How to retire in Thailand | This is Thailand

[@TheThaiger]

Thank you for watching and please check out all the latest headlines on Thailand News Today: kzbin.info/www/bejne/f4eUapenjpijoNk

[@TheWorldTeacher]

BOGUS INFORMATION!!!

[@ElijahReuben-]

I'm 54 and my wife and I are VERY worried about our future, gas and food prices rising daily. We have had our savings dwindle with the cost of living into the stratosphere, and we are finding it impossible to replace them. We can get by, but can't seem to get ahead. My condolences to anyone retiring in this crisis, 30 years nonstop just for a crooked system to take all you worked for...

[@chideraatuba9455]

I feel your pain mate, as a fellow retiree, I’d suggest you look into passive index fund investing and learn some more. For me, I had my share of ups and downs when I first started looking for a consistent passive income so I hired an expert advisor for aid, and following her advice, I poured $30k in value stocks and digital assets, Up to 200k so far and pretty sure I'm ready for whatever comes...

[@ElijahReuben-]

@@chideraatuba9455 That's actually quite impressive, I could use some Info on your FA, I am looking to make a change on my finances this year as well

[@chideraatuba9455]

@@ElijahReuben- My advisor is VICTORIA CARMEN SANTAELLA

[@chideraatuba9455]

You can look her up online

[@chideraatuba9455]

Nah I Can't say I can relate, VICTORIA CARMEN SANTAELLA charge is one-off and pretty reasonable when compared to what I benefit in returns.

[@neilrennie8121]

You don't need 800000thb in a Thai bank account for 2 months if applying from your own country. In fact,you can't even open a Thai bank account until your in Thailand. Also, it's far easier to apply first for a 3 mth O visa, then open the bank account in Thailand and apply for a 1 year extension to your O visa based on retirement. No need for health insurance, or criminal record check or the medical requirement.

[@johnsambrook1108]

Correct Neil and far easier

[@thebangkokconnection4080]

I opened a Thai bank account with no trouble while not being an expat at the time. Thai banks are all different. Biggest problem is if you die in Thailand. The person if a foreigner that is listed as beneficiary has to travel to Thailand to claim the funds. And as America has a $10,000 limit you can import or export you may need several trips, then there is the Thai and home country tax matters. I am lucky my Thai spouse will, after taxes, get the money without travel or hoops to jump through.

[@fredbohm4728]

@@thebangkokconnection4080 America does not have a $10,000 limit you can import or export. You can import or export any sum of money you like. Anything over $10,000 must be declared.

[@johnsambrook1108]

@@thebangkokconnection4080 Don't let her know that lol

[@michaelhillier1377]

You can only get an O A visa from your own country. An O visa is only for those with an O visa in Thailand already and they are going to phase it out and insist that everyone has expensive health care insurance .

[@mikefreeriderAsia]

For everyone that I know that lives here and is retired here or married we typically love Thailand and it has so much to offer. What frustrates us the most is the mountains of paperwork required to do anything in Thailand whether it's retirement visas, marriage visas, or even getting driver's license. Paper paper paper sign sign phone number phone number phone number. The government always talks about wanting to have high-end tourists there's many of us here that have spent a lot of money purchasing houses or condos and they just forget about us and our investments and make it difficult to renew the visas every single year, and require us to do 90-day reporting. The system is so antiquated it's ridiculous.

[@mikefreeriderAsia]

@@dereksg1880 well it's easy to fly in and out when it's only a few hours but for some of us it was 27 hours plus to get here and when I was in business I was doing that six to seven times a year traveling to southeast Asia. After earning my million mile status that's not kilometers about 12 years ago yeah I don't need to fly anymore I prefer life on two wheels and I ride 50,000 km a year throughout Asia and that is a lot of fun

[@brucemcclellan8524]

Thanks for this clear explanation of the topic . Kudos.

[@RS-qi2wx]

Great news for everyone with first- and second-phase syphilis!

[@timratcliff6590]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@carleto9597]

Thanks for all the information, very helpful. Thanks Natty

[@stessalee]

Natty has done it again! Thank you for the information! I am a Thai who has been living in US for 40 years and am married to my wife. If you can also include information regarding a marriage visa or permanent residence through marriage. I think many Americans retired to Thailand and marry to the Thais. This will be good information for many!!

[@CA-1954]

Yes I have all the info to retire in Thailand except the money.

[@gray2942]

Unless the the requirement process for an OA Retirement Visa has changed it can only be issued in a person's home country. Which is better because the applicant doesn't have to bring the 800K to Thailand. Please correct me if I'm wrong. Also as most of the Thai Consulates around the world have closed its easier to arrive on a 30 day visa exempt ( soon to be 45 days with a 45 day extension of 45 days.) During which time you can change your status in country, either using an agent or approach Immigration Office's to facilitate the change. Initially change to a 3 month Non O then to a 12 month extension of the Non O. Look forward to your reply. G

[@DSandy111]

Correct!

[@DSandy111]

But you still need he 800 in a Thai bank if you get the O in Thailand

[@reread2549]

Great information thank you so much

[@tyhan2159]

Thank you for your information!

[@arg888]

How about a video about Thai banking for foreigners and retirees?

[@brucerobinson1037]

Lived in Thailand for 4 years on a Retirement Visa in Phuket and Chiang Mai, the wait at both Immigration Offices every 90 days was a pain ( understand now you can do it online ), in Chiang Mai you had to be at the Immigration Office at 6am to line up, before they opened at maybe 8am or 9am, then you were given a number and told to come back after 1pm and you might get processed before 3pm, or pay the Agent a fee, who obviously paid an official at Immigration, and it was all done in a couple of hours ??? Yes you can eat cheap like a Thai off the roadside, but if you shop at the International Supermarkets because you like to cook yourself, then you are really paying extra's, and dont think you can drink cheap wine in Thailand, a $5 bottle of wine in Australia sells for about $15 to $18 Aust in Thailand. And the Health Insurance is a trap, you go to Hospital with full insurance, and show the hospital you have Insurance, but on being discharged you have to pay in cash your hospital fees, and claim it back from the Health Insurance company which takes months, so dont be getting sick and having no cash avaialble.

[@davidbrompton7235]

The 90 days things is easy as all you need to do is go to Malaysia , Vietnam or Singapore for a week break before the 90 days is up and come back to Thailand and you get another 90 days of no worries.

[@johng5950]

@@davidbrompton7235 Bruce seems to be talking about the every 90 day check in you have to do when you are on a year long retirement visa, which can be done online (if the system operational on the day you try), can pay an agent to do the check in for you, or do it yourself while possibly going through the crap Bruce had to deal with by standing in the immigration line. You seem to be talking about something else like a tourist visa. I would see it as painful and costly if a retiree is forced to leave the country every 90 days for a week.

[@maggiegrl6068]

@@johng5950 It is true John. If you leave the country before 90 days, your 90 days starts over again when you re-enter Thailand.

[@davidbrompton7235]

@@johng5950 No I am talking about the retirement Visa, I had one for 3 years. The online system is not that reliable as IT knowledge in Thailand is not the best.

[@brucerobinson1037]

And the yearly renewal is the same procedure, queue up at 6am to get a number, and be back at 1pm and wait in hope. Not everyone wants to leave every 3 months to get a 90 day extension. Technically if you go to another Province for a week, you are to report to the local Police that you are there, but i never did that either. I just found all this paperwork tiresome and it felt like you were only ever a temporary resident.

[@JoeSmith-hs4lo]

Considering the restrictions Visa's, Foreigners not being able to buy land, Expensive health care (Insurance) Then needing a lump sum in a Thai bank. It's not for me no thank you, I can stay in Europe and in some tax free.

[@shuttlemanjack]

Check on the price of medical insurance if you are 75!

[@lukerabin5079]

Cool. Enjoy winter.

[@stupot1952]

AGREE WITH WHAT YOU SAY NATTY BUT ITSTHE POWERS THAT BE WHO MAKE IT HARD TO LIVE IN THAILAND!!

[@zandig666]

Thank you this was very helpful I am thinking about retiring there within 3 yrs

[@TheThaiger]

Glad it was helpful! Best of luck to you in the future!

[@rosieb4029]

Great video Natty 🙌🏼😃

[@TheAndersnelsson]

Thank you, Natty! Thailand is at the top of my list!

[@lukerabin5079]

Planning on it later this year.

[@thefilipinapee]

Thanks for sharing!. Information is helpful aboutr retirement in Siam.

[@k9companion231]

I lived in Thailand for 9 years before returning home. This go around I will retire in the Philippines under the military SRRV for 3K and visit Thailand when the urge occurs. Thanks for sharing your valuable information.

[@MrPonsrock]

Great info!

[@manfmnantucket]

I think the information displayed at 4:30 is incorrect... AFAIK, if you make the 800K deposit, you don't need to show income. Those three items listed are each one option for qualifying financially. Please correct me if that's wrong.

[@manfmnantucket]

@@scottpeterson8388 thanks for confirming..

[@zandig666]

Much appreciated and you speak english very well !!

[@TheThaiger]

Thank you!

[@loveaodai100]

I am an American from NYC living the past 30 years in Vietnam now retired in Saigon and totally content doing so. I enjoy watching regional vlogs since all of Southeast Asia fascinates me. Being married to a Vietnamese national makes it rather easy to stay. I'm sure that there are many foreigners married to Thai nationals living abroad who might want to consider retiring to Thailand and so I think it would be helpful to add some information about requirements in their case as I am sure things are much easier for them as well. I have been to Thailand many times over the past 30+ years and have always enjoyed the visits. One of my favorite foods in the universe is Thai green chicken curry. I can get it in Vietnam but not quite the same experience. Anyway... thanks for your videos....

[@OneJuanWon]

The "O-X" visa sounds great for a long term commitment. However, I would be concerned about the security of this arrangement if another 'health scare' developed and the government decided to ask all foreign nationals to leave before the term of their visa was up.

[@andyheritage]

there's a residential beachside development call the EnergyCity in Hua Hin, great for retirees at any age and they take care of your visa situation as well.

[@gerrywhitaker1284]

Thanks for the info, I will be there in October with my ladyboy friend and will check it out

[@stevenamel9459]

May I know what year cost you have mentioned on your video? The cost of living you mentioned does not apply to current year. Can not find any apartment for 20,009 in CBD.

[@RolandW_DIYEnergyandMore]

So, for the O-A with 800k deposit, I still do need monthly income too?

[@LDW1961]

No, that's badly phrased in the video, it's either, or, and also mix of both! The lump sum is the least hassle free. But the best option is to pass on ALL of them, and snowbird just under 9 months a year on a FREE extendable tourist visa. The catch there is, you still need to figure out where you'll stay for the rest of the year, Veitnam, Laos? Or head home?

[@RolandW_DIYEnergyandMore]

@@LDW1961 how would you actually get a Thai bank account, deposit 800k there 2 months before you apply for a Visa from a country abroad? I guess you would need to do that as a tourist in Thailand before. But can tourists even get accounts? This doesn't sound that easy for me, haha

[@martypoll]

@@RolandW_DIYEnergyandMore If you get an OA visa then you meet the financial requirements using money in your home country bank accounts. You get one year in Thailand and you have plenty of time to open an account and deposit the 800,000 baht before your first visa extension. The monthly income method of 65,000 baht/month requires that you have a full year of deposits before you apply for the 1 year extension so it may be difficult to do for the first extension.

[@EcleticMusicFilm]

I think its "either or" for the O-A visa. You don't have to have all three, just one of the requirements. So, If I open a bank account with 800k Bhat, then it should satisfy the requirement? Is that true? How much is the health insurance cost per month?

[@henryquach604]

After conversion , my condo rent is 43494 a month in baht living in Vancouver BC Canada. This rental price is only for rent excluding utility bill and other necessary expenses. =D

[@richardclaus4751]

If you apply for the O retirement visa there is also the Non-O visa. This requires a verifiable income but does not require X-Baht to be left in the bank. The annual paperwork has changed and has become more convoluted than it was. But it is doable. Monthly costs? We live in a house and pay $1,742 per month in Baht, plus other associated costs. Utilities vary but electric is much higher than you indicate. No, we do not live in Bangkok.

[@jimbrown2485]

Yes I got the non o Immigrant retirement Visa and that's the best one . why did she not mention that in the video.

[@rogerparis]

Nicely presented.

[@soimikey]

Having 800k idle is the biggest obstacle

[@DavidWilliams-qr5yj]

If you don't have $25,000 emergency fund you should not be retired you should still be working. 800,000 THB is just $25,000 and 90% of retired people should have an emergency fund of $25,000

[@Sunyata7755]

Good information and well presented.Just a couple of points: Some embassies/consulates have higher deposit and income requirements e.g. Los Angeles and Sydney. Also the insurance requirement for the OA visa rises to $US100,000 by the end of this year. Getting insurance after age 65 is quite expensive. Kind regards

[@johng5950]

@Steven Ryan I wonder if "Getting insurance after age is quite expensive" means for me, when I hit 65, it's cheaper to get my medicare and move back to expensive ass America for healthcare. If so, that's very disappointing.

[@LDW1961]

People seem confused about insurance. The premiums do increase with age, but if you enter on a tourist visa, you can apply within Thailand and you don't need, the criminal checks the medical, or currently, the insurance. So don't wait! Once you get your annual extension you can go back home, just pay the $30 reentry fee before you depart, and return to renew it before it expires, or you have to start over.

[@LDW1961]

@@johng5950 Not at all. Get health insurance from a reputable Thai company in Thailand. I use Pacific Cross, that's not a recommendation, but an option. Any procedure including dental in Thailand is ridiculously cheap compared to "the west" and I'm here to witness that I've had equal to better care here than in Australia.

[@LDW1961]

If you build up a history with an insurance company, you'll get favorable rates as time goes on and you don't claim, another trick is to NOT renew when they first ask, eventually they will call you personally, with some juicy discounts to keep your business.

[@LDW1961]

90 day reports are suspended when you're away. The 90 days starts over new each time you return, if you travel enough, even a flight to Cambodia or Vietnam, you can avoid 90 day reports forever! Having said that, in Chiang Mai they are drive through, like McDonald's and a breeze now.

[@JohnnyTraveller]

The cost of living in Thailand I'm guessing only applies to those who pay big rent, I'm married to a Thai and we are building our home in Thailand where we will retire in about 7 years, we both work full time in Australia, but even so, when we go to Thailand we stay with relatives mostly, and we would struggle to spend 30,000 baht a month, (that includes her family), I guess if you're into bars and girls it can cost a fortune, but if you really want to retire and enjoy Thai culture, it's very affordable. We stayed at one apartment that cost 5000 baht a month, ate nothing but street food, (wouldn't eat anything else), and electricity was around 2000 baht a month. I would struggle to understand where you would need 68,000 baht a month, unless you're renting a high-end condo.

[@LDW1961]

Mate, even though your seeing the real Thailand, you are still only here on holiday. Once you retire, and you age, trust me, you will pine for the (expensive) Aussie comfort foods you now take for granted, and unless you live in the North, your bill for aircon alone will never be under 4K especially as an old bugger. I have older friends and they cannot tolerate anything other than "Goldilocks" temperatures. You'll still spend a lot less than B68K a month, but if you think you'll realistically maintain the costs you enjoy now in old age, forget it. And I didn't even cover healthcare. It may be cheap, but not THAT cheap if something serious breaks.

[@JohnnyTraveller]

@@LDW1961 I live and work in Townsville, the heat doesn't worry me, I also lived in Thailand for over a year when I first met my wife, and we both still eat mainly Thai food that she prepares, I understand where your coming from, but still 65,000 baht a month, that's $623, a week, my weekly costs in Australia are under $500, that's paying a mortgage, insurance, electricity, rates, car, food, etc. To be spending that sort of money in Thailand then I doubt they could afford to live in a western country either. Also we own our land and will build our home before we retire there, so one less thing for me to pay. Even with electricity at 4000 baht a month, I'd still struggle to be spending 30,000 baht between 2 of us.

[@LDW1961]

Good on you, these guys are living large. Last year during the second wave peak, I sat in a farang restaurant and watched at least three mature foreigners arrive with two girls in tow. Given this is one random restaurant the mind boggles. I personally knew (he was murdered) a guy who would spend his vacay in a penthouse with a minimum of six girls on a weekly retainer of $200 USD each, plus meals, booze and board. for some guys B68K a month is a quiet month.

[@Sweetlyfe]

@@LDW1961 sounds like an empty vacuous life to me, no real connection except paying Women, no wonder he was murdered.

[@davidwilliams-wg9xo]

Not every one wants to live in a simple room and eat street food 555

[@vicbrooks6575]

Great info Natty!

[@markslupe7197]

I would like to have more information about the marriage visa. Is it more expensive and would I need to renew it annually?

[@peterw7012]

Marriage (to a thai) visa is yearly,,renew in Thailand, no insurance required, less money in bank, 400k baht OR 40k per month income. And you can work. Actual visa is 2,000 baht. A bit more documents but way cheaper.

[@LDW1961]

It's half the annual price, but the annual "hoops" are humiliating, ridiculous, and complete authoritarian overreach. There are always those among us however, who will accept almost any intrusion by authority as a sign of benign avuncular affection? Bizarre the way some humans minds work. maybe they secretly enjoy being whipped after hours? Fine. But you don't need to bend over for "the man" too!

[@markslupe7197]

@@peterw7012 Thank you Peter for the excellent information.

[@markslupe7197]

@@fhorst02 Thank you Frank for your information. Plan to marry Thai bride in less than 2 years when we move to Buriram. She can then retire from her restaurant job she's had for almost 18 years.

[@johnzimmerman340]

It should be mentioned that the income and/or bank account can be satisfied with an account in your home country if that is where you apply for the visa. In other words, you don't need a Thai bank account. I submitted a copy of my US bank account at the Thai Consulate when I applied for a retirement visa in 2017. I don't know if that rule has changed. Also, there are other documents you must submit not mentioned in the video. Make sure you go very carefully through the requirements listed on the website of the Thai Consulate.

[@samcan9953]

Is it me or the money requirements are not clear? Here's what I understand (correct me if I'm wrong): For the O-A visa, I deposit 800k bahts in Thailand, then apply for the visa, showing I have a monthly income of 65k bahts. Once in Thailand, I can spend the 800k, but in order to renew at the end of the year, I will have to show that I have at least 800k per year (deposit and/or monthly income). Or do I have to keep 800k in the bank at all times ? The part that's confusing is the third point: a combination of the security... Or is it that we have to meet only one of the three points ? 800k in the bank at all times OR 65k per month OR a combination (for example 50k per month + 200k in the bank). Not clear. (All 3 would be overkill, especially since we need to have insurance on top)

[@martinbonner2585]

Pretty sure it's 800k in Bank for 2 months before applying or 65k income. Didn't mention that you have to report to the immigration office every 3 months to renew

[@russbarrows6689]

Because the American consulate no longer supplies a "proof of income statement" we were told that we had to have a minimum 800,000 B per person in the bank and that while we could use the account the account could not go below 800 K for two months and that to apply again at the end of the year we would have to bring the accounts up to 800 K two months before making the application to renew.

[@alien_from_somewhere]

Natty, how do you speak such a clear English? You speak better than soooo many native English speakers.

[@hmm12336]

Google her name and her bio will come up that may explain a bit 👍🏽

[@patf29]

She grew up in So California

[@alien_from_somewhere]

@@hmm12336 what's her full name so that I can search.

[@kylieanne23]

Great job Natty! Not sure where the money in a Thai Bank fits into the steps if you have to have it 2 months prior to application? Can you open a Thai bank account from Australia? My understanding was that you could only open a Thai bank account once you had a 12 month lease for accomodation in place. Thanks Thaiger members… watching you daily keeps the dream alive and getting closer! ☺️

[@normp4914]

When I applied for OA from Canada a few years ago, I only had to show funds in Canadian bank. Funds or 800000thb have to be in Thai bank a few months before you renew for second year, or be able to show deposits in Thai bank of 65000thb or more per month in Thai bank.

[@coastmansingha9980]

Surely if you choose to retire in Thailand you want to do more than merely survive! You can live well in Thailand as I have been doing for the last 16 years on much less than $1,000 per month. The greatest treat to your wealth is the exchange rate. When I first came here it was 74 Baht to £1 now its barely 44 and has been as low as 37. However, if you cannot obtain a long-term visa to live in Thailand and there are many types other than a retirement one, then game over!

[@s.c.6367]

I just retired in my 60s and I will keep my insurance because my employer will continue to pay a large portion of the premiums as if I was still employed. (Aetna, MHBP and Vedvip). This includes dental and vision. But will I still have to get Thai insurance? Doesn't make sense. The coverage amount is way more than required, not to mention all three of AFLAC's policies as supplements. Hopefully that will be enough. Thai insurance probably would be cheaper for sure but if I leave Thailand I cannot get my old insurance back once I drop it it's gone. Any information on that perspective?

[@loveaodai100]

assuming that insurances is based outside of Thailand.... there is a good chance that it will not cover you in Thailand beyond a limited period or certain emergencies. You'll need to check carefully.

[@janhansen6195]

Hi again it will not cover you need to get Thai insuranse as well mate, but this will work in the philippines have you been there?

[@loveaodai100]

@@janhansen6195 I am in Vietnam where I have been for many years but have been to Thailand on various occasions. Not been to the Philippines since 1989. Being 68 I no longer buy health insurance as it would exclude anything important and direct costs in Vietnam are still fairly reasonable. Can also go to US for medicare if critical situation arose. The important thing is to know how to use the local system and to know exactly what you are covered for if anything. Wishing you well!!

[@josecrespo4551]

GREAT NEWS. YOUR ENGLISH IS GREAT ,I LOVE UDON THANI, SAKON NAHKON, AND SOON TO VISIT PRACHIN BURY..

[@johnchen6041]

Thanks 😊 Natty.

[@hillbillyinparadise]

Great report, thanks

[@stephenronzano]

With a bank deposit of Baht 800,000/almost $25,000 US, it would not be feasible for me to retire in Thailand. Besides, I would like to work as long as I can. The restrictions seem too stringent for me at this time.

[@davidwilliams-wg9xo]

Yes Thailand does not want cheep Charlies anymore

[@ASouthernBoyCanSurvive]

@@davidwilliams-wg9xo no bums

[@davidwilliams-wg9xo]

@@ASouthernBoyCanSurvive if a guy doesnt have $25K emergency fund,he's not ready to retire ,he needs to keep working and saving.

[@ASouthernBoyCanSurvive]

@@davidwilliams-wg9xo people are nuts is all I can say

[@FitandFabinvestor]

I have to leave 3 million baht to just sit useless depreciating in the bank while inflation eats it up? That’s a terrible thing to do with your currency.

[@fredthornton1185]

I agree.

[@SPDATA1]

I have never and will never go...no offense but....

[@markwalker8374]

Its so the bank can write loans for 8x or 10x the value of your deposit and give you bugger all in return

[@mikefrost5786]

I thought it was 800,000 ?

[@Sahrokh]

"land of smile" => yes, the smile of your wife when she divorces you and keeps the property you - Farang - are not allowed to own but needed to buy.

[@airchanthaboury9005]

HI Nat, Great video. Just want to know if I apply for Non-O Visa in Thailand during tourist visa, can I use police check & criminal check from Australia or do I need to get it done in Thailand?

[@pegelliott4058]

Nice explanation

[@peterparello8319]

Love the info Thanks Natty

[@s.c.6367]

I was told I can arrive as a tourist go to a lawyer, open a bank account, transfer funds and change status to retirement visa is this wrong? Two lawyers told me that both in Bangkok at different times.

[@janhansen6195]

Hi Scott if l was you l stay away from Thailand they change the visa rules all the time you have no rigths in that country, try the Philippines 10 times better mate. l know l have lived in Thailand for many years and since the military took over in 2014 all my western frinds have left the country. And the girls are 10 times better and they all speak English mate and they have the same values as we have. lf you have lived in Thailand you understand what l am saying about this lol

[@gerfdavies1450]

Thanks Natty. What happens when the 10 year retirement is finished. How do people stay retired in Thailand?

[@jackbrown8052]

Far easier and cheaper to retire in the Philippines. In a major city in the Philippines and even in some of the smaller cities far more Filipinos are likely to speak English. IOW it's easier and cheaper to retire in the Philippines. Never have understood why Thailand has never made learning English in school mandatory as the Philippines has done?

[@desrtfox]

Because the Phillippines were ceded from Spain to the USA in 1898... then they had to learn English. Thailand was never colonized by a Western power (yay). That said, I am glad some of the Thais speak English. One of my best friends is Thai and lives in BBK and he speaks perfect English. Someday if I can retire in Thailand, I will try to take some Thai language classes... always good to learn more.

[@asterisk911]

@@desrtfox Indeed-- in effect the Kingdom of Siam cut deals with the British and French and, during the height of Western imperial conquest, the Siamese colonized land where people aren't ethnically Thai but are, e.g., Khmer, or Lao, or Malay. That last one, especially, is still a sore spot.

[@janhansen6195]

l agree with you so much l did live in Thailand for many years then the military took over and we all left, all my friends have now gone from Thailand, the crap with visa got too much as well for all of us, they change the visa rules to many times and still do so it is to much hassel if you are retierd to stay in Thailand, they only want people how stay 3 weeks on hollyday, so they can get all there monye out of them. l did go to the Philippines and was so suprised how easy it was with visa they really got it and l was so happy and they all speak English as well so and allway have a big smile on, it is like the old Thailand, and l am trying to tell everybody to stop going to Thailand and go to the Philippines insted. l did meet my soulmat in the Philippines also, she is 25 years younger than me but now we have been marriage for over 4 years and suprise we have a baby 19 mounts as well lol. I didn't think my life could change like this. l have a great wife and a happy life, we now live back in my home contry because l want her to grow up here back home. When you have worked your hole life and you are alone then you want someone in your life that care about you, we all want that. l found that so l am lucky l manage to start all over again and my older daugther are best friends with my wife and they bout have a baby girl so everything is great, l hope everybody is luck like me

[@DSandy111]

Thai food, and my Thai partner, suay mak mak 🥰

[@armunro]

I suspect the phillipines is a better place to retire. Lots of reasons, plus easier visa requirements etc.

[@leedex]

But most Philippine girls does not want to be with an old foreigner, that could be their grandfather 😂

[@happyhippo5880]

@@leedex of course they do

[@SilentDeath-qc1cf]

@Jimmy Riddlemethis filipino women only wants money and her family milking you😂

[@BarnabyBarry]

@@leedex both Philippines and Thailand love older men but to get a 8-9-10 you need coin

[@philliphwee4966]

While expensive, an Elite Visa seems the least complicated. If the prices of Elite Visas were half of what they are now, Thailand may see far more people buying those visas.

[@exalhoa]

Definitely the easiest long term visa. It took me 1-2 hours to upload the required info. 3 weeks to receive my approval. I then paid using a credit card which took about 5 minutes and a week later I received my welcome letter (last week). The only thing left to do is have my passport stamped which I'll do on my first visit back next month. This is for the Easy Access 5 year @ 600,000k. We'll see how it actually works in practice once I return as far as the arrival benefits and 90 day reporting. I wanted easy in and out privileges as I don't plan on retiring there at this point even though I'm over 50. (BTW, I applied using Jett's Elite Visa video link so hopefully he made a few bucks!).

[@johng5950]

@@exalhoa Good info. Thanks for sharing

[@LDW1961]

@@exalhoa That's crazy money for just 5 years. It would have been better spent shuttle between Manila and BKK until it ran out then add B600,000 more to that budget and keep going. It may not last 5 years but at least you get plane tickets, tourist visas and some nice condo out of it rather than just freaking temporary VISA! In what world does that make any sense at all?

[@LDW1961]

@@exalhoa Easy in and out priveleges? Pray tell, what are these? And what makes them worth $17,400 ? Do you know what that cash could buy you in terms of other goods and services in South East Asia? And your exit end entry is unlimited by air anyway. You've been taken, my good man.

[@exalhoa]

@@LDW1961 Nope. I do my research. So the next time I decide to stay for 4,5 6 months, I do nothing. They do the 90 day reporting for me. The retirement visa is for pensioners. Too much hassle for me. I worked hard for my money and now I am going to enjoy spending it. I'm not wealthy by a lot of standards, but 600k baht is chump change to me at this time in my life. I entered Thailand in Dec on the 30 day VOA and then extended it at the CNX immigration office. It took 5 hours, essentially a wasted day. That was enough for me to decide I don't want to do that again. Depending on how the next year or so goes I'll probably pay the 400k to extend it to 20 years. Easy, done! Never have to concern myself with a visa for Thailand again. Thanks for your concern though.

[@EdwardGriffin]

Is Hi-So inclusive of farangs? For some reason I had thought it might be reserved for Thais only. I suppose if you've got your kids in private school, are paying for their polo lessons, and driving a Mercedes you could be Hi-So after all.

[@alphonsonapoli6484]

your video was informative i am looking to retire in thailand those requirments are a little to much im looking to aquire an elite visa i would rather spend the money . what's your thought on applying for the elite visa

[@airchanthaboury9005]

Hi Nat, Great video, I am qualify for Non-O Visa and thinking of apply by myself but IS IT REALLY TO APPLY BY YOURSELF? If it is too hard, do you know any agency that I can pay to get it done?

[@johnkhonkaen4461]

Not correct...pleas research more...I just renewed my retirement visa here in Thailand and no insurance or police check was required...but applying from ur own country I do believe it is required....so applying in Thailand is so much easier

[@johng5950]

Agreed. She should have better explained O vs OA visas, which would have made your point clearer. One you do inside Thailand and one you do from your home country and there's different requirements for each. Natty is awesome though, so I appreciate the effort.

[@BiagioSciacca]

Excellent presentation, one of the best I have seen. Thank you!

[@g41133]

THANK YOU for saying the ACTUAL Thai name Kreung Thep for the city Westerners call Bankok. I've always called it Kreung Thep.

[@johnnielson4341]

Thailand officially changed the name a couple of months ago. Kreung Thep is official for all people now, not just foreigners.

[@g41133]

@@johnnielson4341 That is GREAT! Krueng Thep should have been the only name for the city all along! Glad it's FINALLY Kreung Thep for everyone including foreigners.

[@rodhales9536]

It wont after september when the hungry money grab insurance requirement kicks in and you have to pay for a ridiculous policy requirement kicks in for the O-A visa kicks in and that is what most who have entered recently have. Oh and thats if you can qualify for a policy as well.

[@ArcherNX1701]

Natty, great info! Please do a sequel for the people who just want to stay 3 months. I think that's maximum a tourist can stay, correct? And the details on the "visa run"? Thanks!

[@peterw7012]

A lot of confusion in the video and the comment. OA visa is obtained in home country with money in a home country account. A much easier option is to get a retirement stay once you enter Thailand on a tourist visa. No insurance required. Agents can help get around most of the requirements. Apply inside Thailand with an agent, its no insurance, no money in the bank,

[@muhammadkhoso7858]

Excellent video

[@MyBelch]

1:00 can you give us an example of "benefits" afforded to expatriate retirees to Thailand? I seem to have overlooked them over the past two decades.

[@dreammix9430]

THAILAND!!! HERE I COME!!!! ♥️♥️♥️

[@scottDchicago]

I absolutely adore Thailand with having taken 12 trips there spanning 3 decades. I’ve spent the past 2 1/2 years researching this very issue. Also, I haven’t missed a single Thaiger episode. My ultimate conclusion is that I will enjoy taking awesome, extended vacations to Thailand. I will NOT retire permanently to Thailand for a variety of reasons. I foresee myself falling into the hi-so category, yet because of the tedious visa, accounting, medical insurance regulations, etc., I’ve carefully determined that enjoying several months a year vacationing is better than having to deal with the ever changing, tedious, and downright frustrating requirements of full time retirement. My wife, an accomplished accountant/financial analyst, is native Thai. Funny note, I actually miss Thailand more than she. Talk about irony!

[@exalhoa]

If you are in the hi-so category consider the Elite Visa. I just received mine, the process was painless. I'm over 50 and retired but not ready for full time residency at this time so the in and out privileges of the Elite made it the one for me (for now anyway).

[@scottDchicago]

@@exalhoa Thanks for your thoughtful and insightful reply. I certainly will consider that option. Although I may be in the hi-so category, I would make it barely into that category (if that makes any sense). I’m about 10 years away from decision time.

[@johng5950]

@Scott D I would love to do the same strategy as you're mentioning. It would be my preference. Just wish the cost of medical care wasn't so damn high here in America. Its so high, I feel like I would be forced to continue working and never be able to truly retire until Medicare kicks in at age 65. Unfortunately, nowhere close to rich.

[@scottDchicago]

@@johng5950 You focused upon a very important issue, problem, and obstacle getting in the way of retirement prior to the age of Medicare! You articulated it perfectly. Also, the cost of International School ($30,000 U.S. plus) is another obstacle for those such as myself who had children later in life, etc. I can retire in six years but have children that will still be in school.

[@gary8173]

My biggest headache is being fined by the Patong Police for not having a Thai DL. I have an International License that I have used in probable 10 different countries. I also have a DL from my home country. Both no good. I have been to the Phuket Transportation Dept/DL Bureau to be told the same thing. However I can't get a Thai DL unless I have a Visa (Immigration is working on my Retirement Visa which takes 5 weeks). Once I have that I must make an appointment with the Transportation Dept. Oh yea they are 2 months behind on appointments. Boils down to the Thai Police Department just wants money plain and simple. They set up check points on the two main roads in Patong and reel in tourists like shooting fish in a barrel!!! Hey, Tiger how about reporting on this scheme ???

[@firedude3337]

They are brave...but not brave enough to take on BIB bribery and corruption.

[@LDW1961]

Just use Grab. It's way cheaper in the long term. Unlike Uber elsewhere. With Grab being so cheap and the options so amazing, a car in Thailand is just an expensive flex.

[@WilliamPKittredgePhD]

I’ve been here for a decade and it seems like we’re in different country. I got my DL in about 3 hours and the renewal was about an hour.

[@gary8173]

@@WilliamPKittredgePhD I was just there today so I’m sticking to my story

[@LDW1961]

@@gary8173 we know of course, every provincial centre does their own thing, stop yanking the poor guys chain! 😂 I had a great experience in my provincial centre, they even pulled me out of the afternoon nap, sorry, video session, while all the locals had to endure the boredom until 5pm. I still stand by Grab. Ended the corrupt double tier pricing of the old school transport options overnight.

[@darrenwestley7348]

How to retire in Thailand, Win the lottery in the UK.

[@wanderingsoul2909]

Hi, This was an easy to understand informative ( excellent English ! ) video on Thai Visas. Was the Elite Visa mentioned ? Candidates should probably FIRST plan a trip to a few cities in Thailand to get a "on the ground" assessment of the weather, pollution, crowdiness, noise , safety and other factors. Ideally, the have a LOCAL Thai that they can befriend to assist them in all things THAI. Lastly, how much Thai language is needed and what is the best way to learn basic Thai ? Thanks !!!

[@kpgrubb1]

Your presentation was excellent. This is how an instructional KZbin video should be. I'll be coming to Thailand for the first time this winter. I'm considering retiring there.

[@oldrichandrysek2709]

Is the pension taxable if you retire on thailand? Can you getva,work permit once retired?

[@kenstarcity]

thank you for your details information, may i ask if i m age of 60 & my wife is her 40, can us both apply for the retire visa? thanks

[@charlescolbertsr6165]

seems like a good idea, i have been visiting 13 years }2007-2020]

[@styledoggie]

good info thanks

[@TheThaiger]

Glad it was helpful!

[@ngpuaysiong]

Thank you for the information. Yes I will be coming over. I will be applying the O-A type. You mentioned annual incomed of 65000 Thai Baht but we are not allowed to work? Can you explain in details what it mean annual income? Do you mean my previous income? Oh by the way, I'm from SIngapore

[@RichardH423]

It's your retirement income like pension and investments.

[@shaetzye6947]

How about people who can retire at a very young age? 25+ Is there a option to get hold of a visa long stay like retirees 50+?

[@markanderson1218]

Look into the Elite Visa

[@tchalla9917]

Or much cheaper option like education visa!

[@nick5085]

Elite visa = 50+ yrs .

[@MrBrucetom3752]

if Singapore to retied in Thailand why cant apply 10yrs?

[@ianryan7826]

Hi What exactly do you mean by working ? I like to spread bet and I can be in a bar a hotel room. So I don't consider this as work in Thailand. What do you think?

[@TheGreatEscape9833]

Thailand needs to have a retirement visa for those of us who are under 50, retired and well exceed the income threshold. Constantly having to visa hop gets old

[@janhansen6195]

why go to Thailand try the philippines you have no problems with visa at all, l know l did live in Thailand for many years got so sick of all the changing of the visa rules in Thailand so l did go to the Philippines 10 times better mate and the girls are great there also, ps they all speak English as well

[@TheGreatEscape9833]

@@janhansen6195 I’ve been to PI. I’ve traveled all over Asia. I would like to find a place where an under 40yo who is retired can do so without having to Visa hope or renew every few months.

[@philbe2482]

@@TheGreatEscape9833 that's why he said Philippines. 35 year old for retirement visa in Manilla. Or get a Thai Elite Visa.

[@TheGreatEscape9833]

@@philbe2482 They discontinued their visa for under 55 year olds. Had they not, I would be in the Philippines right now…

[@philbe2482]

@@TheGreatEscape9833 Without Pension; 35 to 49 years old - US$50,000.00 time deposit. It was never 55 it's 50. Idk where 55 came from. 35 with a 50000usd deposit. Or shell out the 20,000 USD for a Thai Elite Visa

[@trevmeyer5614]

First off great job explaining process very clear. I don’t see the advantage Thailand has over other countries in regards to trying to attract more retirees which helps your economy. There should be easier options for more years. There shouldn’t be a monthly income requirement if you have a certain amount in Bank, Stocks or Crypto. Until a Thai Bank is ranked in Top 50 in world I would rather keep elsewhere. Hope they start to make process easier in next few years. A lot of people now just border hop and come back.

[@khunmikeon858]

Interesting, this seems to be circuitous: how can one get a visa if the money is first required to be in a Thai bank… and how can one open a bank account without a visa? (Perhaps a tourist visa will suffice to get the account opened?).

[@EdwardAmesCastellano]

This would be my first choice were it not for the fact that I am about eleventh on Thailand's list. But I think I get it. They are after the asian money first and foremost that will buy their way in. But there will probably be less westerners not only vacationing there but certainly retiring there. When it comes to U.S. retirees they have probably conceded them to Central and South America. I wonder what the percentage is for American and Canadian expats to Europe/Baltic expats in Thailand? Probably 10 to 1,000

[@sno_mouse1235]

I plan to retire in Thailand if all goes well!

[@jellyrolljohnson6798]

If u know the nooks and crannies of Bkk, u can find places for under $200 USD per month. Really good local hospitality to 🌴✌🏄‍♂️🏄‍♂️🏄‍♂️✌🌴

[@techniqueG]

Monthly income as in a pension or can that be savings being transferred to Thailand every month ?

[@A-Church-In-Scotland]

Hi there can you apply for an O-A retirement Visa when you are already in Thailand please ?

[@dantheman11121]

What’s with this health insurance requirement? That’s the first I ever heard of that???

[@carlyndolphin]

Great video. Is 200,000 baht per month in Thailand a good lifestyle?

[@JT-xe5jz]

You’d want at least 500,000 to be comfortable mate.

[@daveperkins6004]

Phil it will all depend on what you want and what you think is a good lifestyle but you asked if 200k a month not sure where you would be coming from but 200k would be a little over 5500 USD with todays exchange JT must have been born with a silver spoon 500k or 14k USD a month to be comfortable WTF must be a young single guy NUFF SAID 500K makes sense. Again it will depend on your choice of how and where you want to live. We live both there and in the U.S. our condo there we paid cash when we bought it just over 105K USD, so we don't worry about the cost of housing she takes care of the expenses there and she's said we have never spent more than 20K BAHT in a month to live. So from my POV you asked is 200k BAHT * YES * again my POV and my lifestyle you know yourself so there is my 2cents.... Enjoy

[@JT-xe5jz]

@@daveperkins6004 I was being sarcastic as I recognised his name/posts he posted another comment saying “I make 300k baht a month from investments it gives me a comfortable lifestyle” a while back if you search his history it will come up. It was tongue in cheek to his “humble” flex, asking a question he knew the answer to.

[@daveperkins6004]

@@JT-xe5jz LOL duh sorry JT i'm just slow in my older age........ Cheers

[@carlyndolphin]

@@JT-xe5jz my investments make around 300k but I will live on 200k and invest the rest in index funds

[@emptybuddha5308]

Is this the same as the new “wealth visa” for pensioners and digital nomads? I thought the details were not out yet…

[@LDW1961]

OX visa so called because only "Buffalo" farang will think it's a good deal 😂 If you can afford it you don't actually need to use it, there are free options, such as living elsewhere part of the year, and entering as a tourist. Duh!

[@kevinreist7718]

They are rated #2 in medical by CEO World Magazine, so if you want world class medical care at bargain prices, you should probably consider Thailand.

[@Phurba_Bhutan]

I didn't knew that in Thailand you can have bank account opened prrior to your arrival here. Need both bank balance and annual income, but am wondering if many retired people will have annual income.

[@martypoll]

Most US citizens will have monthly Social Security income. I have that plus a work pension plus some savings. Many people have property in their home country that they rent and receive income. Many on retirement extensions continue to work in their home country either remotely or by only living part time in Thailand.

[@jon-ie4li]

Pay a visa agent 40000 baht you don't need to have any money in the bank, easy.

[@johng5950]

@@jon-ie4li LOL, everytime I visit a forum that talks about this subject matter, there's instantly a fight back and forth concerning the legality of this. Some do it and some are too scared to try it. Not sure where I land on this just yet, but good to see that it's an option.

[@Phurba_Bhutan]

@@martypoll My parents don't have those incomes, but have savings only. This means they are not eligible to retire in Thiland.

[@martinbonner2585]

You can open bank account while in Thailand and it's one or the other, either 800k in Bank or 65k income. Money has to be in Bank 2 months before applying to renew visas. They didn't mention that you have to report to immigration office every 3 months to renew visas

[@craigdaurizio686]

We live well spending much less than 35k per month for a whole family, about 1/3 of that. We eat steak fillets and ribeye once a week and everything.

[@BonVoyage861]

@@da-yi7im Tell that to Thai people. Argue with them that 35k is not even rent money, really antagonise them on that point until they send you back to States in a body bag so the rest of us can be spared of your BS

[@roninmantis7584]

Can't help but shake my head, Land of Smiles? I've never found Thailand to be friendly. Affordability is somewhere in the middle. Weather is hot & sunny... heat index is often over 100 degrees F. Easy visa process.... hahaha. The best you can do is two - five year visas if you want to spend big bucks. Otherwise, you are left with a one year visa. Rather hoping my retirement last longer than one year. I almost think she's working for the TAT. I will agree, food is easy to get. Since the O-X visa is only good for a max of 10 years. What happens after that? Forced to leave? Start going year by year? The bank of deposit may depend upon your home country. Of course, I think one must be a little crazy to go for the "5" year visa, as Thailand can revoke your visa at any time. And many of us know about the changing rules in Thailand. Don't forget every 90 days you must report where you live in Thailand as well and be prepared for the dual pricing.