Published by Settle in Abroad – Your Relocation Experts in Thailand
If you’re planning to retire in Thailand for the long term, the Non-O Retirement Visa is one of the most commonly used and practical options available.
Unlike some visas that are issued as a full one-year approval from the start, the Non-O works as a step-by-step process. Many retirees appreciate this structure because it offers more flexibility over time — especially for those planning to stay in Thailand indefinitely.
Let’s break it down clearly.
What Is the Non-O Retirement Visa?
The Non-O Retirement Visa is available to foreigners aged 50 and over. It is designed for retirees who plan to live in Thailand on an ongoing basis and are comfortable setting up certain requirements locally, such as opening a Thai bank account.
Here’s how it works:
You begin with a 90-day Non-O stay
You then apply for a 1-year retirement extension
That extension can be renewed annually
This structure allows retirees to establish themselves in Thailand first, then extend their stay once financial requirements are in place.
Where and How to Apply (Important)
There are two correct ways to begin the Non-O retirement process.
Option 1: Apply Before Arrival
You can apply for a 90-day Non-O visa at a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand. This allows you to enter the country already on the correct visa type and move directly into the extension process once you’re settled.
Option 2: Apply After Arrival (With Planning)
If you enter Thailand on a tourist visa or visa exemption, you cannot jump straight to a 1-year retirement extension.
Instead, you must:
First convert your status to a 90-day Non-O
Then apply for the 1-year retirement extension
This is where timing becomes very important. If entering as a tourist, you must have enough remaining stay to complete the conversion process before your current permission expires.
Financial Requirements
For the 1-year retirement extension under the Non-O visa, you must hold:
800,000 THB in a Thai bank account
The funds must remain in the account for at least 3 months before applying
This requirement means planning ahead is essential, especially for those entering Thailand shortly before applying.
Health Insurance Requirements
One of the key differences between the Non-O and Non-OA retirement visas is insurance.
For the Non-O retirement extension:
Health insurance is not universally required
Requirements can vary slightly by immigration office
Because of this flexibility, many long-term retirees prefer the Non-O over time, especially when insurance costs become a concern.
Travel Considerations
The Non-O retirement extension does not automatically include multiple entry privileges.
If you plan to travel outside Thailand, you must obtain a re-entry permit before leaving. Without it, your visa status can be cancelled upon departure.
This is a simple step, but one that retirees should not overlook.
Who Is the Non-O Retirement Visa Best For?
The Non-O is often the right fit for:
Retirees planning to live in Thailand long-term
Those comfortable keeping retirement funds in a Thai bank
Individuals concerned about long-term insurance costs
Retirees who want a visa structure that adapts more easily over time
Final Thoughts
Many retirees begin their Thailand journey on a tourist visa or another visa type and later transition to the Non-O retirement extension. What matters most is understanding the correct order of steps and planning your timing carefully.
With the right preparation, the Non-O Retirement Visa can provide a stable and flexible path for long-term living in Thailand.
