Brett Heath

Is now a good time to retire to Thailand (or should I wait for COVID-19 to be over)?

8 February 2021 by Brett Heath

One common question we receive from clients planning to retire to Thailand is whether or not “now” is a good time to travel and retire in Thailand, or should I wait until the pandemic is over. The answer is never a simple yes or no as each person comes from a different part of the world. Some clients are coming from the US, others are coming from the UK (including Eastern Europe), and a smaller number are from countries such as Australia.

To help, we thought it might be useful to put together a list of pros and cons received as feedback from overseas visitors arriving here in quarantine from those countries. Hopefully, the feedback we received will help guide your decision making and address any concerns you might have about traveling or not traveling to Thailand at this time.

Pros

Thailand is recognized as #1 in Asia (and #2 behind Australia globally) as one of the best countries in the world for their response to the COVID-19 epidemic. The Thai government has reportedly managed to contain the virus much better than other countries and with very low death rates (Thailand Business News). Something to consider if concerned about Thailand’s management of the crisis.
Visas are still available for tourists to travel or retire to Thailand. Many other neighboring countries such as Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia have either closed their borders to tourists or have very restricted entry. Latin American countries, such as Brazil, Ecuador, and Columbia, do not allow US tourists full stop. Unless you are a national from one of these countries, Thailand may be one of the few countries currently open to you as a foreigner seeking to retire.
You currently do not need to have been vaccinated against COVID-19 to gain entry. This is likely to change soon given the likelihood that vaccination may well become a mandatory requirement to board an aircraft. Whether or not it becomes a compulsory requirement in applying for a visa is yet to be seen. However, in terms of vaccination, it seems likely there will be more conditions placed on air travel in the future, rather than fewer restrictions. Another reason why now might be a better time to travel than later.

Cons

The paperwork. Yes, there is a mound of paperwork and processes to go through including applying for a Certificate of Entry, Applying for Insurance, evidence of savings, evidence of income, booking a flight, negative COVID-19 test, and a doctor’s certificate 72 hrs before your flight. Communicating by email with the Thai embassy and all the different agencies involved is undoubtedly a challenge. This is unlikely to change in the short term and the introduction of the vaccine is only likely to add more paperwork in the future to what is already a time-consuming process.
You’ll miss the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine. Yes, this may be so but recognize that the first people to be vaccinated in your country will be front-line health care workers, hotel quarantine staff, followed by people in aged care, the elderly, and others at risk. It may be another 12 months before the vaccine is offered to the general population. If you are delaying plans to travel to Thailand simply to ensure you are in the queue for the vaccine, then you may be in for a long wait. Also, it is entirely probable that once the vaccine is rolled out that you will be able to purchase the vaccine in Thailand (Thailand will start rolling out the first 50,000 doses of AstraZeneca for emergency use this month). It’s quite probable you may end up with better access to the vaccine in Thailand on a paid-for basis than what might be possible in your own country.
Risk management (I could pick up COVID-19 on the journey). You may think that traveling is dangerous and it’s safer to remain in your home country for the time being. For now, staying indoors, wearing a mask, frequent handwashing, and distancing yourself from other people seems like the safest option. That may be true to some extent but it’s well known that transmission happens more easily in crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation versus outdoors where the fresh air disperses the virus particles and people are more easily able to distance themselves from each other. If you’re in the US or the UK, you may be at a greater risk of exposure to the virus in your own country than being outdoors in Thailand. It’s also important to realize that “you may leave your country behind but that doesn’t mean you also get to leave your fears behind.” To mitigate these risks you may choose to purchase a first-class ticket (for more personal space and less contact with other flyers and flight attendants who are attending to other passengers), stay at a more expensive hotel that provides a VIP taxi for one person from the airport, and find accommodation which allows 1 hour of outdoor activity each day by yourself, so as not to expose yourself to other travelers who could potentially be carrying the virus. It is agreed that now is not the time to travel to Thailand on the cheap but as pointed out earlier, Thailand is #1 in Asia for managing the COVID-19 epidemic and #2 in the world behind Australia so a high level of monitoring is provided once you enter the country, go through the airport and continue to quarantine. At least the risks can be mitigated and the price you are prepared to pay can reduce your exposure. Whether or not you are prepared to pay more to mitigate the risks will differ greatly depending on your financial situation. This level of peace of mind may end up costing you more in the short term but this is unlikely to change soon. Not at least until a large percentage of the world has been vaccinated and worldwide travel returns to some kind of normality.

We recognize that whether you choose to retire to Thailand at this time or delay your plans until the world recovers from COVID-19 is very much a personal decision, but hopefully, the pros and cons laid out above have provided several key factors to consider. From someone on the ground, it seems quite clear that the likelihood of things returning to normal within the next 12 months is very small. Experts agree that it will be years before travel returns to anything near the normality it was in February 2020 when the virus first started to take its grip.

Whatever you decide to do, you can count on Thai Expat Club/Health for help and support when it comes to getting the right health insurance plan to match your personal needs.

If you have questions or require any further information, you can contact Thai Expat Club/Health by telephone or WhatsApp at +66 89-897-9435.

Wishing you good health and safe travels.

Links:

https://www.thailand-business-news.com/health/79522-thailand-ranks-2nd-world-best-country-for-recovering-from-covid-19-epidemic.html

https://www.thailand-business-news.com/health/82409-thailand-approves-covid-19-astrazeneca-vaccine-for-emergency-use.html

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this report has been obtained from sources believed to be accurate and reliable. However, Thai Expat Club makes no representation as to the accuracy and completeness of such information nor do we accept any liability for any loss or damage of any kind arising out of the use of the information or opinions in this report. Information and opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. Readers are advised to do their own research before making decisions relating to travel to Thailand. All rights are reserved.

Covid-19 Insurance for Entering Thailand in 5 mins – Luma Thailand Pass

23 October 2020 by Brett Heath

Where can I get COVID insurance for Thailand instantly?

Thai Expat Club partnering with LUMA offers travel insurance plans designed to meet the health insurance requirements for visitors wanting to enter Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Applying is easy and a certificate can be provided in LESS THAN 5 MINUTES!

The coverage meets the minimum requirement for Alien to apply for Non-Immigrant Visa type O-A (Period not exceeding 1 Year) in accordance with the Cabinet Resolution, dated 2 April B.E. 2562 (2019) & in accordance with the minimum requirement for the Special Tourist Visa (STV).

The coverage is as follows :

Outpatient Benefit – with a sum insured THB 3,500,000 / year/period of insurance or
Inpatient Benefit – with a sum insured THB 3,500,000 / year/period of insurance

All plans offer:

Cover up to 3.5 million THB (equivalent to at least 100,000USD)
COVID-19 cover

A certificate will be provided to facilitate applications for the Certificate of Entry (CoE), as well as to present to relevant authorities when departing/arriving for Thailand.

Premiums start from 3,500 THB per policy.

Is it possible to buy this insurance for COVID-19 online?

Absolutely buying this policy online is easy. Simply click the following link and follow the instructions. https:\\thaitravelinsurance.com

Thinking of travelling to Thailand during COVID times? – Expat tips from a recent traveller

14 October 2020 by Brett Heath

If you’re contemplating traveling to Thailand as the spouse of a Thai citizen or returning to Thailand for work, the following information from a recent traveller is aimed at helping you with your decision or making your journey less stressful. Thailand has one of the lowest rates of COVID infection in the world and like other countries has introduced stringent controls including 15-day quarantine, mandatory health insurance and visa restrictions on persons traveling here. We interviewed a foreigner regarding his experience through the process after arriving here from the US. Here is what he had to say:

What are some of the major hurdles you faced before leaving your home country?

You can expect long delays trying to get through your local Thai Embassy’s switchboard as the number of people seeking advice on the visa restrictions and regulations continues to grow. Also, although you will be required to undertake a COVID test 72 hours before your flight, I was told it usually takes more like 1-2 weeks to obtain the results, even though many labs claim they are able to complete the process within 2-3 days. Give yourself plenty of time and be prepared to comply with the numerous regulations the Thai Government has put in place to keep Thailand safe, and Coronavirus numbers low.

How difficult was it to find a hotel for the 15-day quarantine?

Right now there are about 80 hotels offering accommodation for foreigners arriving for quarantine. Initially there were only about 50. I saw hotel prices from as little as 30,000 THB up to 295,000 THB for 15 days including meals. Some hotels were very expensive. I was interested in high internet speeds and the English channels I like to watch. Be sure to contact the hotels, via email, and ask very specific questions if these services are important to you, else you may find yourself locked in into an undesirable situation. I found most higher priced hotels (above THB 60,000) provide airport pickup and have excellent customer service. Make sure to check hotel reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, etc. — and look for a hotel which has over 1000 (or at least several hundred) customers rating the hotel on average 4.5 stars or above. The critical ratings are the ones which provide more reliable and meaningful information. If the hotel has a swimming pool, or a gym, or an open-air lounge/garden area, you will have an outlet for recreation. If you choose such a hotel, you should be able to use these facilities on a limited & Covid-monitored basis, after 7 days (following your 2nd COVID test). For example, you can go to the pool every second day for one hour, with no more than 4 people being at the pool at any given time slot. I think it is worth paying the extra money for a hotel which can provide these kinds of facilities.

What advice would you give about insurance?

Researching over the internet (Google, etc.) you will find various insurance companies and insurance brokers. Make sure you check customer reviews posted on the internet, and social media by happy and unhappy customers. Using a broker is an advantage but don’t expect all your questions answered in one email or a single phone call. The application process is generally fine but can take up to 10 days or longer. You can apply for comprehensive medical insurance through a reputable broker. Or, minimally, you can buy travel insurance — which includes coverage for COVID-19 and up to 100,000 USD coverage — which is the minimal coverage required by the Thailand government in order to get a visa. However, realize that once a short-term travel policy expires you are at risk of being excluded by a future insurance company if you have had treatment during the period of your policy. Being able to reach your broker or the insurance company promptly on the phone or by email is important. Large international companies, like Cigna, even though more expensive, are better choices — as they are more likely to pay claims with fewer hassles, provide more professional service in a timely manner, and communicate through English-speaking staff. It is better to sign up with an insurance company that will maintain your coverage moving forward into old age rather than a travel policy which will expire at the end of your visit.

What other advice can you offer now given your experience applying and traveling to Thailand?

Be aware that you’ll be spending a lot of time getting all the paperwork together for the Thai Government. This is a very taxing and tiring process so allow yourself plenty of time, maintain a positive attitude and be patient. English can be a challenge when dealing with the Embassy and you might have more success communicating by email. A lot of the paperwork may seem unnecessary, but conforming to the rules will save you problems later as you move through the process of applying for medical insurance, obtaining Certificate of Entry, booking your chartered flight, taking the COVID test 72 hours before flying, finding a suitable hotel for the period of your quarantine, undergoing quarantine for 15 days, and filling out numerous forms the authorities require.

Overall, how would you rate your experience?

Thailand is one of the best countries in the world, joining New Zealand, Cambodia, Vietnam, etc. with the least number of people infected with the Coronavirus. Per WHO (World Health Organization) report dated October 9, 2020, USA with a population of 328.2 million has 7.472 million cumulative cases of Covid. In contrast, Thailand with 69.4 million people has a negligible only 3628 cumulative cases !! Statistically speaking, you have a 438 times greater chance of catching Covid in the US compared to Thailand! The quarantine hotels are very good at providing a positive customer experience and implementing the strict COVID regulations as laid down by the Thai Government. Thankfully, the people of Thailand seem to be much more vigilant in fighting this epidemic, wearing masks, following guidelines, washing hands, social distancing, etc. than people in the USA. You will feel much safer here in Thailand than most anywhere else, and most likely be very happy to be here.

Many thanks to the person/s who have contributed to this article. Knowing more about the issues expat are likely to come across as they move through the process, will help others prepare for the journey and help them decide whether now is the right time to be traveling to Thailand.

Thai Expat Health makes it EASY for foreigners to obtain the certificate of insurance required to meet the Thai government’s entry requirement (insurance covering all medical expenses including COVID-19 and worth at least 100,000 USD). We have assisted many clients to receive their certificate of insurance in the FASTEST possible time with a MINIMUM of fuss. Our service is provided FREE of charge and you benefit from our personalized help and experience.

Note that there are a large number of applications in the system at the moment, so please submit your application early to avoid delays.

Please contact Thai Expat Club Health if you have any questions or require any further information

Telephone or WhatsApp +6689-897-9435

Website: https://thaiexpathealth.com/

How long does it take to get COVID insurance to enter Thailand?

11 September 2020 by Brett Heath

A question commonly received from people planning to travel to Thailand is “How long does it take to get insurance for COVID-19 in Thailand?”. Most people asking this question are weighing up the pros and cons of traveling to Thailand at this time or are in the early phases of applying to the Thai Embassy in their home country for a Certificate of Entry. While the insurance policy is usually the least expensive part of the process compared to the cost of the flight and the 14-day hotel quarantine, without understanding the process it can still be a somewhat time-consuming and frustrating experience. Hopefully, this explanation will provide some clarity over why it takes time to issue insurance for COVID-19 and some things you can do to help speed things along.

For most people, the average time is around 10 – 14 days from the time the client emails an application to us, responds to additional questions from the insurance company (underwriting department), signs an offer letter, pays for the policy, and is finally issued a certificate of insurance. Persons aged 65 years and over may face additional delays due to the need for a Physician’s Examination Report. Visting your doctor and obtaining this report can easily extend the process beyond 10 days or more. Although payment from overseas can take up to 5 days to arrive, in most cases the insurance company will issue the policy based on a copy of the bank transfer as evidence of payment before it physically arrives in the bank account. The lengthiest part of this process is usually the period where the insurance company’s underwriting department is assessing the application. Applications with a signed copy of the applicant’s passport and more complete responses on the application form will almost certainly receive a faster turnaround.

The application process can often be made faster depending on how accurately you complete the insurance application, whether you remember to attach a signed copy of the picture page of your passport (required by the insurance company to match your identity with the policy) and how quickly you respond to requests for further information from the insurance company.

Once the policy is paid for, most insurance companies will email you the Certificate of Insurance (with the policy number) which shows that the “Health insurance policy includes treatment and medical expenses in relation to COVID-19 with a minimum coverage of 100,000 USD”. This insurance statement is sufficient to present to the Thai Embassy in your country of departure in order to obtain the Certificate of Entry and the go-ahead to book your seat on the next available flight. The original insurance policy and card are generally sent via post a week to 10 days later but are generally not required by the embassy for the Certificate of Entry.

Hopefully, this overview has provided a better understanding of the requirements at each stage while you are applying for your COVID insurance policy. Also, the following diagram from the Civil Aviation of Thailand (CAAT) presents a broader snapshot of the documents required in the stages from Pre-departure through to Arrival and is aimed at helping make the process clearer and less daunting for foreigners contemplating an application to enter Thailand.

Thai Expat Health makes it EASY for foreigners to obtain the certificate of insurance required to meet the Thai government’s entry requirement (insurance covering all medical expenses including COVID-19 and worth at least 100,000 USD). We have assisted many clients to receive their certificate of insurance in the FASTEST possible time with a MINIMUM of fuss. Our service is provided FREE of charge and you benefit from our personalized help and experience. Note that there is a large number of applications in the system at the moment, so please submit your application early to avoid delays.

Please contact Thai Expat Club / Health if you have any questions or require any further information

Telephone or WhatsApp +6689-897-9435

Website: https://thaiexpathealth.com/

Additional Links:

https://www.caat.or.th/en/archives/51895

COVID-19 Insurance options for Thailand – Thai Expat Health

2 August 2020 by Brett Heath

The coronavirus outbreak has had an unprecedented effect on travelers, country borders, and international flights. Whether it’s fear, business, or separation from family and loved ones, each and every one of us has been impacted by the virus in one way or another.

Today many people are looking for affordable insurance not just to cross borders or reunite with loved ones but also for peace of mind in the event we are unfortunate enough to be struck by the illness. Here at Thai Expat Health, we offer you and your family a range of insurance solutions for COVID-19.

The insurance products offered are from approved providers and meet the minimum 100,000 USD (including protection for COVID-19) for entry to Thailand as prescribed by the Thai government. From full comprehensive health insurance for long term workers, retirees, and spouses of Thai citizens to short term insurance for medical tourists and short term visitors alike, we offer an insurance product to match most every individual’s needs.

Luma Thailand Pass

Choose from a range of different travel plans to meet the health insurance requirements for visitors wanting to enter Thailand during the COVID-19 pandemic.

All plans offer:

– Cover up to 3.5 million THB (equivalent to at least 100,000 USD)
– COVID-19 cover

The application process is easy and the certificate required for entry can be obtained in 4-5 business days. Premiums start at 2,800 THB for a 3-month travel policy.

Simply apply online via the following link:

https://thaitravelinsurance.com/

Full Health Insurance Plans

If you are a foreigner returning to Thailand for work, as a retiree or as the spouse of a Thai citizen then full medical coverage through an approved provider is likely to be a better option for you. Full medical coverage offers many additional benefits such as: –

– Comprehensive coverage for top international hospitals
– Cashless hospital visits in a preferred hospital network
– No need to pay and claim for Inpatient treatment
– Cover for motorcycle accidents and ongoing treatment
– Lifetime renewal (dependant on age at entry)
– Cover for COVID-19

Thai Expat Health offers insurance from a range of reputable, well-established Insurance companies such as AETNA, APRIL, CIGNA, LMG, LUMA, and PACIFIC CROSS. There is no pushy sales talk and recommendations are based on your needs (not ours). We help you avoid the confusion which comes from not being able to speak the language or communicate satisfactorily with staff in Thai Insurance Companies.

Our service is FREE and we often save you money by offering a plan which more closely matches your lifestyle and budget.

Contact Thai Expat Health today and let us help you with your health insurance requirements.

Get a quote here

Insurance for COVID-19 – Online solution for short term visitors requiring insurance for Thailand

27 July 2020 by Brett Heath

Introducing an online solution for short term visitors needing COVID-19 insurance for Thailand. Luma Thailand Pass meets the government requirements for the Certificate of Entry to Thailand with overall coverage of 100,000 USD including cover for Covid-19.

This plan has been approved by the Office of Insurance Thailand (OIC) and is ideal for short term visitors such as medical tourists, trade fair participants and foreign film crews who are expected to be approved for entry by Thailand’s Centre for COVID-19 Situation Administration (CCSA) within the next few days. This plan is also suitable for tourists coming from surrounding countries such as Japan, China, South Korea, Singapore and Hong Kong. It will also be an excellent option for visitors from western countries as soon as travel bans are lifted.

Prices start at 4,500 THB for 3 months coverage (persons aged 1-75 years)

Is it possible to buy this insurance for COVID-19 online?

Absolutely buying this policy online is easy. Simply click the following link and follow the instructions. thaitravelinsurance.com

SOME IMPORTANT INFORMATION BEFORE PROCEEDING

Before proceeding you should know that this is travel Insurance for short term visitors to Thailand. It has been designed for visitors who have no intention of extending their stay beyond the length of their term visa. Like most other travel insurance policies this Insurance is based on pay and claim. Should you seek treatment in a hospital – you will need to pay all hospitals bills yourself – then claim back later when you return to your home country.

While the Luma Travel Pass includes coverage for COVID-19, accidents, and other illnesses it does NOT provide cover for motorcycle accidents or room and board in a private hospital over 10.000 THB/day. The plan is also restricted to persons aged 1 – 75 years and is non-extendable while you remain in Thailand.

If you have no intention of extending your stay and believe the Luma Travel Pass is a suitable plan for your situation then follow this link for instructions on how to obtain your travel pass. You are advised to read the terms and conditions contained on the website link carefully. While the Luma Thailand Travel Pass is a great option for many short term visitors there are limitations on refunds and other parts of the policy which do not apply to full medical insurance plans.

If you are a foreigner living or working in Thailand or are returning to the kingdom for work on a non-immigrant “B” visa, or on any kind of renewable non-mmigrant “O” marriage or retirement visa then you are advised to purchase full medical insurance through an approved provider. Travel Insurance should be an addition to coverage not an alternative to a full comprehensive medical plan.

Thai Expat Health offers insurance from reputable companies that offer superior levels of customer service and claims support. In most cases, your insurance application can be approved in less than 7-10 days and coverage can begin as soon as payment is received.

Contact us if you need additional information or have any further questions regarding full medical insurance. thaiexpathealth.com

Links https://www.nationthailand.com/news/30391749 – Four types of foreigners to be allowed to enter Thailand: CCSA