Health insurance for the Non-OA retirement visa is mandatory and non-negotiable. The rules around which policies qualify and how to prove your coverage are not always clearly explained and getting it wrong costs you an extension.
Which Visas Require Health Insurance?
| Visa type | Insurance required? | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Non-OA retirement visa | Yes every year at renewal | USD 100,000 / 3,000,000 THB |
| Non-OX long-stay | No higher financial threshold instead | N/A |
| LTR visa (all categories) | Yes BOI standard | USD 50,000 |
The Minimum Coverage Requirements
| Standard | Amount |
|---|---|
| Current enforced minimum (most consulates and immigration offices) | USD 100,000 / approx. 3,000,000 THB total |
| Older figures (still accepted at some provincial offices) | 40,000 THB outpatient + 400,000 THB inpatient |
What Makes a Policy Accepted?
- Issued by an OIC-licensed Thai insurer OR a recognised international health insurer
- Total medical coverage of at least USD 100,000 / 3,000,000 THB
- Policy period covering at least 12 months
- Proof letter clearly states coverage amounts in THB
What the Proof Letter Must Say
Thai Domestic vs International Plans
Thai Domestic Insurance
Thai-issued OIC-regulated policies are accepted at immigration offices without question. Major providers offering Non-OA-compatible plans: Bangkok Insurance, Muang Thai Life Assurance, Allianz Ayudhya (Allianz Ayudhya), AXA Thailand. Advantages: widely accepted, competitive premiums for younger retirees, familiar with the Thai hospital system. Disadvantage: coverage limited to Thailand.
International Plans
Cigna Global, BUPA International, AXA Global Healthcare, Pacific Cross worldwide coverage, higher limits, accepted by Thai immigration when proof letter states THB amounts. Higher premiums especially over 65. Best for those who travel frequently between Thailand and their home country.
Practical Steps for Your Insurance Documentation
- Contact your insurer at least 6 weeks before your extension appointment.
- Request a letter specifically for Thai Non-OA immigration purposes.
- Specify: you need outpatient and inpatient coverage stated explicitly, with the total in THB.
- Review the letter carefully before your appointment check your name matches your passport.
- Bring the letter plus your full policy documents. Officers occasionally request the full policy schedule.