Moving to Thailand
Considering making Thailand your home? We've written the ultimate guide to relocating and living in Thailand.
At the time of writing this guide, we've been living in Thailand for way over a decade. We've put everything we've learned about living, working, and traveling in Thailand so you can make the move with a huge headstart.
You don't need a moving company, consultation or a "moving coach". The information below will save you thousands of dollars, plus a few headaches. Welcome to Thailand!
Must know
Which visa do you need?
One of the very first steps is knowing how you'll legally remain in the country for an extended period of time. If you're not yet sure which visa best suits your circumstances, we have a full visa guide for you.
Tips & tricks
Fresh off the boat? This is our collection of tips and tricks we wish we'd known on our first day in Thailand.
Getting around & domestic travel
From motorbike taxis to domestic flights, this is everything you need to know to get around Thailand.
Weather
Any time is the best time to visit Thailand, but each season in Thailand does play out a little differently depending on which region you're in and what activities you plan to do.
Culture & etiquette
An introduction to Thai culture, culture and behaviours to help you fit in like a local.
Situational
Working locally & starting a business
If you're moving to Thailand specifically to work for a local business or start your own, this short guide is for you.
Studying
If you're moving to Thailand to study at a university, this guide will help. It does not cover going to school to learn Thai.
Retiring
After you're 50 years or older, you can officially retire in Thailand. This guide is tailored for the mature folks looking to settle in Thailand.
Working remotely
Remote work, living from investments, and becoming a "digital nomad" is very popular in Thailand. We cover everything you need to know and the technicalities of the law and taxation when working from Thailand.
Accommodation
The best places to live
We've traveled all 77 provinces in Thailand and laid out the best places for expats to live long term.
Accomodation types
Depending on your budget, preferences and location, you'll need to pick between a bungalow, apartment, condominium, townhouse, and regular house.
Purchasing property & land
Owning property and land in Thailand as a foreigner is restrictive. This is an introduction to the high level laws and regulations you need to be aware of.
Renting property
Details of standard procedures and mistakes when renting property in Thailand.
Internet & mobile data
The main providers, standard procedures, and the best setup for home and mobile internet.
Getting on the road
Renting vehicles
Details of standard procedures and mistakes when renting vehicles in Thailand.
Purchasing vehicles
Details of standard procedures and mistakes when purchasing and registering vehicles in Thailand.
Insuring & taxing vehicles
We cover compulsory and voluntary insurance and how to purchase and renew road tax.
Driving licences
International driving permits, converting a foreign driving licence, and taking your driving/riding test.
Rules of the road
Thailand often ranks as the most deadly in the world for road accidents. Know the written and unwritten rules of the road and stay safe.
Health & safety
Vaccinations
There's a lot of misinformation online about the vaccinations you need before you head to Thailand. We cover it all here.
Healthcare
Everything you need to know about pharmacies, hospitals, dental, opticians and clinics.
Health insurance
After you move to Thailand, travel insurance isn't going to cut it. These are our recommendations for health insurance.
Fitness
Thailand is full of temptations. We have some tips on what to eat, what not to eat, and where to workout.
Emergencies & contact numbers
It is not as simple as just calling one number for everything. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of all the useful contacts you need in an emergency.
Safety & rules
Don't die in Thailand. Everything you need to know to stay in one piece.
Avoiding scams
In day to day life, scams aren't usually an issue in Thailand - but they do exist and you should be aware of them.
Financial
Budgeting
Thailand is popular with so many expats because the cost of living is so accomodating for all budgets. There's a comfortable lifestyle in Thailand for most people.
Banking
Initially a small hassle, but gaving a Thai bank account will save you money and provide a ton of convenience.
Taxes
Taxation is highly individual, but this is a good outline of the law and how you can begin to research for your own situation.
Day to day life
Social, community, networking
Home is where your friends are. Closely tied to where you'll be living, moving to a place where you have the opportunity to meet likeminded friends and partners is important.
Online shopping & Amazon alternatives
Thailand doesn't have Amazon, but the alternatives are probably even better. This is how you shop online here.
Food & drink
Thai food is one of the best cuisines in the world, and food is possibly at the top of the list of things Thai's treasure most. Here are some tips so you can fit in.
Food and grocery delivery
Thailand is one of the most convenient places you could possibly live. If 24/7 7-Eleven isn't enough, the food and grocery delivery will blow your mind.
Dating
The intricate details and streotypes for men and women looking to date locals and other foreigners.
Language & learning Thai
We'll get you up to speed with some basic Thai and give you some tips for how to take your Thai to the next level.
Grown up stuff
Schools and education
If you're moving to Thailand with young children, or you plan to have children some day, this guide on government and private schooling is for you.
Bringing your possessions
The pros and cons of moving your possessions to Thailand including logistics and import tarrifs.
Bringing your pet
Bringing a pet to Thailand isn't straightforward, but don't let that stop you.
Marriage
If you're getting married to a Thai local, or another foreigner, here's a few things you should know.
Births
Everything you need to know about giving birth in Thailand, as well as some bonus tips for raisng children here.
Deaths
Procedures for deaths in Thailand. How to handle the death of a loved one.