Also known as Non-Immigrant O-X Long Stay Visa is valid for either a single entry or multiple entries. As the name says, this visa entitles the holder a stay for five years in Thailand. However, the visa is also renewable for every 5 years and the process can be done in Thailand.
So, what are your qualifications to obtain a 5-year Retirement Visa?
- First and foremost, the application is open to the below-mentioned nationalities;
- Denmark,
- France,
- Netherland,
- Switzerland,
- The United Kingdom,
- Canada,
- The United States,
- Italy,
- Germany,
- Norway,
- Japan,
- Australia, and
- Sweden,
- Your age must be 50 years or above;
- Must meet any of these financial requirements;
- Security deposit of 3 million Baht in a Thai Bank Account for 12 months prior to the visa application.
- Monthly income or pension of at least THB 100,000. An affidavit from the foreign embassy or consulate has to be obtained as proof of the income.
- Security deposit in a Thai bank not less than THB 1.8 million for at least 12 months prior to the visa application.
- Other documents that may be required:
- Health Insurance
- Police Clearance
- Medical Certificate
So, how do you apply for the retirement visa process?
You must apply for a 90-day non-immigrant visa from the Thai embassy in your home before applying for a Thai retirement visa. Also, you will have to wait for 60 days to be in Thailand before filing the application at the immigration office.
Note that your visa extension can be revoked in case the sum of money in the bank account is lesser than three million Baht at the end of the first year or if the money is lesser than 1.5 million Baht at the end of the second year or if the money was spent somewhere outside Thailand.
The foreigners must report to the immigration officer every year to check for the supporting documents and qualifications. Similarly, the foreigner on the visa exemption stamp/tourist visa can apply for a retirement visa, provided that the foreigner has catered to the requirements for the non-immigrant O visa plus for the 5-year extension visa applications.
So, what must you be reminded of after holding 5-year Thai retirement visa?
90-day reporting
As a retirement visa holder, you must notify the Immigration Office about your present residential address every 90 days. You can do this by mail or by personally visiting the immigration office.
Re-entry permit
This must be obtained after getting the 5-year extension of stay.
