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Health Insurance Requirements for Visa Applications

Health insurance has become an essential part of the visa application process for many foreigners seeking to stay long-term in Thailand. Whether you’re applying for a retirement visa, long-term resident visa, or working in Thailand as an expat, having adequate health insurance is crucial. This article outlines the health insurance requirements for various visa categories and what you need to consider before applying.

Why Health Insurance is Required for Visas

Thailand’s government requires foreigners to have valid health insurance to ensure that they can cover any medical expenses during their stay. This is especially important for those applying for long-term visas, as it reduces the financial burden on Thailand’s healthcare system. Having proper coverage also gives you peace of mind, knowing that you’ll be taken care of in case of illness or injury.

Visa Categories Requiring Health Insurance

Here’s a breakdown of the most common visa types in Thailand that require health insurance:

1. Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A and O-X)

Foreigners aged 50 years and older can apply for a retirement visa, which allows them to stay in Thailand long-term. Health insurance is mandatory for both the initial application and renewals.

Non-Immigrant O-A Visa:

  • Minimum coverage of 400,000 THB for inpatient treatment.
  • Minimum coverage of 40,000 THB for outpatient treatment.
  • The insurance policy must be valid for the entire length of stay in Thailand.

Non-Immigrant O-X Visa (10-year visa):

  • The policy must have a minimum coverage of 3 million THB for inpatient treatment and cover COVID-19 related treatments.
  • Health insurance from your home country may be accepted if it meets Thai standards.

2. Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa

Thailand's Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa offers a 10-year stay for wealthy individuals, retirees, professionals, and highly skilled experts. Health insurance is one of the essential requirements for this visa category.

  • Coverage: Minimum of USD 50,000 for medical expenses, including COVID-19 treatment. Alternatively, applicants can provide proof of social security benefits or a deposit of USD 100,000.

This insurance must be valid for the entire duration of the visa.

3. Work Permit and Non-Immigrant B Visa

Foreigners working in Thailand and holding a Non-Immigrant B Visa generally need health insurance as part of their employment package. Although not always required for the visa itself, many companies in Thailand provide health insurance to meet immigration and labor laws.

  • Recommended coverage: While there is no mandatory minimum, it’s advisable to have comprehensive coverage for both inpatient and outpatient care, particularly if your employer doesn’t offer an insurance plan.

4. SMART Visa

The SMART Visa is for entrepreneurs, investors, and highly skilled professionals. Health insurance is required, but the minimum coverage levels are flexible depending on the applicant's age and medical condition.

  • Coverage: Generally requires health insurance covering a minimum of USD 50,000 for medical expenses.

5. Volunteer Visa (Non-Immigrant O)

Foreigners volunteering in Thailand may apply for a Non-Immigrant O Visa. Although not always explicitly stated, many organizations require volunteers to have health insurance covering both inpatient and outpatient medical treatment.

  • Recommended coverage: While specific amounts may vary, it’s advisable to have sufficient insurance to cover unforeseen medical expenses.

What Should Your Health Insurance Cover?

When choosing a health insurance policy for a Thai visa, it’s important to ensure that it covers the following:

  • Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment: Your policy should cover hospital stays, surgery, and outpatient visits, including consultations and medication.
  • Emergency Medical Evacuation: In some cases, you may need to be evacuated to your home country or another nearby country for medical treatment. Ensure that your insurance includes this benefit.
  • COVID-19 Coverage: Most visa categories now require that your insurance policy covers COVID-19-related medical expenses. Check that your policy includes this, as the pandemic has heightened the importance of comprehensive coverage.
  • Duration of Stay: The insurance policy should cover the entire period you plan to stay in Thailand, whether it's for 90 days, 1 year, or more.
  • Age Limits: Some insurance providers have age limits, particularly for applicants over 60 or 70 years old. Make sure your chosen plan covers your age group, especially for long-term visas like the retirement visa.

Where to Get Health Insurance

Health insurance for visa applications can be purchased from:

  • Thai Insurance Companies: These companies offer policies that meet Thai government requirements for various visa categories. Common providers include Thai Life Insurance, AXA, and Luma Health.
  • International Providers: If you prefer an international insurance provider, you must ensure their policy meets the required coverage levels for Thailand. Many expats use providers like Cigna or Allianz.
  • Embassy-Approved Insurance: For retirement visas and other long-term stays, some embassies provide a list of approved health insurance providers that offer policies in line with Thai immigration requirements.

How to Submit Your Health Insurance Proof

When applying for or renewing a visa, you will need to provide proof of health insurance coverage. The required documents typically include:

  • A copy of the insurance policy in English or Thai.
  • A certificate from your insurance provider showing coverage amounts and policy duration.
  • Confirmation that the insurance covers inpatient, outpatient, and COVID-19 treatments.

These documents should be submitted along with your visa application to the Thai Immigration Office or Thai embassy/consulate in your home country.

Health insurance is not just a visa requirement—it’s a safety net while you live and travel in Thailand. Make sure to choose a policy that offers comprehensive coverage for your medical needs and complies with Thai immigration requirements. By ensuring you have the right health insurance in place, you can enjoy your stay in Thailand with greater peace of mind, knowing you’re protected against any unexpected medical costs.

Still have questions? Message us on WhatsApp at +66 66-146-8724 or on Line at @issacompass and ask our in-house legal team about your specific situation.

Note: Issa Compass is a software platform designed to streamline visa applications and connect you with immigration professionals. We're here to make the process faster and easier, but we're not a law firm or government agency. The final decision for visa approval rests with government officials and immigration policies.