*Thanks for stopping by!* As a brand new channel your likes, subscriptions, and comments are critical to growth. I'm also very open to your feedback and any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated! Thanks again! **Please consider "liking" my Facebook page. That has the most current information on what will be in future videos, where we are now, and where we are going. facebook.com/ChocolatemanInthailand1 See the latest video! www.tubebuddy.com/quicknav/latest/UCTmEj2kRcMVwmrj5mUJ7Fyg Please visit the homepage th-cam.com/channels/TmEj2kRcMVwmrj5mUJ7Fyg.html Buy me a Coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/chocolateman Paypal me: paypal.me/chocolatemanthailand Become a Patreon: www.patreon.com/chocolatemaninthailand
I will clarify some confusion in reference to the Thailand Retirement or OA Non Immigration Visa vs O Non Immigration visa. Other countries my give you an O Visa for retirement but in the US Thai Consulate or Embassy they do not have an O Visa for Retirement. The O Visa in the US is for marriage. I have a friend from Germany and they do have an O Visa (Retirement) at the Thai Consulate in Germany. Also, She mentioned that you can get a letter from the US Consulate or Embassy in Thailand that certifies you make X amount of money to qualify for your stay in Thailand. This was correct information, but the US Embassy does not do this any more because once they explained to the Thai Immigration they do not verify this, they only take the Foreigners word for this as the Foreigner has to sign an affidavit. US Embassy or Consulate does not want to verify income from those coming to Thailand from the US and Thai Immigration was under the impression they where actually verifying this information. So, the Thai Immigration will except this if you can get one, however, most all Foreign Embassy or Consulate in Thailand no longer provide this.Also, the best ATM Card to get is with Charles Schawb. They charge no fees and pay all foreign bank fees. Also, they use the Visa Rate which at time is better than the current exchange rate that you get at banks. If your from the US. The best thing to do is Get a 90 day or 6 month visa for Thailand then open up a bank account in Thailand and start Transfering the required amount which can be the monely amout stated or 800K baht. Also, make sure you get mulit entry. If you get an O Visa (retirement) in Thailand you don't have to leave every 90 days. You do have to report, but you do not have to leave. Your first reporting must be done in person then after that you can do it on line, if you can get it to work. However, if you are from another country besides the US that offers an O Visa at the Thai Consulate in your country you will physically have to leave Thailand every 90 days then come back in. Pain in the Ass. It is better to try to get an O Visa (retirment) when you arrive in Thailand on your 3 or 6 month Tourist Visa. So, after one year can can get an extension of stay for another year. If you are from the US and you do get an OA Visa the nice thing about this is it can be good for 2 years before you have to get an exention of stay. The way you do it is a month before your OA Visa is going to expire you leave the country and come back in. They will stamp another 1 year within your passport. Very nice to have this OA Visa. However, You will be required to purchase Thai Heath Insurance that will cost $900 to $1000 which if you look at the "Exclusions" on the policy it is basicaly worthless. A lot of people never as for the "Exclusions" and don't know this. But, ask the Thai insurance guy to also send you the "Exclusion Page" and you will see what I mean. With the O Visa this is not a requirement because you are getting this when you are already in Thailand. Insurance is good if you dont' have it, but there are a lot of retirees who already have insurance from there job when they retired and don't want to pay an additional $1K for Thai Insurance that is basically usless. If you ger an OA Multiple Entry Visa and pay for the insuance it will be good for 2 years. It looks like the O Visa (Retirement) in Thailand is a littel cheapter, evern with taking it to a Visa Service. The O Visa for Retirement even though it is only good for 1 year - you save vs the OA Visa multi entry ($200) because you don't have to pay $1K Thai Insurance. They will not take any other insurance except what is listed on the Thai Embassy Web Page.
Your comment is very useful, thank you so much, you confirmed something I was thinking. Thailand is a lot of hassle. Lots to keep up with. After exploring the retirement visa for the Philippines, have decided to just retire there. The cost is a lot more reasonable. 800,000 baht to just let sit in their Thailand bank. ?? Every year they have their hand out for more money? The reporting every 90 days, of course with them having their hand out again, However In the Philippines Veterans pay 10 dollars a year. And for 1500 dollars entrance fee, you get a lifetime pass, that allows you to come and go as you please. It's the Philippines for me. I can visit Thailand from there.
Great video, in fact I was getting ready to go to another Visa place, when I saw your video pop up. So I just returned from seeing Aom, and she will be assisting me in renewing my Retirement Visa. I'm like you, I can do it myself if I have to, but better to leave it to the experts that know what they doing. Whats funny is that their office is only about a 10 minute walk from my condo, so that was a added bonus. Aloha from Thailand - Derek
Hey James.... great interview! Just a guck point about the maintenance of the 800k THB with the 60 day balance before visa renewal. They say you can go down to as low as 400k as long as it is a back to 800k at the renewal date. AND REMEMBER: that it has to be at the 800k mark 60 days before verified by you current bank book and letter from the bank. In speaking from my experience. I moved some money out and put it back in a few days before my renewal date... WRONG. They had me change back to a 90 day which allowed me enough balance verification time. Iv been back and forth here since 2008 and fully retired in 2017 and always well taken care of at my immigration office. And now I don’t mess with the 800k except to deposit some every now and again to show activity, which they like to see. So thanks again James... well done.
Good information! I am one of those guys that always likes to do it myself, but I am starting to realize that sometimes it's so much easier to pay an expert to handle things like this! Thank you! Stay safe! 🙏❤
Hi James thank you for a very informative video. I also watched chuck’s and foreigner Joe’s video and found yours was by far the best ! But don’t tell them ! Lol
Thanks, James. You are the man. I think I am clubbing down to the tourist visa and then converting to OA when there to avoid the 1 year health insurance (background, etc.), as I only plan to stay 3-6 months (depending on world situation), before being able to come back for good.
Excellent video CM - I’m with you , would be happy and less hassles using someone like NA services - Thanks for going to the trouble of doing this video - 🇦🇺🙏👍
Absolutely loved you nailed down with question ! ( There was one question I wish you had asked and it was about the health insurance and hospital coverage ) ... Super clear both from the view of audio and video perspective .... Thank you Chocolate Man ! 01/17/2021
I live near the Thai Consulate of Los Angles but would still use the services of N.A instead of trying to do it myself in Pattaya , My Thai vocabulary is Nit Noy... L.A Rob
In the USA you can not get an O Visa for Retirement. You can only get an OA Vsa. An O Visa in the US Thai Consulate is for Marriage. The best thing to do is go get a tourist visa then switch to an O Visa (Retirement) in Thailand. Other countries do have an O Visa for Retirement if they go to the Thai consulate in there country but for some reason the US does not have this. In America we only get the OA Visa from Thai Consualte.
Great video James really useful stuff. She seemed very informed and good service to use - her English was very good. I like the sound of the hassle free service I'm with you on that the price seems very reasonable for the work involved. You wouldn't get an agent doing that for less than £50 hour in the UK I reckon and its got to be more than 3hrs work for them. Good value absolutely fair. Again thanks for sharing this buddy 👍👍🙏
Great info my friend!👍 Exactly the way I want to come back once the quarantine ends. I am getting the Covid vaccine on Tuesday. I will definitely use their visa service to make my life easier too. Cheers 🥂
Hi James another good vlog. Good info. Back in 2011 I started putting together my AO visa from here in Australia, a bit of running about but not too bad. Criminal record check, health report from a specialist. Passport stuff. Monies in bank. Then all had to be Bound & Notarised by a lawyer. Luck my daughter worked for a law firm right behind the Thai Embassy in Sydney. Freeby. All up about $300. But I guess now just use a tourist visa then see the people you visited and get the OA visa. Thanks James take care
Thanks for the vlog. Although 50 is still a few years off for me, this video was very informative and gave me things to consider in the meantime. Also, that fee seems like such a small price to pay to avoid what would be a huge headache (don't even want to think what such a service would cost me here.)
Thanks for doing this but I guess the prices will change by the time I reach 50. Wish there was an easier alternative, can I apply as a refugee from the US due to extreme emotional damage caused by the clownery of our leadership? 😉
First let me say you don't look anywhere near 50 years old (good for you ). I saw you on Rides4 Kickz and decided to check out your channel. Thank you, this information was excellent, I wonder if you could give me the location of their office, so next time I'm in Pattaya I can come in for a chat. Thanks again CM! 🙏🏽
You are correct James regarding how different offices interpret. I ended up using a law firm out of Bangkok to assist me. Due to all the changes because of the “situation”, it was well worth the price to me. I had to show 6 months of bank statements but maybe because I got my O-A visa and will be traveling over there at the end of the month. Stay safe 😊
GMAN>>>how are you allowed to travel to Thailand now ?? what visa do you have that they will allow you to enter Thailand when most people cannot travel there at the moment??? cheers..
@@chanang453 you can check the "Certificate of Entry" on the website of your country's Thailand Embassy. That will give information on who can currently enter the kingdom.
@@chanang453 I obtained a retirement O-A visa but I believe you can apply for other types. There is a little more paperwork to document for the retirement visa. Good luck and I hope you are able to get yours
Great video!!! I 100% agree with you, pay the experts and let them do everything for you. I will be moving to Thailand at some point this year and I will do the same, pay an agency to take care of it for me. But I do have a question for you, I have heard on other videos about the difficulties getting your pension or social security income accepted. Do you have any advise on that?
The embassy no longer provides a income letter. I'm still trying to figure out how to open a Thailand Bank account. Most banks there won't open a account with just your passport. 800,000 baht is a lot of money to put in a foreign bank, that has the power to deny your visa for any reason they see fit.
I have heard this from people who fall just a little short. Unfortunately the lump sum is your only option that I am aware of. If you find something else out let us know.
@@ChocolateManInThailand Thanks for the reply...my only hope is if the Thai Baht went to 32 baht per US dollar...then I qualify. But have been told that they might accept a combination of Thai bank deposit plus pension to reach the 800,000 baht requirement.
Now if I can get the vaccine soon! Over 65 with conditions should be ahead of the line if you can find it. GOOD LUCK what has happen to the greatest nation?
Hi , thanks for the osom video , have a questio can i come o a tourist visa and change to Non - OA visa in Thailand ( without the need to go out of the country ) ? Thank you !
Good question. I didn't ask that, but I'm going to make an educated assumption and say that yes for each annual extension you will have to pay the immigration fee and the fee for there services again.
Brilliant mate all ways checking out your TH-cam keep me up dated you and travel buddy very good Information hoping to get back this year if I see you around there's a beer for you mate. keep up the good work
since I live in udon I can not get my visa made down by you it approves in not in my area so I have to go down to your area when I have to have my 3 month stamp
Great info James. I will definitely use this company when the time comes. 5000b is good price for all the hassles invovled. I been looking at other visa places and they want 20000b
James I watched the video about the Visa Drama, try to call but had the wrong number. I am traveling to Pattaya in March 7. I am on a 60 day tourist visa hoping to extend it to 90 days. I will be staying at The M Place Pattaya for a few days. Any feed back on this hotel? Like to meet you if you have time. Been watchin you for years. I am a Viet Nam Vet.
Great video brother. As you said different immigration office, different interpretations. Visa services probably best choice for first timers trying to obtain a retirement visa in Thailand. 5000 baht is a great price. BTW, I never know what the date or day it is and neither does Gift anymore. LOL! Stay safe!
Thank you Chocolate man it’s always interesting to hear this kind of information,my only concern is the stipulation to have 800k or not below 400k in a Thai account,health insurance I accept but the account maybe not. Really helpful useful information and the Young lady explained everything very well,the issue is the Thai authorities want to limit the number of silver surfers buying up their country in retirement,which is fair enough the world economy is not balanced. If people are good and respectful they will appreciate the beauty of settling in Thailand 🇹🇭 Cheers and have a great day😉
Ok, so if I understood her, I need 800,000 thai baht in a Thai bank…..and then I guess I can use half of that….just can’t let it drop below 400,000 baht, right ? And for a retiring couple….is it double that for a husband and wife ? Thx !
At 4:32 she says you can't be below 400,000 baht...huh? I'm confused. I thought it was 65,000 Baht per month transfer from a pension, OR, 800,000 in a Thai bank account. 400,000 I've heard if your married.
Being semi-retired is harder than I thought no one really takes me serious and thinks I sell drugs oh the struggles at least I’m only 20 years away from being able to officially retire somewhere
These people charge 35k baht for a O-Visa that include the multiple entry. And that's if you have everything already sort like a bank account and lease agreement that you did on your own. USA citizen, that's the first thing they ask determines the price.
Alright, James My Man, good info for me being retired Army. We got a Thai Embassy here in Honolulu and I can contact your girl there. I’ll pay for the services, not being lazy, but do not like dealing with the red tape and frustration of admin stuff. Be Safe Brah!👍🤙🤞🏼🤓
@@ChocolateManInThailand Reason I asked is that I was intending to travel around airbnb etc without being tied to 1 year rental , which I thought was required for a retirement visa
You said you was retired Army in one of your videos. What was your MOS and Rank when you retired? I know that’s none of my business but I’m just curious. Cool videos 👍🏽 can’t wait to get back over there
Thanks for the video! I enjoy watching videos with banking and visas! You mentioned in another video you mainly use your credit card and don't carry much Baht. Is it from your Thai bank or your US bank? Just wondering if it's easier to use your home country bank or your Thai bank for your primary? I have seen allot of videos on transferring money to their Thai bank and they mention using a credit card but not which bank is the primary bank they use? Hope this question isn't too long?? Thanks again!
Anthony great questions. So the exchange rates are not that great right now, but I did transfer one large deposit to my Thai bank, Bangkok Bank, and I use that to pay rent, bills, and for some minor purchases. For my main day to day spending I use my USA based credit card and I also have a Charles Schwab debit card. The Charles Schwab is important because no matter how many withdrawals from anywhere in the world they always refund 100% of ATM fees which can add up quick. CS also has very competitive exchange rates for when you do need cash. Hope that helps.
@@ChocolateManInThailand That helped allot. Thanks for the great info! I hope I can buy you lunch one of these days when I am able to travel to Thailand? Thanks again! Have a great day!
Hi James thanks for the video I was waiting for someone to do exactly what you have done with a visa agent. When you asked her what you needed to bring to her for her to process the visa there was no mention of health insurance. If I apply for a retirement visa in Aust one of the requirements is purchasing Thai health insurance! Just wondering if that is still a requirement or is travel insurance enough while you are there on a 90 day visa?
Apologies Dave, I didn't make it very clear that this situation pretty much applies for people already in country. After looking at a few embassy websites it does appear that you will need some sort of insurance that is accepted by the Thai immigration. This is definitely something I would check on in person at the embassy that you use.
@@ChocolateManInThailand Thanks James for your quick response but is your agent saying that if you are already in Thailand and applying for a retirement visa that you don't require health insurance?
@@bluey5970 She didn't mention it based on my questions, but then again I didn't ask her specifically about this. The official immigration websites do seem to highlight this so I would definitely consult your agent, embassy , or immigration office to be 100% sure.
Sorry, I'm lost on this one Chocolate Man. There's a service (made of immigration agents) at the Chon buri immigration office that will take care of the visa procedure for a fee (5.000 Thb in this case) ? You're not talking about an external agency, you're talking about some immigration personnel ? Did I get that right ? The nice lady you interviewed is an immigration agent of that immigration office ? Thx, cheers.
Yes, I have noticed that they have agents right there outside of Chon Buri Immigration. I've never talked to them about their services. The people in this office are independent not official personnel of the immigration department.
@@ChocolateManInThailand , thx my man for your fast answer. I've edited my original question cause I think it wasn't well written, so I feel like you misunderstood me. Would you be kind enough to check it again and maybe bring some more light from it ? I thank you in advance Bro.
Is it possible to open a thai bank account on a tourist visa ? Its a bit chicken and egg for me in that you need 800K in a thai bank account for a retirement visa but you need (or so I thought) a 1 year o/a / retirement visa to open an account
immigration is a nightmare - Go with a Service if you do not have a Thai Wife or Girlfriend. Just remember about Banking in thailand. Bangkok Bank is the Best, however, when you have to do your extenstion of stay immigration is know requiring 1 year of bank statements to prove you have had the money in the bank or transfered to your bank. You will have to wait 7 days if you are not physically at the main Bangkok Bank in Bangkok. Most most only give you a 6 month print out to ceritfy your deposits. K-Bank is one bank I know that will give you a year print out at any of there banks. Also, you bank shoud not be joint with another person. Thai immigration looks at this as though someone elese is putting money in your account. Example, if you had a Thai Wife or Thai Husband. You should be on this account by yourself. If your married and both in Thailand and both foreigners it may not be a problem.
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great 'salt of the earth' info, no frills, gimmicks or advertorials, just the way it is...........perfect.thank you
Our pleasure!
Visa and process walk-thrus always get me to subscribe! Thanks!
Welcome aboard!
Probably the best and clearest explanation i have seen of the process. It's so cheap to avoid all the hassle why wouldn't you? Thank you.
That's how I feel about it!
I will clarify some confusion in reference to the Thailand Retirement or OA Non Immigration Visa vs O Non Immigration visa. Other countries my give you an O Visa for retirement but in the US Thai Consulate or Embassy they do not have an O Visa for Retirement. The O Visa in the US is for marriage. I have a friend from Germany and they do have an O Visa (Retirement) at the Thai Consulate in Germany. Also, She mentioned that you can get a letter from the US Consulate or Embassy in Thailand that certifies you make X amount of money to qualify for your stay in Thailand. This was correct information, but the US Embassy does not do this any more because once they explained to the Thai Immigration they do not verify this, they only take the Foreigners word for this as the Foreigner has to sign an affidavit. US Embassy or Consulate does not want to verify income from those coming to Thailand from the US and Thai Immigration was under the impression they where actually verifying this information. So, the Thai Immigration will except this if you can get one, however, most all Foreign Embassy or Consulate in Thailand no longer provide this.Also, the best ATM Card to get is with Charles Schawb. They charge no fees and pay all foreign bank fees. Also, they use the Visa Rate which at time is better than the current exchange rate that you get at banks. If your from the US. The best thing to do is Get a 90 day or 6 month visa for Thailand then open up a bank account in Thailand and start Transfering the required amount which can be the monely amout stated or 800K baht. Also, make sure you get mulit entry. If you get an O Visa (retirement) in Thailand you don't have to leave every 90 days. You do have to report, but you do not have to leave. Your first reporting must be done in person then after that you can do it on line, if you can get it to work. However, if you are from another country besides the US that offers an O Visa at the Thai Consulate in your country you will physically have to leave Thailand every 90 days then come back in. Pain in the Ass. It is better to try to get an O Visa (retirment) when you arrive in Thailand on your 3 or 6 month Tourist Visa. So, after one year can can get an extension of stay for another year. If you are from the US and you do get an OA Visa the nice thing about this is it can be good for 2 years before you have to get an exention of stay. The way you do it is a month before your OA Visa is going to expire you leave the country and come back in. They will stamp another 1 year within your passport. Very nice to have this OA Visa. However, You will be required to purchase Thai Heath Insurance that will cost $900 to $1000 which if you look at the "Exclusions" on the policy it is basicaly worthless. A lot of people never as for the "Exclusions" and don't know this. But, ask the Thai insurance guy to also send you the "Exclusion Page" and you will see what I mean. With the O Visa this is not a requirement because you are getting this when you are already in Thailand. Insurance is good if you dont' have it, but there are a lot of retirees who already have insurance from there job when they retired and don't want to pay an additional $1K for Thai Insurance that is basically usless. If you ger an OA Multiple Entry Visa and pay for the insuance it will be good for 2 years. It looks like the O Visa (Retirement) in Thailand is a littel cheapter, evern with taking it to a Visa Service. The O Visa for Retirement even though it is only good for 1 year - you save vs the OA Visa multi entry ($200) because you don't have to pay $1K Thai Insurance. They will not take any other insurance except what is listed on the Thai Embassy Web Page.
👍
Your comment is very useful, thank you so much, you confirmed something I was thinking.
Thailand is a lot of hassle. Lots to keep up with. After exploring the retirement visa for the Philippines, have decided to just retire there. The cost is a lot more reasonable. 800,000 baht to just let sit in their Thailand bank. ?? Every year they have their hand out for more money? The reporting every 90 days, of course with them having their hand out again, However In the Philippines Veterans pay 10 dollars a year. And for 1500 dollars entrance fee, you get a lifetime pass, that allows you to come and go as you please.
It's the Philippines for me. I can visit Thailand from there.
Great video, in fact I was getting ready to go to another Visa place, when I saw your video pop up. So I just returned from seeing Aom, and she will be assisting me in renewing my Retirement Visa. I'm like you, I can do it myself if I have to, but better to leave it to the experts that know what they doing. Whats funny is that their office is only about a 10 minute walk from my condo, so that was a added bonus. Aloha from Thailand - Derek
Now that is awesome!! Thanks for sharing!!
Please tell us if you had to do anything different or paid anything different than what was in the video. Thanks in advance.
Thanks. I will be looking them up when I come!
Great! Hope you do!
Hey James.... great interview! Just a guck point about the maintenance of the 800k THB with the 60 day balance before visa renewal. They say you can go down to as low as 400k as long as it is a back to 800k at the renewal date. AND REMEMBER: that it has to be at the 800k mark 60 days before verified by you current bank book and letter from the bank. In speaking from my experience. I moved some money out and put it back in a few days before my renewal date... WRONG. They had me change back to a 90 day which allowed me enough balance verification time. Iv been back and forth here since 2008 and fully retired in 2017 and always well taken care of at my immigration office. And now I don’t mess with the 800k except to deposit some every now and again to show activity, which they like to see. So thanks again James... well done.
Thanks for the info.
What immigration office were you working with BTW?
@@ChocolateManInThailand .... Phitsanulok...
Great video James. We all just have to go with the flow...
Exactly bro!
Exactly the kind of video I've been looking for- thanks for sharing! New Subscriber
Thanks for the sub!
WOW! Thanks for doing this. I will be dealing with visas in about 7 months. Great Info.
No Problem!
Definitely worth $150 for the service instead of wasting hours and frustration.
That's how I feel. I can burn $150 on lot of dumb things, this is just smart.
Good information! I am one of those guys that always likes to do it myself, but I am starting to realize that sometimes it's so much easier to pay an expert to handle things like this!
Thank you! Stay safe! 🙏❤
No worries!
You’re channel has such great info
Hi James thank you for a very informative video. I also watched chuck’s and foreigner Joe’s video and found yours was by far the best !
But don’t tell them ! Lol
Awesome, thank you!
Thanks, James. You are the man. I think I am clubbing down to the tourist visa and then converting to OA when there to avoid the 1 year health insurance (background, etc.), as I only plan to stay 3-6 months (depending on world situation), before being able to come back for good.
Good plan!
Excellent video CM - I’m with you , would be happy and less hassles using someone like NA services - Thanks for going to the trouble of doing this video - 🇦🇺🙏👍
Glad you enjoyed it
Absolutely loved you nailed down with question ! ( There was one question I wish you had asked and it was about the health insurance and hospital coverage ) ... Super clear both from the view of audio and video perspective .... Thank you Chocolate Man ! 01/17/2021
If you are not in Thailand then I would absolutely expect to have to show proof of some kind of substantial medical coverage.
@@ChocolateManInThailand To apply for the Non O retirement extension when your in Thailand you don’t need to show prove of any health insurance!
@@roygoad2870 Wasn't mentioned in the interview with this service. As always check with your agent, embassy or immigration office.
Good info. Never realised agents can do car stuff and others. Good to "see main office
They have a laundry list of services they provide. I was very impressed!
Thank you so much for these videos. They're inspiring!
Glad you like them!
Thanks so much! Im going to be going thru this as soon as possible, appreciated!
Best of luck!
Very good video simple and to the point. Great job keep up the good work
Much appreciated!
Great sense of humor... Your the man... So it's best to get a 3 month visa before you go at Thai embassy
I live near the Thai Consulate of Los Angles but would still use the services of N.A instead of trying to do it myself in Pattaya , My Thai vocabulary is Nit Noy... L.A Rob
Yep, I hear you!
In the USA you can not get an O Visa for Retirement. You can only get an OA Vsa. An O Visa in the US Thai Consulate is for Marriage. The best thing to do is go get a tourist visa then switch to an O Visa (Retirement) in Thailand. Other countries do have an O Visa for Retirement if they go to the Thai consulate in there country but for some reason the US does not have this. In America we only get the OA Visa from Thai Consualte.
@@Traveler-PKK
I believe that's what she was trying to explain in the video. It may not have been clear.
I agree. I don't mind paying for convenience.
Great!!
Thanks James for the information.
Any time!
Thanks James, Another informative video. I, like you , am lazy. this service sounds well worth the money. Hopefully soon, I'll see you in Thailand .
Hope it works for you! Thanks for the comment!
Very informative, great job! God Bless
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks for the info mate. I’ll be using her service when I am allowed back into thailand
Great! Wish you luck!
You have an excellent channel
Thanks!
Well done mate great channel. You take care
Thanks, you too!
Good information and it’s always a popular subject..
Popular and touchy, only the facts from people who know is all I can promise.
Great video James really useful stuff. She seemed very informed and good service to use - her English was very good. I like the sound of the hassle free service I'm with you on that the price seems very reasonable for the work involved. You wouldn't get an agent doing that for less than £50 hour in the UK I reckon and its got to be more than 3hrs work for them. Good value absolutely fair.
Again thanks for sharing this buddy 👍👍🙏
Always worth it to me!
Great info! I'm with you, let a specialist handle it
Exactly!
Great info my friend!👍 Exactly the way I want to come back once the quarantine ends. I am getting the Covid vaccine on Tuesday. I will definitely use their visa service to make my life easier too. Cheers 🥂
Best of luck!
Hi James another good vlog. Good info. Back in 2011 I started putting together my AO visa from here in Australia, a bit of running about but not too bad. Criminal record check, health report from a specialist. Passport stuff. Monies in bank. Then all had to be Bound & Notarised by a lawyer. Luck my daughter worked for a law firm right behind the Thai Embassy in Sydney. Freeby. All up about $300. But I guess now just use a tourist visa then see the people you visited and get the OA visa. Thanks James take care
Good stuff. Hope the video helped out!
Great info James. I will be utilizing this in the near future. Thank You. All the best. Mitch 🙏
Awesome Mitch. Hope it helps!
Thanks for the information , cuz next year I’ll be applying for my retirement visa . Will be using an agent .
Great plan!
Thanks again bro for another informative video...awesome info. Just the info I was looking for, can’t wait for things to clear up 👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦
Glad to help
Thanks chocolate man that has been very useful and interesting. Thanks for the video.
Glad it was helpful!
Very good questions
Thanks!!
Thanks for the vlog. Although 50 is still a few years off for me, this video was very informative and gave me things to consider in the meantime. Also, that fee seems like such a small price to pay to avoid what would be a huge headache (don't even want to think what such a service would cost me here.)
Glad it was helpful!
Wishing I didn’t know what day it was in Thailand also
Hopefully soon!!
You and me both
Thanks for doing this but I guess the prices will change by the time I reach 50. Wish there was an easier alternative, can I apply as a refugee from the US due to extreme emotional damage caused by the clownery of our leadership? 😉
Good video.....I'm the same pay somebody to do the paperwork
Right on
First let me say you don't look anywhere near 50 years old (good for you ). I saw you on Rides4 Kickz and decided to check out your channel. Thank you, this information was excellent, I wonder if you could give me the location of their office, so next time I'm in Pattaya I can come in for a chat. Thanks again CM! 🙏🏽
Thanks for the sub! Glad the video was helpful. The location link is there in the description. Let me know if its now working.
Great info. We are applying for a visa this year. Liked and subscribed 😃 We may just come to Thailand then apply there with those ladies.
It seems to be easier to do that way. Best of luck and thanks for the sub.
Good info James & keep up the good videos.
Thanks, will do!
You are correct James regarding how different offices interpret. I ended up using a law firm out of Bangkok to assist me. Due to all the changes because of the “situation”, it was well worth the price to me. I had to show 6 months of bank statements but maybe because I got my O-A visa and will be traveling over there at the end of the month. Stay safe 😊
Great info! Thanks for sharing!
GMAN>>>how are you allowed to travel to Thailand now ?? what visa do you have that they will allow you to enter Thailand when most people cannot travel there at the moment??? cheers..
@@chanang453 you can check the "Certificate of Entry" on the website of your country's Thailand Embassy. That will give information on who can currently enter the kingdom.
@@chanang453 I obtained a retirement O-A visa but I believe you can apply for other types. There is a little more paperwork to document for the retirement visa. Good luck and I hope you are able to get yours
Thanks James, could you possibly do a video on the Marriage Visa please, thanks again James.
Yep, super hot topic. Will get to that in the future for sure.
Great video!!! I 100% agree with you, pay the experts and let them do everything for you. I will be moving to Thailand at some point this year and I will do the same, pay an agency to take care of it for me. But I do have a question for you, I have heard on other videos about the difficulties getting your pension or social security income accepted. Do you have any advise on that?
Thanks so much for that comment. An agent, Thai embassy official, or immigration office is really the best place to get the answer to that one. Sorry.
That's what I figured but I appreciate the reply. I'm hoping to be living in Thailand by July and not knowing what day of the week it is like you lol
The embassy no longer provides a income letter. I'm still trying to figure out how to open a Thailand Bank account. Most banks there won't open a account with just your passport. 800,000 baht is a lot of money to put in a foreign bank, that has the power to deny your visa for any reason they see fit.
Old video. Check out the new one. th-cam.com/video/zQ_ESF3MH44/w-d-xo.html
Hiya Great content but you left out the most important part. Where the Visa place ?
goo.gl/maps/RazpV7dGUznjK1x37
Thanks dude . I will definitely look it up when I go for my visa. Keep up the great Content Man .
Great info just subbed, thanks
Very good info., looks like my retirement is a little short...I think my pension and social security together is $2,200 a month.
I have heard this from people who fall just a little short. Unfortunately the lump sum is your only option that I am aware of. If you find something else out let us know.
@@ChocolateManInThailand Thanks for the reply...my only hope is if the Thai Baht went to 32 baht per US dollar...then I qualify. But have been told that they might accept a combination of Thai bank deposit plus pension to reach the 800,000 baht requirement.
@@watchlifewithcharles906 I'd love 32 as well. Wouldn't that be nice!! Hope it all goes well for you!!
@@ChocolateManInThailand Hope to see you there sometime in the next few months....
Now if I can get the vaccine soon! Over 65 with conditions should be ahead of the line if you can find it. GOOD LUCK what has happen to the greatest nation?
Crazy times.
Good content once again....thanks...keep it up!...
Enjoying your vlogs.
Glad you like them!
Hi , thanks for the osom video , have a questio can i come o a tourist visa and change to Non - OA visa in Thailand ( without the need to go out of the country ) ? Thank you !
Leo Leo I'm not sure, but if you contact the Agent I mentioned, your embassy, or immigration they will give the final answer. Thanks for the comment!
Great info good to know, stay save be Lucky!
Thanks, you too!
I agree well worth the money.. Do you pay them to do the 90 day report also, or is that easy to do..
There's no fee for the 90 day that I'm aware of. If can also be done online now, but I still let the ladies do it for me.
Very good my friend good insight and explained very well
Thanks for your time 🙏
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks James, how about the elite visa?? I remember from watching that you have the elite. Thanks James
Absolutely, doing that video soon!
Great video, thanks for sharing 🙏
Thanks for watching!
Nice One Thank You, UK
Thank you too!
I just joined, there's a good vibe to your vid's! Great info on this one. One question, is the full agents fee repeated every year?
Good question. I didn't ask that, but I'm going to make an educated assumption and say that yes for each annual extension you will have to pay the immigration fee and the fee for there services again.
Fantastic Info Bud great video
Glad it was helpful!
Brilliant mate all ways checking out your TH-cam keep me up dated you and travel buddy very good Information hoping to get back this year if I see you around there's a beer for you mate. keep up the good work
Awesome, thank you!
since I live in udon I can not get my visa made down by you it approves in not in my area so I have to go down to your area when I have to have my 3 month stamp
Interesting. Thanks for sharing.
Great info James. I will definitely use this company when the time comes.
5000b is good price for all the hassles invovled. I been looking at other visa places and they want 20000b
Awesome! I hope you check them out!
You will pay more depending on the personal service they will do for you!
@@roygoad2870 was that your personal experience with NA services?
@@ChocolateManInThailand No, all the visa agents are the same, just use one you can trust or referred too imo!
@@roygoad2870 thats exactly what this video is about.
James I watched the video about the Visa Drama, try to call but had the wrong number. I am traveling to Pattaya in March 7. I am on a 60 day tourist visa hoping to extend it to 90 days. I will be staying at The M Place Pattaya for a few days. Any feed back on this hotel? Like to meet you if you have time. Been watchin you for years. I am a Viet Nam Vet.
Do you happen to have their link? Thanks 🙏🏼
Great video brother. As you said different immigration office, different interpretations. Visa services probably best choice for first timers trying to obtain a retirement visa in Thailand. 5000 baht is a great price. BTW, I never know what the date or day it is and neither does Gift anymore. LOL! Stay safe!
It's such an unfortunate byproduct of retirement to experience "loss of date syndrome." 555 Thanks for checking it out bro! See ya soon!
Thank you Chocolate man it’s always interesting to hear this kind of information,my only concern is the stipulation to have 800k or not below 400k in a Thai account,health insurance I accept but the account maybe not. Really helpful useful information and the Young lady explained everything very well,the issue is the Thai authorities want to limit the number of silver surfers buying up their country in retirement,which is fair enough the world economy is not balanced. If people are good and respectful they will appreciate the beauty of settling in Thailand 🇹🇭 Cheers and have a great day😉
Understood. Thanks for the comment!
Ok, so if I understood her, I need 800,000 thai baht in a Thai bank…..and then I guess I can use half of that….just can’t let it drop below 400,000 baht, right ?
And for a retiring couple….is it double that for a husband and wife ? Thx !
At 4:32 she says you can't be below 400,000 baht...huh? I'm confused. I thought it was 65,000 Baht per month transfer from a pension, OR, 800,000 in a Thai bank account. 400,000 I've heard if your married.
I thought her explanation was pretty clear, but it's also a good idea to check the Thai Immigration website or speak with your nearest Thai embassy.
Being semi-retired is harder than I thought no one really takes me serious and thinks I sell drugs oh the struggles at least I’m only 20 years away from being able to officially retire somewhere
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Informative! Great job!
Glad it was helpful!
"I'm not sure what day it is..." Retired Life Problems!!!
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Thanks.. I think 150 bucks for the service is well worth it..
Agreed.
These people charge 35k baht for a O-Visa that include the multiple entry. And that's if you have everything already sort like a bank account and lease agreement that you did on your own. USA citizen, that's the first thing they ask determines the price.
Good information and I'm just like you, I rather just pay for someone else to do the hard work.
Facts dawg. Thanks for peepn the vid out!
Thanks finally some good info.
Glad it was helpful!
Thanks bro for the info
No problem 👍
Alright, James My Man, good info for me being retired Army. We got a Thai Embassy here in Honolulu and I can contact your girl there. I’ll pay for the services, not being lazy, but do not like dealing with the red tape and frustration of admin stuff. Be Safe Brah!👍🤙🤞🏼🤓
Solid plan and good luck!!
Good video with good info James. 👊🏼
Thanks 👍
I still got a few years before am ready to retire to thailand. just hope the thai government doesn't come up with more requirements.....
More than likely it will change, but hopefully not too much.
That’s the way to go
I love the easy way lol.
That’s very reasonable
I agree.
Great information....
Does the same rules apply to a foreigner married to a Thai citizen and wishes to reside in Thailand permanently?
Good question. I don't want to speculate so that would definitely be a question for the Agent, Embassy, or immigration office .
Yeah James....TI says.."Bring Em Out " "Bring Em Out " we want more videos . 🍻
hahaha...many more to come!
Didnt they need to see a copy of your rental contract and / or some kind of proof of address ?
Not according to this interview but of course always check with your agent, embassy or immigration office.
@@ChocolateManInThailand Reason I asked is that I was intending to travel around airbnb etc without being tied to 1 year rental , which I thought was required for a retirement visa
You said you was retired Army in one of your videos. What was your MOS and Rank when you retired? I know that’s none of my business but I’m just curious. Cool videos 👍🏽 can’t wait to get back over there
Air Force my friend. I was a loadmaster.
Thanks for the video! I enjoy watching videos with banking and visas! You mentioned in another video you mainly use your credit card and don't carry much Baht. Is it from your Thai bank or your US bank? Just wondering if it's easier to use your home country bank or your Thai bank for your primary? I have seen allot of videos on transferring money to their Thai bank and they mention using a credit card but not which bank is the primary bank they use? Hope this question isn't too long?? Thanks again!
Anthony great questions. So the exchange rates are not that great right now, but I did transfer one large deposit to my Thai bank, Bangkok Bank, and I use that to pay rent, bills, and for some minor purchases. For my main day to day spending I use my USA based credit card and I also have a Charles Schwab debit card. The Charles Schwab is important because no matter how many withdrawals from anywhere in the world they always refund 100% of ATM fees which can add up quick. CS also has very competitive exchange rates for when you do need cash. Hope that helps.
@@ChocolateManInThailand That helped allot. Thanks for the great info! I hope I can buy you lunch one of these days when I am able to travel to Thailand? Thanks again! Have a great day!
Hi,is the 800.000 bath needed on a Thai bank account? Or is it ok I have 27000 euro on my bank in my own country?
Thai Bank
Hi James thanks for the video I was waiting for someone to do exactly what you have done with a visa agent. When you asked her what you needed to bring to her for her to process the visa there was no mention of health insurance. If I apply for a retirement visa in Aust one of the requirements is purchasing Thai health insurance! Just wondering if that is still a requirement or is travel insurance enough while you are there on a 90 day visa?
Apologies Dave, I didn't make it very clear that this situation pretty much applies for people already in country. After looking at a few embassy websites it does appear that you will need some sort of
insurance that is accepted by the Thai immigration. This is definitely something I would check on in person at the embassy that you use.
@@ChocolateManInThailand Thanks James for your quick response but is your agent saying that if you are already in Thailand and applying for a retirement visa that you don't require health insurance?
@@bluey5970 She didn't mention it based on my questions, but then again I didn't ask her specifically about this. The official immigration websites do seem to highlight this so I would definitely consult your agent, embassy , or immigration office to be 100% sure.
Sorry, I'm lost on this one Chocolate Man.
There's a service (made of immigration agents) at the Chon buri immigration office that will take care of the visa procedure for a fee (5.000 Thb in this case) ? You're not talking about an external agency, you're talking about some immigration personnel ? Did I get that right ? The nice lady you interviewed is an immigration agent of that immigration office ?
Thx, cheers.
Yes, I have noticed that they have agents right there outside of Chon Buri Immigration. I've never talked to them about their services. The people in this office are independent not official personnel of the immigration department.
@@ChocolateManInThailand , thx my man for your fast answer.
I've edited my original question cause I think it wasn't well written, so I feel like you misunderstood me. Would you be kind enough to check it again and maybe bring some more light from it ?
I thank you in advance Bro.
Is it possible to open a thai bank account on a tourist visa ? Its a bit chicken and egg for me in that you need 800K in a thai bank account for a retirement visa but you need (or so I thought) a 1 year o/a / retirement visa to open an account
I would contact the nice ladies at NA services or contact the bank directly.
Great information! Can I get a multiple entry retirement visa? Thanks
Short answer yes for small additional fee.
Did you say Chon Buri or Chanthaburi? I was born in Chanthaburi, but I grew up in the states.
Very cool. I live in Pattaya in the Chon Buri province.
@@ChocolateManInThailand cool, I wasn't sure which one you said.
immigration is a nightmare - Go with a Service if you do not have a Thai Wife or Girlfriend. Just remember about Banking in thailand. Bangkok Bank is the Best, however, when you have to do your extenstion of stay immigration is know requiring 1 year of bank statements to prove you have had the money in the bank or transfered to your bank. You will have to wait 7 days if you are not physically at the main Bangkok Bank in Bangkok. Most most only give you a 6 month print out to ceritfy your deposits. K-Bank is one bank I know that will give you a year print out at any of there banks. Also, you bank shoud not be joint with another person. Thai immigration looks at this as though someone elese is putting money in your account. Example, if you had a Thai Wife or Thai Husband. You should be on this account by yourself. If your married and both in Thailand and both foreigners it may not be a problem.
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