OFFICIAL APPROVED INSURERS
OIC Approved Insurance List for Thailand Retirement Visa (2026)
The complete guide to Thai General Insurance Association (TGIA) approved insurers for O-A and O-X visas, coverage requirements, and how to verify your policy is accepted.
✓ Updated January 2026
✓
Quick Answer: What Insurance Is Approved for Thailand Retirement Visa?
For O-A and O-X retirement visas, your health insurance must be from either:
- A Thai insurer on the official TGIA list at longstay.tgia.org
- An international insurer with a completed Foreign Insurance Certificate
Minimum coverage (most embassies): $100,000 USD / 3,000,000 THB including COVID-19
For extensions in Thailand: Some immigration offices accept 400,000 THB IPD + 40,000 THB OPD
📋 In This Guide
2. Why Thailand Requires Approved Insurance
3. O-A Visa Approved Insurers
4. O-X Visa Approved Insurers
5. Top TGIA Insurers: Detailed Profiles
6. Can You Use International Insurance?
7. How to Verify Your Insurance
8. Coverage Requirements Breakdown
9. Cost Comparison by Age
10. How Claims Work
11. Annual Renewal Guide
12. Getting Your Insurance Certificate
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid
14. FAQ
Disclosure: This guide contains affiliate links to insurance providers. We may earn a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Full disclaimer.
UNDERSTANDING THE REGULATOR
What is the OIC? (Office of Insurance Commission)
Looking for OIC approved insurance Thailand options? Here’s everything you need to know. The Office of Insurance Commission (OIC) — known in Thai as สำนักงานคณะกรรมการกำกับและส่งเสริมการประกอบธุรกิจประกันภัย — is Thailand’s insurance industry regulator. Operating under the Ministry of Finance, the OIC was established in 2007 under the Thailand Government Insurance Commission Act B.E. 2550.
OIC’s Core Functions
- Supervise and regulate all insurance companies operating in Thailand
- Protect policyholders and ensure fair treatment
- Promote development and stability of Thailand’s insurance industry
- Set standards for insurance products including those for visa applications
- Maintain the official list of approved insurers for long-stay visas
The OIC works closely with the Thai General Insurance Association (TGIA), which manages the official portal at longstay.tgia.org where you can find the current list of approved insurers for O-A and O-X visas.
When we refer to “OIC-approved insurance” for retirement visas, we’re talking about insurance policies that meet the standards set by the OIC and are listed on the TGIA portal as eligible for long-stay visa applications.
PROTECTING EVERYONE
Why Does Thailand Require Approved Insurance?
Thailand’s health insurance requirement for retirement visas, introduced in October 2019, reflects the government’s thoughtful approach to protecting both visitors and Thailand’s world-class healthcare system. This isn’t bureaucratic red tape — it’s a practical solution to a real challenge.
Protecting Retirees
Medical emergencies can happen to anyone. A single hospitalization in Thailand can cost hundreds of thousands of baht. Without insurance, retirees may face financial ruin or inadequate care during their golden years.
Protecting Thai Healthcare
Thailand’s public hospitals previously absorbed significant costs from uninsured foreigners who couldn’t pay their bills. The insurance requirement ensures these costs are properly covered by insurance rather than Thai taxpayers.
By requiring approved insurance from verified providers, Thai authorities can quickly confirm coverage validity during visa applications and extensions. Thai insurers on the TGIA list can be verified instantly, while international insurers provide a standardized Foreign Insurance Certificate that immigration officers recognize.
Note: This insurance requirement applies specifically to O-A and O-X retirement visas. Unlike the DTV visa which accepts any reputable insurer, retirement visas have stricter requirements about which insurance providers are accepted. Learn more about all Thailand visa insurance requirements.
OFFICIAL TGIA LIST
OIC Approved Insurance Thailand: List for O-A Visa
The following Thai insurance companies are officially listed on the TGIA portal (longstay.tgia.org/companiesoa) as approved providers for O-A (1-year retirement) visa:
10-YEAR RETIREMENT VISA
OIC Approved Insurance Thailand: List for O-X Visa
The O-X visa (10-year retirement visa) is available to nationals from 14 specific countries: Japan, Australia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Canada, and United States. The approved insurers are similar to the O-A list.
Check the official O-X insurer list at longstay.tgia.org/companiesox. The approved providers include:
AXA Insurance PCL
Bangkok Insurance
Viriyah Insurance
Falcon Insurance
Thaivivat Insurance
Navakij Insurance
+ More on TGIA
O-X vs O-A: Key Insurance Differences
Both visa types have similar insurance requirements and approved insurers. The main difference is eligibility — O-X is limited to 14 nationalities and requires higher financial proof (3 million THB deposit vs 800,000 THB for O-A). For detailed O-A requirements, see our complete O-A visa requirements guide.
KNOW YOUR OPTIONS
Top TGIA-Approved Insurers: Detailed Profiles
Not all OIC-approved insurers are equal. Here’s what you need to know about the most popular choices among retirees:
Pacific Cross Health Insurance
MOST POPULAR
Pacific Cross has specialized in health insurance across Asia for over 45 years. They’re the go-to choice for many retirees due to their visa-specific products and senior-friendly policies.
Age Limit (New)
Up to 75 years
Renewable To
Age 99
Hospital Network
400+ hospitals
Starting Price (50-55)
~฿18,000/year
Best for: Retirees who want a balance of visa compliance and comprehensive coverage, especially those over 65.
AXA Insurance Thailand (EasyCare Visa)
EASY ONLINE
AXA Thailand offers the “EasyCare Visa” product specifically designed for O-A and O-X applications. Part of the global AXA Group, they provide instant online certificates and 24/7 English hotline support.
Age Limit (New)
Up to 80 years
Renewable To
Age 99
Max Coverage
฿4,000,000 IPD
Online Purchase
Yes, instant cert
Best for: Tech-savvy retirees who want quick online enrollment and instant certificate delivery.
Luma Health Insurance
BUDGET OPTION
Luma Health focuses on providing affordable visa-compliant coverage. They’re a popular choice for retirees who need to meet visa requirements on a tighter budget.
Age Limit (New)
Up to 70 years
Renewable To
Age 80
English Support
Yes
Starting Price (50-55)
~฿15,000/year
Best for: Budget-conscious retirees under 70 who primarily need visa compliance.
Bangkok Insurance
ESTABLISHED
With over 70 years of operations in Thailand, Bangkok Insurance is one of the country’s most established non-life insurers. They offer comprehensive health products with an extensive hospital network.
Experience
70+ years
Branch Offices
Nationwide
Direct Billing
Yes
Claims Process
In-person available
Best for: Retirees who prefer dealing with an established Thai company with local branch support.
Viriyah Insurance
#1 IN THAILAND
Viriyah is Thailand’s number one non-life insurance company by market share. Known for service quality and reliable claims processing, they offer competitive health insurance for long-stay visas.
Market Position
#1 Non-Life
Service Quality
Award-winning
Claims Reputation
Excellent
Financial Strength
Very Strong
Best for: Retirees who prioritize claims reliability and want Thailand’s largest insurer backing their policy.
FOREIGN INSURANCE CERTIFICATE
Can You Use International Insurance?
Yes, international insurers are generally accepted for O-A and O-X visas, but you’ll need additional documentation. You must obtain a Foreign Insurance Certificate — a specific form required by the OIC.
International Insurers Typically Accepted:
⚠️ Important: Acceptance of international insurers may vary by immigration office. Bangkok tends to be more flexible. The safest option is always a Thai insurer from the TGIA list.
DON’T RISK REJECTION
How to Verify Your Insurance Is Accepted
Before purchasing any OIC approved insurance Thailand policy for your retirement visa, verify it will be accepted. This simple step can save you from application delays and wasted money.
Step-by-Step Verification Process
Check the Official TGIA Portal
Visit longstay.tgia.org/companiesoa for O-A or longstay.tgia.org/companiesox for O-X. If your insurer is listed here, you’re good to go.
Confirm Coverage Amounts
Ensure your policy clearly shows the required minimum coverage: $100,000 USD / 3,000,000 THB for most embassies, or 400,000 THB IPD + 40,000 THB OPD for some immigration offices.
Contact Your Embassy
For initial applications, contact the Thai embassy where you’ll apply. Ask specifically if they accept your insurance provider and what documentation they need.
Get It In Writing
Request a letter or certificate from your insurer confirming the coverage amounts, policy duration, and that it covers treatment in Thailand including COVID-19.
🚫 Travel Insurance Is NOT Accepted
Short-term travel insurance policies (like World Nomads or SafetyWing) are not accepted for O-A and O-X retirement visas. You need a long-stay health insurance policy that meets the specific requirements. Learn about healthcare costs without insurance to understand why proper coverage matters.
IPD AND OPD EXPLAINED
Coverage Requirements Breakdown
Understanding the coverage requirements can be confusing because they’ve evolved over time and vary between embassies and immigration offices. Here’s what you need to know:
📋 Embassy Applications (Most Common)
| Total Coverage | $100,000 USD / 3,000,000 THB |
| COVID-19 | Must be included |
| Duration | 1 year minimum |
| Provider | TGIA list or Foreign Certificate |
📋 Immigration Extensions (In Thailand)
| Inpatient (IPD) | 400,000 THB minimum |
| Outpatient (OPD) | 40,000 THB minimum |
| Duration | 1 year minimum |
| Provider | TGIA list preferred |
Understanding IPD vs OPD
IPD (Inpatient)
Hospital stays requiring overnight admission. This covers surgeries, serious illnesses, accidents requiring hospitalization, and related treatments during your stay.
OPD (Outpatient)
Medical visits where you don’t stay overnight. This covers doctor consultations, minor treatments, diagnostic tests, and prescription medications.
BUDGET PLANNING
Cost Comparison: Thai vs International Insurers
OIC approved insurance Thailand premiums vary significantly based on age, coverage level, and provider. Here’s a general comparison to help you budget:
| Age Group | Thai Insurers (Basic TGIA Plan) | Thai Insurers (Comprehensive) | International (Cigna, Allianz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50-55 years | ฿15,000-25,000 ($420-700/yr) | ฿35,000-60,000 ($980-1,680/yr) | $1,800-3,600/yr |
| 56-60 years | ฿22,000-35,000 ($615-980/yr) | ฿50,000-85,000 ($1,400-2,380/yr) | $2,400-4,800/yr |
| 61-65 years | ฿35,000-55,000 ($980-1,540/yr) | ฿75,000-120,000 ($2,100-3,360/yr) | $3,600-7,200/yr |
| 66-70 years | ฿55,000-85,000 ($1,540-2,380/yr) | ฿100,000-180,000 ($2,800-5,040/yr) | $5,400-10,800/yr |
| 71-75 years | ฿85,000-140,000 ($2,380-3,920/yr) | ฿150,000-280,000 ($4,200-7,840/yr) | $8,400-16,800/yr |
Note: Prices are approximate and vary by provider, coverage limits, and pre-existing conditions. Always get quotes directly from insurers. Exchange rate used: 1 USD = ~35.7 THB
✓ Thai Insurers: Pros
- Lower premiums, especially for seniors
- Instant verification by immigration
- Direct billing at Thai hospitals
- Thai-language support
✓ International Insurers: Pros
- Coverage in multiple countries
- Often higher coverage limits
- English-language claims process
- Portable if you relocate
For seniors over 70, finding affordable coverage can be challenging. See our guides on Thailand travel insurance for seniors and health insurance for over 60 for more options.
WHEN YOU NEED CARE
How Claims Work with Thai Insurance
Understanding how to actually use your insurance is just as important as having it. Here’s what to expect when you need medical care in Thailand:
Option 1: Direct Billing (Cashless)
Most TGIA-approved insurers have direct billing agreements with major Thai hospitals. This means:
- Present your insurance card at the hospital
- Hospital contacts insurer directly to verify coverage
- You pay nothing upfront (within policy limits)
- Claim is handled between hospital and insurer
- You may only pay deductibles or non-covered items
Pro tip: Before visiting any hospital, call your insurer’s hotline to confirm the hospital is in their network.
Option 2: Reimbursement
If direct billing isn’t available or you visit a non-network hospital:
- Pay for treatment yourself
- Collect all original receipts and medical reports
- Submit claim form with documentation
- Receive reimbursement within 15-30 business days
- Keep copies of everything you submit
Documents You’ll Need for Claims
📋 Always Required
- Completed claim form
- Original itemized receipts
- Medical certificate/report
- Copy of passport
🏥 For Hospitalization
- Admission/discharge summary
- Detailed hospital bill
- Lab/test results (if applicable)
- Surgical report (if applicable)
⏰ Important Timelines
- Notify insurer: Within 24-72 hours of admission (for emergencies) or before planned treatment
- Submit claims: Within 30-90 days of treatment (varies by insurer)
- Appeals: Usually 30 days from claim decision to dispute
YEAR AFTER YEAR
Annual Renewal: What to Expect Each Year
Your insurance journey doesn’t end after the first year. Here’s what happens at renewal time and how to prepare:
📈 Premium Changes
Expect premiums to increase each year due to: age-banding (moving to higher age bracket), medical inflation adjustments (typically 5-10% annually), and claims history (high claims may trigger increases). Most insurers send renewal notices 30-60 days before expiry.
🔄 Continuity Benefits
Staying with the same insurer has advantages: no new medical underwriting (pre-existing conditions from initial application remain excluded, but no new ones added), waiting periods already served, accumulated no-claims bonuses (some insurers offer 5-10% discount), and continuous coverage history.
⚠️ Switching Insurers
If you switch to a new insurer: new medical underwriting required (conditions developed since original policy may be excluded), waiting periods restart, no continuity credit for previous coverage, but may get better rates or coverage. Always ensure no gap between policies.
✓ Renewal Checklist for Visa Extensions
- Renew insurance at least 2 weeks before visa extension appointment
- Ensure new policy dates align with visa extension period
- Get updated certificate showing new validity dates
- Verify coverage amounts still meet current requirements
- Keep both old and new certificates until extension is approved
STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS
Getting Your Insurance Certificate
Whether you choose a Thai or international insurer, you’ll need proper documentation for your visa application. Here’s how to get it right the first time:
For Thai Insurers (TGIA List)
- Choose your insurer from the TGIA list at longstay.tgia.org
- Apply online or in-person — most TGIA insurers offer online applications with English support
- Complete medical questionnaire — be honest about pre-existing conditions
- Pay your premium — annual payment is typically required upfront
- Receive your certificate — Thai insurers issue certificates specifically formatted for visa applications, usually within 1-3 business days
For International Insurers (Foreign Certificate)
- Download the Foreign Insurance Certificate form from longstay.tgia.org/guidelineoa
- Purchase your international policy ensuring it meets Thai requirements
- Contact your insurer and request they complete the Foreign Insurance Certificate
- Ensure proper signing — the form must be signed and stamped by an authorized person at the insurance company
- Submit both documents — your policy document AND the completed Foreign Insurance Certificate
⚠️ Certificate Checklist
- Your full name (matching passport exactly)
- Policy number and validity dates
- Coverage amounts clearly stated (IPD and OPD)
- Confirmation that policy covers treatment in Thailand
- COVID-19 coverage included
- Official signature and stamp from insurer
AVOID REJECTION
Common Mistakes That Get Applications Rejected
After years of helping retirees with their visa insurance, we’ve seen the same mistakes cost people time and money. Here are the top errors to avoid:
❌ Using Travel Insurance Instead of Health Insurance
Short-term travel insurance (World Nomads, SafetyWing, etc.) is NOT accepted for retirement visas. You need a proper long-stay health insurance policy from an approved provider.
❌ Insufficient Coverage Amounts
Your policy must clearly show the required minimums. A $50,000 policy won’t work if the embassy requires $100,000. Always verify the exact requirements with your specific embassy.
❌ Missing Foreign Insurance Certificate
If using an international insurer, simply showing your policy card isn’t enough. You MUST have the completed Foreign Insurance Certificate form signed by your insurer.
❌ Policy Doesn’t Cover Full Stay Period
Your insurance must cover your entire intended stay — typically 12 months minimum. A 6-month policy will be rejected even if coverage amounts are sufficient.
❌ Name Mismatch with Passport
Your insurance certificate must show your name exactly as it appears in your passport. Even small differences (like middle name vs middle initial) can cause problems.
❌ Assuming All Immigration Offices Accept the Same
Requirements can vary between embassies and between immigration offices in Thailand. What worked for a friend in Chiang Mai might not work in Phuket. Always verify locally.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
OIC Approved Insurance FAQ
What does “OIC approved insurance Thailand” actually mean?
OIC approved means the insurance policy and provider meet the standards set by Thailand’s Office of Insurance Commission for long-stay visa applications. In practice, this means the insurer is listed on the TGIA portal at longstay.tgia.org, making verification simple for immigration officials.
Is Cigna Global accepted for Thailand retirement visa?
Cigna Global is generally accepted at most Thai embassies and immigration offices, but you’ll need to provide the Foreign Insurance Certificate form completed and signed by Cigna. Acceptance may vary by location, so verify with your specific embassy before purchasing.
What’s the cheapest OIC-approved insurance for O-A visa?
Budget Thai insurers like Luma Health and Thai Setakij start around 15,000-20,000 THB per year (~$420-560) for ages 50-55. However, prices increase significantly with age. While cheaper policies meet visa requirements, consider whether the coverage is sufficient for your actual healthcare needs.
Can I get insurance if I’m over 75 years old?
Yes, but options become limited. Some Thai insurers like Pacific Cross and AXA Thailand accept new applications up to age 75-80, with renewals possible to age 99. International insurers often have higher age limits but at significantly higher premiums. Shop around early and be prepared for higher costs.
What if I have pre-existing conditions?
Most insurers require disclosure of pre-existing conditions and may exclude them from coverage, apply waiting periods, or charge higher premiums. Thai insurers are often stricter about pre-existing conditions than some international providers. Be completely honest on your application — undisclosed conditions can void your policy. See our pre-existing conditions guide for detailed advice.
Do I need OIC-approved insurance for Non-O visa (retirement)?
The Non-Immigrant O visa (applied for inside Thailand) doesn’t always require the same insurance proof as the O-A visa (applied abroad). However, many immigration offices now request insurance for O visa extensions too. Check with your local immigration office for current requirements.
What happens if my insurance expires while in Thailand?
If your insurance expires, you may face issues at your next extension or 90-day report. Immigration can refuse your extension without valid insurance. Always renew before expiry and keep your certificate current. Most insurers send renewal reminders, but set your own calendar reminder too.
Can I switch insurance providers after my visa is approved?
Yes, you can switch providers as long as your new policy also meets the requirements and there’s no gap in coverage. You’ll need to present proof of your new insurance at your next extension. It’s best to have the new policy in place before canceling the old one.
Where can I download the Foreign Insurance Certificate form?
The official Foreign Insurance Certificate form is available at longstay.tgia.org/guidelineoa for O-A visas. This form must be completed, signed, and stamped by your international insurer to be valid.
Is Pacific Cross a good choice for O-A visa insurance?
Pacific Cross is one of the most popular choices among retirees in Thailand. They’re on the official TGIA list, have over 45 years of experience in Asia, accept new applications up to age 75 (renewable to 99), and offer both Thai-compliant and comprehensive international plans. Their visa-specific products are designed specifically for O-A and O-X requirements.
Do I need both IPD and OPD coverage?
For the older requirements (400,000/40,000 THB), yes — you need both inpatient (IPD) and outpatient (OPD) coverage. For the newer $100,000 requirement, total coverage is what matters. However, having both IPD and OPD makes your policy more useful for actual healthcare needs, not just visa compliance.
Need Help Choosing the Right Insurance?
Navigating Thai visa insurance requirements can be confusing. We’ll help you find OIC-approved coverage that meets all requirements and actually protects your health in Thailand.
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All Visa Insurance Types ·
Expat Health Insurance ·
Travel Insurance Guide ·
Senior Insurance Guide
Last updated: January 2026
This guide is for informational purposes only. Visa requirements can change. Always verify current requirements with the Thai embassy or immigration office where you plan to apply. We recommend consulting the official TGIA website at longstay.tgia.org for the most current list of approved insurers.
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