Thai Expat Health Insurance

Health solutions for foreigners working in Thailand

Retirees

Applying for a Retirement Visa for Thailand during COVID-19

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If you’re reading this article, you’re most likely interested in traveling to Thailand over the COVID-19 period and wondering what visa option is best for you. Particularly if you’re considering applying for a retirement visa from your home country, then this is for you.

After visiting the Thai Embassy website, you will discover that there are a number of visa options available, including the standard ‘O’ category retirement visa for persons over 50 years of age. The requirements are pretty much the same as previously published except for one additional insurance requirement – applicants now need to have health insurance to cover a minimum of 100,000 USD which includes coverage for COVID-19. This is in addition to the previous requirement to have health insurance which includes a minimum 400,000 THB for Inpatient and 40,000 THB coverage for Outpatient visits.

https://thaiembdc.org/2020/11/17/oalongstay/

One of the main issues is that if you apply for the retirement visa from your home country you will need to pay for 12 months of health insurance upfront to obtain an insurance policy that meets the above requirements. The process of obtaining insurance usually takes 10-14 days. You must then present your insurance coverage certificate to the Thai embassy in your home country in order to obtain the Certificate of Entry (COE). As well, you will need to have confirmed booking at an Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) Facility, and a booking on a repatriation flight which might not be available from your country for another month or so. Even then flights may be cancelled, and a new booking required after you have applied for your visa. All of this affects the amount of time your insurance policy remains valid after you have paid the premium and submitted the insurance certificate to the embassy to obtain your COE. The longer it takes for you to acquire the visa and COE in your home country, the less time you will have remaining on your insurance policy.

So, getting back to the question of whether it’s better to apply for an O-A retirement visa in your home country or after you arrive in Thailand. Provided you are 50-74 years of age, one option is to apply for a Tourist Visa from your home country first (60 days + 30 days extendable) or Special Tourist Visa (If available) then apply for the retirement visa after you arrive in Thailand.

For a Tourist Visa, you only need to have a 90-day travel insurance policy which you can easily purchase by going to our website https://thaitravelinsurance.com/travel-plans/. This policy (Luma Thailand Pass), for persons 1-74 years of age, includes cover for COVID-19 to $100,000 USD and meets the Thai government requirements for both the Tourist and Retirement visa. It can be issued in 5 minutes which is a huge advantage over other forms of insurance coverage. It is also well known to Thai Embassies and so is readily accepted.

Once in Thailand, you can apply for a 3-month non-O visa, then the 1-year retirement visa extension through any number of visa agents here. Also, once you have decided on the most appropriate visa for your extended stay, you are welcome to contact us again and purchase a full comprehensive in-country insurance policy (The Luma Thailand Pass cannot be extended) to cover the length of your new visa as required by the Thai government. It seems the government has relaxed on an earlier requirement to start the process of applying for a 90-day non-immigrant visa from a Thai embassy or consulate. I would encourage you to do your own research but the visa agents we discussed this option with, inform us that it is indeed possible.

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.

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

Telephone or WhatsApp +6689-897-9435

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. Information and opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice. In particular, Thai Expat Club does not guarantee the accuracy of information related to immigration processes and requirements in this report nor do we accept any liability for any loss or damage of any kind arising out of the use of such information or opinions in this report. Readers are advised to do their own research before making decisions relating to visa transfers and migration to Thailand. All rights are reserved.

This report may not be reproduced, distributed or published by any person in any manner for any purpose without the permission of Thai Expat Club.

Where to get a Certificate of Health Insurance to enter Thailand

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Three of the most common questions received from foreigners over the past few weeks are:

  • When can I fly back to Thailand (mainly from retirees)?
  • How can I get a certificate of health insurance to enter Thailand?
  • Can spouses of Thai citizens fly back into Thailand?

On 14th June 2020, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the next group to be allowed to enter Thailand are those married to Thai nationals and those who hold permanent residency (holding PR status).  Spouses will soon be able to fly back under the same conditions as work permit holders (with 100,000 USD valid medical insurance and 14-day quarantine). The expected date is some time in July next month. While it is still not known when foreigners holding retirement visas will be permitted back into the kingdom it is likely that the requirement to produce a certificate showing a valid health insurance policy will remain for some time.

Thai Consulates in overseas countries are considering requests on a case by case nature.  No-one can be sure how long these requirements will be in force but measures are being strictly enforced and unless you have an urgent need to return you are best advised to delay your travel plans until these restrictions are lifted.  Many expats (including retirees) want to know when flights to Thailand will return to normal and what to do about the Health Insurance requirement for entry. Again, “wait and see” is most likely the best approach here.

The above diagram is provided should you be married to a Thai national and/or have an urgent need to return. Your first point of call is to contact the Royal Thai Embassy / Consulate-General in your country to see if you qualify. Having met the criteria for entry you’ll be invited to apply for a “Certificate of Entry”. In order to obtain this certificate, you’ll be asked to obtain a valid health insurance policy covering all medical expenses including COVID-19 and worth at least 100,000 USD.  You’ll also be able to go ahead and confirm your flight and book a room for the 14-day quarantine at a government-designated facility.   The process is detailed quite well on the above diagram provided by the Thai Department of International Economic Affairs.  It is also important to obtain a “Fit to Fly Health Certificate” signed by a doctor in your home country not more than 72 hours before your departure (confirming you are free from the coronavirus).  Without a 100,000 USD health insurance policy which includes coverage for COVID-19 and the “Fit to Fly” Certificate you will be not be permitted to enter the kingdom.

The insurance requirement is slightly different for Thai’s but the requirement to quarantine for 14 days after arrival in Thailand at a government-operated facility (at the traveler’s expense) is the same for both Thai nationals and foreigners.  Travelers need to be aware that the cost of this 14-day quarantine can be anywhere from 30,000 THB to 60,000 THB (depending on the facility you opt for) so you will need to factor this into the overall cost of your return.

Please be aware that the process of applying for and obtaining full medical insurance can take anywhere from 7-10 days.  We are happy to advise all foreigners regardless of age but please note that persons under 65 years can generally obtain health insurance at a reasonable cost whereas the cost of health insurance for persons over 70 years can be prohibitively expensive.  It is also worth mentioning that having cover simply for COVID-19 is insufficient. The coverage needs to be a 100,000 USD health insurance policy which includes coverage for the Coronavirus.

Please contact Thai Expat Club / Health if you have any questions or require a certificate of insurance to meet the Thai government’s entry requirement (covering all medical expenses including COVID-19 and worth at least 100,000 USD).


Telephone or WhatsApp  +6689-897-9435
Website: https://thaiexpathealth.com/

Additional Links:

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1882315/health-certificates-required-of-all-visitors

https://www.thaiembassy.com/travel/can-you-enter-thailand-now-during-the-covid-19-crisis.php

2 million reasons to have health insurance in Thailand: A shocking true story and how you can avoid a similar fate..

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Bernard was on his annual trip to see his mother in Italy.  He left Australia and planned to spend 2 – 3 weeks catching up with old friends in Bangkok. But something was different this time around.  He was experiencing chest pains and difficultly breathing.  He was not aware of any underlying health issues and thought this was something minor.  At least he hoped so.

At 2 am, Bernard woke the owner of the guest house he was staying at and asked her to drive him to Samitivej hospital. The shortness of breath, feeling of fatigue and nausea wouldn’t go away.  He arrived at the emergency desk at Samitivej Hospital and explained his condition to the staff.  He was immediately admitted to the hospital where an echocardiogram revealed Bernard’s heart was only operating at only 30%.  How was this possible? His doctor in Australia had given him the all-clear only months before his departure.  The following day, Bernard was feeling marginally better and decided to check himself out.    However, it seemed the nausea and difficulty in breathing were getting worse. Within 24 hours Bernard was forced to check himself back into the hospital. This time the hospital ran a more detailed angiogram and found Bernard had blockages in 4 arteries providing blood to his heart.  Bernard was immediately admitted to the ICU unit.   The doctors informed him there was no way, at 68 years of age, that he could possibly get on a plane to Italy or return to Australia for free treatment without risking a heart attack.

After a week in ICU, Bernard’s condition stabilized to the point where he was strong enough to undergo surgery.   A quadruple bypass was performed by one of Thailand’s leading heart surgeons. Although doctors informed him there was a significant risk, the operation was successful.  Even so, Bernard needed to spend several additional days in ICU and another 5 days under observation following the operation.    With no travel or health Insurance Bernard found himself telephoning his son in Australia and sister in Italy to help him in paying the 2 million baht hospital bill. This was a real shock for Bernard as someone who had always been healthy, had relied solely on the public hospital system all his life and was unprepared for such a life-changing event. From this point forward unless Bernard can find the means to pay future medical bills himself, he will be restricted to treatment in the public health system of his home country  Bernard has also essentially become uninsurable.  Most companies, including travel insurance companies, will not insure someone planning travel to another country who has suffered such a serious medical event.  Future overseas trips will never be the same for Bernard.

So how can somebody avoid a disaster of this kind?   The 1st thing is a change in mindset.  People need to recognize that accidents can and do happen. Even in people who otherwise appear perfectly healthy. Serious accidents and illnesses happen to people just like you and me more often than we care to think about.  The 2nd thing is to focus on Prevention.  Start eating healthier and exercising more regularly. Quit smoking and lose weight to enjoy a healthier, less stressful lifestyle.  Join fitness and health programs like the Fit Father Project designed exclusively for people over 40 in the second half of their life (I have personally enrolled in this program myself and the results have been nothing short of amazing).  Undergo annual health check-ups at your preferred hospital.  For example Samitivej hospital provides annual check-ups for the heart as well as general health tests. Prices start at 10,000 THB for the basic Heart Disease Detection and Risk Assessment Program – Exercise Stress Test.  Finally if you plan on traveling or moving to a foreign country take out health insurance with a reputable provider (not necessarily the cheapest) before you travel.  Many people happily buy insurance for their car, house, jewelry and even pets but often avoid insuring themselves.  Insurance is not a luxury.  It is an absolute necessity if you are planning to live or visit another country.  As a foreigner you will be responsible for finding the money to fund your medical treatment should you land up in the hospital due to accident or illness.

Heart Disease Detection Program.png

At Thai Expat Health our focus is on providing expert advice to expat retirees and families in Thailand.  We offer insurance from a range of reputable, well-established Insurance companies such as AETNA, APRIL, CIGNA, LMG, and LUMA. who provide excellent customer service and claims support.  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 people money by offering a plan which more closely matches their lifestyle and budget.

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


Telephone or WhatsApp  +6689-897-9435
Website: https://thaiexpathealth.com/

Additional Links:

https://www.fitfatherproject.com/
https://www.samitivejhospitals.com/en/promotions/heart-strength-assessments/

Health insurance for retirees in Thailand

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So you’ve made the decision to retire in Thailand and want to know your options regarding medical insurance.  You’ll be pleased to know that Thailand offers extremely high standards of medical care and is equipped to deliver even the most complex procedures.  However, in order to access these quality health care services, you’ll need private health insurance.

The good news is the costs are about half the amount you might pay for equivalent medical insurance in America, Australia or the UK.  There is also a range of options for health insurance plans starting with accident insurance for a mere $100 a year up to medical insurance with a full range of benefits at around $6,000 per year. Most of these health insurance policies are also international, meaning that your cover extends to overseas travel or travel back to your home country one to two months a year when you feel the need to return to catch up with family or friends.

Whilst health insurance for retirees is relatively affordable in Thailand it’s important to understand the restrictions insurance companies place on the starting age.  For example, people enrolling with Bupa before 60 or younger are guaranteed renewal for life and those enrolling between the ages 61 and 64 will be renewed to age 70.  If you are 65 yrs and miss the cut-off age for Bupa we offer options with our other insurance providers (MSH and NZI).   You can choose to include a deductible (meaning you pay any medical bills up to an agreed amount) which helps to offset the cost of the premium.  There are also discounts each year should you remain claim free in the previous 12 months which also helps offset your annual premium considerably.  However, it’s best to start your insurance before 70 years of age to keep premiums down.  It’s even better if you can start before 60 years of age to ensure any treatment or conditions you encounter in your 60s (while you are insured) continue to be covered by insurance as you enter your 70s, 80s and 90s.

While none of our providers require a medical examination in order to take insurance they may sometimes require a medical history in cases of people applying over 65 yrs of age.  Conditions such as Diabetes and Hypertension that can be controlled, but not cured are considered “pre-existing conditions” and will not be covered, just as they would not be covered by a private insurance provider in your home country.  However, cases of acute medical treatment which occurred more than 5 years ago will generally be okay.

Thai Expat Club offers access to affordable health and medical insurance for foreigners living, visiting, working or retiring in Thailand.  We deal almost exclusively with AXA, BUPA, LMG, MSH and NZI for a higher range of benefits at affordable prices.  We help clients 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 people money by offering a plan which is more closely matched to their lifestyle and budget.

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

Tel. 089-897-9437 or visit our website:

https://thaiexpathealth.com/

Useful Links
http://www.thailandretirementhelpers.com/medical-insurance-in-thailand/
http://www.thailand-retirement.net/health-insurance-in-thailand.html