Thailand Retirement Visa: Everything About Non-Immigrant OA and OX
Retiring in Thailand
Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for international retirees. Affordable cost of living, tropical climate, high-quality medical infrastructure, and warm hospitality — the reasons are plentiful. The Thai government offers two specific visas for retirees aged 50 and over: the OA visa (1 year) and the OX visa (10 years).
Non-Immigrant OA Visa (1 Year)
The OA visa is the most common retirement visa. It offers a one-year renewable stay with multiple entries, allowing you to travel freely in the region.
OA Visa — Summary
- Minimum age: 50 years
- Duration: 1 year, renewable annually
- Entries: Multiple (re-entry permit required to leave/return)
- Consular fees: 5,000 THB (~€135)
- Insurance: Mandatory health insurance (minimum 40,000 USD coverage)
OA Visa Financial Requirements
You must meet one of the following conditions:
800,000 THB in a bank
(~€22,000) in a Thai bank account, maintained for at least 2 months before the application.
65,000 THB/month
(~€1,800) in monthly pension income, supported by an official certificate from your pension authority.
A combination of both is also accepted: for example, 400,000 THB in the bank + a monthly pension. The annual total must reach 800,000 THB.
Non-Immigrant OX Visa (10 Years)
The OX visa is designed for retirees seeking a long-term commitment in Thailand. More financially demanding, it offers in return a 10-year validity (5 years + 5 years).
OX Visa — Summary
- Minimum age: 50 years
- Duration: 5 years initially, renewable for 5 more years (10 years total)
- Entries: Multiple
- Consular fees: 10,000 THB (~€270)
- Investment: 3,000,000 THB minimum
OX Visa Financial Requirements
The OX visa requires a total investment of 3,000,000 THB (~€83,000), broken down as follows:
- 1,800,000 THB minimum in a Thai bank account (fixed deposit)
- The remainder can be invested in real estate (condominium in the applicant's name) or in Thai government bonds
- The investment must be maintained for the entire duration of the visa
Need help with your retirement visa?
Our team handles everything: eligibility check, document preparation, follow-up.
Comparison: OA Visa vs OX Visa
| Criteria | OA Visa (1 year) | OX Visa (10 years) |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 year renewable | 5 + 5 years |
| Minimum age | 50 years | 50 years |
| Financial requirement | 800,000 THB (~€22,000) |
3,000,000 THB (~€83,000) |
| Pension alternative | ✓ 65,000 THB/month | ✗ No |
| Health insurance | Mandatory | Recommended |
| Consular fees | 5,000 THB (~€135) | 10,000 THB (~€270) |
| Renewal | Annual at immigration | After 5 years |
| Where to apply | Embassy / e-visa | Embassy only |
Required Documents
Valid passport
Valid for at least 18 months after the date of application, with blank pages.
Passport photos
2 photos (4×6 cm), white background, taken within the last 6 months.
Criminal background check
Clean criminal record, apostilled and translated into English. Issued within the last 3 months.
Medical certificate
Medical statement certifying you do not suffer from prohibited diseases (tuberculosis, leprosy, etc.).
Financial proof
OA: Thai bank statement (800,000 THB) or pension certificate. OX: proof of investment (3,000,000 THB).
Health insurance (OA)
Inpatient coverage min. 40,000 USD and outpatient coverage min. 10,000 USD in Thailand.
TDAC (Digital Arrival Card)
Mandatory for each entry into Thailand.
Health Insurance: Mandatory for the OA Visa
Since 2019, the OA visa requires mandatory health insurance covering medical care in Thailand. This requirement does not apply to the OX visa, but is strongly recommended.
Minimum Required Coverage (OA)
Inpatient (IPD)
40,000 USD
Minimum coverage
Outpatient (OPD)
10,000 USD
Minimum coverage
The insurance must be obtained from an insurer recognized by Thai authorities or an approved Thai insurance company.
Tips for Future Retirees
Open a Thai bank account early
You will need a Thai bank account to deposit the 800,000 THB. Start the process during your first tourist visit.
90-Day Report
Every 90 days, you must report your address to the immigration office (online or in person). Don't forget!
Choose your insurance carefully
Compare local insurers (Pacific Cross, Luma) and international providers. Premiums increase with age — plan ahead!
Test before you settle
Take a 60-day tourist trip first to explore regions and find your ideal city before applying for the OA visa.
TDAC required for every entry
Even with a valid retirement visa, you must fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card each time you enter Thailand (after any trip abroad).
Fill out my TDAC now →Need Help?
Check your eligibility for free and receive personalized assistance from our expert team.
Request AssistanceQuick Summary
- Duration
- 1 year (OA) / 10 years (OX)
- Target
- Retirees 50+
Other Visas
Need help with your Thailand Retirement Visa: Everything About Non-Immigrant OA and OX?
Our expert team guides you through every step: eligibility check, document preparation, and full application follow-up.