Report Thailand Tightens Grip on Retirement Visas Amid Wealth Shift

[jensmann]

12 hours ago, NickyLouie said:

I like higher standards for retirement or any other long term visa , way too many lo bang around here now ......

 

12 hours ago, NickyLouie said:

I like higher standards for retirement or any other long term visa , way too many lo bang around here now ......

it's the mix that makes a society and democracy...

[John Drake]

54 minutes ago, Gottfrid said:

Even if the article does not say anything really new or any changes has been done, one must question why this becomes a discussion now? It might be so simple, that changes are coming, just out of the reason that foreigners of low class are creating too much problems in Thailand. If so, it will be like I posted before. many other foreigner will suffer because of the bad apples.

 

The "low class" and criminal class foreigners coming in now are a result of opening up the floodgates to the Chinese and Russians. The longer visa free entry was the key. Organized crime needs time in a country in order to get, well, organized. Once that happens, the infrastructure is in place to flood in more of their type and it gets harder and harder to root them out. Srettha did this because of his desperation to fill up unsold condos. Chuwit was the only person giving a warning this was going to be the result.

[Hummin]

19 minutes ago, madmitch said:

If you're happy with this lifestyle then fine; you can live comfortably. But many expats require much more than this, such as all their old home comforts, and that's become much more difficult on that amount.

 

I gave up my retirement visa nearly four years ago and am now working back in the UK paying the odd visit to Thailand. I think it suits me better. 

 

But we are all different with different needs and different levels of wealth. So difficult to generalise on this subject.

 

 

I am doing the same, spending less than 6 months here, but living rent free in Isaan with good facilities is cheaper then living in more busy areas. Building your own place doesn't cost that much, while when I was living in Hua Hin, I was willing to pay 8 mill. But never found what I was looking for. And paying 12mill knowing I would never see that money again trying to sell it, I was not willing to risk. 

 

To much on the marked, and now 7 - 8 years later, the marked haven't moved one inch in the same segment.

 

Same villas and same apartments is out for sale same prices in the same areas.

 

Built for 1,5 including land in Isaan was better deal for a great base. Know land prises since then gone up 220k pr rai, and we got 13 rai at the moment. It is a risk, but a risk that can be beneficial if you got a good marriage. 

[newnative]

57 minutes ago, Hummin said:

You forget some spend 65k on rent each month.

 

I do not think many of them is here, but would be interesting to know what the average wesern actually spend each month in Thailand. 

    There are plenty of expats spending 65,000 baht a month on rent--just in Pattaya alone.  That's probably about the average rate for a nice 3 to 4 bedroom pool villa here--of which there are many, with more being built every day.  Not to mention the hundreds of high-end condos for rent at dozens of seaview projects in Pattaya--from Reflection in the south to The Palm in the north, with lots in-between.   

[Lopburikid]

12 hours ago, Upnotover said:

Weird story, hard to read.  Did anything actually change....no.

Agree. I have been renewing my Retirement visa every year, showing B800,000 in the bank and my state and Army pensions paid in every month, no problem.

[Expat Tom]

I have lived here as an Expat for 15 years dumping 70,000 to 90,000 baht into the economy monthly. I yearly submit my letter from the bank attesting to my deposits in excess of 65,000 baht per month to renew my O-A visa. If that isn't enough for the Thai government then they can kiss my backside and I will take my money and put it into another countries economy. 

In my opinion, the Thai government is completely inept to wit,  the country has a lower ranking on the World Corruption Index than Vietnam, The PI, Cambodia and Malaysia. The police target farang  for harassment on motor bikes and one never knows what the visa rules will be from one week to the next. 

 

I love Thailand and have many Thai friends, none of which have much regard for the Bangkok cabal who run things from their ivory towers and return home to their gated communities in their Mercedes after a hard day of trying to bring misery to all....Thai citizens and farang alike.

 

Every time I read ASEAN Now , I tweak my exit strategy. Over the years I have owned several condos in the Kingdom. Now I rent. All of my possessions fir into two categories. 1) They will fit into two suitcases and a carry on -or- 2) I can abandon them without too much grief on financial loss.    

[Jim Blue]

1 hour ago, jchfriis said:

If I had as much money as the OP is dreaming about I would buy a house in Monaco with a view of my yacht in the harbor. 🤣

No Roller in  the drive ?

[LudwigK]

How long will this 'government' still exist??

[save the frogs]

11 hours ago, thjames007 said:

And regarding the story,  what a load of click

 

Yep. No one ever asked me if I was rich. 

 

[Hummin]

3 minutes ago, Expat Tom said:

The police target farang  for harassment on motor bikes 

Got 200k kilometer or more on the roads here with motorbikes, and not harassed once?

 

Yes got plenty of tickets in the beginning for being stupid, did not bring international dp, my original dp or used helmet.

 

Later when dressed up properly I have only got tickets for speeding, which can not be addressed as harassing.

 

 

[Hummin]

3 minutes ago, LudwigK said:

How long will this 'government' still exist??

Until army is not happy anymore

[sandyf]

14 hours ago, lordgrinz said:

Thailand will continue to shoot itself in the foot, which seems to be the norm now, especially under the control of Emperor Thaksin.

And other countries have not already blown the foot off, self harm is far from unique to Thailand.

Conflict exists in every government and people should be grateful for the opportunity of reasonably easy long term stays, it is never guaranteed. 

 

[TheFishman1]

It seems like the neighboring countries and the Philippines are trying harder to get ex-pats to live there with Thailand for some reason is doing the opposite I think the reason is they think that Thailand is the only place for an expect to live I believe Cambodian Vietnam or gonna take a lot of these experts out of Thailand to an easier simpler way of living there TIT

[ronnie50]

1 hour ago, Lacessit said:

How many retirees are riff-raff? AFAIK it is the foreigners who are younger than 50, or NOT on retirement visas, causing all the trouble.

 

Retirees just want a quiet life with no hassle. I know I do.

Regarding riff-raff, I was refering in general terms, not necessarrily retirees. Having said that, are you saying you haven't met any foreigner over 50 who's retired here - and is someone you'd want to steer well clear from? No Jack the Lad types, often seen drunk and arguing with others, none?

[Lee4Life]

12 hours ago, ronnie50 said:

Can't blame them for trying reduce the riff-raff.  It seems every day there's a news story about violent or criminal 'kee nok' foreigners. Today's story was the American guy trying to exchange counterfeit US 100 bills/notes embedded with the words: "For Motion Picture Use Only" 

Was the American guy on a retirement visa? I fail to see the connection.

 

[Lee4Life]

12 hours ago, DonniePeverley said:

Welcome news. 

 

Last thing Thailand is cheap pensioners. 

So does the amount of money you possess indicate the amount of money you spend?

   How do you think wealthy people get wealthy, by spending all of their money?

        I have met some really thrifty people who have an awful lot of money. I know a millionaire who cuts cotton buds in half, one half for him and one half for his wife.

           

 

 

[advancebooking]

13 hours ago, Upnotover said:

Weird story, hard to read.  Did anything actually change....no.

Thats AI for you...  hard to read

[Freddy42OZ]

With Thailand's total fertility rate now less than 1 the country is dying. 

https://www.macrotrends.net/global-metrics/countries/tha/thailand/birth-rate

They will have to start importing young people who are able to breed.  

 

[Cabradelmar]

Nothing about getting or renewing  retirement visa/extensions in Thailand has changed. What a stupid rant/article. 

[friendphil]

14 hours ago, Upnotover said:

Weird story, hard to read.  Did anything actually change....no.

Perhaps the challenge of reading this has left some with no new information. 

[Baba Naba]

13 hours ago, NickyLouie said:

I like higher standards for retirement or any other long term visa , way too many lo bang around here now ......

Says the Hi-So hǔa kuai...

[CANSIAM]

The article seems to be all backassward, the folks on Non O retirement or marriage, O/X, LTR, Elite etc all have invested financially so to speak to stay here long term. Have a look at all ED visas that were purchased in the last 3 years, free exempt 60-90 day stay entries for the entire planet, easy exit and reentry for those without visas to continue staying..... here you may find the criminal activity illegal work etc. ( the brown bag issue does not cease which is a huge problem ).  good luck now trying to open a bank account without a Non O.......... 

[shackleton]

First it was the backpackers  coming to Thailand experiencing the beaches Temples and culture 

Then came the family tourist staying in hotels  visiting temples swimming plus

Prestine beaches then 

Now with the open visa policy all types of Rif Raf people low spending   are now coming just read the news reports fights in bars arrests involving  drugs Cannabis  seems to be getting the norm   here ect

So I would think any wealthy  person reading the news would probably look else where to spend their money or retire in a safer environment 

[Hanuman2547]

Doesn't really affect me as I have no plans to retire in Thailand.  However, it does affect a lot of other people and it could impact their ability to stay in Thailand on a retirement visa.  I would just take a "wait and see" on this one.  Who knows how many times this idea might change.  

[Casino]

16 hours ago, lordgrinz said:

Thailand will continue to shoot itself in the foot, which seems to be the norm now, especially under the control of Emperor Thaksin.

Thaksin campaign to get rid of all foreigners in Thailand part 2.

[brianbiegler]

Chatbot written. garbage. 

[Denim]

18 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

This hefty financial threshold has effectively priced out all but the wealthiest of prospective retirees.

 

Plus their criminal counterparts.

 

Raising the bar whilst also lowering the bar.

[StevieAus]

19 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Picture courtesy of Freepik

 

Thailand, a perennial magnet for retirees due to its enchanting blend of affordability, warm climate, and vibrant culture, is recalibrating its approach to foreign residents—a shift with significant implications. Known for golden beaches, delectable cuisine, and the famed hospitality that has earned it the moniker, "Land of Smiles," Thailand has historically welcomed foreign retirees with open arms, offering them a slice of tropical paradise that's both accessible and affordable. However, new policies suggest a distinct pivot towards the affluent, leaving many long-time admirers questioning their future in a country once synonymous with retirement tranquillity.

 

For decades, Thailand's retirement visas were considered a golden ticket for retirees aged 50 and over. The longstanding Non-Immigrant O-A and O-X visa categories presented viable pathways into this Southeast Asian haven. Requirements were straightforward: either stash 800,000 baht (approximately US$22,000) in a Thai bank or show a monthly income of 65,000 baht (around US$1,800), alongside proof of a clean criminal slate and health coverage. These terms made Thailand one of the most welcoming places for middle-income retirees—a financial comfort unmatched by many other Asian destinations.

 

Yet, as 2023 unfolded, Thailand threw a curveball with the unveiling of the Long Term Resident (LTR) visa. This new tier, waved like a shiny lure, targets wealthy global citizens with steep prerequisites: a minimum of US$80,000 annual income sustained over two years and US$1 million in assets. This hefty financial threshold has effectively priced out all but the wealthiest of prospective retirees.

 

Furthermore, in the wake of Covid-19 and heightened scrutiny over immigration protocols, health insurance requirements for typical retirement visas have grown more stringent. There’s also a persistent undercurrent of speculation concerning potential increases in financial thresholds for these visas. Anecdotal evidence from retirees suggests increasing difficulty and opacity during application processes, projecting a stark, albeit quiet, message: without considerable wealth, entry into Thailand is becoming an arduous endeavour.

 

The country's decision to pivot towards affluent expatriates is driven by a simplistic yet compelling rationale. Wealthier foreigners, it is argued, bring robust spending power, invest more extensively in luxury housing, and, in theory, result in fewer legal headaches related to overstaying visas or working illegally. Indeed, from a policymaker’s perspective, this seems like a sound strategy, offering immediate financial allure.

 

However, this logic sidesteps the nuanced economic ecosystem fostered by retirees of more modest means. Middle-income foreigners contribute significantly by integrating into local communities, supporting small businesses, and investing their pensions in the very fabric of Thai society—far beyond the borders of exclusive expatriate enclaves. Their continued presence strengthens local economies, weaving vibrant, resilient communities, not merely serving as transient patches of opulence in a tropical landscape.

 

This strategic pivot away from the middle class has already begun reshaping the expat community landscape in Thailand. Online forums and expat networks are abuzz with tales of longtime residents contemplating relocation, driven by the increased cost and complexity of Thailand's visa procedures. With neighbouring countries, like the Philippines and Cambodia, increasing their appeal for retirees through simplified process frameworks and lower financial thresholds, these nations stand ready to inherit the retiree market Thailand once commanded.

 

The Philippines offers one of the most straightforward retiree visa schemes in the region. The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) only requires retirees over 50 to demonstrate a monthly pension of US$800 or deposit US$10,000 in a local bank—accessible terms that come without Thailand’s stringent health insurance mandates or income ceilings. Despite its lesser-developed infrastructure, the country provides a low cost of living, making it a compelling option for those priced out of Thailand.

 

Cambodia, long regarded with intrigue as the ‘wild east,’ presents a minimalist yet effective sway to attract retirees. Offering visa extensions as low as US$300 annually, without demanding proof of income or hefty deposits, the process is noticeably less daunting than Thailand’s intricate requirements. Its allure lies in simplicity, affording retirees the chance to enjoy Cambodia’s charm at a moderate pace and price.

 

Vietnam is also emerging as a formidable contender, especially following announcements of a pilot for long-term investor visas, ahead of a planned retirement visa with lower thresholds. Known for its vibrant cities, delectable cuisine, and a significantly improved healthcare system, Vietnam could woo those seeking a dynamic lifestyle at a more manageable expense.

 

Thailand’s long-standing reputation as a retirement utopia is undeniably at risk. By focusing narrowly on wealthy individuals, the nation might enjoy a short-term economic lift but could inadvertently erode the rich tapestry of middle-class expatriates who helped Thailand earn its retirement haven status. These middle-class retirees don’t simply occupy spaces; they engage, contribute, and become part of the Thai community fabric, offering a steady, reliable economic and cultural exchange often overshadowed by the glitz of high spending.

 

As the global landscape of retirement evolves, and as more nations enter the competitive fray for retirees’ attention and resources, Thailand stands at a critical juncture. To maintain its status as a cherished retirement destination, it may need to revisit the very essence of what made it so appealing—a harmonious blend of accessibility and affordability tinged with genuine inclusivity. While focusing on the affluent offers an enticing financial forecast, it’s the broader tapestry of retirees that sustains and enriches the cultural and economic life of the nation.

 

Time remains for Thailand to recalibrate its strategy, crafting visa policies that strike a balance between economic ambition and the open, welcoming spirit that endeared it to retirees worldwide. Acknowledging this balance is crucial—not just for the country’s economic health but for preserving its identity as a true home for those seeking more than just sun and sand, but community and connection.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-04

 

 

 

19 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Picture courtesy of Freepik

 

Thailand, a perennial magnet for retirees due to its enchanting blend of affordability, warm climate, and vibrant culture, is recalibrating its approach to foreign residents—a shift with significant implications. Known for golden beaches, delectable cuisine, and the famed hospitality that has earned it the moniker, "Land of Smiles," Thailand has historically welcomed foreign retirees with open arms, offering them a slice of tropical paradise that's both accessible and affordable. However, new policies suggest a distinct pivot towards the affluent, leaving many long-time admirers questioning their future in a country once synonymous with retirement tranquillity.

 

For decades, Thailand's retirement visas were considered a golden ticket for retirees aged 50 and over. The longstanding Non-Immigrant O-A and O-X visa categories presented viable pathways into this Southeast Asian haven. Requirements were straightforward: either stash 800,000 baht (approximately US$22,000) in a Thai bank or show a monthly income of 65,000 baht (around US$1,800), alongside proof of a clean criminal slate and health coverage. These terms made Thailand one of the most welcoming places for middle-income retirees—a financial comfort unmatched by many other Asian destinations.

 

Yet, as 2023 unfolded, Thailand threw a curveball with the unveiling of the Long Term Resident (LTR) visa. This new tier, waved like a shiny lure, targets wealthy global citizens with steep prerequisites: a minimum of US$80,000 annual income sustained over two years and US$1 million in assets. This hefty financial threshold has effectively priced out all but the wealthiest of prospective retirees.

 

Furthermore, in the wake of Covid-19 and heightened scrutiny over immigration protocols, health insurance requirements for typical retirement visas have grown more stringent. There’s also a persistent undercurrent of speculation concerning potential increases in financial thresholds for these visas. Anecdotal evidence from retirees suggests increasing difficulty and opacity during application processes, projecting a stark, albeit quiet, message: without considerable wealth, entry into Thailand is becoming an arduous endeavour.

 

The country's decision to pivot towards affluent expatriates is driven by a simplistic yet compelling rationale. Wealthier foreigners, it is argued, bring robust spending power, invest more extensively in luxury housing, and, in theory, result in fewer legal headaches related to overstaying visas or working illegally. Indeed, from a policymaker’s perspective, this seems like a sound strategy, offering immediate financial allure.

 

However, this logic sidesteps the nuanced economic ecosystem fostered by retirees of more modest means. Middle-income foreigners contribute significantly by integrating into local communities, supporting small businesses, and investing their pensions in the very fabric of Thai society—far beyond the borders of exclusive expatriate enclaves. Their continued presence strengthens local economies, weaving vibrant, resilient communities, not merely serving as transient patches of opulence in a tropical landscape.

 

This strategic pivot away from the middle class has already begun reshaping the expat community landscape in Thailand. Online forums and expat networks are abuzz with tales of longtime residents contemplating relocation, driven by the increased cost and complexity of Thailand's visa procedures. With neighbouring countries, like the Philippines and Cambodia, increasing their appeal for retirees through simplified process frameworks and lower financial thresholds, these nations stand ready to inherit the retiree market Thailand once commanded.

 

The Philippines offers one of the most straightforward retiree visa schemes in the region. The Special Resident Retiree’s Visa (SRRV) only requires retirees over 50 to demonstrate a monthly pension of US$800 or deposit US$10,000 in a local bank—accessible terms that come without Thailand’s stringent health insurance mandates or income ceilings. Despite its lesser-developed infrastructure, the country provides a low cost of living, making it a compelling option for those priced out of Thailand.

 

Cambodia, long regarded with intrigue as the ‘wild east,’ presents a minimalist yet effective sway to attract retirees. Offering visa extensions as low as US$300 annually, without demanding proof of income or hefty deposits, the process is noticeably less daunting than Thailand’s intricate requirements. Its allure lies in simplicity, affording retirees the chance to enjoy Cambodia’s charm at a moderate pace and price.

 

Vietnam is also emerging as a formidable contender, especially following announcements of a pilot for long-term investor visas, ahead of a planned retirement visa with lower thresholds. Known for its vibrant cities, delectable cuisine, and a significantly improved healthcare system, Vietnam could woo those seeking a dynamic lifestyle at a more manageable expense.

 

Thailand’s long-standing reputation as a retirement utopia is undeniably at risk. By focusing narrowly on wealthy individuals, the nation might enjoy a short-term economic lift but could inadvertently erode the rich tapestry of middle-class expatriates who helped Thailand earn its retirement haven status. These middle-class retirees don’t simply occupy spaces; they engage, contribute, and become part of the Thai community fabric, offering a steady, reliable economic and cultural exchange often overshadowed by the glitz of high spending.

 

As the global landscape of retirement evolves, and as more nations enter the competitive fray for retirees’ attention and resources, Thailand stands at a critical juncture. To maintain its status as a cherished retirement destination, it may need to revisit the very essence of what made it so appealing—a harmonious blend of accessibility and affordability tinged with genuine inclusivity. While focusing on the affluent offers an enticing financial forecast, it’s the broader tapestry of retirees that sustains and enriches the cultural and economic life of the nation.

 

Time remains for Thailand to recalibrate its strategy, crafting visa policies that strike a balance between economic ambition and the open, welcoming spirit that endeared it to retirees worldwide. Acknowledging this balance is crucial—not just for the country’s economic health but for preserving its identity as a true home for those seeking more than just sun and sand, but community and connection.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-06-04

 

 

The article makes comments about the increasing costs and complexities of the Thai visa system and difficulties in obtaining such.

In the fifteen years I have been obtaining my Retirement Extension the cost hasn’t increased, the requirements haven’t changed and it certainly isn’t difficult.

[hotchilli]

19 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

Thailand, a perennial magnet for retirees due to its enchanting blend of affordability, warm climate, and vibrant culture, is recalibrating its approach to foreign residents—a shift with significant implications. Known for golden beaches, delectable cuisine, and the famed hospitality that has earned it the moniker, "Land of Smiles," Thailand has historically welcomed foreign retirees with open arms, offering them a slice of tropical paradise that's both accessible and affordable. However, new policies suggest a distinct pivot towards the affluent, leaving many long-time admirers questioning their future in a country once synonymous with retirement tranquillity.

Invite them to stay with more hurdles... that always works..

[roger101]

I am in the process of doing my 18th Visa Extension. I meet all the financial requirements. However, this ct, I have been told by immigration that I need the Blue Book. Never asked for it before, in fact, we don't even have one.

My wife, who is miles away looking after her sick father, will have to come back to Pattaya so we can go to the Banglamang office and get one.