The Non-Immigrant O-A visa, commonly called the retirement visa, is the most popular long-stay option for expats over 50 who want to live in Thailand. This guide walks you through the requirements, the application process, and how to handle annual renewals from within Thailand.
Who qualifies?
You must be 50 years of age or older. There is no income requirement in your home country, but you must demonstrate financial means through either a Thai bank deposit, monthly income, or a combination of both.
Financial requirements
The Immigration Bureau requires one of the following: a deposit of THB 800,000 in a Thai bank account held for at least two months before the application; a monthly income of at least THB 65,000; or a combination totalling THB 800,000 per year.
Renewing from within Thailand
Once you have an O-A visa and enter Thailand, you receive a 1-year permission to stay. You can apply for annual extensions at the local Immigration Office in Pranburi (serving Hua Hin). Bring your bank book, insurance certificate, and TM7 form.