Retirement Visa

[slim]

I have an extension to my visa on grounds of retirement.

I usually show 800,000 in a Thai bank for 3 months before I apply for the extension.

The latest Police notice (777/2551) regarding extension on grounds of retirement states either 800,000b or monthly income of 65,000b (or a combination).

What isn't clear is, if you choose the 65,000b monthly income path, how long do you need to be receiving this monthly income to satisfy immigration.

For example, if I draw out my 800,000 baht and stick it in another account and then for the next 12 months feed it back in 65,000b at a time - is this "Proof of income" (2.22 (3) of Police order) ? and would it suffice for Immigration?

Or could you simply show immigration documentation proving you received the equivalent of 65,000b per month?

The "proof of income" is somewhat vague - with 800,000 baht its very straightforward - its unclear whats required with showing the alternative.

Also would all documentation need to be Embassy ratified?

[mackayae]

I believe a letter from the local bank listing the last 12 monthly deposits (over 65K) from overseas would be required. Immigration also asked me for an affidavit from my embassy stating my retirement income (over 65k).

[hhgz]

"if you choose the 65,000b monthly income path, how long do you need to be receiving this monthly income to satisfy immigration."

Since you need to apply for an extension ever year, your income needs to show that you'll receive 65K THB/month for a year

"could you simply show immigration documentation proving you received the equivalent of 65,000b per month?"

Yes.

"Also would all documentation need to be Embassy ratified?"

Referencing your second question, you can prepare a "pension statement" claiming that you receive a monthly stipend, and then have the embassy notarize that. Too, you can include an income tax statement from the previous year, indicating your income from passive sources.

[ubonjoe]

The proof of income has to come from your embassy. Each embassy has different requirements to issue the letter.

It just has to show you have an income of 65K per month oir more. There is no time period requirement.

For the combination of the two the money does not have to be in the bank for three months but you still need to have the embasssy letter and letter from bank.

[Lite Beer]

Uk Embassy says this.

Proof of Income Letters

British nationals applying for a visa, or an extension of a visa, with the Thai Immigration Bureau may be asked to obtain a letter from us verifying their income. To obtain the letter you must be registered with us. We will also need to see a copy of your passport and, either bank statements for the previous 3 months, or the original evidence of your pension or income. We charge a fee of THB 2040 for the letter, which is ready to collect from the Consular Section at 0900 on the working day after the application is submitted to us. You can also apply for a proof of income letter by post. To apply by post you must ensure that the above documentation is included and that the total amount of pension or income you receive is clearly stated.

[mackayae]

How far in advance can you get your extension?

[ubonjoe]

Normal is within the last 30 days. Some immigration will do it as early as 2 or 3 months. Pattaya has even come out publicly and said 3 months is ok.

Others will do it early if you show them you have a trip planned before your extension runs out.