Where to apply in Ireland
DTV for Irishs
- Police certificate
- Irish Police Certificate from An Garda Síochána (not Garda vetting). London accepts it. Issued within 6 months of submission (London).
- Proof of residence
- London accepts permanent residence in the UK, Ireland or a British Overseas Territory. Irish citizens use their passport.
- Fee
- GBP 300 (London)
- The Garda certificate is free and usually takes about 3 weeks. Apply by post to your District Superintendent.
- The status of the Thai honorary consulate in Dublin is unclear. Plan on applying through London.
Retiring in Thailand as a Irish
Check with the Irish Embassy in Bangkok whether it issues an income letter. The 800,000 THB deposit route does not need one.
- For the O-A, Thai missions generally ask for a police certificate and a medical certificate, each issued within 3 months, plus health insurance (3,000,000 THB or 100,000 USD cover is the current standard on several mission pages).
What Irishs often run into
- Ask for a Police Certificate, not Garda vetting. They are different products.
- Your DTV is decided by the London embassy, so follow London's rules.
Questions from Irishs
How long can Irishs stay in Thailand without a visa?
30 days on the visa exemption. 30 days for tourism on the visa exemption from 15 September 2026, down from 60. One extension of up to 30 days at immigration is possible at the officer's discretion.
Where do Irishs apply for a DTV?
At the Thai embassy or consulate covering your area of Ireland, through the thaievisa.go.th e-visa portal. Since 31 August 2026 you must apply in your country of nationality or permanent residence.
Which police certificate do Irishs need for a DTV?
Irish Police Certificate from An Garda Síochána (not Garda vetting). London accepts it. Issued within 6 months of submission (London).
How do Irish retirees prove income in Thailand?
Check with the Irish Embassy in Bangkok whether it issues an income letter. The 800,000 THB deposit route does not need one.
Does Ireland have a tax treaty with Thailand?
Yes. Ireland has a double tax agreement with Thailand. Ask a tax adviser how it applies to you.
Sources
- TAT Newsroom: new 30-day and 15-day visa exemption rules from 15 September 2026
- Royal Thai Embassy London: revision of visa exemption and VoA schemes
- Royal Thai Embassy London: DTV
- Royal Thai Embassy London: adjustment of DTV supporting documents
- Citizens Information: police certificate
- Revenue Department: Thailand's MLI position (lists covered tax agreements)
- Thai e-Visa portal
- MFA O-A / O-X checklist
- MFA Non-O retirement checklist
- Bangkok Immigration: extension of stay criteria
- Revenue Department: income tax guide (lists treaty partners)