Health Insurance for Retirees on a Thailand Retirement Visa
The Thailand Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant OA)
Thailand's retirement visa — officially the Non-Immigrant OA visa — is one of the most popular long-stay options for retirees aged 50 and over. It's renewable annually and allows you to live in Thailand without working.
The Insurance Requirement
Since 2019, health insurance has been mandatory for Non-Immigrant OA visa holders.
Minimum required coverage:
- Outpatient (OPD): 40,000 THB per year
- Inpatient (IPD): 400,000 THB per year
Allianz Ayudhya plans that meet this requirement: Yes — I can issue you a letter of insurance confirmation for your visa application or extension.
What I Recommend Beyond the Minimum
The minimum requirement is just that — a minimum. For retirees actually living in Thailand and using healthcare regularly, I recommend going beyond it.
Here's why:
A single hospitalisation for a cardiac event, cancer diagnosis, or major surgery can cost 500,000–2,000,000 THB at a private hospital. A policy with 400,000 THB IPD limit might leave you significantly out of pocket.
My recommendation for retirees:
| Age | Recommended plan tier | Approx. cost/year |
|---|---|---|
| 50–60 | Comprehensive IPD+OPD | 70,000–100,000 THB |
| 60–70 | Executive with cancer cover | 100,000–160,000 THB |
| 70+ | Senior plan with full assessment | Quote on application |
Pre-Existing Conditions: The Honest Answer
This is the question I get most from retirees. Nearly everyone over 60 has something — high blood pressure, diabetes, a history of heart disease, a knee replacement.
Here's the honest picture:
Declared pre-existing conditions can often still be covered — sometimes with a loading (higher premium) or a specific sub-limit, but covered nonetheless. This is far better than having an undeclared condition void your claim when you need it most.
Undeclared conditions are where people get in trouble. If you don't disclose a condition and then make a claim related to it, Allianz can reject the claim. Always disclose.
I work with clients to complete the medical history declaration thoroughly and honestly — and I'll tell you upfront what your options are likely to be before you commit to a policy.
What to Expect at Renewal
Health insurance premiums increase with age. This is normal and applies to all insurers. I'll give you a realistic projection of how your premium will change over time so there are no surprises.
Some conditions that develop after your policy starts are covered as "new conditions" — they're not treated as pre-existing. Managing your ongoing relationship with your insurer well matters, and having an advisor who does this for you makes a real difference.
Hospital Experience for Retirees
The hospitals I recommend for retirees — Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital, and Samitivej — all have experienced geriatric care, English-speaking staff, and case managers who will help coordinate ongoing treatment.
I've accompanied several older clients to hospital visits — not because it's required, but because having someone who knows the system in the room makes the experience less stressful for both patient and family.
Ready to Get Covered or Review Your Current Policy?
If you're planning to apply for a retirement visa or renew one, let's make sure your insurance meets the requirement and actually protects you.
Book a free consultation — I'll find you the right plan, issue your coverage letter for immigration, and be there when you need me.