Thailand - Welcome to

Why Move to Thailand?

Ever dreamed of living in a tropical paradise where stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities are just part of everyday life? Thailand is the place where that dream becomes reality! Known for its warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and affordable cost of living, this Southeast Asian gem has long been a favorite for expats. Whether you’re after the bustling energy of Bangkok, the laid-back beach vibes of Phuket, or the lush mountain landscapes of Chiang Mai, Thailand has something for everyone.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making Thailand your new home!

Visas & Residency: What You Need to Know

Sorting out your visa is one of the first steps to moving to Thailand. Luckily, there are several options depending on your plans and how long you want to stay:

Tourist Visa: If you’re just testing the waters, a 60-day tourist visa (extendable for another 30 days) is a great start. Many expats begin with this before settling into a long-term arrangement.
Non-Immigrant Visa: If you’re planning to stay longer, you’ll want to look at the Non-Immigrant O visa (for retirees) or the Non-Immigrant B visa (for working). These are valid for 90 days but can be extended once you’re in Thailand.
Retirement Visa (O-A): For retirees aged 50 and over, Thailand’s retirement visa is a popular option. You’ll need to meet financial requirements, such as a deposit of THB 800,000 in a Thai bank or proof of a monthly pension of at least THB 65,000. This visa is valid for a year and can be renewed annually.
Elite Visa: If you want long-term residency without the hassle, the Thailand Elite Visa offers 5 to 20 years of residency in exchange for a fee. It’s ideal for those who want a smooth, VIP experience and access to exclusive benefits.
Work Permit: Planning to work in Thailand? You’ll need a work permit, which is tied to your employer. Many expats teach English or work in specialized fields like tech or hospitality.

Once you’ve secured your visa, you’ll need to do 90-day reporting if you’re staying long-term, which means checking in with Thai immigration every three months to confirm your address.

Finding a Place to Live: From Bustling Bangkok to Tranquil Islands

Thailand’s housing market offers a huge variety of options depending on your lifestyle and budget. Whether you prefer the buzz of a city, the serenity of the countryside, or beachside living, you’ll find your perfect spot. Some popular locations for expats include:

Bangkok: Thailand’s bustling capital is a city that never sleeps, offering everything from luxury condos to affordable apartments. If you love city life with world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife, Bangkok is for you.
Chiang Mai: For a more relaxed vibe surrounded by mountains, Chiang Mai is a favorite among digital nomads and retirees. It’s much cheaper than Bangkok but still offers all the modern conveniences.
Phuket & Koh Samui: If tropical beaches are calling your name, consider moving to one of Thailand’s famous islands like Phuket or Koh Samui. These places are perfect for those who want a beach lifestyle without sacrificing amenities.

When it comes to renting in Thailand, prices can vary depending on the area. In Bangkok, a modern one-bedroom apartment in the city center might cost you around THB 15,000–30,000 per month, while in Chiang Mai, you could find something similar for THB 10,000–20,000. Utilities are typically not included in rent, so budget an extra THB 1,500–2,500 per month for electricity and water.
Looking to buy property? Foreigners can buy condominiums in Thailand as long as no more than 49% of the building is foreign-owned. For houses or land, you’ll need to set up a Thai company or lease the land long-term.

The Cost of Living in Thailand: It’s Affordable!

Thailand’s cost of living is one of the main reasons so many expats move here. You can live comfortably on a modest budget, but how much you spend really depends on your lifestyle. Here’s a rough breakdown of typical monthly expenses:

Rent: THB 10,000–30,000 for a decent apartment (depending on the city).
Groceries: THB 3,000–7,000 a month if you cook at home. Eating out at local restaurants is incredibly affordable, with street food meals costing as little as THB 50.
Utilities: THB 1,500–2,500 for electricity, water, and internet.
Transportation: Public transport is cheap, with BTS/MRT fares in Bangkok costing around THB 15–60 per ride. Taxis and motorbike taxis are also affordable, or you can rent a scooter for around THB 2,000–4,000 per month.
In general, most expats live comfortably on THB 30,000–60,000 per month, depending on location and lifestyle. Of course, if you prefer a more luxurious life, it’s easy to spend more!

Healthcare in Thailand: World-Class and Affordable

Thailand is renowned for its excellent and affordable healthcare. The country’s private hospitals are some of the best in Asia, attracting medical tourists from around the world. Expats have access to world-class care at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries. Some top hospitals include Bumrungrad International in Bangkok and Bangkok Hospital in various locations.

It’s recommended to have health insurance, especially for emergencies or hospital stays. Many employers provide health insurance, but if not, there are plenty of expat-friendly insurance plans starting at around THB 20,000 per year.

The public healthcare system is also available to expats with work permits, but it can be slower and less luxurious than private options. However, for basic care, public hospitals are more than adequate.

Language and Culture: Embrace the Land of Smiles

Thai people are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. While Thai is the official language, you’ll find that English is widely spoken in tourist areas and big cities like Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. However, learning basic Thai phrases will go a long way in building relationships and making your day-to-day life easier.
Thai culture is deeply rooted in Buddhism, and you’ll see temples everywhere. It’s important to respect local customs, like removing your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple, and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.
The Thai lifestyle is very laid-back, and the concept of “sanuk” (fun) is central to daily life. People enjoy a slower pace of life and appreciate socializing, so be prepared to embrace a more relaxed approach!

Getting Around Thailand: Planes, Trains, and Tuk-Tuks

Getting around in Thailand is relatively easy and affordable. In cities like Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway are modern, clean, and efficient ways to travel. For shorter trips, taxis and tuk-tuks are common, though it’s always good to negotiate the fare before hopping in a tuk-tuk.
For those who want more freedom, renting a scooter is popular, especially in beach towns like Phuket or Koh Samui. Just make sure you have an international driving permit (IDP) if you plan to drive.
For longer journeys, low-cost airlines like AirAsia and Nok Air make it easy to hop between cities or explore neighboring countries. Thailand also has a well-connected bus and train system, making travel within the country cheap and convenient.

Meet Our Trusted Partners

One of the perks of living in Thailand is the relatively low taxes. If you stay in Thailand for more than 180 days per year, you’ll be considered a tax resident, but the good news is that tax rates are generally low, and income under THB 150,000 per year is exempt from tax.
Opening a bank account is relatively easy once you have a long-term visa or work permit. Popular expat-friendly banks include Bangkok Bank, Siam Commercial Bank, and Kasikorn Bank. Most banks offer internet banking and easy access to ATMs.

Weather: Tropical and Warm All Year Round

Thailand’s tropical climate means it’s warm all year round. There are three main seasons:

Hot Season (March to June): Temperatures can soar to 40°C (104°F), especially in the north.
Rainy Season (June to October): The monsoon brings heavy rains, but it’s usually short-lived, and the rest of the day is sunny.
Cool Season (November to February): The best time to be in Thailand, with cooler temperatures (20–30°C) and less humidity, especially in the north.

If you’re moving to the islands, expect more tropical rain during the wet season, but that’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a relaxing day indoors!

Lifestyle in Thailand: Work, Play, Repeat!

Thailand offers a fantastic balance between work and play. Whether you’re working remotely from a café in Chiang Mai, enjoying the beach life in Phuket, or immersing yourself in Bangkok’s vibrant culture, there’s always something to do. The country is famous for its night markets, festivals, and laid-back way of life, making it easy to combine work with relaxation.

Night Markets: Thailand’s night markets are legendary. Cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket offer endless stalls selling everything from delicious street food to handcrafted goods, clothes, and quirky souvenirs. Chatuchak Market in Bangkok is one of the largest weekend markets in the world and a must-visit.
Festivals: The Songkran Festival (Thai New Year) in April is the country’s most famous celebration, where the streets turn into a giant water fight. Another popular festival is Loy Krathong, where people float lanterns on rivers and lakes to honor the water goddess. You’ll never be short of fun cultural experiences.
Outdoor Adventures: If you’re a nature lover, Thailand is a paradise. From trekking in the mountains of Pai, scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters around Koh Tao, to exploring the lush jungles and national parks, outdoor adventures are everywhere. Don’t forget to visit the stunning Phi Phi Islands or take a boat trip in Phang Nga Bay for breathtaking views.
Social Scene: Thailand’s expat community is vibrant and welcoming, and you’ll find social clubs, sports leagues, and meetups catering to foreigners in all the major cities. Whether it’s yoga by the beach, joining a football league, or attending a digital nomad meetup, making friends is easy. Plus, the nightlife is thriving, with beach parties in Koh Phangan, rooftop bars in Bangkok, and live music all over.
Relaxation: If you need to unwind, Thailand is famous for its spa culture and massage therapy. Thai massages are world-renowned and incredibly affordable—perfect for some regular relaxation.

Ready to Move to Thailand?

Thailand truly has it all: affordable living, a warm tropical climate, rich culture, and a lifestyle that mixes work and play effortlessly. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler, a retiree looking for a peaceful paradise, or a digital nomad searching for your next base, this country offers a welcoming and diverse expat community ready to make you feel at home.
With its excellent healthcare, rich food culture, and natural beauty, Thailand is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a balanced, vibrant, and exciting life abroad. So, are you ready to pack your bags and experience the Land of Smiles?