FAQ
Common questions.
How much income do I need for the Thailand retirement visa?
A monthly income of at least THB 65,000, shown with an income certificate. You can instead show THB 800,000 in the bank, or income and savings that add up to THB 800,000 a year. A bank balance of at least THB 800,000 for the last three months, with a letter from the bank. This can replace the monthly income.
Is there an age limit for the Thailand retirement visa?
You must be 50 or over on the day you apply.
What do I need for the Thailand retirement visa?
The official page asks for: bank statements or an income certificate, health insurance, criminal record certificate, medical certificate, proof of where you live now and passport valid for 18 months.
Do I need health insurance?
Health insurance for your whole stay, with cover of at least THB 3,000,000 or USD 100,000 a year, including COVID-19.
Can I work on the Thailand retirement visa?
Work of any kind is not allowed on this visa.
How long do I need to spend in Thailand?
The official pages do not set a minimum stay. While you are in Thailand you must report your address to immigration every 90 days.
Does the Thailand retirement visa lead to permanent residence?
The official visa pages do not describe a path to permanent residence from this visa.
How long does the Thailand retirement visa last?
The visa is valid for 1 year and lets you stay in Thailand for 1 year. Yes. At the end of the year you can ask the Immigration Bureau in Thailand for more time, showing at least THB 800,000 a year in transfers, a Thai bank deposit, or income plus a deposit.
How much does the Thailand retirement visa cost?
The fee depends on the embassy you apply through. The embassy in Washington, D.C. charges USD 200, and the fee is not refunded.
Who can apply for the Thailand retirement visa?
Open to citizens of any other country. People aged 50 or over who want to stay in Thailand for a year at a time without working.
Can I bring my family?
A spouse can extend their stay with you by showing the marriage certificate.
How do I apply?
Online on the Thai e-Visa website, through the Thai embassy or consulate in the country of your nationality or residence. The embassy in Washington, D.C. asks you to apply at least 20 working days before you travel.
Sources
- Thailand: Non-Immigrant Visa O-A (long stay) (washingtondc.thaiembassy.org)
- Thailand: how to apply (thaievisa.go.th)
- Thailand: Non-Immigrant Visa O-A (long stay) (singapore.thaiembassy.org)
- Thailand: Non-Immigrant Visa O-A (long stay) (oslo.thaiembassy.org)
- Thailand: Non-Immigrant Visa O-A (long stay) (ltr.boi.go.th)
- Thailand: O-A visa (Royal Thai Embassy, Oslo) (oslo.thaiembassy.org)
General information, not legal advice. Last checked 11 Oct 2026.