- Covers
- Area choice, property search, introductions to advisers, settling-in checklist
- Does not replace
- Independent legal, tax and immigration advice
- Areas
- Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Hua Hin
On this page
What relocation help covers
- Choosing the area that fits your life: city, suburb or seaside.
- Property search and tours for condos, houses and villas for sale.
- Introductions to independent Thai lawyers, accountants and insurance advisers.
- Visa orientation: understanding which routes are commonly used and where to check the rules.
- Practical set-up: bank accounts, utilities, mobile and internet, driving licence.
- Neighbourhood vetting: schools, hospitals, shops, commute and noise.
A sensible order of operations
- Decide on timing and area, and spend time there before committing.
- Choose a visa route that matches your age, income and plans.
- Shortlist properties and view them in person.
- Complete legal due diligence with your own Thai lawyer.
- Transfer funds from abroad in foreign currency and keep the bank paperwork.
- Take out health and home insurance and set up utilities.
- Register your address with immigration and keep up the required reports.
Visa routes at a glance
| Route | Who it suits | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Retirement (Non-O, O-A, O-X) | People aged 50 or over with proof of finances | No work permitted. Financial and insurance rules vary by route |
| Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) | Remote workers and some long-stay lifestyle activities | Check current eligibility and stay limits |
| Long-Term Resident (LTR) | Qualifying high-income, high-asset or professional applicants | Strict criteria |
| Thailand Privilege membership | Buyers who prefer a paid long-stay membership | Membership-based. No age or income test |
| Work or education visas | People sponsored by an employer or school | Sponsor handles most paperwork |
Rules change. Eligibility, fees and requirements are set by Thai authorities and can change. Always confirm with the Thai Immigration Bureau or your nearest Thai embassy or consulate.
Settling in by area
- Bangkok: choose by station and neighbourhood. Hospitals, international schools and shopping are plentiful.
- Nonthaburi: choose by rail access, school catchment and village quality.
- Hua Hin: choose by distance to hospital, beach and golf, and plan for car-based living.
Registrations and reports to keep in mind
Foreign residents are required to keep immigration informed of their address and, if staying more than 90 days, to make regular reports. The details depend on your visa and whether you own or lease your home, so ask your lawyer or the immigration office for the current procedure. Tax residency and the taxation of foreign income have also changed in recent years, so take tax advice before you move funds.
Frequently asked questions
Can you help me open a Thai bank account?
We can explain what banks commonly ask for and point you to the right branch or adviser. Requirements differ by bank and visa type, and the bank decides whether to open an account.
Do I need a lawyer to buy property?
We strongly recommend an independent Thai lawyer who works for you, not for the seller or developer. They check title, quota, contracts and the transfer.
Can I work in Thailand on a retirement visa?
No. Retirement visas do not permit work. Remote workers and people planning to work should look at other routes and take advice.
What is the 90-day report?
Foreigners who stay in Thailand for more than 90 days in a row must report their address to immigration at regular intervals. Check the current rules and how to file with the Thai Immigration Bureau.