How do I start planning to retire in Pattaya, Thailand?

Retiring in Pattaya takes some planning. Here is a simple order to do it in.

Step 1: check the visa rules first. A Royal Thai Embassy checklist for the Non-Immigrant O visa for retirement says you must:

• be at least 50 years old
• show at least 800,000 baht in the bank, or a monthly income of at least 65,000 baht
• have health insurance (inpatient cover of at least 400,000 baht a year, plus outpatient cover)
• give a medical certificate and a police (criminal record) certificate

The visa starts as a 90-day, single-entry visa. You then extend it to one year at a Thai immigration office. Rules and amounts can differ by embassy, so check with the Thai embassy that covers you.

Step 2: work out your monthly budget. Add up rent, food, health insurance, transport and visa costs. Our Pattaya cost of living guide can help.

Step 3: visit and rent first. Pattaya areas feel very different. Jomtien, Pratumnak, Naklua and East Pattaya each suit different people. Rent for a few months before you buy anything.

Step 4: look at health care. Pattaya has private international hospitals. Check that your insurance is accepted there.

Step 5: meet the expat community. Clubs and groups can help you settle in and find your way.

Thinking about doing some volunteer work once you retire? Read our answer on volunteering on a retirement visa first.

This page is general information. Check with immigration or a lawyer for your case.