Thailand is more than just a tourist destination for backpackers or newlywed honeymooners; it is also a nice place to stay for people who are in the higher age bracket who would want to enjoy life to the fullest. 

Thailand is more than just a tourist destination for backpackers or newlywed honeymooners; it is also a nice place to stay for people who are in the higher age bracket who would want to enjoy life to the fullest. The relaxing ambiance and the many places to visit in this kingdom make it a good rewarding experience to those who want to spend their free time. To those who wish to enjoy Thailand’s grandeur in their retirement days, they can secure a retirement visa or also called as Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A”. This is issued to foreigners who are over 50 years old and would want to enjoy the best places that Thailand could offer. This visa is good for one year and should not be used for work purposes.

Eligibility

Some basic criteria have to be met to qualify for this visa. This include being at least 50 years of age upon application, no criminal records in the country of residency, not having prohibitive diseases, and not prohibited to enter the Kingdom of Thailand based on Immigration Act B.E. 2522. Also, you should be a resident in the country where you submitted your application.

Necessities

Just like in any visa application, it is required that you have a valid passport. However, in this type, at least 18 months validity is required. You should also provide three copies of duly accomplished application forms with three recent passport-sized photos. A personal data form is also needed for this visa application. Since you will be allowed to stay for a year, a proof of financial capability is also necessary. You have to furnish a copy of bank statement showing at least 800,000 Baht with an original letter of guarantee from the bank. You can also show a certificate of income that has to be not less than 65,000 Baht a month. The combination of the two mentioned proofs is also possible provided that the total amount will not be less than 800,000 Baht. Furthermore, medical certificate and certificate of no criminal record should also be obtained from the country of your residency. If the accompanying spouse is not eligible for ‘O-A’ category, he or she will be considered for category ‘O’ for temporary stay. A notarized marriage certificate should be provided as proof for this type. Applicants must submit their applications at the Royal Thai Embassy in their country or at the Office of the Immigration Bureau in Thailand located on Government Center B, Chaengwattana Soi 7, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210.

Visa fee for this type is 5,000 Baht for multiple entry and 2,000 Baht for single entry. If approved, the visa holder must report to the immigration officer every end of 90 days during his or her stay in Thailand. In the absence of an immigration officer in the area of residence, the foreigner may report to the police. Extension If you do realize that you need an extension to your stay, you need to send a letter of request to the Office of the Immigration Bureau in Thailand and show evidences of enough financial capacity amounting to no less than 800,000 Baht. Just like the first application, a certificate of monthly income of not less than 65,000 Baht may also be used as proof. The one-year extension is under the discretion of the immigration officer provided that the requirements are met.

Thaivisa.com is a great resource where you can find all the latest visa news and discussions click here