I am currently living in japan, but plan to move to Thailand next year. I have a Thai girl friend who I have known for 2 years now. I am awaiting for the condo I will live in to be finished near December 2015. My girl friend owns 2 restaurants and does not want me to work anymore. I am 52 years old and know I can apply for a retirement visa, but fear boredom will quickly set in if I don't have some sort of job. What does everybody think is the best option for me? I have read this forum for a while now, but am confused at all the different types of visas. And by the way, we don't plan to marry. I do not speak Thai yet, but having lived in Japan for so long, am used to learning a new language. Thank you.

Moving to the Visas forum.

Visas and Extensions based on retirement are about your best option.

You can also sign up for a Thai Language School and get Ed Visa.

Also based on Employment if you find a job.

Depending on the value of the condo you might be able to get an investment visa and extension, this requires an investment of 10 million baht.

If you do not meet that requirement you only have the option of retirement, on which no work permit would be issued. But if you find work you can always change the reason for your stay. it would be a minor inconvenience.