Explore

Thailand

Currency
Thai Baht (THB)
Languages
Thai (official), English in tourist areas
Capital
Bangkok
Timezone
GMT+7
Scroll to explore

Living in Thailand: A practical guide for expats and nomads

Overview
Overview

Thailand, often called the "Land of Smiles," is a vibrant and diverse country known for its rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. From bustling urban centers like Bangkok to tranquil islands like Phuket, Thailand offers a blend of modern comforts and traditional allure, making it popular among expatriates and digital nomads alike.

Culture

Thai culture emphasizes respect, courtesy, and community harmony. Major cultural celebrations include Songkran (New Year) and Loy Krathong (festival of lights).

Do’s and Don’ts

  • ✅ Do greet with a “wai” (Thai greeting) and show respect for the monarchy.
  • ✅ Do dress modestly when visiting temples.
  • ❌ Don’t touch someone’s head or point your feet at people or religious objects.
  • ❌ Don’t raise your voice or display anger in public. Thais value calmness, and losing your temper is considered impolite and can cause discomfort.

Government

Thailand is a constitutional monarchy with an elected government. The monarch is a revered figure, though the government operates through a parliamentary system.

Social media

Popular platforms include Facebook, Instagram, and Line, while YouTube and TikTok are growing. Twitter is also widely used among Thai youth.

National sport

Muay Thai (Thai boxing) is the national sport and holds cultural significance, with numerous training camps and professional events across the country.

4.0
RATING
It’s perfect for digital nomads
Digital nomad friendly
Fairly digital nomad friendly
Challenging for digital nomads
Not ideal for digital nomads

Thailand offers a visa for digital nomads and coworking spaces are widely available.

Internet
4.0
RATING

High-speed internet in urban areas, though rural coverage may vary.

Cost of living
4.0
RATING

Generally affordable, especially outside of tourist-heavy areas.

Access to basic resources
4.0
RATING

Abundant access to food, healthcare, and consumer goods in major cities.

Weather
Bangkok
4:30 est
3.0
RATING

Hot and humid with a rainy season from May to October.

Loading...
Loading..
Today
...
LGBTQIA+ friendly
4.0
RATING

Thailand is known for its tolerance, though legal protections are evolving.

English proficiency
3.0
RATING

Moderate, with higher proficiency in urban areas and tourist spots.

Family friendly
3.0
RATING

Schools and healthcare options vary in quality, though international schools are available.

Public transport
4.0
RATING

Bangkok has an efficient public transport system, including BTS Skytrain, MRT, buses, and taxis, while Chiang Mai and other cities rely more on buses, tuk-tuks, and Grab.

Live
Live

Expat community

Thailand has a substantial expat community, particularly in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, attracting digital nomads, retirees, and professionals. The cost of living, tropical weather, and friendly culture make it popular for long-term stays.

Setting up a local bank account

To open a bank account in Thailand, you generally need a valid passport and proof of residence. Some banks may ask for a work permit or visa type. Major banks, like Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn Bank, offer English-speaking services, especially in tourist and expat regions.

Getting around

  • Public transport: Efficient options are available in Bangkok, including the BTS Skytrain, MRT subway, and buses. Grab (ride-hailing) is common in major cities.
  • Buying a vehicle: Expats can purchase vehicles but need to show proof of residence.
  • Driver’s license: Foreigners can drive with an international driver’s permit or obtain a Thai license with a simple test.

Medical system

Thailand has high-quality healthcare services, particularly in Bangkok and major tourist destinations. Public healthcare is accessible but busy, while private hospitals offer excellent services at reasonable costs. Health insurance is recommended for expatriates.

Work
Work

Visa eligibility

Thailand offers tourist, business, and specialized visas. Digital nomads may apply for long-term visas under the "Smart Visa" scheme.

Temporary residence

A one-year visa can be obtained with sponsorship from a Thai company or educational institution.

Permanent residence

Requires several years of continuous stay, language proficiency, and an employment history.

Digital nomad visa

Thailand offers the Smart visa with options for remote workers and entrepreneurs in specific industries.

Work culture

Hierarchical, with an emphasis on respect, flexibility, and patience. Relationships are essential in business. Work-life balance is valued, though working hours can be long in some sectors.

Job Opportunities for expats

Teaching English is popular. Opportunities exist in tourism, IT, and consulting.

Freelancing & entrepreneurship

Thailand encourages business innovation. Some sectors are restricted for foreigners. To start business, foreigners need to comply with the 'Foreign Business Act', which limits foreign ownership in certain sectors.

Tax considerations

  • Income tax: Progressive tax rates range from 0% to 35%, based on income.
  • Social security: Both employers and employees contribute, but this applies primarily to salaried employees with work permits.
Hire
Hire

Discover everything you need to know to hire in Thailand smoothly and effectively. With over 30 years of experience, our parent company, CXC, has deep expertise in navigating local regulations and processes, ensuring you can engage workers in Thailand compliantly and confidently from day one.

View More

Metropolitans & attractions

No items found.
Metropolitans & attractions
Metropolitans & attractions

Major cities

  • Bangkok: Thailand’s bustling capital offers vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining.
  • Chiang Mai: Known for its temples and relaxed pace, popular with digital nomads.
  • Phuket: A tropical island destination with stunning beaches and a large expat community.

Major attractions

Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient temples.
This is some text inside of a div block.
Grand Palace: A historic site in Bangkok that showcases stunning Thai architecture.
This is some text inside of a div block.
Phi Phi Islands: Pristine islands famous for their beaches and clear waters.
This is some text inside of a div block.
No items found.
Metropolitans & attractions
  • Grand Palace: A historic site in Bangkok that showcases stunning Thai architecture.
  • Ayutthaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient temples.
  • Phi Phi Islands: Pristine islands famous for their beaches and clear waters.

Population
69 million
Digital nomad visa
Available
Driving side
Left
Calling code
+66
Public Holiday
19 days (varies by year)
Join our community of relocators all over the world
Register now