Thailand Retirement Visa
The Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A or O) is Thailand's visa for retirees aged 50 and above. Get 1-year extensions with no mandatory health insurance (for O visa), allowing peaceful retirement in Thailand at a fraction of Western costs.
What is the Retirement Visa?
Thailand's retirement visa allows foreigners aged 50 and above to live long-term in Thailand. There are two main types: Non-O (applied for in Thailand) and Non-O-A (applied for at embassy abroad).
Why Thailand for Retirement? Low cost of living (30,000-60,000 THB/month for comfortable lifestyle), excellent healthcare (at fraction of US/EU costs), warm weather year-round, and large expat retiree community for support.
Unlike tourist visas that require frequent renewals or exits, retirement visa gives you 1-year extensions indefinitely. No need to leave Thailand once you have it.
Non-O vs Non-O-A: Which to Choose?
Non-O (In Thailand)
Non-O-A (From Embassy)
Retirement Visa Requirements (Non-O)
Age Requirement:
Must be 50 years or older (verified by passport birthdate)
Financial Requirement (Choose One):
- ✅ Option A: 800,000 THB in Thai bank account (must be seasoned 2-3 months before extension)
- ✅ Option B: 65,000 THB monthly income (pension, social security, etc.)
- ✅ Option C: Combination of bank deposit + monthly income totaling 800K annually
Required Documents:
- ✅ Passport (valid 18+ months)
- ✅ TM.7 application form
- ✅ Passport photos (4-6 photos)
- ✅ Thai bank statements (updated book)
- ✅ Bank letter confirming balance
- ✅ Proof of address in Thailand (TM.30, lease)
- ✅ Income proof (if using Option B or C)
- ✅ Marriage certificate (if extending based on Thai spouse)
How to Get Retirement Visa (Step-by-Step)
Come on visa exempt or tourist visa first
Deposit 800,000 THB (can be transferred from abroad)
Money must stay in account for 2-3 months before application
Immigration office gives initial 90-day Non-O visa
After 45 days, return to immigration for 1-year extension (1,900 THB)
Every year, renew extension (1,900 THB, requires funds still in account)
Retirement Visa Costs
* Does not include the 800,000 THB bank deposit (which remains yours, just locked in account)
Retirement Visa vs Elite Visa
| Factor | Retirement Visa | Elite Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Cost (5 years) | ~10,000 ฿ | 600,000 ฿ |
| Age requirement | 50+ | Any age |
| Bank deposit | 800K ฿ (your money) | None |
| Renewal | Annual (1,900 ฿) | None (5/10/20 year) |
| Best for | Cost-conscious 50+ | Wealthy, any age |
Ready to Retire in Thailand?
Retirement visa, Elite visa, or DTV for 50+ remote workers - we'll help you choose the best option for your retirement plans.