Retiring in Thailand: Health care insurance coverage needed to support OA retirement visa - be aware of changes in 2021

Many people are looking to retire to Thailand that has consistently been named as one of the best places in the world for people's "golden years".

But like any country that is keen to attract retirees there are important rules to be aware of. 

And these rules - especially in terms of insurance coverage - have been affected by the fallout from the coronavirus pandemic. 

Prior to the pandemic in 2019 people over the age of 50 were able to apply for an OA visa in embassies and consulates abroad along with an approved policy allowing for 40,000 baht outpatient care and 400,000 baht in-patient. 

However, earlier in 2021 the rules changed meaning that henceforth the coverage needed to be $100,000 or three million baht to cover medical expenses and Covid treatment should either be required. 

Such policies can be obtained from both foreign and local health insurers and many offer attractive packages. 

The Thai authorities instigated the new rules after many left without paying hospital bills.

The new rules hope to overcome this 100 million baht shortfall but also provide retirees with peace of mind for a successful life in the Kingdom of Thailand. 

Policies are available that are designed with expat needs in mind and vary according to the age and specific needs of the policy holder. 

People should look out for features such as direct billing, bonus medical check-ups and in-house medical teams that can speak English and other languages to facilitate and help the potential policy holder.

Coverage for couples as well as children is also part of a wider issue and can be discussed with responsible companies. 

In a latest survey in October a total of 3,768 have applied for the one year OA visa in the last year, said Mr Sathit Pitutecha, deputy minister of public health.

In announcing the new requirements that were approved by the government back in June, Mr Sathit said that current visa holders can submit an application for a new policy from many sources including in their home countries.

The Department of Health Service Support in Thailand said that this type of visa is granted to elderly people from overseas who cannot take out insurance in Thailand or where their insurance certification form is not valid for Thailand's systems, reported local media. 

Taking out health insurance from foreign countries would also help reduce the issue of visa extensions. 

More information on Long Stay Visa Health Insurance Plans can be found here.