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The Big Thai Visa Post: Visa Types, Requirements, Restrictions & Benefits

All visa processes, whether you are flying across the world or traveling to a neighboring country, are daunting ones.

With all the different types of Thai visa available, at times it may seem as if figuring out how to fly to the moon would be an easier task than finding out which one is right for you.

It isn't straight-forward, that's for sure.

I've been here 11 years now and I still discover stipulations in the small print now and again.

There are a number of different visas to consider, so to prevent the risk of deportation and the embarrassment of explaining your predicament when you wind up back in your home country, I have compiled up-to-date visa information for the 5 most common types of visa.

thai visa thailand

Why Do You Need a Visa?

Let's start with this simple but common question.

A passport is needed when traveling to other nations to show that you are a legal citizen, so why do we need to go the extra mile to obtain a visa?

Visas are different than passports in that they show why it is you are going to another country, as well as how long you plan on staying there.

Visas are usually granted to those who are working or studying abroad for a certain amount of time, however, there are other types of visas, including marriage and retirement visas.

All you have to do is apply for the correct one, which you'll be able to after reading this post.

Remember, if you are coming to Thailand for a holiday of less than 30 days then you won't need one of the visa options below.

Depending on your country of origin, you will be issued with a visa on arrival, also referred to as an exemption stamp. For most nationalities this provides a stay of up to 30 days. However, there are a number of countries who need to apply for a visa prior to arrival.

You can check whether you need a visa to enter Thailand for a short stay using the link below.

=> Click here to see if you need an eVisa

So let’s get started with the different types of Thai visa, their requirements and the application process.

1. The Tourist Visa

Are you looking for a long spring break destination? Are you taking the gap year to blow all of your money in exchange for fond memories and a boatload of “candid” selfies?

Well, Thailand is certainly one of the most beautiful destinations you will find in your search for the perfect vacation.

If this is the case, don’t let the idea of getting a tourist visa scare you. While it may be easier to simply travel to another city in your own country of residence, figuring out the Thai tourist visa is well worth your time to see this beautiful country.

Also, if you are staying for less than 30 days, you may not need a visa to enter the country. See this link for the requirements for each country.

Requirements:

In order to apply, you will need to have a passport with at least six months of remaining validity.

You must also have two passport photos.

You must have already purchased your flights, as a copy of your round trip tickets or confirmed itinerary is required.

You must also have proof that you have sufficient funds to be traveling in the first place (20,000 Baht per person and 40,000 Baht per family).

There are two types of tourist visa:

1. Tourist (3 months validity/up to 60 days/Single)

This is a single entry visa that gives you up to 60 days in Thailand.

2. Tourist (6 months validity/up to 60 days/Multiple Entries)

This option gives you a 6-month visa, allowing you to stay for 60 days at a time, but with multiple entries. So after 60 days you must leave, but can then re-enter and activate a further 60 days.

Application Process:

Obtaining a tourist visa is the least difficult visa to obtain as there are few requirements.

You apply for a tourist visa in your home country from the Thai Embassy or a Thai consulate.

If you need extra time in Thailand, you can extend your tourist visa by 30 days (before it expires). There is a 1,900 Baht fee for each extension.

The extension of stay, as well as the change of a certain type of visa, is solely at the discretion of the Immigration officer.

I have detailed the requirements for obtaining a tourist visa from the Thai embassy in the UK. You should check the Thai embassy website of your home country to see if these requirements differ at all. In my experience, the only difference usually the balance required to be shown on your bank statement

also note that single entry tourist visa are easy to obtain from countries neighboring Thailand such as Laos or Cambodia. It is quite common for people to arrive in Thailand on a 30 day extension standard and then decide they want to stay longer.

They then do a visa run over the border to one of the neighboring countries and visit the Thai embassy there to obtain a tourist visa.

Single Entry Requirements (maximum stay of up to 60 days)

  • A current passport with validity of over 6 months beyond the date of application.
  • Visa application form completely filled out.
  • Two (2) recent photos of the applicant.

Multiple Entry Requirements (maximum stay of up to 60 days each entry):

  • A current passport with validity of over 6 months beyond the date of application.
  • Visa application form completely filled out.
  • Two (2) recent photos of the applicant.
  • Original bank statement of the applicant showing a balance of least £5,000 (for 6 months) or a print out with official stamp of the bank*
  •  A letter from the applicant's employer in the UK or Ireland, and addressed to the Royal Thai Embassy.
    – If you are self-employed, your self-assessment and a company registration document are required.
  •  A photocopy of the confirmed return air ticket to Thailand.
  •  A photocopy of the confirmed hotel reservation in Thailand.

The Benefits

In most cases, the single entry will be enough. But for those who want to spend 6-months at a time here (leaving every 60-days) the 6-month visa is a bonus option.

The advantage of entering the country with this visa is that you'll have 60 days instead of the standard 30 on arrival.

This means that should you want to attend an extra full moon party, or spend longer with your Thai girl/boyfriend, you won't have to to do a visa run to buy some time.

2. The Work/Business Visa (Non-Immigrant “B” Visa)

Many people come to Thailand to teach English as a second language. Others are relocated here for work, to invest and even conduct international business.

The B visa process is fairly harmless and, if done right, can be just another simple check off your to-do list before coming to source that next big import product from Thailand.

Requirements:

This is a bit tricky to stipulate because there is no set business visa, rather a category (B) for which you have to submit documents depending on the business-related reason you require this type of visa.

For most work-related type visas you need two passport photos, a medical certificate, a valid passport, a letter of employment, a certificate of degree and proof of funds of 20,000 Baht (per person)

Work Permit:

Note that this visa isn't a work permit. A work permit is obtained separately inside Thailand, and usually by your employer.

If you want to work in Thailand, you should apply for an initial 90-Day Non-Immigrant B visa from your home country under the employment category.

The work permit application then takes place during the initial 90 days of your visa. Once a valid work permit is obtained, the applicant then applies for the 1-Year Non-Immigrant B visa inside Thailand.

Once you have a work permit, 90-day reporting to any Thai Immigration Office is required. You'll also need a re-entry permit if you wish to travel outside of the country. The good news is that renewal of this visa can be done inside Thailand.

Application Process:

As with all types of visa, the B visa must be obtained in your home country (or country other than Thailand). Single-entry and multiple-entry visas are valid for three months initially, though multiple-entry visas are valid for 1 year (leave every 90 days).

For single entry, your passport must be valid for 6 months or more, and for multiple entry the passport must be valid for 18 months or more.

The Benefits:

On a multiple-entry B visa, you are allowed to stay in Thailand for 90 days at a time. You are also able to open a bank account as well as obtain a work permit, if needed.

The B visa covers the following types of work-related activity: to conduct business, to work, attend business conferences, scuba diving courses, to teach, kick boxing courses (Muay Thai) and massage courses.

It will suit those prospecting for business in Thailand and having meetings with Thai companies or attending seminars and trade shows.

3. The Retirement (O-A) Visa

What better way to retire than on the shores of Thailand’s world famous beaches, or in the quiet hills of Nakorn Nowhere?

Thailand’s yearlong tropical climate makes it a great place to put your feet up and truly enjoy retirement at a slower pace, or not, as the case may be.

The retirement visa (which when done inside Thailand is actually officially known as an ‘extension of stay based on retirement') is a tad laborious to acquire, and you will need to report to immigration every 90 days; though this can now be done online – when it's working!

I can't see why people aren't simply required to pop down to a local Police Station or immigration office every 3 months and get stamped in. It would take 5 minutes and be done at everyone's leisure.

Wishful thinking…

Requirements:

The retirement visa is also referred to as the Non-Immigrant “O-A,” or the long stay visa. You must be at least 50-years-old and have a clean criminal background.

Two months prior to the visa, you must have 800,000 Baht in a Thai bank account, or a monthly income or pension of 65,000 Baht; or a total of 800,000 Baht through a combination of a bank deposit and income or pension for the entire year.

Note that as of March 1st, 2019, you must keep the 800,000 Baht in your Thai bank account for 3 months after you apply for your extension. And, after those 3 months, you must keep a minimum of 400,000 Baht in the same account.

Every 90 days you must report to the immigration office regarding your current address in Thailand. This can be done by mail if you do not wish to personally visit the immigration office, and online. An agent can also do this for you through power of attorney.

Application Process:

The application for the Thai retirement visa can be processed either in your country of residency or in Thailand. It's actually easier to apply in Thailand because you avoid having to get the medical check and police check.

The easiest route to go down is to first apply for a 90-day Non-Immigrant O visa from the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country.

Once you are on the last 30 days of this visa, you can file for your extension of stay based upon retirement.

Note that to support your application, you must have an updated bank book and a letter from the bank stating that the 800,000 Baht has been deposited to the account from an overseas source for not less than 2 months

Or, in the case of showing an income of 65,000 Baht, you'll need a letter from your embassy in Thailand verifying your monthly income.

If your embassy does not issue income letters (only the UK and US embassy at the time of writing), you will need to provide a 12-month bank statement history showing a regular deposit of 65,000 Baht into a Thai bank account.

This will be problematic if you have only been in Thailand for a couple of months, so if your embassy does not issue income letters then you'll have to go down the lump sum of 800,000 Baht in a Thai bank account route.

If you are interested in the retirement visa route, I have a comprehensive step-by-step retirement visa guide. Click the link below to read it.

=> Read the Retirement Visa Guide

The Benefits:

You can stay up to one year with this visa, as well as renew (extend, technically) the visa, every year, from inside of Thailand. That means you don't need to leave and do those horrible visa runs!

4. The Marriage Visa (Based On Having a Non Immigrant O Visa)

Online, on vacation, at a bar on Khao San Road: it doesn’t matter where you fell in love, it just matters that you did.

Many of you may find yourselves lucky enough to have found the one and tied the knot, and if Skype and Facebook messenger aren’t enough to keep the romance alive, you may want to think about moving to Thailand on a marriage visa.

The marriage visa is a tad tricky to understand, in that it is actually technically known as a 1-Year Extension of Stay Based on Marriage.

In a nutshell, you apply for a visa in your home country, then go to Thailand and extend the visa for one year so that you don't need to leave the country.

There are two possibilities here:

1. Apply for a 90-day Non Immigrant O visa (single entry). This can be applied for in your home country, or a neighboring country to Thailand such as Laos.

2. Apply for a 1-Year Non-Immigrant O visa (multiple entry). This can only be obtained from your home country / country of residence.

The difference between these two visas is that the first option is single entry and the second option is multiple entry. The second option is valid for 1-year but in sections of 90 days; so you must leave before 90-days is up, and re-enter to activate a further 90 days.

When you apply for a visa you will be doing so on the basis of being married to a Thai national and therefore will need to submit your marriage certificate and copy of your wife’s ID with your application.

Either option will enable you to extend your visa and stay in the country without having to leave. This is called an ‘extension of stay, based on marriage', often referred to as a ‘marriage visa'.

Requirements:

In order to get the 1-year extension of stay, you need to be married to a Thai national and have a clean criminal record.

You must also have a monthly income of at least 40,000 Baht, or 400,000 Baht in a Thai bank account for 60+ days prior to applying.

You will need to provide evidence of your income by way of a letter from your embassy, or evidence of your 400,000 Baht deposit by way of an up to date bank book and a letter from the bank.

This visa is renewable (extendable) on a yearly basis and this process can be completed inside Thailand. The requirements to renew (extend) are the same. You must also report every 90 days to the nearest immigration office with your current address.

Remember that if you want to travel outside of Thailand after having obtained your retirement visa, you will need a re-entry permit to do so. If you don’t get one, your visa will be cancelled when you exit the country.

You can apply for a re-entry permit at an immigration office, or at the international airport before leaving the country. Note that this does not apply to a 1-year multiple entry visa but a visa which was extended in Thailand for the period of 12 months.

=> Read more about re-entry permits here

*Please note: as of January 2019, the UK and US embassies are no longer issuing income letters to their citizens. This means that nationals of these two countries you will need to go down the lump sum route of having 400,000 Baht in a Thai bank account for 60+ days prior to applying.

For the second year renewal, you could use the income route, if you can show statements proving that 40,000 Baht has been paid into your Thai bank account, each month, for 12 months consecutively.

Application Process:

Obtaining a Non Immigrant O Visa based on marriage is fairly straight forward. Simply apply at a Thai embassy or consulate inside your home country by providing the following:

  • A copy and translation of your marriage certificate
  • A copy of your wife's passport or ID card.
  • 3 months bank statements showing a monthly income of more than £1,500 Baht (amount based on requirements of London Thai Embassy).

*Requirements may differ slightly between countries.

Once you have the Non-Immigrant O Multiple entry visa, or 90-day Non Immigrant visa, you can travel to Thailand and activate the visa upon entry.

The 1-year extension can be applied for during the last 30 days of your 90-day permit to stay and, providing you meet the financial requirements, the processing time usually takes about one month.

Note that if you have the multiple entry Non Immigrant O visa, you don't need to do the 1-year extension if you don't want to. You could just leave the country every 90 days and re-enter to activate a further 90 days.

The Benefits:

Once you have a marriage visa (extended Non Immigrant O visa, based on marriage), you can stay in Thailand for a full year without ever needing to leave the country.

You are also allowed to work if you are able to obtain a valid Thai work permit to go along with the marriage visa.

Lastly, if you don't apply to extend for a year by following the financial requirements listed above, you can always extend your visa for a further 60 days, making it last 5 months. I wrote a post on how to do this here. 

5. The Education Visa (1-year Non-Immigrant ED Visa)

Believe it or not, this has been the most illegally exploited visa over the years. The ED visa, as it's known, became a popular way to long-stay in Thailand with minimal financial commitment: Simply sign up to learn Thai for a year with a language school and voila, you get an educations visa.

Of course, people weren't really learning Thai, and, after a number of years, the Thai government began asking immigration officers to conduct random basic Thai tests on those who'd supposedly been learning the language for a few years.

Needless to say, those who couldn't answer very basic questions had theirs cancelled.

If you do apply for an Ed visa, make sure you go to at least one lesson a week!.

Requirements:

You can apply for the Ed visa in your home country or from inside Thailand. Most people come in on a tourist visa and then find a school to sign up with. The school then duly sorts out the paperwork with the Ministry of Education.

If you are accepted, which you most likely will be, you will then have to leave Thailand and apply for the Non-Immigrant ED visa in any Thai embassy or consulate outside of Thailand. Most people hop over to Laos to do this.

People of every nationality can apply for a 1-year Non-Immigrant Education visa. Though nationals of the following countries must apply in their own country: Bangladesh, China, India, Iran, Sri-Lanka and Middle Eastern countries – don't ask me why!

From inside your own country, you'll need the usual suspects such as passport or travel document with a validity of not less than 6 months, and a recent 4 x 6 cm photograph.

In addition, you'll need a letter of acceptance from the language school you wish to study at, and for those who intend to study in a private institution, you may require an official letter from the Ministry of Education of Thailand or other sub-authorities concerned, which is basically an approval of your enrollment and a copy of your registration certificate.

Note that there are slightly different documents required for internships and other more specific areas of study.

Application Process:

It's actually much easier to apply for an education visa inside of Thailand because the language schools are crying out for students, and are therefore willing to do all the legwork required to sign you up.

The only hassle is having to go to Laos or any other country in the surrounding region to get your ED visa. But as I'm sure you can tell, this is why the ED visa became such a popular route for the “Oh my God, I don't want to go home. How can I stay here for longer” type traveller.

On arrival back in Thailand you will be permitted to stay for 90 days. Once you have the school paperwork you can extend your stay every 90 days at the Bangkok Immigration Office for the duration of the course (up to a maximum of 3 years). The fee is 1,900 Baht for an extension.

Note that if you have a single entry ED visa, when you want to travel abroad, you have to get a re-entry permit to leave and come back in. This can be conveniently done at Suvarnabhumi Airport before you leave.

You can file to pause your visa so that the period of your leave will not be included in the duration of your visa. To get a re-entry permit, you need the following:

  • Passport and a  copy
  • One 4 x 6 cm passport photo
  • 1,000 Baht fee for single entry, and 3,800 Baht for multiple entry

The Benefits:

You get to stay continually in Thailand and don't have to leave every 90 days, as you would on some of the other Non Immigrant O visas (where the financial requirement hasn't been met to extend).

However you do have to report to immigration every 90 days to let them know your address. You can do this up to 7 days before the due date.

Single entry ED visa holders also have to get a re-entry permit if they want to travel abroad; so get a multiple entry from the outset.

All in all, this visa is a good choice if you want to stay long term, and learn Thai, of course!

6. The Thailand Elite Visa

The Thailand Elite Visa is a multiple entry visa, valid for five years, and renewable as long as the membership is still valid. With the basic package starting at a cool 500,000 Baht, you will be granted a 1-year stay, with an extension possible at the end of the year.

The website doesn't quite reflect this upmarket offering: the design is poor, the information hard to decipher and the pages slow to load – you would have thought they'd spend some of that money on a decent user experience.

That said, if you have the money, this is the easiest way to stay in Thailand long term, with fringe benefits that make you feel important.

Requirements:

The only requirement is that you have the cash. Oh, and that you aren't a known criminal or banned from the country.

The Benefits:

You won't need to do visa runs, but you will have to do 90-day address reporting. No stress though, your Thailand Elite personal liaison office will handle this for you, apparently.

Other benefits include: a concierge service at the airport (they greet you and get you a limo to your hotel), spa treatments, a health checkup, discount shopping, cheaper banking with Bangkok Bank, and a bunch of other stuff you might not use.

=> Read more about the Elite Visa here

Visa Overstay Rules!

Do not make the mistake of overstaying your welcome in Thailand. Be sure to have a look at either the length of your permit by stamp or your particular visa to see what date it is you are supposed to leave Thailand.

You are considered to be overstaying even if your visa ended the previous day.

Overstaying your welcome in Thailand could get you into serious trouble.

The 500 Baht a day penalty that was once the only punishment handed out for foreigners overstaying their welcome has now been accompanied by an entry ban for severe offenders, and as of March 2016, you could receive a ban for as long as 10 years.

If you overstay and turn yourself in, you get banned for one year for staying more than 90 days, banned three years for staying more than one year, banned five years for staying more than three years, and last but not least, banned for 10 years for staying more than five years.

If you need to extend a visa, you can do so by applying for permission at the Office of Immigration Bureau, located on Government Center B, Chaengwattana Soi 7, Laksi, Bangkok 10210, Tel 0-2141-9889.

Be wary of your expiration date and don’t overstay your welcome, or you may not ever be able to come back to paradise!

Don't see the type of visa you want listed in this post? Confused and need some advice? Have I made a mistake? Leave a comment below and let me know!

More Tips for a Better Life in Thailand

Send Money to Thailand:

Use Transferwise. It is fast, cheap, and gives you the market exchange rate. Me and the majority of my readers are using it.

Get Good Health Insurance:

Start with a quick quote from Cigna. Then compare my other recommendations here.

Improve Your Thai Skills:

Learning Thai makes life here easier and more fun. I use Thaipod101. It is free to get started & easy to use.

Protect Your Online Privacy:

A VPN protects you against hackers and government snooping. I always use one. You should too. Read why here.

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Comments Sort by : newest | oldest

  1. Mohamed Dah says

    "People of every nationality can apply for a 1-year Non-Immigrant Education visa. Though nationals of the following countries must apply in their own country: Bangladesh, China, India, Iran, Sri-Lanka and Middle Eastern countries – don't ask me why!" .... do you have any reference to this ? because im a Sudanese citizen in Thailand with ED visa , and for some reason my school is telling me that i need to re-apply for my ED visa in the embassy of my own country.
    Reply

    • James E says

      I don't think you have to necessarily go to Sudan. For example, in the US, you would have to apply in person. From the US Thai Embassy website: "except nationalities and passport holders of the following 13 countries: Nigeria, Central African Republic, Cameroon, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Ghana, Liberia, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone, Somalia and Sudan. Applicants from the listed countries must apply in person only, and present original resident alien card or US visa" It basically means you have to show your residency permit (visa or other) in the country you are applying in. There is no mention of this on the Thai Embassy Laos website but I'm guessing the requirement is the same. You may want to check with immigration directly or with the Thai Embassy/Consulate in Sudan.
      Reply

  2. Bubba says

    I am a US citizen, currently in Thailand and my O-A visa expires in March. I am a named witness in a property damage lawsuit. The O visa description lists that an O visa can be issued to a contestant or witness in a judicial process. According to the lawyer, representing the litigating party, it can take up to three years for the judicial process to complete. Do I have to leave Thailand to secure the O visa or can the change be made at Immigration in Laksi without having to leave the country?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      I'm pretty sure you can't change an O-A to an O; you'd have to go outside of Thailand and apply for the O. However, if you are a witness in a case, you may be able to get a letter from the lawyer stating that's it is best that you don't leave in case you are called to witness, and that you should be issued a visa inside Thailand. I don't know if this is possible.
      Reply

      • Bubba says

        Here's the update on this situation. Upon attempting to obtain the visa the Laksi immigration officer denied the request stating that only people married to Thais can give testimony in Thai lawsuits. She was unable to cite the law regarding this but still denied the visa.
        Reply

    • Max says

      "The O visa description lists that an O visa can be issued to a contestant or witness in a judicial process." Where have you found that info about the O Visa? There are only 3 different O Visas. Based on retirement,based on marriage and the so called dependancy visa (when having a thai child). It's hard to believe that immigration would issue a visa because of an ongoing judicial process which can take up to 3 years,and you're just a witness. You can't change your O-A Visa to an O in Thailand,so if you want to apply for an O,you have to leave the country without a re-entry permit. That way your O-A Visa will expire on re-entry. If you already have 800k in a thai bank you can convert the 30 days Visa exempt to a 90 days Non-immigrant O at the local immigration office,then after 60 days apply for a 1 year extension based on retirement. If you you're using monthly deposits (65k) as a retiree then you need a bank letter and a 12 months bank statement from your thai bank showing your deposits since your embassy no longer issues income letters.
      Reply

      • Bubba says

        You are mistaken. Specifically : REQUIREMENTS (NON - O) This type of visa is issued to applicants who wish to enter the Kingdom as: 1.1 to stay with the family 1.2 to perfrom duties for the state enterprise or social welfare organizations 1.3 to stay after retirement for the elderly 1.4 to receive medical treatment 1.5 to be a sport coach as required by Thai Government 1.6 to be a contestant or witness for the judicial process
        Reply

  3. John Christoe says

    I have a multi O visa based on marriage that I obtained at the Brisbane Thai consulate (through Canberra embassy). In February next year I would like to be able to apply for a one year extension based on retirement. Is it possible to switch the basis from marriage to retirement this way? Also you wrote about obtaining a sixty day extension of my multi O visa based on marriage. How often can you do this? I read somewhere it's only possible once a year. Is that correct? Thanks for you article and any further assistance you can provide.
    Reply

    • Max says

      Yes, you can apply for a 1 year extension based on retirement after 60 days into your 90 days multi O as long as you meet the financial requirements. You need either 800k in a thai bank 2 months prior to the day when applying for the extension or at least 65k monthly deposits and there's also the combination method = money in the bank + monthly income if you have less than 65k/month. I can't answer the question about the 60 days extension based on marriage, but it can't be that hard to find out.
      Reply

  4. Jay says

    Hi there, it sounds as though I'm in a similar position as you when you left the UK for Thailand. I am wanting to do the same from New Zealand. What I don't know from your information is do you need a work permit to be able to apply for the "B" visa? I am applying for work now, from NZ, but may want to shift there before I have actually found work. Would I be better to go with no Visa for a "tourist" 30 day stay, and then apply for the "B" visa once there and work is sourced, or can you apply for the "B" visa without a work permit/work lined up with the intention of finding it once there? Thank you!
    Reply

  5. Jessica M Christy says

    I am planning to study Thai at a language school or university. I am wondering if you know of any places that offer dependent visas for spouses and kids? Is it different for each school? Can you get a dependent visa under an education visa or does it have to be under a non-o? thanks
    Reply

    • James E says

      Schools don't "offer" visas. They use the get-you-a-visa fees as a way to make money. All you need is a letter from the school stating you are a student and what classes you are enrolled in and then you can get your own visa. My understanding of the process is that you get your ED visa and then your family can apply for Nom-imm O using your visa as their justification. But, immigration rules in Thailand change frequently so things may vary. Your best bet is to contact the Thai Embassy in your country and ask them what procedure to follow. I'm looking at schools myself right now and the rule I'm using is that if "EDUCATION VISA!!!" is screaming at you from the top of their home page they're in the business of selling education visas, and not educations.
      Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Single entry means you get one entry, as opposed to multiple entry, which means you can go in an out and your visa remains valid for as long as the duration (length) it was issued for.You get a stamp when you enter that permits you to stay for the length of your visa. For a single entry tourist visa that would be 60 days. However, if you want to leave and come back in and keep your visa activated, you can get what is called a Re-entry permit. You can get this from an immigration office or the airport before you fly.
      Reply

  7. tiaa says

    Hi, I have single entry visa for Thailand, we are first going to Phuket but now we decided to go to Cambodia for 2 days and then back to Phuket where we are catching flight to Croatia (home). Do you think I can still get re-entry visa in Phuket immigration office when I come or not anymore? (Somebody told me that the law is changed)
    Reply

      • tiaa says

        Our first plan was just 10 days in Thailand and then back home, but now we want to go to Cambodia for 2 days in that 10 days trip. So when we enter Thailand with Single Entry Tourist visa can I go to Thai office and ask for re-entry visa just to go to Cambodia for 2 days and back to Thailand because our flight home is from Phuket. I dont need extension. Our trip is in 1 month and I want to buy plane tickets for Cambodia but I dont know about the visa :(( Few people tell me I can get re-entry visa, an few that I cannot.
        Reply

  8. Corynne Allen says

    Having lived in Thailand, I've read about immigration, visa and Thai laws, etc., and come across another seemingly pointless bureaucratic money making Thai laws. TM30 - (You Must Register Anyone Living Inside Your Country Of Residence) There are 101 ways in which you can be fined to violate this law, but how many people have ever heard of it? By law, your landlord is required to register you with the TM30, and if it does not, it will pay the price, but it will actually affect you if you pay another ...
    Reply

  9. Leonard Levine says

    I had an extended stay visa which expired on my birthday in late November,2019. Prior to my leaving Thailand in April,2019 I had been living in the LOS for 10 months each year for 9 years and flying back to the states for 2 months a year. From this year forward, I will be doing the reverse - living in the states for 9 months and LOS for 3 months. I should add that I own a condo in Thailand and maintain over 1 million baht(or more) in a Bangkok Bank savings accou8nt continuously for 7 years and intend to keep that amount in that account. My question is what is the cheapest and shortest way to stay in Thailand for the 90 days each year?
    Reply

  10. Lyon says

    I have some friends flying in on the 13th of December, my visa (extended at immigration already) expires on the 14th and we plan on flying out on the 16th for the Philippines for a month. If I choose to ignore it and pay the fine will it go on my permanent record / give them reasons to deny me in the future? I have been in Thailand doing border runs for about 9 months with no problems but I don't want to give them a reason to not let me come back into the country. I will only be overstaying 2 days but I know the rules are getting more strict now-a-days. What do you think I should do?
    Reply

    • Max says

      Are you talking about the 90 days report or an extension? Form TM47 is used for the 90 days report. At some offices you only have to submit it once, and then only hand over the passport every 90 days. The TM7 form is used for every type of extension. You can download it if you have a computer/laptop and fill it in. Then just change the date,print it out and sign it.
      Reply

      • Bob says

        Yes the TM47 is the one I mean. If only I could just hand over the passport as you say but at the Bangkok Immigration office I understand I have to again photo copy and submit the same hundreds of pages that I gave them just 90 days ago and wait in a 6 hour queue to do so, then gratefully hand over 1900 Bath. What a pointless farcical time consuming wasteful process this whole thing is!
        Reply

  12. ROB says

    Being resident in Thailand I've been reading up on immigration, visa's and Thai law etc and come across another seemingly pointless bureaucratic money making Thai law. The TM30 - ( You must register any non-Thai living in your property) There seems to be 101 ways of breaking this law that you can be fined for and yet how many people have ever heard of it? By law it's up to your landlord to register you with a TM30 and if he doesn't then he will pay the price but In reality it will affect you when you pay another enjoyable visit to the immigration center and find out you have dared to break this law by not informing your landlord of your movements and re-registering! Example: leave Thailand, even for a few days, you must re-register a TM30 within 24 hours of your return. Go on holiday for a few days, stay in a hotel and they will register you, once you return to your primary place of residence in Thailand, you must re-register with your landlord within 24 hours....and so it goes on..and on...Has anyone here had experience of this as I need to return back to the UK for a week or so and my landlord lives overseas and it's difficult to contact him.
    Reply

      • Rob says

        Ah yes, I see my rant has been moved to the correct forum, but if you were blissfully unaware of TM.30 and I've been to Thailand umpteen times and never heard of it then you would have no reason to do a search on it and it would only come to your notice if you accidentally came across it, as I did ,or when you get landed with a fine at Immigration (or should that be ministry of screw the foreigner at every opportunity). Now don't get me wrong, I love (some parts of) Thailand and (some of) the people, that's why I married a Thai and why I come back so often, it's the bureaucracy and all those small self important stoney faced men in medal festooned uniforms that are so annoying..
        Reply

    • Max says

      First of all,you need to say in what province you're staying. Official rules regarding TM30 reporting applies in some provinces, and a lot more relaxed in others. This is currently a big deal online and on the news. You must have missed it.
      Reply

      • Rob says

        Yup, as you say it's 'currently a big deal'. it seems they dusted off an old seldom used rule that caught out a lot of people, me nearly included. We haven't long arrived in the country as we've lived in the UK for the past 2.5 years and a dusty old rule called TM.30 from the other side of the world is not a big topic of interest in the crime ridden back street slums of Tonbridge Wells where I was dragged up. Although come to think of it, I do remember one dark night a rough voice from a rubbish strewn ally hissed 'ear mate TM.30 I got all the info but it'll cost ya'. Joking apart, we are now residing in leafy Bangkok.
        Reply

  13. rob says

    Having for the first time just renewed my Non-O (marriage) visa for the 90 days I'd just like to point out a few things not mentioned here. You will need a letter from your Thai bank and an updated bank book (minimum 400,000 THB) BOTH DATED THE SAME DAY you visit the immigration center. Also if you are renting your condo, from the owner you will need a copy of his passport and also evidence that he owns the property you are renting! This was news to me but as it was my first time maybe they gave me some leeway as I have 2 months to provide this info. But if the owner says he doesn't want to give out this information I'm well and truly screwed!
    Reply

    • Max says

      Where are you staying? Several immigration offices have for strange reasons created their own requirements especially regarding marriage Visa extensions. About the updated bank book and bank letter the same day,that's quite normal. The part about the ownership is a little bit strange. Do you rent from a foreigner, not a real estate agent? When you buy a property you will get a so called chanote. I think that's what Immigration wants. But a foreigner isn't allowed to put up his own condo for rent in his name. It has to do with work permits.
      Reply

      • ROBIN WINTERS says

        Hi Max, that's interesting. Maybe that's the reason they want to see proof of ownership. I'm staying in Bangkok. Although we went through an estate agent I think the guy who owns the condo is from Singapore but married to a Thai woman. Will have to find out who's name the condo is in and if it's him and not her will have to move before the next visa renewal otherwise will have a problem extending.
        Reply

  14. Dutchie says

    I haven't seen my comment yet, so I will post it again.I would like you to know that I have read your link you gave me Max. Unfortunately there are more requirements and documents needed for many foreigners. So if you would like to know the requirements from me, then I will type it out and copy/paste it to this forum or, if you desire, I will make a scan from the form I have for all the aliens or in better English, foreigners and sent it to your mail, because there is no option to attach a file at your site. According the Immigration site is mentioned that, and I quote, "For other necessary cases, the Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Bureau is granted the authority to make decisions regarding approval on a case-by-case basis". So my case seems to be complicated and different from others, and thus for other foreigners too.(13-10-2019) Actually I'm very curious how about experiences from other foreigners (aliens) here in Thailand with the Thai immigration rules. Any replies would be very welcome especially from Max too please. Life in Thailand has been very nice as far I can remember in the past 27 years, so for me this is the first negative experience with the immigration office/rules.
    Reply

  15. Max says

    The changes in financial requirements concerning >800k in the bank method started March 1. Since then you need the >800k in the bank 2 months before applying for the extension,and 3 months after. Then never below 400k until next extension when you need to top it up to 800k again. The >65k monthly method requirements changed January 1 for foreigners from the UK,US and Australia because their embassies stopped issuing income letters. It has nothing to do with Immigration,blame those embassies. Now you need a bank letter + bank statements from your thai bank showing foreign transfers every month. The rest of the requirements are exactly the same as before.
    Reply

    • Dutchie says

      There seems to be a delay with the comments, because I have just noticed your explanation, which is not the same situation as I have experienced in the past couple of weeks. I needed to show up 4 times at the immigration office which is inefficient in my opinion and unnecessary. Furthermore I needed to visit the Bangkok Bank for three times for the same statement, the same amount of money, and the date from the same day that I visited the immigration office. This time and for many years already I needed to show 400.000 Baht or more. Not less! I fulfilled these requirements for years. How can I get you that form with all the requirements, which will probably solve the whole discussion? ? ?
      Reply

      • TheThailandLife says

        Hi Dutchie, the delay is because I have to approve comments manually. We get a lot of spammers and people throwing insults at Thailand and other commenters so unfortunately I have to vet each comment. Thanks for your patience.
        Reply

      • Max says

        What immigration office are we talking about? When you're mentioning >400k, you must be talking about an extension based on marriage, right? The >400k must be in your account 2 months before applying for the extension. Or are you using the combination method? 400k + monthly income?
        Reply

        • Dutchie says

          Dear Max, I'm talking about the immigration office in Nakhon Phanom. It is right that the extension is based on marriage. On the application form I filled in already for 26 years "to take care of my wife and family in Thailand", which is actually to take care of my wife only to be frankly. Because the value of the Euro, interest rate, and the huge delay of the retirement age there is not much money left to survive. I went for 26 years the only 400 k method visible on one account. On another (separate) account I use to receive money from my own resources which I build up in the past. Could we please move on to the subject, which is the "list of documents for application to continue residence permit in Thailand in case of supporting Thai spouse". That list is in Thai and English and it is from the government 25 November, 2008. This is the topic I would like to know how this works for other foreigners in the same situation/construction as we have. For example those ridiculous pictures we have to make in and around the house, sometimes 2 sets from 5 pictures or another time just one set from 3 pictures, and like this year a document from the municipality on the same day as the visa application. When I ask the immigration staff very polite, why I have to travel up and down 4 times I will get a lovely smile, and they tell me that the immigration rules were changed in Bangkok. After almost 27 years being in Thailand I've got the feeling that I sense some discrimination. And it annoys me that we are still "Aliens" from another world, instead of foreigners. I'm still a "Farang" wherever I come with exception of my village and the people I know. However, I love Thailand, and I'm still happy to be here. There is no place in the world where it is perfect......... I do hope to hear from you and if possible from other foreigners too.
          Reply

          • Max says

            The requirements for an extension based on marriage haven't officially changed this year,but you're talking about a list from 2008. Maybe your local office for some reason came up with some new requirements, but you have to obey, even if the stuff they require sounds stupid. Same with the pictures,just give them what they need. A list of requirements from another province is useless. I checked the Nakhon Phanoms website,but it's not saying anything about visa requirements.
            Reply

            • Dutchie says

              After all this detailed information you come up with this answer? ? ? In my opinion [insult removed. First warning issued]. I regret it very much that I ever started at this forum. The list from 2008 is in Thai and English language. It is the list from requirements they are still using nowadays! ! ! With all respect to you and your forum, you are just ignoring the facts I have mentioned. It's a shame that you are probably going to check my comment and remove it I'll guess. I'm very disappointed about your knowledge and I'm done..................
              Reply

              • TheThailandLife says

                Hi Dutchie,I am the owner of this blog, not Max, and I don't delete any comments unless they are insulting towards other commenters. Max can be blunt at times, but in his defence it has taken a while to understand your situation. I was confused because you mentioned "residence permit". Anyway, so we have established you are seeking an extension based on marriage. I checked with immigration in Bangkok yesterday at Chaeng Wattana and they said the requirements have not changed, except for those using the income route. Most embassies are not providing the income letter anymore so this will have to be proven through Thai bank account statements over a period of 12 months. However, for those extending for the first time immigration will be lenient on this rule because obviously a person new to Thailand won't yet have that bank history.The requirements for the marriage extension remain as follows:Copy of your passport Copy of your Thai marriage certificate Copy of your Thai wife’s ID card Copy of your Thai wife’s Tabian Baan (House Papers) Copy of a map to your residence in Thailand Copy of photos showing you and your wife together Copy of your Thai bank book showing 400,000 THB in your bank account; or Copy of your income showing 40,000 THB per month in income into your Thai bank Note: If you are going down the income route, you will need a letter of certification from a Thai bank supported by bank statements showing your income/pension being transferred to the bank account every month for at least 12 months.It seems your local immigration office is being particularly difficult and I don't know why. Like Max said, you're going to have to give them what they want, or you could travel down to Bangkok for a couple of nights and do the extension down here.
                Reply

                • Dutchie says

                  Thank you very much for your explanation and time to review my situation again. The point I have tried to make is that it was very annoying to travel 4 times up and down, which stays in my opinion inefficient. Furthermore I was hoping on some replies from other foreigners who have the same experience as I did, unfortunately I didn't came that far at this forum. I've got 17 years teaching experience from elementary to university level and from my point of view Thai people have an IQ level from an 12 year old child. Their brains will never develop any further when being an adult. Please do not read this as an insult, but as a fact! When I asked my secondary school (I refuse to call it high school) or university students "Look there is a flying pig in the sky" they had no idea what I was talking about. Short attention span, and zero interest in English as a 2nd language. They like activity based subjects and especially singing songs. This counts indirect also for the immigration staff. They are lovely people but the way of thinking is not efficient. They could tell us to have the documents ready on the same day, like the document from the municipality. The bank statement on the same day is clear for me many years already. I do have the construction "money on the bank only", because I don't like to visit Bangkok and especially not the Embassy. They are not polite and funny people. Next year I will see how efficient it goes. If it is the same situation like this year I will move on to another country and leave my family, house and all my belongings. Next year I will turn 67 and that's a respectable age. Respect I didn't get very much in Thailand (Aliens, Farang, still after 27 years) and I'm not sure to find it somewhere else, but I'll give it a try. I sincerely hope on your understanding, and all the best with your Forum. Dutchie
                  Reply

  16. Dutchie says

    First of all my compliments for your site which might be very helpful for some. I have been in Thailand for almost 27 years and have been officially married, 20 years with a Non B visa and the last 7 years with a retirement Non O visa. The service has been always satisfied in Nakhon Phanom until this year. I fulfilled all the requirements for so many years. This time I needed to visit the Imm. office 3 times already and tomorrow for the 4th time. On 27 September they didn't accept the pictures in and around the house and they requested 2 sets (5) of new pictures. Also they asked my wife for a statement from the Municipality in Renu Nakhon the place we live (55 km). They requested also a new bank statement BKK Bank for next Tuesday 1st October. So we went to the Municipality in Renu Nakhon and got our statement on Friday late afternoon. Tuesday back to NKP Bangkok Bank and straight to the Imm. office. where they told us to get a new form from the Municipality in Renu Nakhon with the date from today. The same day 55 km up and down to get it done. All the paperwork done in almost 2 hours late in the afternoon. On the 5th of October we've got a phone call if we could come to NKP on Monday 7 October to sign (my wife and me) another document concerning how many brothers and sisters my wife has got. Then the lady asked me if I could visit the BKK Bank on Friday 11 October again for a new bank statement. That's what I have do tomorrow. In my opinion they are working very inefficient. And I do not have my own transportation so it is very hard to travel up and down. I don't know anything about the new regulations and I couldn't find nothing about the documents you have to supply. I'm curious about other forum members who have experiences like me? Respectfully, Dutchie
    Reply

      • Dutchie says

        Well, from 2013 they started to give me a Non O Visa when I did my borderrun to Savannaket Laos. However I have already for 27 years delivered all documents for a "married with Thai lady" visa, which was in the past Non B, and nowadays Non O, probably because of my trip to the Netherlands in 2013. For this year there is a stamp (until 3 November 2019) in my passport "married with Thai wife". So it is very confusing and Immigration offices are never consistent in Thailand, even when it is the same office like mine in Nakhon Phanom. What I would like you to ask is what or which documents, including those ridiculous photo's in and around the house do I have to submit next time. Because the national website from the immigration rules is gone and I would like to check the requirements.
        Reply

          • Dutchie says

            Yes, sure I do remember last years documents. I used to update my portfolio with all the necessary documents with every detail. I also have given a training course for the local immigration staff years ago when I was an instructor English at the university in NKP from 2003 until 2011. I checked already your suggested website but I still can't find anything concerning riterement visa or Non O. I will look at it again. Yesterday they have accepted my BKK Bank documents and they will sent the whole file to the Immigration office in Bangkok for consideration. If everything goes well I will get my official year visa stamp next month.
            Reply

            • Max says

              Why are you suddenly talking about retirement extension when you were talking about an extension based on marriage earlier? You have to make up your mind. I can't give you correct info if you change type of extension all the time.
              Reply

              • Dutchie says

                Well I can't help it when it isn't understood. I'm the victim of this outrages situation. The immigration office told me years ago to change my visa to retirement in 2013, but I've got also a Non-O stamp in my passport and a stamp in Thai language "married with Thai wife". I don't know how to explain it in another way. I could sent you copies in order to clear this misunderstanding up............
                Reply

          • Dutchie says

            Dear Max, I would like you to know that I have read your link you gave me. Unfortunately there are more requirements and documents needed for many foreigners. So if you would like to know the requirements from me, then I will type it out and copy/paste it to this forum or, if you desire, I will make a scan from the form I have for all the aliens or in better English, foreigners and sent it to your mail, because there is no option to attach a file at your site. According the Immigration site is mentioned that, and I quote "For other necessary cases, the Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner of Immigration Bureau is granted the authority to make decisions regarding approval on a case-by-case basis". So my case seems to be complicated and different from others, and thus for other foreigners too.
            Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Wow, this sounds like a terrible experience. It seems strange that they are making you jump through so many hoops considering you have been here so long and have done this so many times. Have you tried politely speaking to one of the senior officers to find out why you are being scrutinized?
      Reply

      • Dutchie says

        Yes, it was a horrible experience because I have to go up and down with local transportation. This time it was a waste of money. Since the 1st of January the immigration have changed a few rules like, for example, many foreigners didn't fulfil the requirements to have continuously the 400.000 or 800.000 Baht on their account. Some foreigners (or Aliens as we are according many forms) came below the requirement from the desired amount of money and have huge problems now. Furthermore there are problems with a few Embassies who do not sign the official statements from foreigners with a pension or state pension. Throughout the years I have been in Thailand the local immigration office have never been consistent and efficient, but of course that's my experience. Other foreigners might find the immigration rules a relief and perfect.
        Reply

        • Dutchie says

          Actually I'm very curious how about experiences from other foreigners (aliens) here in Thailand with the Thai immigration rules. Any replies would be very welcome especially from Max too please. Life in Thailand has been very nice as far I can remember in the past 27 years, so for me this is the first negative experience with the immigration office/rules.
          Reply

    • Max says

      The Non-Immigrant O-A Retirement Long Stay Visa has to be applied for in the home country. It's a 1 year Visa that can be extended 1 year at the time in Thailand. The Non-Immigrant O Visa based on retirement is a 90 days Visa and after 60 days it can be extended 1 year in Thailand. After that it can be extended 1 year at the time in Thailand. The Non-Immigrant O Visa can be issued both in the home country and in Thailand.
      Reply

      • James E says

        Max is correct except if you're in the U.S. There is no plain-vanilla Non-Imm O issued in the U.S. Just O-A, O Thai Family and O Volunteering. (there's also the O-X for those with excess investable income...)
        Reply

  18. Jenny says

    Hi, just want to ask for some advice regarding our situation. My husband is an ED Visa holder already. He processed it in Laos. Now, I just want to ask if do you have any idea what are the requirements for me as his wife and for our 2 kids, 4 and 2 years of age as his dependents if we process our Visas in Laos?
    Reply

  19. Chanelle says

    I will be studying at Siam Tech College, I plan to arrive in Thailand at the end of September and will be arriving with an ED visa. My courses/classes run over the entire month so I plan to stay in Bangkok for the whole of October. Depending on the date I arrive my 90 reporting is going to be around Christmas/New Year which is when I plan to be travelling around the South of Thailand. I already have a flight booked from Krabi Int Airport back home for the beginning of February. Would I be able to do my 90 day report with proof of funds, accommodation and my flights at Krabi Immigration?
    Reply

    • Max says

      The 90 days report has to be done at Immigration in BKK, because that's where you're supposed to have your registered address. You can do the 90 days report 15 days early and 7 days later. (If you miss the report, the fine is 2000 baht.) You count from the date on the entry stamp in your passport. You don't show funds or anything when doing the report, it's all about showing that your address is the same as the reported address. You just fill in the TM47 form at Immigration using info from your passport + address.
      Reply

  20. Leonard Levine says

    If my filipina wife has a Thai work permit which expires September 15th, can she apply for a visa based on our Thai marriage(certified last March), what kind of a visa can she apply for prior to September 15th? My extended stay visa, by the way, expires on November 19th of this year. I am currently in the U.S.
    Reply

  21. Shanti says

    A question regarding the The Work/Business Visa (Non-Immigrant “B” Visa) - in your information above you state the you need a letter of employment. Can you only apply for this visa if you have already secured a job in Thailand? How does it work if you are attending a conference or a course (eg: Muay Thai) - is the letter of employment from your existing employer in your home country? Essentially can I use this visa a job seeker, taking note of the requirement to obtain a work permit within the allotted days.
    Reply

  22. Bobo says

    as of January 2019, the UK and US embassies are no longer issuing income letters to their citizens. This means that nationals of these two countries you will need to go down the lump sum route of having 400,000 Baht in a Thai bank account for 60+ days prior to applying.For the second year renewal, you could use the income route, if you can show statements proving that 40,000 Baht has been paid into your Thai bank account, each month, for 12 months consecutively.Where did you get this information from?
    Reply

  25. Carlton says

    Hi - great information! In May I picked up my 3rd education visa and started my 3rd year going to school. My understanding is at the end of this 3rd year I will not be able to go to school on another visa. If I go to a different school is it possible to keep getting education visas?
    Reply

  26. Rob Kaplan says

    Hi there Great informative post. I write an expat blog about my wife and me, who are two North Americans that chose an early overseas retirement after an unexpected layoff from my job. We live in Chaing Mai and use extension of Non-O based on retirement (with assets) for me and my wife "follows" as she's not yet 50. The blog is called experimental expatsI'm writing a post on retirement visas and like your post. I'd like to use it as a link for those who want more information but wanted to check with you first as I've had obnoxious digital nomads threaten legal action because I spoke highly about their blog and linked to them without permission. If you have any objections, please drop me an email and I'll find another great blog like yours that doesn't mind referrals.Cheers
    Reply

  27. ROBIN WINTERS says

    I went to London for a Thai marriage visa and it's valid from 22 May to 21 Aug. Trouble is I don't leave for Thailand until 1st Aug. I'm concerned that I won't have the required 400,000 baht for the required 60 days in a Thai bank when I go to renew the visa on 21 Aug as I can't open a bank account until I arrive. I wonder if there's any leeway on this?
    Reply

    • James E says

      Probably not. But you should have all the time you need. The validity of the visa is independent from the length of stay. This allows you to get the full time allowed by the visa even if, as in your case, you arrive late in the visa's period of validity. In your case the visa allows you to enter the country between 22 May and 21 Aug. Upon entry you'll be stamped in for 90 days so 1 Aug - 29 Oct (or so depending on weekends, etc.) What I'm not sure is if you'll be able to renew the visa or if you might have to do a visa run and get a new one. In either event you should have enough time to get the bank account set up and funded and have 60 days for the money to sit and build up untold satang in interest...
      Reply

  29. Erl says

    Hi, thank you for taking the time to write such a comprehensive guide. However I still have a question, me as a staff of the HQ will be assigned in to assist our Thai branch. Ill still be employed and paid by the HQ, nt the Thai branch. The plan is to stay there for a period not exceeding 90 days during each visit for probably 1 year. What do you think would be the suitable Visa for me to apply?
    Reply

    • James E says

      TTL is correct but un-permitted employment goes on all the time. The big question is what does your company want you to do as they are at least partially responsible. If caught you could get banned from reentry and your company fined. They might consider the price of the fine worth it when compared to the cost and effort required to get you a work permit. From your "plan" it sounds like they're wanting to do this under a series of single entry tourist visas with an in-country extension each time. That way you can get 90 days. Have a look online at any of the many recent stories about Thai Immigration cracking down on visa fraud and see if you want to take that risk.
      Reply

  30. Lynn Constantine says

    We are a British couple living in Thailand. My husband has a retirement visa. I currently have a Non-Immigrant O Multi-entry. How do I just become a "follower" on my husband's visa? I am currently looking at different visa options to make life simpler!
    Reply

  31. rob says

    Re 90 day O marriage visa. You write - In order to get the 1-year extension of stay, you need to be married to a Thai national and have a clean criminal record. Does that mean I need to visit a uk police station and get a certificate of some sort before applying for the visa in London or does it mean a clean record in Thailand during my stay before applying for the 1 year extension?
    Reply

  32. boothby says

    I have had a oa visa for 10years plus.I would like to get a marriage visa.I have been married to my Thai wife for 23 years.Can i do this and show my bank statements for the past year plus as my income and not have 400.000bt in a thai bank?I have every month for the past 10 years 40.000 bt going into my account from a pension.Thank You Derek
    Reply

      • TheThailandLife says

        As far as the requirements go, an extension based on marriage requires the following:Copy of your passport Copy of your Thai marriage certificate Copy of your Thai wife’s ID card Copy of your Thai wife’s Tabian Baan (House Papers) Copy of your bank book showing 400,000 THB in your bank account; or bankbook and statements showing your income showing 40,000 THB per month in incomeYou should also go to immigration with your wife. I tried to do an extension on my visa once when my wife was in hospital and even with a doctor's letter for her absence they wouldn't do it.What visa are you currently on?
        Reply

        • Derek.boothby says

          Hi . To clarify.I am a uk citizen living in Thailand since 2004 on a O-A retirement visa.If I change to a marriage visa I can show 40.000bt plus per month for years paid into my bank account here.But my local immigration office does not understand the new rules as such and went to Krabi immigration too and the official just kept showing me 400.000 bt kept in a thai bank.How can I get this info in Thai that I can show at a immigration office.I wont understand it but my wife of 23 years will. Derek
          Reply

          • TheThailandLife says

            It's not a new rule. The rule has been in place for many years. Perhaps they require you to get a Non Immigrant O visa first, and then extend that based on marriage. The best thing to do is for your wife to look up the requirements in Thai on a Thai website like the MFA website. You can then show that to them.
            Reply

  33. Michael Duty says

    Could you please clarify something for me?I have income going into my Thai bank account monthly of roughly 55,000 baht. This is enough for a marriage visa with no problems. However, I also put more money in when I can but this is not a 'monthly' regular thing.Over the year, the total amount put into my Thai bank account is over the 65,000 per month for a retirement visa when averaged over the 12 months. I have read somewhere that the income requirements are 'averaged' over the 12 month period. Is this true?Thank you for your help.
    Reply

    • Max says

      It's not true. The Immigration won't buy an "averaged" income of >65k monthly. They want you to show monthly international transfers of >65k on a regular basis, maybe last week every month. Not two transfers one month and no transfer next month. These new rules are actually enforced.
      Reply

  34. Kelie says

    Hi we are currently in Thailand on extended 30 day tourist visas we have now decided to stay here our children are both in school and we would like to know about the carers visa please? What’s involved? How long does it last? What paperwork do we need to give them? How long does it last? Any information would be great thanks
    Reply

  35. sam says

    Hi...Thank you for all this awesome information. I am 37 yrs old with a wife (32) and a son (2 yrs old) and we are thinking of moving to Bangkok from New York. I think I like the Elite visa idea...is it 500000 per person or family? And we could stay up to a year without making visa runs?
    Reply

  36. George W says

    Hi! I'm an English man who has fallen in love with a Thai national, she speaks good English, holds many lands, has a business, has money going in and out of her bank account non stop and her parents are Ex-government officials (Teachers). I on the other hand am just a lowly English teacher with not a huge amount in savings, recently I've taken my work online and find myself struggling with funds a little bit. Currently I am going for a visa extension in the next few days and I know I am safe border hopping and doing extensions for the next 5 months but after that I don't know what to do.Realistically if I wanted I could moved money from back home into an account here in Thailand and apply for a marriage visa but it would take a lot of work to do so, I am also considering learning Thai but after 3 years of learning Thai...where does this leave me! Please advise :)
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi George, an education visa might work well for you in the interim. You could connect with a language school and get one through them. That would give you a solution to stay for a year and you could always renew that. Who knows what's a year or two down the line. If you decide to tie the knot a Non O based on marriage is an option, or depending on your age a retirement extension?
      Reply

      • George W says

        Hi, I am considering an education visa because I want to learn some Thai, I'm only 27 so I'm not retiring just yet. I don't know if I can get a marriage visa because I don't have 400k baht in a Thai bank (Or at all). Is an education renewable more than once or is it only for 1 year?
        Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          You don't need to go down the financial route to get a Non Immigrant O visa based on marriage. That is only required if you want to do the year extension and stay without having to leave the country (you still have to do 90-day reporting at immigration though). You can get a visa based on marriage and leave and re-enter every 90 days. The education visa can be applied for again once it expires. It won't be a problem if you are attending a language school.
          Reply

  37. Jeff says

    Fantastic post! I'm even in a Facebook group dedicated to Thailand visas just because the whole thing is so complicated and dizzying. Question: I was thinking about getting an ED visa. (I can't keep doing the back to back tourist visas anymore) But I like to travel around, and I hear it's very hard to leave on that visa.Is a multiple entry ED visa really what it sounds like? I can just come and go as I please, as long as I keep attending classes of course? ;)
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Yes, multiple entry you can come and go. I would endeavour to learn some Thai though, as one day you may get a quick test from an immigration officer. This has been known for those who've had back to back ED visas over a few years. I wouldn't worry in the first year though.
      Reply

      • Jeff says

        Thanks for the reply. Yes, I don't plan to go to one of those "visa mill" schools. I have been here for over a year now and actually want to learn Thai to improve my social life. (But more importantly, I need to switch to a safer visa. These back to back tourist visas are getting a lot of heat right now)
        Reply

  38. Kevin says

    I work in UK but live in Thailand (I have taken a 1 year contract on a property) but because of my frequent travelling I have been able to do this on a tourist visa. I travel to and from Thailand/UK every two weeks. I want to open a Thai bank account but I am finding it difficult with just a tourist visa. I have a proof of residency from my embassy but this hasn't opened any doors either. What type of visa can you suggest I apply for bearing in mind my limited time spent in Thailand.
    Reply

    • James E says

      You don't need a special visa. Many people (myself included) here have been able to open a bank account with nothing more than a visa waiver entry. Proof of residency is good but it would also help if you took a Thai national (family member or friend) with you to vouch for you. My partner filled out a bank form (Bangkok Bank) that said we shared the house at the address on her Thai I.D. Card. That, and 1,000 Baht, were all it took. But also be aware that bank rules are enforced capriciously or not at all or rules that don't exist are implemented by some managers. You just have to roll with it. If you're going into Bangkok then Bangkok Bank seems to be the easiest to deal with. I used the Siam Paragon Branch but others have had success elsewhere. TTL has a post on opening a bank account . Check it out and read through the comments.
      Reply

  39. Jay says

    Hello, I’m in Thailand on a 30 day visa. My girlfriend and I are planning to get marry during my 30 day stay. Do you know if I can use my 30 day visa to extend qualify for the marriage visa?Or, do I need to go Loas get 90 visa and come back to Thailand to apply for the marriage visa? Thanks
    Reply

  41. Nick Woods says

    im Confused with the disparity of the suggested amounts needed for example, a marriage visa. The amounts of the monthly requirement is both 40k baht or £1400. With today’s exchange rate the two dint marry up. Pardon the pun!
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Nick, sorry that was the amount you needed to show in earnings required by the Thai Embassy in London at the time of writing. That may have changed now. It will also vary between countries. Note that the income amount required to apply for the initial visa to come to Thailand differs from that of the income requirement to apply for the extension inside Thailand.The current requirements at the Thai Embassy in London when applying for a Non Immigrant O visa to accompany a Thai spouse are as follows:For accompanying a Thai spouse : A copy of marriage certificate, a copy of Thai passport/a copy of Thai ID of spouse, and (3 months bank statement showing monthly income of more than £1,500.I have rewritten this section of the guide to make the process clearer.
      Reply

  43. Adrian Palmer says

    I was told by Immigration Officer on the information desk at Chiang Mai Immigration that income will no longer be part of the financial requirement. It will be solely money in a Thai bank. I haven't been able to get that confirmed
    Reply

  44. Jonathan Jordan says

    Hi! Thanks for the information. I would like to apply for the six month multi entry visa, but I'm not currently employed, so I don't have a letter from employer to provide. Do you know if its still possible to get this visa without it? Should I just apply for single entry instead? Thanks
    Reply

  45. Clive Darwell says

    Hello, on the Thai embassy website it states: "Settlement in Thailand with Thai spouse/children/parents (Non-immigrant "O"): photocopy of certificate of marriage, birth certificate, Thai passport or Thai National ID card of the Thai spouse or children.(Please DO NOT send the original.)"I am struggling to understand exactly which documents they actually want. My interpretation (and from your blog) is they need the marriage certificate and one of either my wife's birth certificate, passport or ID card. Is this correct?Just to be clear, are they asking for my birth certificate or not?Many thanks in advanceClive
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Clive, what country are you applying in?It seems in this case they are asking for a copy of your birth certificate. In the UK, however, this isn't required. We have the following requirements- A copy and translation of your marriage certificate - A copy of your wife's passport or ID card. - 3 months bank statements showing a monthly income of more than £1,400Requirements may differ slightly between countries.
      Reply

  46. Leigh says

    Hello. My husband and I received our retirements visa's in October. I had heard that it might be possible to apply as a married couple (I was thinking that might be a good idea for next year). I have been trying to find information but can't seem to find anything very recent. Does anyone know if it is possible to apply as a married couple with 800,000 bht ?
    Reply

    • DULEROY Bernard says

      Oui vous postulé pour un visa code OA retraite ET VOTRE épouse légale et enfant demandent et reçoivent un visa O-NON MIGRANT 90 Jours ce visa aura une mention (A) accompagnant est l'extension sera synchronisée avec votre propre visa OA retirement Cordialement
      Reply

  49. gary says

    Hi, Just wanted to pass on my experiences since I arrived in Thailand on a 60 day Tourist Visa. I obtained the visa in London with the intention of obtaining my Retirement visa once here as I thought it would be easier, bit of a mistake right there. Yesterday I went at 0730am to the Immigration office in Bangkok and took my entry ticket which was number 206 ! (yes 1 hour before opening time). Once in I told them I wanted to apply for an O_A extension, next mistake as apparently I already have a Tourist Visa so it's a change of Visa not a new one. At this point they flagged up that I had rented a condo, mistake number 3 as I had not informed them so off to pay the 800 Baht fine and rejoin a different line. Anyway I eventually got to the right Department only to find that having money in your account was not good enough, you need to have paper copies of the transactions into your account and as I had to go back over 6 months I had to leave and do a 2 hour trip back to my original bank to obtain the receipts ( bank on lower floor can only go back 3 months on computer) . I returned and managed to jump back in with the same Immigration officer who after much discussion stated I could no longer leave the country and would need to re attend on the 11th December to hopefully obtain my visa. She mentioned a possible home visit and today I received a visit from Immigration to verify I live with my Thai girlfriend at my given address. I am only putting this out there to show that even when planned carefully things can go less than smoothly once you get to the Immigration Centre, I wanted to apply for a multiple Entry permit as well yesterday but this was a non starter as I didn't have an exit date and until the 11th I don't have an O Non Imm Visa either. Remember just smile and let it go unlike the chap at the next table who lost his temper and then his possible Visa while I was there !! Good luck with all Visa applications but allow plenty of time at the Centre as I was there in total 6 hours and 2 hour dash to bank and still left with no stamp .
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Thanks for the feedback Gary. I'm surprised you can change the tourist visa to an O-A without leaving the country. You do have to report your address, but very few people do this. They flagged it because you went to get an O-A. Please come back on and let us know if you get the visa on Dec 11th.
      Reply

      • gary says

        Hi, Just to let you know that I attended the Immigration Centre today and presented my blue receipt which was issued on the first visit. I was sent straight to Department C1 and was fast tracked to hand in my passport. Within 15 minutes I had a 90 day Non Immigrant visa stamped in with an expiry date of 17th February {they started visa 20th Nov} so I will be going back to Department L somewhere between 45-60 days time to hopefully receive my O-A visa if I understood correctly today. Possibly not the easiest way to get an O-A Retirement Visa but it does work if you have already set up a Thai bank account and want to leave work and jet straight out here without waiting around in the UK for paperwork and checks to be completed.
        Reply

          • Gary says

            I came in on a 60 day tourist visa as at the time I obtained it in August I was still working in London and then when I retired in October I jumped on a plane straight away. The 800 K in the bank is a bind to tie up the money but I've been told that's only for a year then it can be used , is that correct or another expat fable I should ignore ?
            Reply

            • TheThailandLife says

              You must have 800k in a Thai bank account for at least two months before your visa application. For consecutive visas, the money has to be in the bank 3 months before you apply for the visa. You need a letter from your bank verifying the balance and a copy of your bank book. My advice would be to leave the 800 K in the bank account permanently so that you don't run into any issues with forgetting to top it up prior to extending your retirement visa.
              Reply

              • gary says

                Ok it seems the only choice as I am still 12 years away from a UK state pension and by then I'm sure the 12 years will have been extended even further sadly. The 800K will have to be affectively written off if I want to stay here as you point out it's too easy to spend some and come up short on the next application to renew. I intend to visit family in the UK in March and my next Immigration visit will be before 17th February where I hope they will grant me the O-A visa. Should I take the opportunity to apply for a multi entry permit then or wait until nearer my flight departure date of 14th March ? and secondly on my next visit I assume this will need a completed TM7 from me to submit with another 1900baht to change from a Non O to Non O -A extension, would that be right ?
                Reply

  51. Nancy Thanavastien says

    Please mail me the marriage non immigrant type O to my home here and my husband will help me fill it out.I am American Woman and he is Thai. We like ( now that we are retired) to stay in Thailand half the year and in America the other 6 months.we have all the paper work that you require. Please include instructions and $ amount for these services. Thank you so much. Plan to travel Dec through June this year.
    Reply

  52. Janine Hodge says

    If my husband and I both want to apply for retirement visas (we are both Australian) and apply to the Embassy in Canberra, can we have a joint bank account with 1600000 THB as proof of income, or do they require us to have separate accounts.
    Reply

  53. frank westrip says

    Hithere is just one bit I'm not sure of it says purpose of current visit in the box above I put holiday next box says Evidence substantiating your purpose of visit two box's down It asks Address i am staying i have put my hotel down plus my confirmation number down will be OK. Thanks for your help.
    Reply

  54. Richard says

    Hi everyone. I was just wondering if I can set up or have the Retirement Visa set up from my home country of Australia first before coming over to Thailand?? Or does it have to be done in Thailand? Thanks in advance!
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      I don't know about this, to be honest. I can't see how you would get around the financial requirements because you have to report to immigration every 90 days and while doing that you have to show that you have the 800k Thai Baht in a Thai bank account for longer than 60 days. So while you may be able to get the visa initially, how would you get around the 90-day reporting every three months, if you don't meet the financial requirements?
      Reply

  56. Tom89 says

    Hi My original question seems not to have gotten posted, so my apologies if this appears twice. I have 2 questions.1. Can I convert a 30 day visa exempt stamp to a Non O Imm within Thailand. 2. When I apply for a Non O, does my Thai bank balance have to come from the same branch where I opened the account. A few years ago I opened an account with BKK Bank at a branch in BKK. However, I plan to retire to Phayao. Can I get whatever documents I need for immigration from the Phayao branch. I plan to eventually open an account in Phayao, but if I could use my existing account it would expedite matters.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi, comments have to be approved first, that's why it didn't show up immediately.1. No. You need to go to the embassy or consulate of a neighboring country. 2. Which Non O are you planning to get, or do you mean when you do your yearly extension at immigration? Any branch can update your bank book for you to show your latest balance.Cheers
      Reply

  57. Nic says

    I got banned from thailand from entrying for 5 years because of overstaying . I already serve one year and still need to wait for 4 more years. I just got marry with my Thai girlfriend recently, anything or anyway I can do to go back to Thailand any time from now.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      There is no official appeal process, as far as I know. However, it would be possible with the help of a lawyer to reduce the ban. I have heard anecdotal stories of people getting a 10 year ban reduced to 5 years. However, this would be costly. If you have the money, you could contact a lawyer in Thailand and start this process. It would probably be worth it if you have just got married and want to travel to see your wife. Other than that, you will just have to wait it out.
      Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You don't need an invite. As a citizen of a European country, you can enter Thailand for 30 days without a visa. You will get what is called a 30-day exemption stamp. If you want to stay longer, obtain a multiple-entry tourist visa from the Thai embassy of your home country.
      Reply

  59. AH says

    Good evening from BKK;Having a bit of a problem. I came on 20th of July to Thailand on a Non Imm O Retirement Visa; My partner on a non IMM guardian visa and our daughter on a student visa/I planned to go this week to the Immigration office to report for the 90 days. I spoke to an agent and first shock!!! My partner should have opened a bank account with a balance of 500k Baht and not touch it for 30days; I have an account and we pay our bills through the account which is in my name. Agent told us, to open account in partners name, deposit 500k, not touch the money, have a bank book and after 1 months, update balance on bank book and go to immigration. We came in on 20th July. I thought it was ok until 19th of October. But NO, it is 17th October. If we open now bank account for partner, waiting 1 month, this will bring us into November. She will then be on overstay!! Thai embassy in Europe did not explain well or I did not understand well (do not want to blame anyone);Have to sort this out now: Agent spoke about traveling outside Thailand and ask for a new visa. Partner does not want to leave alone/ Any advise??Thank you:
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Okay, so just make the deposit as soon as possible and get that set up. Don't panic though, because currently (I assume) your partner is on a single entry non-immigrant Visa. Your partner can extend this visa at immigration for 30 days for 1.900 Baht. And then by the time one month has passed with the money in the bank, you can go back to immigration and get the guardian extension.
      Reply

      • AH says

        Thanks a lot. If we go to immigration to extend her single entry non-im. Visa, by one month, will this create any problem after this month extension, when she wants to apply for the 1 year visa, based on being a guardian?I have the multiple entry non im. retirement visa. Now the agent told me, I have to have 800k in my bank account here.Getting totally confused.Thanks a lot for your help.
        Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          It shouldn't be a problem. All that matters is that when she goes to extend the Visa she has all the required documents and the money in the Thai bank account for the stipulated amount of time. For your retirement Visa extension, you have to have 800k in a Thai bank account for more than 60 days, I think it is. Please also note that there are address reporting requirements that you need to adhere to. Go on the Thai embassy website of your home country and you will find all this information.
          Reply

  60. Sharon Ward-Evans says

    Hello - I have already extended my tourist visa for 30 days. I now would like to fly to Singapore and return to Thailand and extend for another 30 days. Do I have to visit Singapore Immigration or can I do this as I return to Thailand at the Airport?Many Thanks, Sharon
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      If you fly to Singapore and back, when you re-enter Thailand you will get a 30-day exemption stamp, which allows you another 30 day's stay. You don't need a visa for that. You could, however, acquire another tourist visa from the Thai embassy in Singapore. This would give you 60 day's stay upon re-entering Thailand.
      Reply

  61. John Samson says

    Gidday mate. I am currently in Thailand on a tourist visa with multiple entry issued to me by the Thai Embassy in NZ. October 28th is the day that I need to step out of the country. I have organised a return flight to KL from BKK. Question is, can I step out and return on the same day?
    Reply

  62. Reanna says

    Hi, We are moving to Phuket in 4 years. My husband will go through the retirement visa process, though I am not retiring age, or even close. Which visa process would be best for me if my husband is retired, we plan on living in Phuket and neither of us will be working. Any advise?
    Reply

  63. Thomas says

    Just want to share some information on obtaining a Thai Retirement Visa for your followers who may live on the West Coast of U. S. You can now have your Retirement Visa done in One (1) day on a walk in basis at the Thai Consulate in Los Angeles. Just download all the required forms form their website. Fill them out bring them along with the required notarized documents. Drop them off in the morning and pick up your Retirement Visa in the afternoon. If they have a heavy workload, it would be ready the next morning. I did mind by mail as I live in Las Vegas and received it back in two weeks exactly. I leave on 1 Sept. For anyone in the U.S. I highly recommend logging in to the website of the Thai Consulate that serves your area. The informationfoe every type of Visa is provid d and Forms can be downloaded. Takes away the worry of what you need for each type of Visaand their requirements. Again only wanted to share with those going to Thailand from U.S. as I saw a lot of comments posted that could have been answered with up to date information from the Thai Consulate Websites.
    Reply

  65. Gary says

    Hi, Just back from the Thai Embassy in London and a need a little help with advice. I went with the intention of applying for the 90 Non Immigrant visa and was asked for my bank statement and retirement papers as my reason for visit to Thailand was future retirement , I explained that I was intending to do this in Thailand where I have a rented condo and a bank account with the necessary funds already in place but I don't retire until October of this year and my flight is late October. I was only offered a 60 day tourist visa which wasn't what I expected but can't understand what I did wrong. I will collect it tomorrow (hopefully) . My question is now, since I already have a condo and money in a Thai bank do I still have to wait 60 days then ask for a 30 extension and apply for my o-x visa then or can I apply after going to my Thai bank to update my pass book and getting a bank letter stating funds where in place in July onwards ? I think I have everything in place in Thailand to apply almost straight after arrival but maybe I'm missing something . If the 60 visa is allowed to run I assume I have to visit Immigration and pay the 1900Baht to get my extra 30 days . Can I go to immigration early to get either my sought after o-A visa or not ? I'm not feeling quite so confident of the process after this mornings experience.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You can get the retirement extension on your tourist visa but you need to have at least 15 days left on your tourist visa to do that, and of course you need to meet the financial requirements. You need the 800k in a Thai bank for 60 days prior to getting the retirement extension (visa). So you'll need to get an extension for 30 days at immigration (1,900 Baht) and then do your retirement visa during that period - within 15 days.
      Reply

      • gary says

        Hi, I already have the 800 000 Baht in the Bank of Bangkok since June and the Bank book has been updated by my partner so I would only need a bank confirmation letter. Can I forget the extension period and apply after maybe 30 days of my tourist visa as either way I still have to attend the same Immigration centre. I want to get the O-A application sorted asap and if its permitted at anytime during my first 60 days I would like to press on with it and not extend my tourist visa, is this ok ?
        Reply

  66. Penelope Morton says

    I have a Thai Retirement Visa, I will be returning to Thailand on the 3rd of September, my visa runs out on the 30th August. What will happen when I return. I have been having chemotherapy and it wasn’t finished till the end of August.. Can you tell me what will happen when I go to Immigration on the 4th.. Regards PM
    Reply

  67. Gary says

    Hi, Great blog which I keep coming back to time and again in the run up to my retirement and planned escape to the Land of smiles.Not sure if it's a typo or if I glossed over it before but in the section on the Elite Visa you say it requires a deposit of 500,000 which is great as that's less than the 800,000 I currently need for my intended O-A visa application. Have I missed this previously or is the figure wrong as I seem to remember seeing 3,000,000Baht somewhere before in the article. Keeping my fingers crossed the figures are right and I can upgrade to a 5 year visa for less !
    Reply

    • James E says

      The basic Elite Easy Access Visa costs 500,000 Baht. The upper tiers cost a MegaBaht. There isn't (that I've seen, anyway) a deposit requirement as I think the assumption is that if you're dropping that much money on a visa you'll probably not be staying in hostels and drinking Leo.
      Reply

  68. Gin says

    For Tourist (6 months validity/up to 60 days/Multiple Entries), you mentioned one could apply for an extension of stay while in Thailand, twice, 30 days each. DO you mean an extension at the end of 6 months (meaning one still have to do visa run every 60 days) or at the end of 60 days (no need to do visa run)?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi George, you can get a Non-Immigrant B Visa (Conducting Business)This gives you 90 days inside Thailand (single entry). This can be issued by the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country.
      Reply

  70. Anita says

    My daughter in law is from the Philippines and my son is from Uk. They married in Thailand and have a 1 year old son who was born in Thailand but now has a UK passport. His wife is a teacher and supports my son and baby. My son wishes to study for a degree in Thailand and has asked if I could come out to look after the baby for a few years. I am a 58 yr old British Citizen with £20,000 in a UK bank and no criminal record. Is this at all possible?
    Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          It depends on what visa your son holds.It is possible you can join him as a dependent on a Non-Immigrant “O” Visa for accompanying spouse or family members. This visa permits a spouse, children or parents to join a family member.Your son needs to fall into one of these three categories:He holds a Non-Immigrant “B” Visa and Work Permit He holds a Retirement Visa and his dependents are under the age of 50 He holds a Non-Immigrant “O” Visa and Work Permit to work in a foundation or charity
          Reply

  71. Thomas says

    Good Morning. I have a quick question for you or maybe one of your followers. I will be arriving in Bangkok at the end of next month on a Retirement Visa from the U.S. Do I have to report to immigration when I arrive, or, at the end of my first 90 days. I want to be sure I don't mess up. I appreciate any input you may be able to provide.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Do you have an O-A visa already? If so, you'll be stamped in with a permission to stay one year. Your first report to immigration can be done up to 15 days before it's due date. You will need to register your address at immigration too. You can do this on the same day as the report but make sure it is before the 90 days is up.
      Reply

      • Gary says

        Hi, This post has left me confused. I want to retire in October to Thailand and intended to apply at the UK Thai Embassy for a single entry 90 day visa then after 60 days in Thailand apply for my O-A year visa. If Thomas already has a year visa why is he also on a 90 day entry visa ? Can i not get a 90 day entry visa then apply after 60 days? Can you confirm the 90 day visa is available in the UK for the proposed route i intended to take for the O-A retirement visa . I tbought i had this sorted in my head until this post !
        Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          Because Thomas will still have to report every 90 days, like everyone else.You are correct: you can get your single entry Visa and then apply at immigration for your extension based on retirement, which will last one year. You will need to have the financial requirements in place when you apply. However, even though you can stay in the country for the duration of the retirement extension (retirement extension is what it is called when you enter on a 90-day Non Immigrant Visa and then apply under the basis of retirement at immigration) you will still need to report to immigration every 90 days. There is now an online reporting service, but many people have trouble accessing it or getting it up and running, so I suggest doing the first 90-day report in person at immigration and then trying to get set up
          Reply

      • Thomas says

        I have a Non-IMM O-A Multiple Entry Retirement Visa. I was told by the. Thai Consulate here in the U.S. that I had to report every 90 Days and not leave theCountry every 90 Days. Is this correct? Thanks I am a little confused about the comments regarding leaving Thailand every 90 Days with a Type O Visa. Are there multiple Type O Visas with some requiring leaving the country every 90 Days and others not? Sorry for beating a dead horse as they say to death. Just want to ensure I am meeting all requirements.
        Reply

  72. Corey says

    Hi sorry I read your post and I'm having trouble understanding how much money in need in the bank ( coming from Australia ) to get the 90 day visa multi entry . As I have been told I can't just go on a 30 day entry then do a boarder hop any more . I have tried to read on Thai visa page but it confusing the Shit out of me
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You can get a multiple entry tourist Visa from your home country that will enable you to stay for 60 days straight and then after that you will have to leave the country and come back in, like a border hop. You can also extend this Visa just once within the Visa term ( which is six months) at immigration for 1900 Baht. so basically one of your 60-day stays can be extended to 90 days.I think the 90-day Visa you are referring to is a Non-Immigrant O visa of some kind. Getting one of these depends on your situation. For example, if you are married to a Thai national, you can apply for one in your home country before you leave (with the right documentation). This will allow you to stay for one year, but you have to leave every 90 days.You can also extend this Visa just once within the Visa term ( which is 1 year) at immigration for 1900 Baht. so basically one of your 90-day stays can be extended to 5 months. This visa can also be extended so that you can stay for a year straight and not have to leave the country, but you need to do this in Thailand and show the correct financial requirements as detailed in the post above.
      Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          No, you don't need that to get a tourist visa. Here are the current requirements for both single and multiple entry.Tourist Visa (maximum stay of up to 60 days) Required Documents:Single Entry (maximum stay of up to 60 days) A current passport with validity of over 6 months beyond the date of application. Visa application form completely filled out. Two (2) recent photos of the applicant.Multiple Entries (maximum stay of up to 60 days for each entry)A current passport with validity of over 6 months beyond the date of application. Visa application form completely filled out. Two (2) recent photos of the applicant. Original bank statement of the applicant showing a balance of least £5,000 (for 6 months) or a print out with official stamp of the bank. A letter from the applicant's employer in the UK or Ireland, and addressed to the Royal Thai Embassy. - If you are self-employed, your self-assessment and a company registration document are required. A photocopy of the confirmed return air ticket to Thailand. A photocopy of the confirmed hotel reservation in Thailand.
          Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          Hi Corey,An update on this: I received an email from an Australian national who read your comment and my reply and suggested that I hadn't understood what you meant. He forwarded me a PDF with requirements for those applying in Australia for a Thai tourist Visa.The requirements are as follows:For a single entry tourist Visa: Evidence of adequate financial support (20,000 baht per person) Approximately $800for a multiple entry tourist Visa: Bank statements or evidence of adequate finances in the last six months with a minimum balance of $8,000.00 AUD.https://www.royalthaiconsulatebrisbane.com/images/pdfs/TR-Tourist-08-2017.pdfThe requirements into different country to country. For example, in the UK there is no financial requirement for a single entry tourist Visa. But for a multiple entry tourist Visa: Original bank statement of the applicant showing a balance of least £5,000 (for 6 months) or a print out with official stamp of the bank.
          Reply

  73. Colleen says

    Hi, my daughter is in Thailand, has just started teaching, and has to do a visa run to get a Non-Immigrant B Visa. Does she apply for single entry or multiple entry? As a South African, i have heard there are restrictions about going to Malaysia for the visa run, is this true? And how much money do you have to have in the bank when applying for a Non-Immigrant B Visa? Thanks!
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      If both of you were to apply for an extension of stay based upon retirement at immigration in Thailand, you both would need to have 800k Baht in the bank.However, one of you could become the dependent of the other, requiring just one of you to do the extension of stay based on retirement. The other would get a Non Immigrant O visa as a dependent (from your home country) and then extend the visa in Thailand (at immigration) as a dependent of the person with the retirement extension.
      Reply

  75. Stuart Johnstone says

    Hi Just a quick question I currently have a non b visa which I have always renewed with work permit. I am married now so can I extend on this basis? Hopefully to reduce the paperwork. Thank you
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      I'm not sure fully understand the question: the B visa is required to get the work permit, which permits you to work. You can only extend the B Visa if you have a work permit. I have checked and it doesn't seem to be any permission for extending a B visa on the basis of marriage. A multiple entry Non-Immigrant O visa can be obtained from your home country on the basis of marriage to a Thai national. You can get a single entry from a neighbouring country such as Laos.
      Reply

  76. Peron Bakr says

    Good afternoon:You are very well informed on the Visas available, I've been studying Visa requirements for the past year as my wife wants me to move there. I do have a Disability pension of approximately 45000 baht per month, plus savings in Bangkok bank of 400000 baht. I also have the ability to work freelance online or teaching parttime in Thailand upon getting my TEFL (arranged for March 2019). So far so good (I'm 60 right now). Here's the issue which has now been causing us a lot of grief. My wife and I have had the "village" wedding witnessed and approved by her family, but it is not registered. We have been married for almost 2 years this way, and I live with her 1 month out of every 4 or 5. But she says it is time for me to come home and stay home. As far as I can tell, the only way that I can do that on 1-year visas is if our marriage is registered. We have lots of friends and family there who can attest to my being her husband and spending as much time with her at home as possible. She seems to think I can move there as her husband without our marriage being registered. The reason that it is not registered yet is that her ex-husband decided he does not want to give her a divorce as she is now happy, and he cannot have that. On the other hand, he has a village marriage to his second wife and is wooing a third.Does our marriage need to be registered, or can friends and family act as witnesses attesting to the fact that we live together as man and wife (with lots of photos to prove it)?I also have all the documents and paperwork needed to register our marriage on this end. My brother-in-law has also suggested that we can register our marriage without her receiving a divorce from her first husband. Any thought on that?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      In a nutshell, no. A marriage ceremony is not recognised as a legal marriage in Thailand. You would need to go through the process as documented in the following post: https://www.thethailandlife.com/married-thailand-diy-dayif you are doing a TEFL and plan to teach in Thailand, then once you have found a job you will be issued a work permit that will enable you to stay there with your wife. I suggest doing the TEFL certificate and then looking for a job locally to where you will be staying with your wife. When you decide to retire, you can apply for a retirement visa, you have to have the necessary finances in place, as stipulated in this post.If you do not have a job with a work permit, and you don't have a retirement visa, the best route would be to get properly married and then you would be able to get a Non-Immigrant O visa based on your marriage. This will allow you to stay for 90 days at a time through the visa validity period, which is one year. So you would stay 90 days, leave the country and go to do a boarder run or stay in a neighbouring country for a night and then come back in and activate a further 90 days. You can also do one extension of 60 days during the visa validity period. So you could stay for 90 days, then go to immigration and pay 1900 baht and extend for a further 60 days, giving you a stay of five months straight. Having to take this action every three months is a pain, but many people do it.
      Reply

  77. Nigel Day says

    I have been happily annually extending my visa based on marriage based on having 400,000 seasoned in a Thai bank for the 3 months preceding the application. It always gets spent during the following year! So each year I have to raise it again and keep it in the Thai bank account for 3 months doing nothing, which irritates me!However I now am having difficulty raising this money each year as I am now on pension income paid monthly. So I am looking at offering an Embassy letter on my next extension application confirming that I have income of at least 40,000 baht per month. My question is simply this: this pension income is paid in to my UK bank account. Does the money have to be shown to be being transferred from there in to my Thai bank account?I have searched high and low for the answer, without success. Nowhere does it say more than the evidence of monthly income is by means of an Embassy letter stating the monthly sum and source, eg UK state pension, in the currency in which it originates. Apparently the Thai IO then does the currency conversion to check it is enough, which suggests , but is not crystal clear, that no evidence of receipt in Thailand is needed. Can you confirm?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      As I understand it, If the income is from abroad, you will need a letter from your embassy verifying it. You may also need to show some proof of the income such as pay slips, bank accounts statements etc.
      Reply

  79. Robert Gandley says

    I am a UK citizen but now have residency in Spain .I want to go to Thailand soon to marry my Thai fiance , and then take her back to Spain on a visitor visa and then apply for her to become a Spanish resident ( as my wife ), I am wondering which would be the best Thai Visa for me to get , I am thinking maybe a 60 day should be enough time to achieve these two objectives ,. but would welcome any advice .
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Robert, you might do well to get a multiple entry tourist Visa. That way you can stay for 60 days at a time, but also extend by 30 days at immigration for 1,900 Baht if you need to. You could also do this on the single-entry tourist Visa, but if it turns out that you need to stay for longer, you can hop over the border to a neighbouring country and then come back into activate a further 60 days.
      Reply

  80. Gary Farmer says

    Hi, Thanks for the Visa guidance. Can I ask you to clarify something's . I am obtaining a 90 day visa in the UK later this year and will look to obtain an O-A retirement visa once in Thailand. When applying for my O-A visa do I need to produce any for of proof that I have a clean criminal record (CRB check in UK) or the medical certificate , both of which a UK visa application requires. I only ask because if so I guess I would need to sort this and bring them with me from the UK . From your post there is no mention for Thai based applicants needing to provide either CRB documents or a medical certificate . I am worried that I will apply once living in country only to be told I don't have the right paperwork and only have the 30 days left on original visa.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Gary, This is the key reason why most people choose to obtain the retirement Visa extension in Thailand rather than doing it in the UK, because doing it in Thailand means that you don't have to produce the CRB check. At least that is the current state of play anyway. I would say all round that the easiest way to obtain the retirement Visa is to go the 90 day Visa route first.
      Reply

      • Gary Farmer says

        Thanks for the advice as I was struggling to figure how I was going to get the CRB and medical certificates from the UK while completing the first 60 days in Thailand prior to the visa application. I wonder why they have dropped it , I assume the medical certificate is dropped as well then ?
        Reply

  81. ryan says

    well, all nice and neat, except it isn't. I'm talking about your article. none of the visas you talk about are a real option.let's start with the tourist visa. easy to get it first time, the second time... but it becomes a huge pain to keep getting it. visa runs are not as easy done as said. you go outside of the country, and they make it nearly impossible to get it again (as soon they see you had several already).business visa... I had it once. not easy to get. if you can get a job, yes, but... still, not an easy option.education visa. another crazy that got really tough.retirement visa. sure, so what am I gonna do? wait until I'm 50?I haven't tried the elite visa. I was hoping to learn more about. you say here it's only for 1 year. this freaks me out. I thought it was for 5. 1 year with possibility to extend means they can refuse the extension. does it happen? to be refused extension, that is? the thai immigration is so insane, such a scenario seems entirely plausible.can I ask you more about this (i.e. elita visa) on mail?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Ryan,Lol.Sorry, I don't make the rules!In terms of the tourist Visa: there is nothing to prevent you getting a multi-entry tourist Visa, which potentially can last seven months, if you do a 30 day extension, and then getting another one straight afterwards. As far as I'm aware, there is no limit on the amount of tourist visas. What you might be alluding to is the 30 day exemption stand that you get when you arrive. If you start doing 30 day in and outs back to back, then they will question your intentions. All countries around the world, particularly in the West, will at some point question someone who is doing back-to-back tourist visas. Historically I have done back to back non-immigrant O visas year-on-year, and never had a problem. At the end of the day, if you are not working illegally in Thailand, and you have more than sufficient funds to support yourself to be on permanent vacation, then it is no problem to be in Thailand on a tourist Visa. What immigration is on the lookout for people that are abusing the system, by not obtaining the right Visa for the purpose that they are in Thailand. For the most part this refers to people working illegally, and of course people doing other illegal activities.The business Visa is very easy to get if you have a teaching job, or any other job. The education Visa is very easy to get, as long as you do go and learn Thai at a particular school. The elite Visa is ultimately what the name says it is, for those with a lot of money who want to stay in Thailand long-term without any hassle. Of course they could refuse your extension, but this is highly unlikely unless you have committed some kind of crime. And it's worth remembering that immigration can refuse entry to anyone regardless of the Visa they have, and a Visa can be revoked at any time by immigration. This is the same in most countries. But by and large, as long as you abide by the rules, you won't have a problem.I do agree that it would be preferable to have a type of one-year Visa for younger people, below 50. They could charge a few hundred dollars per year for this and allow you to report every 90 days to immigration. I was also hoping that by now they would introduce a digital worker Visa, for those who want to stay in Thailand but run online businesses elsewhere in the world.The thing is, over time I've come to realise that although immigration is annoying in that you always have to do this reporting and it seems that you can never stay for up long period of time without having to get caught up in a Visa run or 90 day reporting, if these checks were not in place, they would easily lose track of people who would just disappear into the country. They already have enough difficulty with overstayers. If I take my home country as an example, in the UK there are an estimated 2 million+ illegal immigrants. This consists of people who have entered on visas and then just disappeared into the country somewhere, and those who have entered illegally over borders and managed to avoid contact with the authorities. This is in a supposedly highly secure first world country. So if Thailand relaxed its Visa rules around reporting and the length of time that you could stay, can you imagine how many people would be flooding in to Thailand from around the world and abusing the system!?
      Reply

  83. Matt says

    Hi looking for the best visa for Thai girlfriend she’s on second 6 month toureist visa to uk almost running back to back how many times can she do this and are there any better options I can see different visas to stay long term but really we just want a few more months before traveling again
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Matt, for further information on this topic, please see the post and comments on this post here https://www.thethailandlife.com/uk-visitor-visa-thai-partnerthe short answer to this would be that a person can only visit the UK on a tourist visa for a maximum of hundred and 80 days in one calendar year. In terms of how many of these as you can be granted back to back, I am not aware of a limit. It is at the discretion of UK immigration as to how many times they wish to allow your girlfriend to do this and what they perceive her intention to be.
      Reply

  84. William says

    Hi, sorry these visa details bend my head. If you have the 6 month multi entry, that means you can do 60 days and leave the country then come back for 60 days. Am i right that after 3/ 60days stints it runs out?What happens after that if you were trying to stay for a year. Can you apply for another 6 month multi entry?Im looking at a possible 12 months stay if possible
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi William, So yes, if you have a six-month tourist Visa you can stay for 60 days straight, then leave and come back in for another 60 days, and repeat this process again after 60 days. So three stints of 60 days each.But you can also extend this Visa by 30 days. So, for example, just before it runs out, you can go to immigration and pay 1900 Baht to extend your stay for another 30 days. So potentially your last stay of 60 days can be extended to 90 days, using this procedure.Note that you can also extend for 30 days at any other point in the duration of the Visa. It is up to you when you use this 30 day extension capability, but you can only do it once during the duration of the visa.Staying for a year is a bit more difficult. You might simply choose to return back home once your six-month tourist visa has expired and apply for another one in your home country and then come back.That said, you could achieve a 10-month stay by having the six-month tourist visa, doing the 30 day extension to make it 7 months, then leaving and going to Laos, for example, and getting a single entry tourist visa that will last 60 days, and then extending this tourist visa by 30 days immigration for 1900 Baht, which would actually make it 3 months instead of 2 months. this would give you a total stay of 10 months - albeit that you have to go in and out a number of times.
      Reply

      • William Whall says

        That's great, thanks for the info. I'm looking at possibly doing some teaching work while i'm there, but i don't have a degree, so I am guessing i will have to do a few visa runs in the process. The other thing i was wondering was flights from the UK. If you have a 6 month Visa. Do you buy a one way ticket or is it possible to get open ended ones?
        Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          You can do either. I have had both types of tickets in the past. When you have a proper Visa you don't need to worry about having the return flight. For those arriving in Thailand and getting a 30 day entry stamp, it is a requirement that you have a return flight date or onward travel date.
          Reply

          • William Whall says

            Thanks, i had a look on the Thai consulate website last night, and for the 60 day multi entry you need, 5k in the bank, letter from employer, proof of hotel and proof of flight in and out. I'm sure it wasn't that tight on info before. I don't think its a problem. I had a look on EVA and Thai and I think you can alter flight dates with both of them
            Reply

            • TheThailandLife says

              Yes, I just saw the requirement on the Hull consulate website. I have not seen that requirement before either, but it seems like it was written in 2017 and I know plenty of readers who have obtained tourist visas since then. I'd try going directly to the embassy in applying there. There may be stricter rules for those applying through consulates.
              Reply

                • TheThailandLife says

                  You should be able to get a single entry tourist Visa at any embassy or consulate outside of Thailand; so Cambodia or Laos should be fine. The single entry Visa is 60 days, and it can be extended before it expires for a further 30 days at immigration inside Thailand for 1,900 Baht.
                  Reply

  85. James E says

    I have a hypothetical question. Suppose I have an O-A visa, single entry and I'm traveling to Thailand on a short trip to get things - apartment, driver license, etc. - set up. Because I'll be in the kingdom for less than a month to do these things and then go home for another month to complete the move and finish up everything needed I don't want to burn my single entry on the short trip. Is it possible to enter the country with a visa exemption even though I have the O-A in my passport? Or will I be forced to use the single entry and then apply for multiple entries once I am admitted. Thanks!
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Honestly, I haven't a clue if that is possible. Immigration always look for a visa first, and you'd have a hard time persuading not to stamp it and instead give you an entry stamp. If you can speak Thai you could try. But hey, why not just get a re-entry permit so that your visa remains valid while you leave and return?
      Reply

  86. James E says

    Hi TTL,I just ran across this new visa type announcement on the Royal Thai Embassy website:"The SMART Visa is the initiative of the Royal Thai Government aiming at encouraging highly-skilled professionals and talents to work or invest in the 10 targeted industries, namely (1) next-generation automotive (2) smart electronics (3) affluent, medical and wellness tourism (4) agriculture and biotechnology (5) food for the future (6) robotics (7) aviation and logistics (8) biofuels and biochemicals (9) digital and (10) medical hub."Here's a details link (from the Thailand Board of Investment website): http://www.boi.go.th/newboi/en/smart_visa/
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Thanks James. This is quite strange. Just how many people are enrolled or will be enrolled into agencies/government initiatives in this area. Is there currently a recruitment drive? Very interesting.
      Reply

      • James E says

        It's as if all of a sudden the BOI realized there was a need for skilled foreign workers and investments. This was apparently announced late last year but started at the beginning of February. Completely under the radar. The requirements (as one might expect) are all over the place.
        Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          Yes, there it's so conditional on so many narrow factors that I doubt anyone would take it up. Maybe programs/agencies are employing people from abroad directly and those people are given this visa. So it's more of an in-house initiative than an offer for the general public.
          Reply

  87. gary farmer says

    Hi, I need some help around the visa application for the 90 Non Immigrant visa so I can get into Thailand to apply for the retirement visa. I already have a bank account in Thailand and a rented condo and intend to move out in October and retire. I am looking at the 90 visa application and am a little confused . The application asks purpose of visit, do I say its for retirement or something else at this point? this follows in to supplying evidence supporting application, what is this after ? and do I need to have an exit ticket purchased to show I would leave after 90 days although I actually intend to apply for the other retirement visa after 60 days. any help would be great
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Gary,1. I think you can just write the intention to be: "retirement visa extension". That's essentially what it is. 2. I don't understand the second question. 3. No exit ticket required when you have a proper visa like this.
      Reply

      • gary farmer says

        Thanks for the quick reply. If f am applying for the retirement visa in Thailand would I need to obtain and bring the Police criminal record check and doctors medical certificate with me from the UK or are they something I would need to obtain once I arrive ? I just wonder if I pick them up in the UK if they would be accepted in Thailand or not and if so how long are they valid for before the Immigration Department want a more recent copy of each. I know I'm asking a lot ot questions but don't want to be caught out and have my visa refused for incorrect paperwork once I'm in country
        Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          You get these in the UK. I have no idea how long they are valid for.You can avoid having to do this if you go the other route and apply for retirement visa in Thailand. You only need the med and police certificates if you apply for the O-A visa in the UK.You can apply for a 90-day non-immigrant visa from the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country prior to your application for a retirement visa in ThailandYou will then have to wait for 60 days to be in Thailand before you can file your retirement visa application at the immigration office, or you must be on the last 30 days of your current permit to stay.It's up to you which route you take.
          Reply

          • gary farmer says

            Hi, Thanks again for the quick reply. No contest really as the UK route is a real pain and required more documents and time waiting. I will defiantly get the 90 day visa and apply once retired and in Thailand. Is there a Thai Government website I should go to in particular to find the requirements for the visa and to download a copy prior to attending the Immigration centre. I would like to get it all wrapped up before Christmas after my October retirement date kicks in and I fly out.
            Reply

  88. Wendy says

    I recently found out my husband has been talking to a woman online through Thai Cupid for almost a year and has sent her tens of thousands of dollars of our marital assets. We are not divorced nor has a divorce been filed or served. I also found out he has gotten a US Passport and has flown to Bangkok twice now to see her and is there now as I write this. He has left without telling me, our minor son, or any family member or friend. He also left us with no money and no access to any money either. I believe my husband or this woman have applied for Visas to the other’s countries. Is it possible to find out if Visas by either of them have been applied for or if this woman (I know her name) has travelled here to the US to be/stay with my husband? He travels to work all over the US and I’ve suspected she’s been here during his breaks and coming home. I have an attorney and been advised to find out as much info as possible before I file for divorce. Any info would be greatly appreciated.
    Reply

    • dave says

      "starting at a cool 500,000 Baht, ""That said, if you have the money," Have or willing to spend?Im confused by your wording on the elite visa.Is it you pay $16,000 usd or you need proof in a bank account of it Thai or otherwise. Im under 50 and would like to spend the next 4 years in Thailand relaxing, eating fruit, and working. I'm a normal college degree with good savings and no record kind of guy but not going to hand over $16k... that seems expensive for Thailand. I am willing to put $16k in a thai bank account for a visa tho.Any advice? Thanks in advance.
      Reply

  90. Kathy Young says

    Thinking of 1 year working as yoga teacher or class instructor either for spa or hotels in Thailand somewhere. What visa would be best: non-immigrant B visa? Do I find work first or do I start the process of visa first?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      If you can find an employment offer first, then the employer can give you a letter so that you can apply for a B visa. Then when you arrive in Thailand the employer can arrange your work permit. If you go to Thailand without the B visa, when you find a job you will have to leave again to get the B visa from a neighbouring country.
      Reply

  91. Jo says

    Hi and thanks so much for the valuable info you provide. My query is - I live in Thailand under a retirement visa and have done for the past 2 years. I would like to start an online spiritual business doing readings for people via Skype (clients are from around the world). Clients would pay into my Australian bank account, readings would be conducted from my Thai home online. How do I do that with regards to a visa? I would not be doing readings in Thailand, online only. Thanks : )
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You need a Non O Immigrant Voluntary work visa. You apply for this at your local Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country. Initially it lasts 90 days, but can be extended for a year from the date of entry into Thailand at an immigration office.Requirements:Passport or travel document with validity not less than 6 months Visa application form completely filled out Recent (4 x 6 cm.) photograph of the applicant Recommendation letter addressed to the Consulate Copy of registration certificate of the employer/foundation/organisation Copy of the previous/current work permit (if any) Copy of the employment contract (if any) Consular officers reserve the rights to request additional documents as deemed necessaryWhen you arrive in Thailand, you should apply for your work permit. It can take up to two months to receive, although once it’s applied for you are allowed to begin volunteering.
      Reply

  93. Eli says

    I am working with a business visa. My disabled father, as my dependent would like to live in Thailand (retirement visa is too expensive). If he gets a O dependant visa, what must he do to qualify, and can he stay in all year and extend it every year? Thank you
    Reply

  94. Chis says

    My retirement visa needs to be renewed for the first time. When I applied for it originally in the United States printed copies of my bank and financial statements were acceptable to the Consulate as I receive everything in electronic format. The Thai immigration authorities are requesting original documents. There are no original documents. We are at an impasse. Any suggestions?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You might run into issues if your wife has a criminal record. You might get away with not declaring it, as some people do that, but I can't advise that you do that. You can't teach on a retirement visa; teaching requires a work permit.
      Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Yes. A degree is not a requirement for a job, unless the job itself requires one to meet the interview requirements. A visa is open to anyone who doesn't have a criminal record and who meets the specific requirements of that visa.
      Reply

  97. Amy says

    I read on the embassy website that you need notorized parental permission to obtain a visa if you are under 20?? Are you not considered an adult at 18 in Thailand? Can parent go to Consolate during visa application or do you still need a notarized consent?
    Reply

  98. Jethro says

    I’m in a bit of a quandary. I will be marrying my Thai lady in September this year, and retiring in 2019. The pensions I’ll be living on are not earth shattering, and may not keep their value to fulfil the 65.000BT requirement, or the combination of deposit/income for a retirement visa. The marriage visa sounds less expensive, but can it be extended indefinitely in the same way that a retirement visa can? Any advice would be very welcome.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You can get a multiple entry Non O Immigrant visa based on marriage (from the Thai embassy in your home country). The visa duration is 1 year. You would have to leave the country every 90 days, and return to activate another 3 months. If you time it right you can get 15 months out of the visa.
      Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          Yes, it can be a pain. That said, if you treat it as a holiday every 90 days it isn't so bad. Instead of doing a border run (in and out - 7 hours in a mini van or more), why not take a cheap flight to a neighbouring country and stay a few days. If you plan it, it can be very affordable and a great way to see new places. I've done the same and been to Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, Singapore, Hong Kong.The time it takes me to catch a cab to the airport and fly out is often less than it would take me to report at immigration, which usually takes up much of the day.
          Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Do you mean re-entry permit? As in, when you leave but want you visa to remain valid while you are out of the country? Or do you mean re-entering and getting a 30-day exception stamp, as a normal tourist? For both the answer is yes. For the 30-day exemption, twice is fine, but expect to get questioned on the the third or fourth time in a row. Recently a reader commented that he had been pulled up on his in-out visa activity under similar circumstances.
      Reply

  100. ronald brown says

    hello i am in thialand on a marraige visa i meet the criteria of having 400000 btin a bank account and the 40000 bt monthly incomemy question is if and when can i use any part of the 400000btthanks ron brown
    Reply

  102. Ian turner says

    I have a 90 day type O visa and was hoping to apply for a marriage visa to my thai wife however it took a little longer to open my thai bank and transfer funds so my visa expires just before the 2 month bank period requirement. The immigration say I can extend to a 60 day visiting wife visa, but they want a certified copy of our uk marriage certificate. The uk embassy say they cannot certify. Q1. Can I go to Laos and get a new 90 day type O Q2. How do you go about getting the uk marriage certificate certified when I am in Thailand Q3. Any other options or advice Thanks Ian
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Ian,They can't certify a UK certificate? They should be able to provide a letter that says it's an official document and that you are the married persons. You can then have that translated to Thai and show it to the MFA.1. Yes, a single entry, with all the same documents you required to get it the first time around. 2. See above. 3. Not that I can think of except to get another single non O. I'd just go to Vientiane and enjoy yourself for a few days while getting another visa. Check out these posts: https://www.thethailandlife.com/fastest-thai-visa-run https://www.thethailandlife.com/things-to-do-vientianeHope you get it sorted.
      Reply

      • Ian says

        Thanks, for the quick reply and good information site. The frustrating part is I did not need any certifcation of the original marriage certificate in the uk would this be required for Vientiane or is the original ok to get a new 90 day type O
        Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          I've never heard of needing certification, but it's possible because occasionally the goal posts are moved (This is Thailand!). I'd get definitely get an official translation into Thai (go to Pleo Chit, in the side road by Language Express), which will cost about 600 Baht. Try giving the embassy in Vientiane a call and asking what documents are required before making the trip. I assume your wife can speak Thai, so perhaps better that she call to make sure you get all the right information. Good luck!
          Reply

  103. hani says

    Hello , and thank you for your valuable info i will get B visa from company of my friend and he will do work permit for me too,, but actually I'm planning later to do Thai Limited Company , is B visa or work permit of me make any problem later for me doing my own Thai Limited Company ? like I applied for job visa then i changed to investor ? Regards
    Reply

  105. Matthew DP says

    I have a question please: I am a US citizen on a B Visa which expires Dec 5th. however I did a visa run on Sept 24th which allows me to stay in the country till Dec 23rd. If I do another B visa run before the 23rd do I get a 90 days extension or do I have to re-enter before Dec 5th to get the additional 90 days? Any advise is greatly appreciated> I am in the process of getting a work permit as well as I have been offered a job but the paper work is taking a little time. Thank you.
    Reply

  106. Steve says

    If I have either a 1-Year Extension of Stay Based on Marriage (i.e., a 1-Year Non-Immigration O Visa), or a 90-day visa, do all of the work permit rules apply as if I were "not" married to a "female" Thai National? It appears that all of the same rules apply to obtain a work permit, so what is the point of marriage to a Thai female if you still have all of the hoops to jump through, and all of fees to pay! I simply want to marry a Thai national "female", and her and I open a little coffee shop. After doing some research on a Thai Limited Company, (i.e., Thai national ownership 51%, and not married to the Thai national) the minimum amount of Registered Capitol is 1Million THB, and to obtain a "foreign" (me) work permit under that company, you must first hire 4 Thai nationals and pay (i.e., 10% of the actual amount that would be due), and after you jump through that hoop, the foreigner (me) can apply for a work permit at a cost of another 2 Million THB. So, the cost is a minimum of 3, 015,000.00 THB to register a Limited Thai Company, and you have not even scratched the surface to rent or lease the space or buy required equipment. So, is there a cheaper way to get a work permit to open the same little coffee shop after marriage to a Thai national "female"? if not what is the point of marriage if you must still jump through all of the expensive hoops to get a work permit?An answer would be appreciated from anyone who has the legal answer.Also, besides posting comments here, perhaps email me directly, it would be greatly appreciated.Regards,Steve
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Steve, in short, there is generally no benefit, except when starting a business you only have to have 1 MB working capital instead of 2 MB. The main benefit to marrying a Thai national is that you can get a Non O visa based on marriage, which gives you a long-stay option.Marriage is entirely separate from starting a business with a Thai national.The fee for a one year work permit is 3,000 Baht. Not expensive at all. To get a work permit, you can enter on a Non Immigrant B visa, obtainable from your home country for 2,000 Baht (single entry).In your situation, why not let your wife open the coffee shop on a lean budget and see how it goes for a while. If you want to then go into business with her, look into that once it is very profitable. You can stay in Thailand on the aforementioned Non Immigrant O visa based on marriage. You can extend for one year using the financial requirements route (400k in a Thai bank for 60 days prior to applying, etc)and then do 90-day reporting. You won't have to leave the country.
      Reply

  107. Conman says

    I have a 1 year extension of stay permit, commonly referred to as a retirement permit. I am aware that I cannot be employed whilst being the holder of this permit. Does this only apply within Thailand. If I have a re-entry permit am I allowed to work outside of Thailand for a short term as long as re-enter before extension of stay permit expires.
    Reply

  108. pete says

    I have a question regarding a marriage visa. The contract with my current employer will expire on 31 December 2017 therefore my current Non B visa and work permit will be cancelled. I do not have a job to go to so plan to get a Marriage visa instead thereafter. Do you know if its possible to obtain a Non O Marriage visa in the 7 day window after my Non B visa is cancelled and therefore not need to leave the country? I’ve heard that some people have been able to do it and I’d definately prefer that to leaving the country to apply. Also do you think its harder to apply for a UK tourist visa for my wife if I have a Marriage visa compared to a Work visa? She has been to the UK over 10 times with me and has 2 properties here in Thailand and a car, assets etc but I’m not sure if my change of status would make it harder? Thanks in advance for your advice.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      To get a Non O visa based on marriage, you need to exit Thailand and go to a Thai Embassy or Consulate. However because you are married, I think that within that window when your work permit expires, you can apply for a 60 day extension of stay. Double check this with immigration at Chaeng Wattana though.I don't think it will make it any harder to apply for a UK visit visa for your wife, as long as she meets the requirements listed here.
      Reply

      • pete says

        Thanks TTL for the information about the 60 day extension. If i can do that it will be very handy and give me some breathing space. I've tried calling Chaeng Wattana and as expected it's very hard to speak to someone and their website is showing a malware warning so I'll ask my company's HR to investigate for me. If you do know a contact point then please let me know.
        Reply

        • pete says

          Regarding the application for a UK visa for my wife. Because I don't know the exact date of travel due to the changes in my work situation can i apply for a visa and state that I'm going to travel on lets say 20 December but then postpone the travel since the Standard Visitor Visa is normally valid for 6 months? Also do you know the success rate of applying for a long-term visit for 2 or 5 years . The visas are a lot more expensive but it's one less administration headache out of the way.
          Reply

  110. Walter Gvozdanovic says

    Very informative +concise info.Was confused by all visas available + relevent conditions but you have made it simple to follow the rules so that i will know i have right visa when i retire there next year,thankyou
    Reply

  111. James says

    Hold EVERYTHING!!!!!I was just on the Royal Thai Embassy's US website and there is a NEW KIND OF RETIREMENT VISA! (Sorry for the excited shouting.) It's called the Non-Immigrant Visa Category “O-X” (long stay). It seems to be an upgrade to the O-A (as you have to be over 50). It is valid for 10 years and allows a stay of up to 5 years. It shows a fee (in the US) of $400. The financial requirements are higher than the O-A ("3 million bahts in Thailand or a bank deposit of no less than 1.8 million bahts and annual income of no less than 1.2 million bahts. " Which will require clarification, I'm sure.) and requires health insurance (" Applicant must have a Thai health insurance for the duration of stay, with coverage for outpatient treatment of no less than 40,000 bahts and inpatient treatment of no less than 400,000 bahts" They provide a helpful link for the purchase...) It is limited to citizens of the following countries: Japan, Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Canada and United States.Now this is the interesting part. Unlike the instructions for the O-A there is exactly no mention of in-country reporting requirements.I'll see if I can find out anything additional.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi James, I saw this mentioned on Facebook a few days ago but didn't get so excited when I saw the requirements. This thing about having to deposit money in a Thai bank grates on me. Thai banks offer very poor interest rates - so it's a wasted investment, and in the event of a "run" on the bank the money won't be secure. Does the visa require a deposit in a Thai bank and the annual income, or one or the other? It's not clear.
      Reply

      • James says

        Hi TTL,It does appear to be a bit excessive but interest rates the world over right now are basically zero. I've sent a message to the Thai Embassy in Washington for clarification. The 3 MegaBaht requirement for the deposit is for "at least one year" and drops to 1.5 MB after that. There is also a combination deposit (1.8MB) and income (1.2MB/year) qualification.The big deal seems to be the health insurance requirement. Only one of the providers posted premiums online which for my age group were about 60,000 THB/year for the minimum coverage amount. In part I think they might be trying to induce people with long-term care needs to choose Thailand as a treatment center and at the same time have some assurance that they have the resources to pay for everything they're going to need.I'll post when I hear back from the embassy.
        Reply

    • Chris says

      I will stick with the regular tetirement visa. Financially it makes no sense whatsoever. The regular retirement visa is $45 for a single entry. And there is no requirement for insurance. It was not thought out well. By the way, Malaysia has a very good program for expats, which has reasonable financial limits and any insurance requirement can be waived.
      Reply

  112. Billie Chapple says

    Hi Peter,I have retired in Australia, and am about to apply for a retirement visa looking to a shift to Thailand in the next month. (I have read elsewhere that it is easier to apply from your home country).Two questions (if you don't mind),1: What is your current opinion on this, would it be better to apply now from Australia, or apply for a Tourist visa and wait until I have been in Thailand 30? 60? 90? days?2: On the website of the Thai Consulate in Sydney, they instruct that for a retirement visa, as well as all extended stay visas, you also fill in a generic "personal data" form which I have downloaded from their web site. All is straightforward with this, apart from the section at the bottom which asks for your proposed address in Thailand (probably a guest house to begin with), and also a "Reference Person in Thailand". Does this person, do you think, have to be a Thai national? Would they accept the landlord as a reference?Probably silly questions I know, but would appreciate your guidance on this.Kind Regards,Billie.
    Reply

  113. Chris Hall says

    We're moving to Thailand in 18 months time (my partner is Thai, but as TH does not recognise same sex civil partnerships from UK and has no same sex marriage laws....yet) I am going to enter using an alternative process:1. I'm a co-director of a Foundation in TH so this is a possibility 2. I could enter on a retirement visa - what are the restrictions however on working? I guess none is allowed 3. ED visa initially - I am about to start a MSc in the UK and perhaps I could follow this up with a further degree in TH - what are the rules about non language courses?Excellent website - love reading ur updates and information!Chris
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Chris,Is the foundation a registered non-Thai NGO? Or Thai company? If so, you can get a Non Immigrant O visa, and then a work permit can be issued for voluntary work by the foundation (once you are in Thailand).An ED visa is also a possibility. You will need a letter from the school/university confirming your place.You cannot work on a retirement visa.
      Reply

  114. James says

    I've been trading emails with the Royal Thai Embassy in Washington about the O-A long stay "retirement" visa and got an interesting response to one of my questions. I was told that the 800 Kilobaht does not need to be in a Thai bank account but only in a bank where you can prove you've got it (a letter of guarantee from the bank where the money resides). Of course, I'm not sure if this is true everywhere but at least for the US it seems I can keep the dollars in the US until I Transferwise them as needed. I've got some more detail I'll be talking with them about and pass it on as I find out.
    Reply

    • James says

      Some more info from the Royal Thai Embassy. 1) Your money doesn't need to be in an actual bank - any financial institution will do, like an investment house or mutual fund company. And, 2) The financial guarantee documents you provide can have some age to them, a month or two old is still fine.What wasn't specifically covered was whether an in-country renewal would accept the foreign bank guarantee or not. So my quest continues.
      Reply

      • brian mcguigan says

        Hello, I would like to follow up about 800,000 bahts - does this amount has to be deposited into Thai bank account when applying for permanent visa? How safe to guarantee your money in Thai bank account not disappeared? Is there any FDIC protection there? If I have assets in US and money in US banks, is that enough to prove them? Thanks in advance for any reply
        Reply

        • James E says

          Brian, What the Thai Embassy in D.C. told me was that the 800,000 can be in any financial institution. It doesn't have to be in Thailand. That could change at any time (the requirements for the new O-X visa stipulate that the money must be in Thailand, for example) but as of mid-August 2017 funds in a U.S. account were acceptable.
          Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Gary, you would apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa in your home country, which is valid for 3 months. You can then convert that visa to a 1-year retirement visa after having opened a Thai bank account and deposited 800k Baht for a minimum of 60 days. You can also show a monthly income or pension of 65,000 Baht; or a total of 800,000 Baht through a combination of a bank deposit and income or pension for the entire year. The cost of the Non O visa is £50 ($65).
      Reply

  116. Kat says

    Hello, Thank you for all of the helpful information. I am going to be teaching at an international school in Thailand starting in August. My school is guiding me through the Non B visa process, and I will be going to Lao in the next few weeks. My problem is my partner is with me in Thailand. How can I get a visa for him also, as my school will not provide one for him unless we are married. What are the options for him? Thank you!
    Reply

  117. Dan says

    Hi there and thank you for your great information.Ive read the entire post but my I'm still unsure if my Q was answered. I am a long-stay resident here in TH on a tourist APEC 90 day visa (I dont mind the visa runs), but can get a retirement visa if needed. However, as I understand it, neither of these will help if I earn a little cash on the side eg I am a builder and get some regular reno work and receive rent money. I am happy to declare the cash and pay the tax if needed, but I gather I need a "work permit" besides my normal tourist or retirement visa. Is that correct? If so, how do I get a work permit if I dont have an offical employer? cheers
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Dan, you won't be able to get a work permit without a proper employer to apply for it on your behalf. Building is also a profession reserved for Thais under labour law, so an employer would have a tough time justifying that the position is to be taken by a foreign national. I can't advise that you work illegally, so I'd do the work as a favour and not for cash payment. Any money you receive from any person should be a gift and not as cash in exchange for work. If it is just a little money it probably wouldn't be eligible for taxation anyway.
      Reply

  118. Michelle says

    Hi :)This is very informative thank you! I am currently studying at a university so therefore have an Education Visa.I plan to go to my home country for a visit. Do you possibly know if the immigration officers will ask me to show a minimum amount of cash, upon re-entry? (ie. 10000 or 20000 baht) I heard there are new rules because they are suspicious of people who have an ED Visa now.TIA :)
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You will need to get a re-entry permit. You can get one from the airport before you fly. As long as you have that there will be no issue coming back in. Maybe carry your University campus ID as proof; it can't hurt to do that. Never heard of this showing cash thing. Don't worry.
      Reply

  120. John says

    Hello! I just found your website. Very impressive! I am currently a math teacher living in United States, and I plan to travel to Thailand to find work as a teacher in September. I have never traveled internationally, so I am new to visas. I could try to set up a job in Thailand before I come there, but I am nervous to accept a job before I come there. I prefer to be in Thailand when I search for work. The website, "ajarn.com", a teaching site, suggests that it is better to find a teaching job after you arrive in Thailand. If you don't mind, I have a few questions for you Sir?Do you think it is wise to come to Thailand before I have a job secured? Is it true that teaching jobs are in abundance their and easy to find? How should I handle my visa situation there? Should I just get a tourist visa and wait until I find a teaching job there, then, let the school handle my work visa?Thank you Sir!P.S. Thank you for offering so much information. I will enjoy learning from your website.
    Reply

    • James says

      Hey John,Yes. Get a multiple-entry tourist visa (look at TTL's posts on the visa run). I would advise - instead of committing to a job in advance you plan on something more like: take 1 week to get (fully) over the jet-lag, 3 months to get over the culture shock, 3 months to figure out what part of Thailand you want to live in, and 3 months to start looking for a job. Thailand is different from "the West" (particularly the US) in so many ways you'll have a lot to learn before you can make any kind of informed decision. Coupled with the regional differences I think that you'd be better served long-term by easing in over 6 - 9 months. But, if you need a job right away then go for it.I would suggest starting to learn Thai (if you haven't already) starting now. I don't speak much, nor well, but it's worthwhile way beyond what I imagined.Also go in knowing that they don't do things like that around here. You will find the paper chases daunting, the protocols and procedures numbing, and the mai bpen rai attitude kind of frustrating. But when you take the time to learn it and take a lot of deep breaths you'll find that for what they need to do their system works.And read EVERYTHING on TTL. Peter's got the best info in the world here.Good luck.
      Reply

      • John says

        Thank you James! Great advice! My initial plan was to take 2 months getting settled-in before I started searching for a job. I will heed your advice and take my time getting adjusted before I join the work force. I do have another question if you don't mind. Is it possible to have short-term interns in schools to observe teachers' and students'? Maybe I could travel to different schools and observe? That would be helpful if possible.Thank you again!
        Reply

        • James says

          Hey John,I'm sure that would be completely dependent on the school and how you pitch the idea.As to your books question you posted. Typically when you fly from the U.S. to Thailand your baggage flies free. If you use a non-US carrier you can sometimes get away with up to 120lbs in two bags. If you go first or business (in my dreams, that's how I fly) the baggage is basically unlimited. We usually fly EVA premium economy (costs less than regular economy on US domestic lines) and get two bags per passenger each up to 62lbs. Instead of the 50lb limit on the US carriers. I have not found anyway to ship anything from the US to Thailand without getting hit with a bill that would buy a pretty nice car.There are a number of excess baggage shippers on the web which is where I would start looking as to how much it would cost to send your books. From looking at them about shipping a bike to Bangkok they seemed to be about US$20 less than the excess baggage charge from the airline (if I'm remembering right). If you've got enough stuff to fill a Balikbayan box do a search for LTL shipping. It'll take a while to get there since it goes by sea but would allow you to ship whatever you wanted. I used a similar service when I was living in Grenada and it worked pretty well.
          Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi John, I pretty much second everything that James said (thanks for the kind words too James).It's definitely worth spending time in potential places you want to live before committing, and often the place you first stay and think you love you feel quite differently about within a couple of months. There is a huge difference between holiday living and living permanently, as I'm sure you can imagine. The dynamics change considerably.That said, if you are looking at international school jobs then some of these are recruited for outside of the country. Jobs in Thai schools can be found very easily within the country. You might like to try Chiang Mai for teaching, as that's a less hectic city than Bangkok. Though if you fancy an island like Phuket then that's a possibility too.There are jobs all over the country, and salaries vary slightly by region.Visa wise, as James said the tourist visa (multiple entry) is a good option. When you find a job you will be required to go to a neighbouring country (most likely Laos) to obtain a B visa (as detailed in the post above) from the Thai embassy. You can then return and your employer will sort out your work permit.Let us know if you have any further questions. All the best!
      Reply

      • John says

        Thank you for your help! I will use the multiple entry tourist visa. i will look into Chiang Mai as well. I am sure it would be quite overwhelming to start out in a place like Bangkok. I plan to only visit Bangkok, not live there at first. But, like you said, probably not wise to have too many plans when I go there; just go with the flow and figure out the best place that resonates with me.I do have another question if you don't mind. When I come to Thailand, I plan to pack two large suitcases, and that is all. I don't want to bring too much, but I would like to bring some books. I do have lots of books and would like to bring 20 or 30 of them. If it is possible, what is the best way to ship books to Thailand? I know the Philippines has something called "Balikbayan box". With the Balikbayan box, you can ship a large box with no weight limit for a flat fee of around 80 to 100 dollars. I was wondering if there was something like that in Thailand?Thank you again!
        Reply

  121. Adelina Liwanag says

    Hi Peter. Can a holder of a working permit in Thailand allowed to invite her mother and a brother to visit her? If yes, how long are we allowed to stay in Thailand for a vacation? Working permits are different from working visa or are they the same?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You wouldn't need an invite. You would simply come on a tourist visa, or, depending on how long you want to visit for and what passport you hold, you will just get an entry stamp at the airport. It will either be 15 or 30 days.
      Reply

  123. Max says

    Hi, I am in Bangkok and 2 days ago I was granted a one year stay on the basis of retirement (non-O). I now want to enrol in a thai language course at Chula University and I see that I should have a Non-Immigrant ED visa instead. Could I not retain my NonImmigrant O and study on that one? If not, can I make the change from Non-O to ED within Thailand?And if this gets difficult can I just study in a private school with my Non-O visa Retirement?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You can't have 2 visas at the same time, and I think that technically you can't study within the education system on a retirement visa, but I'd inquire at the school as I'm pretty sure they have an exception for this. I do know that you can study at a private school on your retirement visa. A few years back I was studying on a Non O and most of the people in my class were retired or on similar long-stay (non-ed) visas.
      Reply

  126. Charles Whiting says

    I plan to spend 70 days in Chiang Mai from Dec. 20, 2017 to Feb. 28, 2018. I already have a plane ticket and a condo rented. I am retired and do not plan to work or volunteer. I think the O-A visa is the correct one for me but I'm not real sure. If another type of visa would be better please let me know. I will only need a visa for the time period above, how soon in advance of Dec. 19 can I get the visa. I was a Peace Corps volunteer in Chachoengsao in the 1980's and have been back to visit on 3 occasions but never for 70 days.Thanks
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Charles, you could get that visa but it's designed really for those wanting to stay a year. You have to meet the financial requirements too, which means depositing 800k in a Thai bank account. I'd go for a 60 day single entry tourist visa and then extend at immigration to cover you for the last 10 days. Or, get a multiple entry tourist visa, stay for 60 days, then hop over to Laos for a night or 2 and then re-enter Thailand for the last week of your trip (this then activates your visa for a further 60 days).
      Reply

  127. Monica says

    Hi,Came across your site when I was trying to find out full details of the Thailand Elite visa. My mom's considering that one, but I feel like it's a scam. I think the selling points for her are that she's older and doesn't want the hassle of renewing — which she thinks you have to leave the country to do that, and provide medical records....is this true? Do you know the requirements for the 90 day reporting vs requirements for the annual renewal on a retirement visa? I'm hoping to convince her she doesn't need this Elite membership. Thanks so much.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      The main difference between the retirement visa and the Elite visa, aside from the fringe benefits, is that on the Elite visa you visit immigration once, to activate your stay, and then the Elite visa company will do your reporting for you.If you live in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya or Phuket, you can drop your passport at the Thailand Elite office and collect it once it is done. They take it to immigration for you.Of course, other benefits are things like getting collected and being dropped at the airport by a private car, and expedited through passport control.I think you have to weigh up the benefits vs. your financial situation.I have a post on the Elite visa here1. Immigration can be a hassle. Having someone do the reporting for you is a good benefit. But it only covers the aforementioned areas. That said, if you are retired with little to do, is half a day at immigration really that much of a hassle? Get there first thing and you can be done in 2 hours. If you are a bit older and feel intimidated by the process, you could always pay an agent to come with your on the day to help you complete the process.2. Is the private car a big benefit? You can book a private Mercedes car for 1,200 Baht to drop/pick you up from the airport anyway.3. Getting through passport control quickly has never been an issue for me. The longest I have waited is 20 minutes. That said, on the way out of Thailand on an international flight, it can get busy and 45-1 hour waits aren't uncommon. If I was 60+ I'd probably just say my leg was hurting me and get put in the fast track lane :)4. Discounted shopping at King Power and free golf trips are of no appeal to me.5. Don't forget the financial requirements for the retirement visa though. You still need to have that 800k in a Thai bank account. Most people do not dig this and it's a peeve for many.If cash was no problem and I wouldn't miss it then maybe I'd consider it.
      Reply

  128. Thomas says

    First let me say. I've only recently came across your Website. It is the most informative, straight forward site on Thailand that I've every come across. Thanks for being so willing to share your experience and information. You would be surprised on how many Westerner's are not willing to share any information once they've settled in Thailand. The mentality becomes, "I found Mind, now you find Yours." Going to give you a quick example. I am in the process of applying for a Thai Visa-Retirement Long-Stay O-A (which at the end I have one question for you. Although reading your article above, you've seem to have answered part of it.) OK. Back to my example. As I said I'm applying for a Retirement Visa. So, I've also been looking on-line at various websites for a place to stay ( a reasonable Condo, something simple.) Well I came across an individual who had a Video on U-Tube. Showing a Studio/Condo for the price range and, more importantly right in the area I would like to stay in Bangkok. So I (an a few others who also viewed his video.) Replied to his posting asking if he could provide us the name of the complex he was staying at, as we were also interested in possibly staying there. He replied to us. That he would not share the information, as he respected his neighbors and didn't want a bunch of Farangs moving in and bringing down the quality of the building. Well, I an a couple of others replied back to him. Without going into the full discussion we had (and the others.) I told him he needed to look in a mirror, because, he (like I) was one of the same Farang's he didn't want moving into the building (being from the U.S like me.) That how soon people forget how at one time all another, they were in a position of asking help and took it freely when it was offered. So the whole point is. I, and, I'm sure many of your followers who came across your site. Are so Greatly Appreciative of everything you are so freely willing to share. Thank You. Now, I promise one quick question in regards to the Retirement O-A Visa. From what I understand now. I have to report every 90 days to Thai Immigration to verify where I live. Correct? However, am I required at all during the year to leave Thailand and come back? That's the part that still confuses me. I apologize for being so long winded.
    Reply

  131. thomas b says

    Ive looked at what you have written and im wondering what place I fit into lol... So confusingI work one month in Russia and one month off... My plan is to move to Chiang Mai , so I would be there 5 months a year, but never more than 27 days at a time... How would that work for me if you know.... I saw somewhere else where someone said you could only get 2 30 day no visa trips per year.. So just confused about it all
    Reply

  132. Mick says

    Hi and as always thanks for your diligence in helping us through the visa quagmire. My question is about after getting married, which I just did, and have jumped through all the hoops in getting the marriage certificate. I'm ready to go Laos for the next procedure, but the 400,000 I have in the bank hasn't been there for two months...not even 1. From what I've read, they won't issue a non immigrant O based on marriage without that, correct? All the law blogs and visa sites say it's necessary, but your post seems to say its not necessary if you take the 90 day option. So confusing and very scary :-) Have you heard any new info on the financial requurement? I'm a US citizen and I think the rules are slightly different for different nationalities. Cheers! Super great blog. I know how much work you put into it.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Last I heard you can only get the single entry Non O in Laos, which you don't need the financial requirement for. This would be for 90 days, extendable by 60 at immigration in Thailand - so potentially a maximum of 5 months stay. If you want a multiple entry you need to get this from your home country. You can then extend for 1-year once inside Thailand, with the financial requirement of 400k in a Thai Bank for 2 months.
      Reply

  133. Wordi says

    Perhaps deliberately so, but this is one convoluted, costly and confusing visa system. But thanks for trying to clarify it. For the 'six-month' tourist visa then, it can ONLY be acquired in the home country. Having got it, you can only stay six months by renewing it twice, so 60+60+60. Is the renewal done in country or outside? You say you can renew twice for 30 days each time, but that would only bring you to a total of 4 months not six months: 60 + 30+30. Please clarify if you can.Also, perhaps an update: the ed visa seems pretty costly now, one school is quoting an incredible 30,000+ for the year.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      It's a 6 month multiple entry visa. So the visa lasts 6 months but you must leave every 60 days. in 60 days, out, in 60 days, out, in 60 days = 180 days. However, you can extend it at immigration for 30 days just before it expires, so actually you could get 7 months out of it.I think the visa system is confusing and needs a huge overhaul. It has been put together in bit parts by different people at different times who miss key considerations and then have to make adjustments that prevent it being straight forward. But it keeps a lot of immigration officers in jobs pushing paper around and making foreigners jump through hoops, and makes a lot of money on extensions. This suits the status quo. In theory the whole system could be taken online and probably 50% or more of the workforce cut, but then they'd have to deal with the unemployment.I don't think it is costly though, particularly for your 30k (a year) ED visa. That's a good deal. You get to learn Thai at a school and stay in the country for the duration. It would cost that a month to study English in the UK a few times a week at a school. It's 500 Baht an hour for good English lessons in Bangkok.
      Reply

  134. nancy says

    Hello and TIA for your help---My 17 yr old will be travelling to Thailand this spring to take a 3 week language course, do some travelling, and volunteer for 2 months. Can you help us with the Visa or Visas she should get and how to manage this? I have contacted the thai consulate 3 times with no response. Is there other paperwork required for a minor? She is a US citizen--thank you--Nancy
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      I'd assume the language course could be done under the 30-day entry stamp because it is only for 3 weeks. But she'll be staying longer as she intends to travel and volunteer. So I'd suggest a Non Immigrant O visa for voluntary services. This lasts for 3 months.The organisation she is volunteering with will need to arrange a work permit too, in addition to the visa; and most reputable organisations will readily provide help/or arrange this all for you.The official rule is: Although you will work as a volunteer, you do need a Non-Immigrant visa as well as the Work Permit. The NGO must be legally registered with the Thai authority, and that you need a recommendation letter from the NGO for your visa application and the Work Permit.Does your daughter have any idea of who she will be volunteering for yet?In terms of being under 18, you will need to follow these guidelines for parents when applying.
      Reply

  135. Jake says

    Your website is amazing, thank you for all of the FREE information! I'd like to stay in Thailand for one year and maybe longer. I don't qualify for a tourist visa with multiple entries. It seems my best option is the ED visa by signing up for a language school. Is it reasonable that I can fly in without a visa and join a language school to stay for a year? Do you see any possible complications? I'm a USA citizen
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      You could do that, though you will have to leave again once you make contact with the language school, as you have to get the ED visa outside the country. You can get a multiple entry tourist visa. Lasts 6 months, but you have to leave every 60 days.
      Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      No catch. All you have to do is report every 90 days, but your liaison officer can help you do this. You do have to do an extension at the end of each year though. This should just be a formality though.
      Reply

        • Ken says

          Ham - - What exactly is the big rush to get out of Dodge? Did the Mafia put a contract out on you or something? If not, all I can say is Thailand will still be there next year. Furthermore, if I were in your shoes and I could not wait one more second to get my ass to Thailand I would probably just go on a tourist visa until I could sort out what kind of long term visa would be best for me. If memory serves, you can stay 6-month before you need to do a border crossing and come back in. Of course you will temporarily have to leave the country to change over to a new kind of visa but so what. Just take that opportunity to visit some other countries that you have always wanted to see.As for the “elite” visa, it seems to me like this is a good option for people who are too young for a retirement visa but who also do not want to work or to mess with constant visa runs. For people who can qualify for other types of long-term visas however this just seems like a HUGE waste of money to me. You are basically paying enough money to buy a very nice used car simply to avoid some paperwork and other potential hassles down the road.
          Reply

            • Ken says

              Well, that’s certainly understandable. In fact, I kind of envy that level of excitement and anticipation. I can remember a time when I too was as excited as a kid on Christmas Eve to be making a trip to Thailand. Sadly those days are long gone however and now its all just old hat and I don’t get overly exited about the prospect of going to Thailand.By the way, I just want to clarify something. You DO realize that you are not going to get back the 500K that you would be paying for the elite visa? It’s not merely a deposit, such as is the case for the retirement visa.
              Reply

  138. Ham says

    Hi TTLIf i am getting paid in Australia to get work done in Thailand would that qualify me for the 65,000 Baht monthly income requirement? On a B Visa?I am setting up in Koh Samui and Udon Thani to consult for a company in Australia that will pay me 65,000 Baht a month
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      There isn't a 65k requirement for a B visa. A Non Imm B category visa is secured by getting a letter of employment from the prospective employer and other things as stipulated in the post. It would of course have to be a Thai company, or foreign company with a Thai company branch here. Once you have that visa the company can apply for your work permit inside Thailand. You can't consult for a company in Australia and live in Thailand and get a B visa on that basis. You would need to have the intention of coming to work for a Thai company.
      Reply

        • Ken says

          I have to admit I’m kind of curious about this one myself. From what I understand you are not allowed to work in Thailand on a retirement visa, yet it seems you will also not to be able to get a work visa in Thailand for the type of work you are going to be doing there. This would seem to be a classic example of a catch 22 situation.Anyway, if I were you my questions would be as follows:First of all, when I submit my proof of income from my company back home will the Thai immigration authorities have any way of knowing that the monthly checks I will be receiving are actually a salary and not from a pension? And if so, would they even care since my employer is not in Thailand?And secondly, if I am not technically allowed to do this type of work while on a retirement visa in Thailand, is there really any way for them to ever find out? And if they do find out, what would the consequences be?In any case, if it is indeed illegal to do this type of work in Thailand while on a retirement visa I suppose I would just do the 800,000 baht bank deposit. After all, unlike with the monthly checks, with the lump sum deposit you do not need to show where the money came from. It could be the proceeds of illegal drugs deals for all they know. In other words, there is no paper trail which proves that you are actually still working. And 800K is not really all that much money. In fact, I will get half of that amount just from selling my car before I retire in Thailand.
          Reply

            • Ken says

              Yeah, an ex-wife can really put a guy in the poor house. And this is probably one of the main reasons why I never got married myself. After all, while an ex-girlfriend can certainly rob you of your sanity, she is not going to have much of an impact on your finances.Anyway, that’s an interesting question about the dividends but unfortunately I don’t have a clue what the answer is. TTL is the real expert on this stuff so hopefully he will answer your questions soon. And I’m very curious to know the answers to these questions myself. After all, if my friend never gets his Thai company off the ground I might try to do some freelance work of my own over the internet after I retire there.
              Reply

          • TheThailandLife says

            Hi Ken,You can't work on a retirement visa, but as with the digital nomad situation the law has not been updated to cover the eventuality of this type of digital age work. For example, I'm sure there are plenty of guys over 50 here who still have business interests overseas and send daily emails associated with work activities. One would assume that eventually a special type of work permit will be introduced to cover this eventuality and distinguish it from the standard work permit.In answer to your other question on pension vs salary: They will see the payee on your Thai bank account statement. Indeed, having the lump sum 800k is the easiest route.
            Reply

        • TheThailandLife says

          Yes, 65k per month. But you have to prove it as an income. To support your application you must have an updated bank book or passbook and a bank letter stating that the money has been deposited to the account (Thai account) from an overseas source for not less than 2 months.
          Reply

          • Ham says

            So if I get this right The payee is me And that's who it should be I'm short of the 800k I have 300k now and the balance will be 500k in income Will this work ? I'd love to have 800k but means I'll have to wait to May 2017 And I can't wait!!
            Reply

  139. Lida Chaves says

    Hello There, I am planning to go to Chiang Mai to do a Thai Yoga Massage course and I have to stay 5 weeks which passes the 30 days that I am allowed to stay without issuing a visa. Do you think it is possible/easier to extent it once I am there, instead of issuing one now as I am not in the country of residency. I hold a British passport.thank you, will appreciate your respond. lida
    Reply

  140. Allen says

    What a great site you have here. Really appreciate the effort you put in to help others like me. Following your Facebook page just now too.Need a little help if you don't mind. I was issued a Non-immigrant O Visa from my home country. I did ask for an one-year multi-entry non-immigrant O Visa at the time of applying for 2.5 times the fees, however for some reason the Thai Consulate told me I would only be able to receive a single entry non-immigrant O Visa which is valid for 90 days with my recent marriage to a Thai wife. My question for you is that if I want to be able come in and out of Thailand while doing business travel for an US corporation that I work for. Would I be able to convert my single entry non-immigrant O Visa to a multi-entry one by just visiting the Government Complex in Chaengwattana? Also, is it even possible for a foreigner like me who is married to a Thai spouse without leaving Thailand at all? I don't intend to not leave Thailand due to work, but if my wife and I decide to have kids I just want to be sure that I wouldn't have to leave Thailand all the time just to meet the Visa requirements. Thank you in advance!
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Allen, sorry for the delayed reply. You can't convert it. You can get a re-entry permit from the airport if you want to leave and come back in within those 90 days -- see here. You can apply for a 1-year extension of stay based on marriage to a Thai national, but you'd need 400K in a Thai bank in your name for at least 2 months before you apply. You can then stay in the country, but would need to do 90-day reporting, and get a re-entry permit if you want to go out and back in. Alternatively, you could go to Laos and apply for a multiple entry one-year non imm O. But having that would mean having to leave every 90 days. But with a multi-entry you don't need the re-entry permit.
      Reply

  141. Piffles says

    Regarding the 1 year extension of a Non-Immigrant O Family/Marriage Visa: The requirements are 400,000Baht in a Thai account for more than 2 months OR more than 40,000Baht of income per month.That income, can it come from overseas or does it have to be Thai income? Would they accept pay slips from my home country as proof?
    Reply

  142. sidney leonard says

    Peter,I will applying for a non-immigrant visa for the purpose of retiring in Thailand, with my Thai wife, sometime next year. Since I may want to volunteer in some capacity while in Thailand (perhaps teaching English at a wat school, etc.), I was told that I should apply for a non-immigrant O visa which is available to those who are marriaed to a Thai, and then, in Thailand, apply for a one year extension which can be renewed each year. This process I am told would allow me to volunteer, whereas I would not be allowed to do so if I enter the country with a non-immigrant O-A retirement visa. Are you knowledgeable regarding this matter? Thank you. Sid L.
    Reply

  143. Alan Cuthbertson says

    Hi nice article. We are in Thailand on the Retirement visa. The process was fairly straight forward enough. We have been here about a year now and because we have come and gone various times to visit friends in other Asian countries we have only had to do the 90 day report once and for that purpose we used a local company in Chiang Mai where we live. The Thai immigration process is hard to get your head around as we keep hearing conflicting reports on what must be done if one comes and goes. We have read that if we go away from our permanent address even overnight a TM30 immigration form needs to be submitted when we return by our landlord and if it isn't completed when we do our next 90 report it could cause problems. We have mentioned this to our landlord but he doesn't seem too interested so at a bit of a loss as to what the actual repercussions will be in the future. What do you know about this process?
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      The TM.30 is to be filled by "House owners, heads of household, landlords or managers of hotels who accommodate foreign nationals on a temporary basis who stay in the kingdom". This is supposed to be done when you arrive, I assume. So if you go away for one night and return to the same address surely it doesn't have to be filled in again.
      Reply

  144. Walid says

    Hello, I married to a Thai lady abroad 6 years ago. I obtained non immigrant O visa and arrived to Bangkok last month. I called the immigration bureau today on 1111 to ask about the required documents if the married visa. They advised me about 11 requirements. One of the is called "Freedom to marry certificate" from my embassy. I called my Embassy ; The Egyptian Embassy, they advised me that they only issue it for singles who are going to marrying for already married ones. I have all the requirements except this documents. I am confused. Any advice! Thanks :-)
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Hi Walid, immigration must have misunderstood you. Your embassy is correct, this document is only required by those wanting to get married. Hve you got a multiple entry Non O visa, based on your marriage? If so, are you seeking to do the one year extension?
      Reply

      • Walid says

        Yes, I got Non-Immigrant, O Visa, Single entry, and I have all the required documents for applying to a marriage visa except the "freedom to marry certificate" because I am already married 6 years ago. Please advise.
        Reply

  145. sidney leonard says

    Peter, regarding the process for applying for an O-A Long Stay Visa .- I will be applying for same at the Thai Consulate in Los Angles and it is my understanding that I will be given a 1 year visa, not a 90 day visa which is the case if one initially applies for same while in Thailand. Also, it is now possible to do the 90 days residence reporting online (in addition to by mail and by a proxy person). Thanks for all the great information you provide on this blog.Sid L.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      Technically, yes. Here's the official rules:Upon arrival in Thailand, the actual length of stay (1 year) will be determined and granted at Immigration check - point.Once having been in the Kingdom up to 90 days, applicant must report himself / herself to the authorities concerned and every 90 days, also report can be made by post by fill up the form TM.47 which can be obtained from immigration office.Correct on the reporting. This can be done online.
      Reply

  147. Aldert says

    One comment about the retirement visa: if you have over 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account, it is not necessary to also have pension income. Just the amount in the bank account is enough. Also note that as of the second year, the amount of 800,000 baht has to be 'seasoned' for a period of 3 months, instead of the 2 months needed with the first extension.
    Reply

    • Ken says

      That’s interesting. So you are saying that if you were to use some of that 800,000 during the year you would have to make sure you had the balance back up to 800,000 a full 3-months before renewing your visa? I didn’t know that. Of course I can’t imagine any scenario in which one would need to have the full 800,000 in the bank. After all, that would mean that the person had no retirement income at all - or at least none that he could legally claim as income. There are probably a lot of people like me out there however who have to deposit a smaller amount to make up for the fact that their retirement income will be somewhat less than 65,000 baht a month. And in such a case unfortunately they can never really use that money unless they can pay it all back fairly quickly. I really hate the idea of having money just sitting in the bank that I can neither spend nor put to work for me but I guess there’s just no way around that one.
      Reply

      • Aldert says

        Yes, there is no obligation at all to keep the 800,000 baht in your bank account as soon as you obtained the extension of your visa based on retirement. And indeed, you have to make sure that ultimately 3 months before the date you are going to apply for a new extension (what you can do up to 30 days prior to the termination of the extension), you get you balance above the 800,000 baht threshold again. During this 3 months 'seasoning period, the bank account must stay above: even 1 baht below the threshold for a day or so will kill your extension. There are some other requirements to take into account too. Such as: google map print of your house, copy of rental agreement, copy of the owner's house book, and the usual passport copies (at least containing the main page, pages with visa, extension stamps, arrival card etc.).
        Reply

        • Ken says

          When you say “owners house book” I assume you are referring to the proof of ownership of the house or condo in which you reside, such as a title deed. In any case, since I will be living in a condo that I will also own I guess this won’t be an issue. The Google map thing seems a bit extreme but I guess with all the foreigners constantly trying to pull a fast one on immigration they just want to make sure you did not give them the address of a vacant lot somewhere.As for the money, luckily I will only need to keep about 250,000 in the account after factoring in monthly retirement payments. Still though, as I said before, I hate having even this small amount of money just sitting there in a low interest bank account forever and not being able to put it to work for me. And I doubt you would be allowed to deposit the money into a high yield CD or some other such investment vehicle as this is supposed to be the money you are actually using to support yourself for the duration of the year. In fact I’m sure that the only reason for the yearly option is so that people who have enough savings to retire 10 or 15 years before they are eligible to receive a pension or social security can do so in Thailand. Although I imagine that plenty of people who are working illegally in Thailand probably also avail themselves of this option if they have that kind of cash lying around.Anyway, now that I think about it you could probably still make use of that money by using it as collateral for a loan should you want to invest in some income property or something like that.
          Reply

          • TheThailandLife says

            What I find interesting is that it has to be in a Thai bank and it can't be in a high-interest account elsewhere. Is there some economic benefit to this, or to the banks? It certainly doesn't benefit the depositor.
            Reply

              • AC says

                Can Aldert, or TTL explained how difficult it is to get monies out of Thailand?I am in the midst of planning retiring in Bangkok and in the process of transferring most of my savings to a bank in Bangkok.My retirement agent was able to open a bank account for me on a tourist visa ( 30 days).If I cannot get my monies out I might just transfer the minimum required which us Baht 800K.
                Reply

            • Ken says

              I have often wondered about this myself. After all the whole point of verifying your income or savings is to ensure that you will have enough money to support yourself in Thailand and therefore will not be working illegally or begging for money on the streets someday or otherwise become a burden to society. And of course, based on the financial requirements to get a retirement visa in Thailand, they clearly want us to pump a LOT more money into the economy than the average working Thai person does.Still, the fact remains; it is just as easy to verify that one has money in a foreign bank account as a Thai bank account. And in any case, having that money in a Thai bank versus a foreign bank does not make the person any more or less likely to spend all of that money in Thailand. So what gives?Well, the fact of the matter is, having money in a Thai bank account helps the Thai economy whether you spend it or not. This is because banks don’t just sit on your money. They put it to work to make more money for themselves. In fact, I think they only have to keep about 5 to 10 percent of your money in reserve and the rest is used to loan out to other individuals and institutions so that they can make money off the interest. And this of course also helps stimulate the economy.Still, foreigners who have chosen to retire in Thailand make up such a small percentage of the population that I can’t imagine that the money they have held in Thai bank accounts has much of an effect on the Thai economy. I don’t really know this for sure though. And in any case I guess only some government official somewhere really knows for sure why we are required to keep our money in a Thai bank.
              Reply

  148. Ken says

    I am actually very familiar with the retirement visa requirements for Thailand but this is the first time I have read about the requirements for the marriage visa and I’m really surprised to learn that it only requires half the deposit that is required for a retirement visa. I suppose the logic here is that if you are married you will automatically have two incomes to live on. This is kind of a silly assumption however since we all know that in the majority of cases the foreign man will probably not only be the sole support for his Thai wife but might possibly also have to partially support his wife’s family. Also I can’t understand why if the security deposit option is 50% less than it is for the retirement visa then why is the income requirement only 37% less. It’s almost as if someone just arbitrarily pulls these numbers out of thin air.Of course the 65,000 a month income requirement for the retirement visa seems fairly reasonable when you consider that this is about what one would make in California at a minimum wage job. When you consider that this is about eight to ten times more than the Thai minimum wage however it starts to sound a little less reasonable.Still, at least they don’t require us to hire domestic help (cook, housekeeper, etc.) in order to get a retirement visa like they do in Indonesia. This is probably one of the most silly visa requirements I have ever heard of. Not that I mind contributing to the Indonesian economy at all, but why should I be forced to contribute only in this very specific way. Its almost as if the government is trying to say that foreigners are not capable of cooking their own meals or keeping a neat and tidy house and garden without help. And frankly that’s almost a little insulting. It wouldn’t be so bad if they would let me hire someone I could actually use, like a massage therapist or acupuncturist who makes house calls for example. But I have no use for a domestic servant and I’m actually kind of uncomfortable with the whole idea of such a thing. This means that if I were to retire in Indonesia I would have to hire a housekeeper and then tell her to just not show up. And some people might take offense at the idea of getting paid to not show up.Getting to my question though, there is one thing that has always confused me about the Thai retirement visa. Here’s the problem. As you say, I can only apply for it during the last 30 days of my 90-day non-immigrant visa, and at this point of course the required money must have already been in my Thai bank account for at least two month. This means I would have to get a Thai bank account and have the money transferred within a week or so of arriving in Thailand. And the problem with that is that you have also said that it is very difficult to get a Thai Bank account without either a work visa or retirement visa. And at this point I would not even have a permanent address in Thailand. Anyway, if this is true, wouldn’t it make this sort of a catch-22 situation? In other words, it sounds like I can’t get the bank account without the visa and I can’t get the visa without the bank account. Of course if I were to hire a lawyer to take care of my visa issues I’m sure they could sort it all out very quickly. But if I were doing it all on my own it sounds like it would be a real pain in the @ss.But then again I may just go for the education visa at first and not apply for the retirement visa until much later. For some reason I just never took an interest in learning Thai like I did with Japanese but I really need to learn it sometime and it sounds like this would be a good way to kill two birds with one stone.
    Reply

    • TheThailandLife says

      It is difficult to find logic for many of the visa rules. I think the key difference between the retirement visa and the Non Immigrant O visa based on marriage is that a retirement visa is a yearly extension that can be renewed every year without you having to return to your home country, whereas the Non O isn't. So effectively the retirement visa really does allow you to stay in Thailand for the foreseeable future.In answer to your question, you won't have any trouble opening a bank account because prior to getting your retirement visa you will arrive on a 90-day Non-Immigrant visa issued by the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country. If you go to a branch of Bangkok Bank you won't have any problem opening an account on that visa.I had no idea that hiring a domestic helper was a rule for getting a retirement visa in Indonesia. That is really forcing your hand, but perhaps they see that as an unconventional way to tackle unemployment.
      Reply

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