The Thai government has officially made the 10-year visa for foreign retirees available, but there is some confusion as to if it is actually offered at immigration offices, according to media reports. So far no applications for the retirement visa have been submitted.
“It is now effective. Foreigners can apply for it at their provincial immigration offices. For Bangkok and neighbouring provinces, it’s at Chaeng Wattana. I think the media should report this news. This is a much better story than the other incident,” says Lt. Gen. Natthathorn Prohsunthorn to Khaosad English.
The government official claims the new retirement visa has been available since Friday, but the Immigration Department’s website has no information on the subject. In addition to this, a staff member at the Immigration Division I headquarters in Bangkok was asked by Khaosad English about the new visa but did not think they were available, reports the website.
According to the government official, a memo had been sent out to the staff at the Chaeng Wattana immigration centre, but officials working there may not have read it which could have led to the confusion. Potential applicants of the 10-year visa are advised to proceed with their application.
The 10-year retirement visa is offered as a 5-year visa that can be extended for another 5 years. Passport holders from 14 countries who meet certain conditions set forth by the government are able to apply for the visa. A minimum of THB3 million in bank account is among the requirements that must be met.
The new visa plan was 1st announced in November of 2016 as part of the government’s plan to promote Thailand as a medical services and retirement hub. The 10-year visa was designed to replace the current retirement visa that requires annual renewal. As part of these plans, the government proposed longer stays for medical visas earlier this year.
Receive the latest property news on email from Thailand’s No.1 property website here, or read more project reviews
