afford to live in a western country either.
Also we own our land and will build our home before we retire there, so one less thing for me to pay.
Even with electricity at 4000 baht a month, I'd still struggle to be spending 30,000 baht between 2 of us.
Good on you, these guys are living large. Last year during the second wave peak, I sat in a farang restaurant and watched at least three mature foreigners arrive with two girls in tow. Given this is one random restaurant the mind boggles. I personally knew (he was murdered) a guy who would spend his vacay in a penthouse with a minimum of six girls on a weekly retainer of $200 USD each, plus meals, booze and board. for some guys B68K a month is a quiet month.
@@LDW1961 sounds like an empty vacuous life to me, no real connection except paying Women, no wonder he was murdered.
Not every one wants to live in a simple room and eat street food 555
Good information and well presented.Just a couple of points:
Some embassies/consulates have higher deposit and income requirements e.g. Los Angeles and Sydney. Also the insurance requirement for the OA visa rises to $US100,000 by the end of this year.
Getting insurance after age 65 is quite expensive.
Kind regards
@Steven Ryan I wonder if "Getting insurance after age is quite expensive" means for me, when I hit 65, it's cheaper to get my medicare and move back to expensive ass America for healthcare. If so, that's very disappointing.
People seem confused about insurance. The premiums do increase with age, but if you enter on a tourist visa, you can apply within Thailand and you don't need, the criminal checks the medical, or currently, the insurance. So don't wait! Once you get your annual extension you can go back home, just pay the $30 reentry fee before you depart, and return to renew it before it expires, or you have to start over.
@@johng5950 Not at all. Get health insurance from a reputable Thai company in Thailand. I use Pacific Cross, that's not a recommendation, but an option.
Any procedure including dental in Thailand is ridiculously cheap compared to "the west" and I'm here to witness that I've had equal to better care here than in Australia.
If you build up a history with an insurance company, you'll get favorable rates as time goes on and you don't claim, another trick is to NOT renew when they first ask, eventually they will call you personally, with some juicy discounts to keep your business.
90 day reports are suspended when you're away. The 90 days starts over new each time you return, if you travel enough, even a flight to Cambodia or Vietnam, you can avoid 90 day reports forever! Having said that, in Chiang Mai they are drive through, like McDonald's and a breeze now.
there's a residential beachside development call the EnergyCity in Hua Hin, great for retirees at any age and they take care of your visa situation as well.
Thanks for the info, I will be there in October with my ladyboy friend and will check it out
AGREE WITH WHAT YOU SAY NATTY BUT ITSTHE POWERS THAT BE WHO MAKE IT HARD TO LIVE IN THAILAND!!
THAILAND!!!
HERE I COME!!!! ♥️♥️♥️
Thank you for your information!
GREAT NEWS. YOUR ENGLISH IS GREAT ,I LOVE UDON THANI, SAKON NAHKON, AND SOON TO VISIT PRACHIN BURY..
A lot of confusion in the video and the comment. OA visa is obtained in home country with money in a home country account.
A much easier option is to get a retirement stay once you enter Thailand on a tourist visa. No insurance required. Agents can help get around most of the requirements.
Apply inside Thailand with an agent, its no insurance, no money in the bank,
While expensive, an Elite Visa seems the least complicated. If the prices of Elite Visas were half of what they are now, Thailand may see far more people buying those visas.
Definitely the easiest long term visa. It took me 1-2 hours to upload the required info. 3 weeks to receive my approval. I then paid using a credit card which took about 5 minutes and a week later I received my welcome letter (last week). The only thing left to do is have my passport stamped which I'll do on my first visit back next month. This is for the Easy Access 5 year @ 600,000k. We'll see how it actually works in practice once I return as far as the arrival benefits and 90 day reporting. I wanted easy in and out privileges as I don't plan on retiring there at this point even though I'm over 50. (BTW, I applied using Jett's Elite Visa video link so hopefully he made a few bucks!).
@@exalhoa Good info. Thanks for sharing
@@exalhoa That's crazy money for just 5 years. It would have been better spent shuttle between Manila and BKK until it ran out then add B600,000 more to that budget and keep going. It may not last 5 years but at least you get plane tickets, tourist visas and some nice condo out of it rather than just freaking temporary VISA! In what world does that make any sense at all?
@@exalhoa Easy in and out priveleges? Pray tell, what are these? And what makes them worth $17,400 ? Do you know what that cash could buy you in terms of other goods and services in South East Asia? And your exit end entry is unlimited by air anyway. You've been taken, my good man.
@@LDW1961 Nope. I do my research. So the next time I decide to stay for 4,5 6 months, I do nothing. They do the 90 day reporting for me. The retirement visa is for pensioners. Too much hassle for me. I worked hard for my money and now I am going to enjoy spending it. I'm not wealthy by a lot of standards, but 600k baht is chump change to me at this time in my life. I entered Thailand in Dec on the 30 day VOA and then extended it at the CNX immigration office. It took 5 hours, essentially a wasted day. That was enough for me to decide I don't want to do that again. Depending on how the next year or so goes I'll probably pay the 400k to extend it to 20 years. Easy, done! Never have to concern myself with a visa for Thailand again. Thanks for your concern though.
Great info!
May I know what year cost you have mentioned on your video? The cost of living you mentioned does not apply to current year.
Can not find any apartment for 20,009 in CBD.
Thanks for sharing!. Information is helpful aboutr retirement in Siam.
1:00 can you give us an example of "benefits" afforded to expatriate retirees to Thailand? I seem to have overlooked them over the past two decades.
With a bank deposit of Baht 800,000/almost $25,000 US, it would not be feasible for me to retire in Thailand. Besides, I would like to work as long as I can. The restrictions seem too stringent for me at this time.
Yes Thailand does not want cheep Charlies anymore
@@davidwilliams-wg9xo no bums
@@ASouthernBoyCanSurvive if a guy doesnt have $25K emergency fund,he's not ready to retire ,he needs to keep working and saving.
@@davidwilliams-wg9xo people are nuts is all I can say
It wont after september when the hungry money grab insurance requirement kicks in and you have to pay for a ridiculous policy requirement kicks in for the O-A visa kicks in and that is what most who have entered recently have. Oh and thats if you can qualify for a policy as well.
Natty, how do you speak such a clear English? You speak better than soooo many native English speakers.
Google her name and her bio will come up that may explain a bit 👍🏽
She grew up in So California
@@hmm12336 what's her full name so that I can search.
Far easier and cheaper to retire in the Philippines. In a major city in the Philippines and even in some of the smaller cities far more Filipinos are likely to speak English. IOW it's easier and cheaper to retire in the Philippines.
Never have understood why Thailand has never made learning English in school mandatory as the Philippines has done?
Because the Phillippines were ceded from Spain to the USA in 1898... then they had to learn English. Thailand was never colonized by a Western power (yay).
That said, I am glad some of the Thais speak English. One of my best friends is Thai and lives in BBK and he speaks perfect English. Someday if I can retire in Thailand, I will try to take some Thai language classes... always good to learn more.
@@desrtfox Indeed-- in effect the Kingdom of Siam cut deals with the British and French and, during the height of Western imperial conquest, the Siamese colonized land where people aren't ethnically Thai but are, e.g., Khmer, or Lao, or Malay. That last one, especially, is still a sore spot.
l agree with you so much l did live in Thailand for many years then the military took over and we all left, all my friends have now gone from Thailand, the crap with visa got too much as well for all of us, they change the visa rules to many times and still do so it is to much hassel if you are retierd to stay in Thailand, they only want people how stay 3 weeks on hollyday, so they can get all there monye out of them. l did go to the Philippines and was so suprised how easy it was with visa they really got it and l was so happy and they all speak English as well so and allway have a big smile on, it is like the old Thailand, and l am trying to tell everybody to stop going to Thailand and go to the Philippines insted. l did meet my soulmat in the Philippines also, she is 25 years younger than me but now we have been marriage for over 4 years and suprise we have a baby 19 mounts as well lol. I didn't think my life could change like this. l have a great wife and a happy life, we now live back in my home contry because l want her to grow up here back home. When you have worked your hole life and you are alone then you want someone in your life that care about you, we all want that. l found that so l am lucky l manage to start all over again and my older daugther are best friends with my wife and they bout have a baby girl so everything is great, l hope everybody is luck like me
I have to leave 3 million baht to just sit useless depreciating in the bank while inflation eats it up? That’s a terrible thing to do with your currency.
I agree.
I have never and will never go...no offense but....
Its so the bank can write loans for 8x or 10x the value of your deposit and give you bugger all in return
I thought it was 800,000 ?
Much appreciated and you speak english very well !!
Thank you!
Having 800k idle is the biggest obstacle
If you don't have $25,000 emergency fund you should not be retired you should still be working. 800,000 THB is just $25,000 and 90% of retired people should have an emergency fund of $25,000
Nicely presented.
I think its "either or" for the O-A visa. You don't have to have all three, just one of the requirements. So, If I open a bank account with 800k Bhat, then it should satisfy the requirement? Is that true? How much is the health insurance cost per month?
So, for the O-A with 800k deposit, I still do need monthly income too?
No, that's badly phrased in the video, it's either, or, and also mix of both! The lump sum is the least hassle free.
But the best option is to pass on ALL of them, and snowbird just under 9 months a year on a FREE extendable tourist visa. The catch there is, you still need to figure out where you'll stay for the rest of the year, Veitnam, Laos? Or head home?
@@LDW1961 how would you actually get a Thai bank account, deposit 800k there 2 months before you apply for a Visa from a country abroad? I guess you would need to do that as a tourist in Thailand before. But can tourists even get accounts? This doesn't sound that easy for me, haha
@@RolandW_DIYEnergyandMore If you get an OA visa then you meet the financial requirements using money in your home country bank accounts. You get one year in Thailand and you have plenty of time to open an account and deposit the 800,000 baht before your first visa extension. The monthly income method of 65,000 baht/month requires that you have a full year of deposits before you apply for the 1 year extension so it may be difficult to do for the first extension.
I would like to have more information about the marriage visa. Is it more expensive and would I need to renew it annually?
Marriage (to a thai) visa is yearly,,renew in Thailand, no insurance required, less money in bank, 400k baht OR 40k per month income. And you can work.
Actual visa is 2,000 baht. A bit more documents but way cheaper.
It's half the annual price, but the annual "hoops" are humiliating, ridiculous, and complete authoritarian overreach. There are always those among us however, who will accept almost any intrusion by authority as a sign of benign avuncular affection? Bizarre the way some humans minds work. maybe they secretly enjoy being whipped after hours? Fine. But you don't need to bend over for "the man" too!
@@peterw7012 Thank you Peter for the excellent information.
@@fhorst02 Thank you Frank for your information. Plan to marry Thai bride in less than 2 years when we move to Buriram. She can then retire from her restaurant job she's had for almost 18 years.
"land of smile" => yes, the smile of your wife when she divorces you and keeps the property you - Farang - are not allowed to own but needed to buy.
Great info Natty!
Great job Natty! Not sure where the money in a Thai Bank fits into the steps if you have to have it 2 months prior to application? Can you open a Thai bank account from Australia? My understanding was that you could only open a Thai bank account once you had a 12 month lease for accomodation in place. Thanks Thaiger members… watching you daily keeps the dream alive and getting closer! ☺️
When I applied for OA from Canada a few years ago, I only had to show funds in Canadian bank. Funds or 800000thb have to be in Thai bank a few months before you renew for second year, or be able to show deposits in Thai bank of 65000thb or more per month in Thai bank.
I suspect the phillipines is a better place to retire. Lots of reasons, plus easier visa requirements etc.
But most Philippine girls does not want to be with an old foreigner, that could be their grandfather 😂
@@leedex of course they do
@Jimmy Riddlemethis filipino women only wants money and her family milking you😂
@@leedex both Philippines and Thailand love older men but to get a 8-9-10 you need coin
Thanks 😊 Natty.
As a Canadian Expat previously employed as a Pilot based in Abu Dhabi, I have been living in Phuket for over 24yrs during my time-off from work. Over the years I had several 3yr Non-B Visa’s when I was under 50yrs, followed by multiple 1yr O-A visas. In Oct 2019, I applied for and was issued a 10yr O-X by the Embassy in Abu Dhabi.
No big deal…..
The O-X is fine for those who don't miss the money. Lawd knows most of us are here because, whatever our incomes, we live the high life compared to any of our western peers, be they labourers or Lords.
My argument is simply this.
Everybody who can afford it, should think it through carefully. I would think an ex Captian would have travel perks up the wazoo, and a network of friends to mutually couch-surf with. Even so, long term Air BnB is cost effective too, there are even cheaper options such as professional house-sitting gigs. With a little planning, Thailand can be enjoyed without spending money better used on a cryptocurrency punt. Just to use a random example.
Hell even burning it in a German or Spanish FKK club is better value. The system here can be gamed without compromising ones integrity in the slightest. Why throw good money away unnecessarily?
@@LDW1961
What many expats in T’land are unaware of are the recent changes with the “Deposit Protection Agency” (DPA) over the past several years regarding Insurance on your Bank Deposits. Previously the DPA would cover up to 10MTB, then it was reduced to 5MTB. Now bank deposits are only insured up to a maximum of 1MTB per bank. This is why many well off Thais have accounts with multiple different Thai banks. If one of their banks “Fails”, then their 1MTB is covered. Any funds / investments above 1MTB is lost. Many expats are also unaware of various investment opportunities offered through Thai banks. For example, 9 years ago I took out an Insurance Policy through UOB/Prudential that currently yields 8%. Regarding travel….. I don’t do that anymore, as I did not get the so-called Vax.
Do you still live in Phuket? Do you maintain ties back home with regards to banking etc? Canadian here just doing some research.
@@mapleleafdavid
I left Canada back in 1996, with no intention of ever returning. In fact my entire family left.
Through the mid-90’s I found myself traveling the Caribbean, looking for an island to call home. Then one day in Bombay India one of the other pilots I flew with asked if I had ever considered SE Asia. Two weeks latter, I was wheels down in Phuket. Haven’t been back to the Caribbean since.
If/When you do leave Canada, make sure that you make application with Revenue Canada for official Non-Residence Status. If you don’t, you could find yourself liable for Canadian Taxes.
Initially I bought a 40’ sailboat in Langkawi (Tax & Duty Free Port) and lived aboard between Phuket and Langkawi when not at work overseas. (I worked 2 months ON followed by 1 month OFF)
Latter in 2003 I bought a home inside one of the local golf courses. I own the house and have my name in the Tambian Baan Yellow Book. I also have Thai I.D. (Pink Card) Both are great supporting documents when dealing with Immigration. Currently on a 10yr O-X Retirement Visa issued by the Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi back in 10/2019.
Banking is offshore in the Channel Islands and here in Thailand. Note that the Thai Deposit Protection Agency (DPA) will now only insure up to 1MTB in any Thai Bank. A few years ago it was 10MTB. This is one of the reasons successful Thais have bank accounts across multiple banks, so as to protect their cash assets.
In ‘96 I essentially divorced myself from Canada. No bank accounts, property, investments, not even a library card……
January and February each year are and always will be, much more comfortable here in Phuket, than at the corner of Portage & Main in Winnipeg.
@@verticalift Wow, thanks for sharing. Essentially living the dream I desire. Flight siming is as close as I’ll ever get to being the pilot I wish I was as a kid. Thanks for the banking tips, something really to make note of. Btw, what equipment did you fly? Cheers.
Thai banks as of March 31, 2023 will no longer open a bank account for a Foreigner without either a Thai work permit or already issued long tem visa, it makes a marriage or retirement visa impossible to obtain due to Thai mandates of bank deposits to obtain a long visa.
I plan to retire in Thailand if all goes well!
How to retire in Thailand, Win the lottery in the UK.
Your presentation was excellent. This is how an instructional UA-cam video should be. I'll be coming to Thailand for the first time this winter. I'm considering retiring there.
We live well spending much less than 35k per month for a whole family, about 1/3 of that. We eat steak fillets and ribeye once a week and everything.
@@da-yi7im Tell that to Thai people. Argue with them that 35k is not even rent money, really antagonise them on that point until they send you back to States in a body bag so the rest of us can be spared of your BS
I just retired in my 60s and I will keep my insurance because my employer will continue to pay a large portion of the premiums as if I was still employed. (Aetna, MHBP and Vedvip). This includes dental and vision. But will I still have to get Thai insurance? Doesn't make sense. The coverage amount is way more than required, not to mention all three of AFLAC's policies as supplements. Hopefully that will be enough. Thai insurance probably would be cheaper for sure but if I leave Thailand I cannot get my old insurance back once I drop it it's gone. Any information on that perspective?
assuming that insurances is based outside of Thailand.... there is a good chance that it will not cover you in Thailand beyond a limited period or certain emergencies. You'll need to check carefully.
Hi again it will not cover you need to get Thai insuranse as well mate, but this will work in the philippines have you been there?
@@janhansen6195 I am in Vietnam where I have been for many years but have been to Thailand on various occasions. Not been to the Philippines since 1989. Being 68 I no longer buy health insurance as it would exclude anything important and direct costs in Vietnam are still fairly reasonable. Can also go to US for medicare if critical situation arose. The important thing is to know how to use the local system and to know exactly what you are covered for if anything. Wishing you well!!
Thanks Natty. What happens when the 10 year retirement is finished. How do people stay retired in Thailand?
Cambodia-Thailand border gate resumes operation from today (01 May 2020) but health measures are strictly implemented.
For Thailand passengers, the number of those who are entering Thailand are (1) fully vaccinated passengers (2) non-vaccination passengers and (2) those who are people in border provinces holding border certificates.
Presentation of Thailand Pass, vaccination card, insurance card within 10 income circle. $1,000, RT-PCR test results, and licensing are followed by type of passenger, as summarized.”
-----------
Fully vaccinated need a health
insurance worth $120 (covers one month) plus registration in the Thai Pass and the extra future $15 visitor’s tax will be implemented in August 2022.
Very easy. Bring tons of monies.
Natty, great info! Please do a sequel for the people who just want to stay 3 months. I think that's maximum a tourist can stay, correct? And the details on the "visa run"? Thanks!
I was told I can arrive as a tourist go to a lawyer, open a bank account, transfer funds and change status to retirement visa is this wrong? Two lawyers told me that both in Bangkok at different times.
Hi Scott if l was you l stay away from Thailand they change the visa rules all the time you have no rigths in that country, try the Philippines 10 times better mate. l know l have lived in Thailand for many years and since the military took over in 2014 all my western frinds have left the country. And the girls are 10 times better and they all speak English mate and they have the same values as we have. lf you have lived in Thailand you understand what l am saying about this lol
My biggest headache is being fined by the Patong Police for not having a Thai DL. I have an International License that I have used in probable 10 different countries. I also have a DL from my home country. Both no good. I have been to the Phuket Transportation Dept/DL Bureau to be told the same thing. However I can't get a Thai DL unless I have a Visa (Immigration is working on my Retirement Visa which takes 5 weeks). Once I have that I must make an appointment with the Transportation Dept. Oh yea they are 2 months behind on appointments. Boils down to the Thai Police Department just wants money plain and simple. They set up check points on the two main roads in Patong and reel in tourists like shooting fish in a barrel!!!
Hey, Tiger how about reporting on this scheme ???
They are brave...but not brave enough to take on BIB bribery and corruption.
Just use Grab. It's way cheaper in the long term. Unlike Uber elsewhere. With Grab being so cheap and the options so amazing, a car in Thailand is just an expensive flex.
I’ve been here for a decade and it seems like we’re in different country. I got my DL in about 3 hours and the renewal was about an hour.
@@WilliamPKittredgePhD I was just there today so I’m sticking to my story
@@gary8173 we know of course, every provincial centre does their own thing, stop yanking the poor guys chain! 😂 I had a great experience in my provincial centre, they even pulled me out of the afternoon nap, sorry, video session, while all the locals had to endure the boredom until 5pm. I still stand by Grab. Ended the corrupt double tier pricing of the old school transport options overnight.
Great report, thanks
They are rated #2 in medical by CEO World Magazine, so if you want world class medical care at bargain prices, you should probably consider Thailand.
Nice explanation
Thailand needs to have a retirement visa for those of us who are under 50, retired and well exceed the income threshold. Constantly having to visa hop gets old
why go to Thailand try the philippines you have no problems with visa at all, l know l did live in Thailand for many years got so sick of all the changing of the visa rules in Thailand so l did go to the Philippines 10 times better mate and the girls are great there also, ps they all speak English as well
@@janhansen6195 I’ve been to PI. I’ve traveled all over Asia. I would like to find a place where an under 40yo who is retired can do so without having to Visa hope or renew every few months.
@@TheGreatEscape9833 that's why he said Philippines. 35 year old for retirement visa in Manilla. Or get a Thai Elite Visa.
@@philbe2482 They discontinued their visa for under 55 year olds. Had they not, I would be in the Philippines right now…
@@TheGreatEscape9833
Without Pension;
35 to 49 years old - US$50,000.00 time deposit.
It was never 55 it's 50. Idk where 55 came from. 35 with a 50000usd deposit.
Or shell out the 20,000 USD for a Thai Elite Visa
Not correct...pleas research more...I just renewed my retirement visa here in Thailand and no insurance or police check was required...but applying from ur own country I do believe it is required....so applying in Thailand is so much easier
Agreed. She should have better explained O vs OA visas, which would have made your point clearer. One you do inside Thailand and one you do from your home country and there's different requirements for each. Natty is awesome though, so I appreciate the effort.
I absolutely adore Thailand with having taken 12 trips there spanning 3 decades. I’ve spent the past 2 1/2 years researching this very issue. Also, I haven’t missed a single Thaiger episode. My ultimate conclusion is that I will enjoy taking awesome, extended vacations to Thailand. I will NOT retire permanently to Thailand for a variety of reasons. I foresee myself falling into the hi-so category, yet because of the tedious visa, accounting, medical insurance regulations, etc., I’ve carefully determined that enjoying several months a year vacationing is better than having to deal with the ever changing, tedious, and downright frustrating requirements of full time retirement. My wife, an accomplished accountant/financial analyst, is native Thai. Funny note, I actually miss Thailand more than she. Talk about irony!
If you are in the hi-so category consider the Elite Visa. I just received mine, the process was painless. I'm over 50 and retired but not ready for full time residency at this time so the in and out privileges of the Elite made it the one for me (for now anyway).
@@exalhoa Thanks for your thoughtful and insightful reply. I certainly will consider that option. Although I may be in the hi-so category, I would make it barely into that category (if that makes any sense). I’m about 10 years away from decision time.
@Scott D I would love to do the same strategy as you're mentioning. It would be my preference. Just wish the cost of medical care wasn't so damn high here in America. Its so high, I feel like I would be forced to continue working and never be able to truly retire until Medicare kicks in at age 65. Unfortunately, nowhere close to rich.
@@johng5950 You focused upon a very important issue, problem, and obstacle getting in the way of retirement prior to the age of Medicare! You articulated it perfectly. Also, the cost of International School ($30,000 U.S. plus) is another obstacle for those such as myself who had children later in life, etc. I can retire in six years but have children that will still be in school.
Make a video about marriage visa
Is this the same as the new “wealth visa” for pensioners and digital nomads? I thought the details were not out yet…
OX visa so called because only "Buffalo" farang will think it's a good deal 😂 If you can afford it you don't actually need to use it, there are free options, such as living elsewhere part of the year, and entering as a tourist. Duh!
Is Hi-So inclusive of farangs? For some reason I had thought it might be reserved for Thais only. I suppose if you've got your kids in private school, are paying for their polo lessons, and driving a Mercedes you could be Hi-So after all.
How about people who can retire at a very young age? 25+ Is there a option to get hold of a visa long stay like retirees 50+?
Look into the Elite Visa
Or much cheaper option like education visa!
Elite visa = 50+ yrs .
Yes I Will retiré ind Thailand, but I Think I Will buy the Elite Visa instead
makes absolute sense if you're absolutely positive you will be there at least 5 years. Too bad it's not sold yearly
If u r above 50 you can easily pay an agent around 30,000 baht annually and they take care of everything you never have to go to Thailand immigration (and your 800,000 baht) stays in your bank account versus paying 600,000 cash you will never see-
Is it me or the money requirements are not clear? Here's what I understand (correct me if I'm wrong): For the O-A visa, I deposit 800k bahts in Thailand, then apply for the visa, showing I have a monthly income of 65k bahts. Once in Thailand, I can spend the 800k, but in order to renew at the end of the year, I will have to show that I have at least 800k per year (deposit and/or monthly income). Or do I have to keep 800k in the bank at all times ? The part that's confusing is the third point: a combination of the security... Or is it that we have to meet only one of the three points ? 800k in the bank at all times OR 65k per month OR a combination (for example 50k per month + 200k in the bank). Not clear. (All 3 would be overkill, especially since we need to have insurance on top)
Pretty sure it's 800k in Bank for 2 months before applying or 65k income. Didn't mention that you have to report to the immigration office every 3 months to renew
Because the American consulate no longer supplies a "proof of income statement" we were told that we had to have a minimum 800,000 B per person in the bank and that while we could use the account the account could not go below 800 K for two months and that to apply again at the end of the year we would have to bring the accounts up to 800 K two months before making the application to renew.
Why did she not mention getting the non O immigrant retirement Visa? That's the one I obtained on my last trip
If u know the nooks and crannies of Bkk, u can find places for under $200 USD per month. Really good local hospitality to
🌴✌🏄♂️🏄♂️🏄♂️✌🌴
Love the info Thanks Natty
I'll stay in my country as I don't and can't meet the requirements.
Have to get 90 day visa then and leave and reenter every 90 days. Thailand has vans that take you to Lao or Cambodia overnight on vida runs for a price to renew 90 day visas.
That ended almost ten years ago! 😂
I didn't knew that in Thailand you can have bank account opened prrior to your arrival here. Need both bank balance and annual income, but am wondering if many retired people will have annual income.
Most US citizens will have monthly Social Security income. I have that plus a work pension plus some savings. Many people have property in their home country that they rent and receive income. Many on retirement extensions continue to work in their home country either remotely or by only living part time in Thailand.
Pay a visa agent 40000 baht you don't need to have any money in the bank, easy.
@@jon-ie4li LOL, everytime I visit a forum that talks about this subject matter, there's instantly a fight back and forth concerning the legality of this. Some do it and some are too scared to try it. Not sure where I land on this just yet, but good to see that it's an option.
@@martypoll My parents don't have those incomes, but have savings only. This means they are not eligible to retire in Thiland.
You can open bank account while in Thailand and it's one or the other, either 800k in Bank or 65k income. Money has to be in Bank 2 months before applying to renew visas. They didn't mention that you have to report to immigration office every 3 months to renew visas
What’s with this health insurance requirement? That’s the first I ever heard of that???
HI Nat,
Great video.
Just want to know if I apply for Non-O Visa in Thailand during tourist visa, can I use police check & criminal check from Australia or do I need to get it done in Thailand?
Hi, This was an easy to understand informative ( excellent English ! ) video on Thai Visas. Was the Elite Visa mentioned ? Candidates should probably FIRST plan a trip to a few cities in Thailand to get a "on the ground" assessment of the weather, pollution, crowdiness, noise , safety and other factors. Ideally, the have a LOCAL Thai that they can befriend to assist them in all things THAI. Lastly, how much Thai language is needed and what is the best way to learn basic Thai ? Thanks !!!
if Singapore to retied in Thailand why cant apply 10yrs?
Interesting, this seems to be circuitous: how can one get a visa if the money is first required to be in a Thai bank… and how can one open a bank account without a visa? (Perhaps a tourist visa will suffice to get the account opened?).
Excellent video
Thai food, and my Thai partner, suay mak mak 🥰
I'm thinking about it.
You forgot the Elite Visa???
We didn't mention the elite visa as it is quite different from the retirement visa, but we did make a separate video to talk about it (watch here: ua-cam.com/video/gf89MV0D7H4/v-deo.html&ab_channel=TheThaiger)
Maybe in future I will benefit be retired in Thailand ,,I came from Vietnam 🇻🇳,,at morments I living in New Zealand,,so I decided to move going to Thailand in future
This would be my first choice were it not for the fact that I am about eleventh on Thailand's list. But I think I get it. They are after the asian money first and foremost that will buy their way in. But there will probably be less westerners not only vacationing there but certainly retiring there. When it comes to U.S. retirees they have probably conceded them to Central and South America. I wonder what the percentage is for American and Canadian expats to Europe/Baltic expats in Thailand? Probably 10 to 1,000
Visa requirements to retire are more than ridiculous. Only one year at a time....the money in the bank you can't use....90 day check ins....house visits....age requirements... and don't forget the money you have to slide them in the packet so it's actually approved in a reasonable amount of time.
Totally agree. I eventually gave up, and now spend only part of the year there. The tyrranical annual rules mean they have also lost the bulk of my discretionary spending. I can afford the cash deposit, but I can also afford to not, so it was a no-brainer. Spend that frozen B800,000 on crypto!
You can meet the financial requirements by the monthly income method of 65,000 baht/month and you can spend all of that money each month. There are only house visits if you extend as married to a Thai. They want to verify that it is not a sham marriage. There are no house visits for retirement extensions. I’ve never paid anything other than the official 1,900 baht for a retirement extension at the Bangkok office. It is relatively easy to do on your own if you are patient and organized. It takes about half a day once per year.
A way round it is to transfer 65k into the bank every month, and say you only need 45k to live. Send the 20k back and keep recycling it, of course you have to pay bank fees but it saves having to have 800k in Bank
your video was informative i am looking to retire in thailand those requirments are a little to much im looking to aquire an elite visa i would rather spend the money . what's your thought on applying for the elite visa
Is the pension taxable if you retire on thailand? Can you getva,work permit once retired?