Why are Thailand and other countries ideal for retirees?

Pension in Thailand: the perfect choice

Thailand is an amazing option for those who have decided to spend their retirement in a different place. This country is renowned for its high quality of medical services, which is an important factor for many retirees.

The locals are generally known for their friendly and helpful attitude, which is why Thailand is often referred to as the "Land of Smiles." Here, you can find a huge variety of resorts: from crowded and noisy to calm and secluded, allowing everyone to choose a place that suits their taste.

Questions related to real estate purchases should not cause serious concerns either: there is a wide range of offers at various price levels, quality, and locations.

Bangkok: Accessibility and Convenience

The capital of the country, Bangkok, delights its guests with affordable street cafes that operate around the clock. You can reach these places using popular tuk-tuks — three-wheeled taxis that are widely available in the city.

Visa options for retirees

As for visas for retirees, the Thai government has significantly simplified this process. There is a special program that allows foreign citizens over 50 years old, who are considered retirees by local standards, to obtain a visa.

The O-A visa is issued for one year with the possibility of annual renewal. Foreigners from various countries can apply for this document.

Requirements for obtaining a visa

• The applicant must be at least 50 years old at the time of application.
• A bank deposit of 800,000 baht (approximately 25,000 US dollars) per person is required, or proof of a monthly income of 65,000 baht (about 1,722 dollars).
• A person should not have any criminal record or legal issues.
• It is essential to have health insurance issued by one of the companies recognized by the Thai Insurance Association.
• Health check - absence of serious diseases such as tuberculosis or syphilis.

The cost of a visa for retirees

The cost of obtaining a visa for retirees varies depending on the type of visa and can change based on the country where the application is submitted. Typically, the rates are as follows:

• A single-entry pension visa for one year costs 2,000 baht (approximately 58 dollars).
• A multiple-entry visa costs 5000 baht (about 144 dollars).

Other immigration visas

It is worth noting that in Thailand there is an option to obtain another immigration visa for retirees — the O-X visa, which is issued for a period of five years. However, only citizens of certain countries, such as Australia, the USA, Canada, Japan, and several European states, will be able to take advantage of this visa.

Those who plan to apply for this visa need to open a deposit of at least 3 million baht and confirm an annual income of 1.2 million baht.

Thailand Elite Program

It is also worth mentioning the Thailand Elite program, which has no age restrictions, but many retirees actively take advantage of this opportunity. You can find more detailed information about it from specialized sources.

Indonesia: attracting retirees

As for Indonesia, its most attractive place for foreign retirees is Bali, although some prefer the busier areas like Jakarta.

Almost all locals speak English, which helps foreigners feel more confident and comfortable in a new environment.

Cost of living in Indonesia

In Indonesia, the cost of living is not very low, but compared to Western Europe, it may seem more acceptable. Foreigners have the opportunity to rent housing of various categories, but it is important to keep in mind some restrictions regarding property purchases.

The prices of food products are significantly lower at local farmers' markets, where you can find more affordable options.

Special visa for retirees

A special visa is available for foreign citizens aged 55 and over, known as the Retirement ITAS with code 319. It is issued for one year and can be extended for up to five years. After this period, international retirees have the right to apply for permanent residency (ITAP).

If one of the spouses is under 55 years old, it is also possible to apply for a dependent visa, which applies to minor children of the main applicant as well.

Requirements for foreigners

Foreigners wishing to obtain a visa must meet certain requirements:

• Age of at least 55 years;
• The availability of financial resources of at least 18 thousand dollars per year, or a monthly income of 1520 dollars;
• Mandatory health insurance and life insurance for 12 months;
• Renting a property for a period of at least one year, with a price range of $300 to $500, depending on the region;
• Providing a letter of intent for employment as a housekeeper or driver in Indonesia.

Financial costs

As for the financial costs, the consular fee for processing the visa is $150. At this stage, it is also necessary to pay a small amount for the sponsor's confirmation and the re-entry permit to the country.

Experience of emigration

Additionally, it's worth paying attention to the story of a Russian woman who moved to live in Indonesia. She shares her impressions of life on a volcano, walks through picturesque rice fields, and talks about her local husband. More detailed information can be found in her interview on a Telegram channel dedicated to real estate, immigration, and investment issues.

The Philippines as an alternative destination

The Philippines is also an attractive destination for living, although it is not as popular as other countries on this list. The people here are very friendly, and the beaches are stunningly beautiful and affordable. Foreigners can either rent an apartment or purchase real estate, but there are certain restrictions regarding land ownership rights.

El Nido and its opportunities

El Nido, located on the island of Palawan, is known for its stunning white sand beaches and unique coral reefs. There is a special visa for foreigners over 50 years old that grants the right to permanent residence — the Special Resident Retiree Visa (SRRV). This visa allows for unlimited entries into the country and provides indefinite stay in the Philippines.

Official spouses and children under 21 can also obtain a visa. The program allows for the inclusion of up to two dependents, but for each additional dependent, a required advance payment of $15,000 will be necessary.

Lifetime SRRV visa in the Philippines

In the Philippines, there is a special visa called SRRV, which offers benefits to its holders. With this visa, foreigners can work, pursue education, obtain driver's licenses, as well as invest and purchase property in the country. This type of visa is designed for those who plan to change their residence and settle in the Philippines.

Options for obtaining an SRRV visa

There are several options for obtaining an SRRV visa, each of which includes specific requirements. Here are the most popular ones:

• SRRV Smile:intended for retirees and requires a deposit of 20,000 US dollars in an accredited bank approved by the Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA).
• SRRV Classic:Suitable for retirees who want to use funds from their deposit to purchase real estate or for long-term rental. A deposit of $10,000 is required for pensioners and $20,000 for those without pension support. Additionally, the property must cost at least $50,000. It is also necessary to confirm the income level: $800 per person or $1,000 for a couple.
• SRRV Human Touch:Designed for retirees in need of medical services.

Financial requirements for applicants

When it comes to financial support, an important aspect is providing information about income for the last three months, including salary or pension. In cases where the applicant receives dividends or owns other types of investments, the income report should cover a longer period. The possibility of using rental income from real estate is also considered. The applicant must have liquid assets amounting to at least 1.5 million ringgit (approximately 342 thousand US dollars). These funds can be used to place a fixed deposit after the application is approved.

Mandatory deposits and their conditions

All applications require a mandatory initial fixed deposit of 1 million ringgit (approximately 227 thousand US dollars). The deposit can be opened at any bank in Malaysia, and the funds will be locked until the visa expires. It should be noted that after a year, it is possible to withdraw part of the locked funds if they are used for:

• acquisition of housing;
• medical care;
• training.

Additional requirements for a specific age group

For individuals aged 35 to 49, there are specific requirements. In particular, the applicant or their spouse must be in Malaysia for at least 90 days each year. Additionally, for each dependent, which can include a spouse, children, parents, or other close relatives, an extra 50,000 ringgit (approximately 11,375 USD) must be added to the main deposit.

Application processing costs

As for the expenses, the application processing fee is:

• 5,000 ringgits (approximately 1,137 US dollars) for the main participant;
• 2,500 ringgits (about 568 US dollars) for each dependent;

In addition, the annual fee is 500 ringgits (about 113 US dollars).

Experience of a Russian woman in Malaysia

In light of the personal experience of a Russian woman who emigrated to Malaysia under the MM2H program, it can be noted that life in this country is radically different from what she was used to in her home country. While Sri Lanka is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, located south of India, its sunny weather, beautiful beaches, and cultural diversity attract many retirees. However, in recent years, Sri Lanka has faced serious economic problems, leading to shortages of goods and protests from the population. Despite this, the country has managed to significantly ease entry restrictions, which may help it recover its economy by increasing tourist flows.

Visa program for retirees in Sri Lanka

For elderly people wishing to move to Sri Lanka, there is a special program called My Dream Home. Citizens over the age of 55 can participate if they meet the established financial criteria. A long-term visa is issued for a period of two years with the possibility of extension; however, holders of such a visa are not allowed to work in the country. All applications are reviewed exclusively by the Department of Immigration in Colombo, and the main requirements include:

• a certificate of no criminal record;
• age over 55 years

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines offer unique opportunities for retirement living, and each of these countries has its own advantages. I have personally experienced that living abroad can be not only comfortable but also filled with vibrant experiences.

Thailand...with its warm climate and high-quality medical care, has truly become the "Land of Smiles." While...Indonesia, with its beautiful beaches and friendly residents, attracts visitors with its unique cultural heritage.

PhilippinesAlthough less known, they are a true treasure with numerous tropical islands and incredible landscapes. The retirement programs in each country offer affordable conditions for relocation, providing the opportunity to enjoy a quality life away from home.

Visa requirements for retirees

Each of these directions has specific visa requirements, but they are not insurmountable barriers. I believe that everyone can find the perfect place to live that meets their needs and expectations.

Advantages of living abroad

• Quality medical care
• Friendly locals
• Beautiful landscapes and resorts
• Available conditions for relocation

Regardless of the choice, it is important to conduct thorough research and consider all factors before taking a step into a new life. Retirement is not just the end of work activity, but also a chance to start a new chapter full of adventures and discoveries.

Embark on a journey for new experiences, explore the world, and enjoy life in the languages, cultures, and landscapes that these tropical countries offer you.