More than a quarter of a million Canadians visit Thailand yearly and Americans visiting Thailand in
Thailand is becoming more and more popular to emigrate to for a plethora of reasons. The tropical environment allows for all-year-round tourism which is most attractive to countries with colder climates or harsher winters. The low cost of living and the exchange rate makes deep pockets for many ex-pats and tourists to visit different locations, stay in luxury accommodation and explore different adventure opportunities in the country. The Thai cuisine is unique to Asia for its complex cooking techniques and ranges in flavors of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty in a wide variety of different dishes. The decision to move to another country can be confusing and daunting, but by knowing some of the steps involved in the process, living in Thailand can be achievable.
VISA
PREPARATIONS FOR LIVING ABROAD
OBTAINING A THAI VISA:
TAKE NOTE OF COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS ON THAI VISAS:
Due to newly implemented additional requirements and stricter security measures of visa applications, there has been a decline in visa application success rates, especially for the 1-Year Non-immigrant Visas. Therefore, it is strongly advised that you contact the Thai embassy or consulate in your respective country to get the most updated information on Thai visa restrictions and additional documentation or certification needed and to confirm whether there would still be viability on the issuance or application for the visa before sending any applications or making payments of any kind.
-
The most recently updated COE (Certificate of Entry) issued by
the Royal Thai Embassy
- COVID 19 test (Must be taken within a maximum of 72 hours before departure time)
- Vaccination certificate (for those who have been vaccinated)
- COVID 19 travel or health insurance with a minimum medical coverage of 100 000 USD
- Proof of booking for ASQ Hotel. (Alternative State Quarantine in a government-approved hotel)
**QUARANTINE UPDATE: As of May 6th, 2021, all travelers entering Thailand must be quarantined for a minimum of 14 days. Self-quarantine is not an option.
People entering the Kingdom of Thailand with a Canadian or
American passport get a 30-day visa on
arrival, however, there is currently a 45-day
Visa Exemption on Arrival which accommodates the time spent in
quarantine.
Americans and Canadians wishing to spend more than 30
(currently 45) days in Thailand must apply for a visa at the Royal Thai Embassy
or Consulate in their respective countries before arriving in Thailand.
American and Canadian citizens may follow the same requirements for a Thai visa
applications:
Tourist Visa: This is a 60-day tourist visa that can either be multiple entry or single entry. It needs to be used within 90 days from the date of issue and can be extended after 60 days for a fee of 1 900 Baht for an additional 30 days, adding to a total and maximum of 90 days.
Non-Immigrant Visa O: This is a multiple entry visa valid for 1 calendar year from the date upon entry. It is used for business, study, retirement, investment, and other purposes. Official reporting needs to be done at the immigration office in Thailand every 90 days This is one of the visas that allow for work permits and opening a bank account.
Retirement Visa: This visa is only applicable to people ages 50 and over and is very popular with foreign retirees. The applicant first needs to obtain a Non-Immigrant O Visa. Once this visa is obtained, the applicant then needs to open a bank account in Thailand and transfer the minimum amount of 800 000 Baht required into the visa holder’s Thai account. Once 2 months have passed, the applicant can then convert the Non-Immigrant O Visa to a Retirement Visa. This visa is valid for 1 year.
Education Visa or Non-Immigrant ED Visa: This visa is for foreigners who wish to study or do an internship. Some people who would like to stay in Thailand but does not qualify for a work or retirement visa usually apply for this Visa type while attending a Thai language course. This can be a single-entry visa of 3 months or a multiple entry visa of 1 year. In order to obtain a multiple entry visa, it is required that the educational institution includes this information in the invitation letter. As per visa regulations, 90-day reporting must be done. The application process is fairly standard provided all documents required from the school or university are submitted and your educational institute is recognized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Non-Immigrant B Visa (work visa): There are 2 categories that people can apply under for this visa: A Non-Immigrant B Visa (Conducting Business), and a Non-Immigrant B Visa (Employment). Teachers who would like to work in Thailand also apply for this visa type. The validity of the visa can be a single entry for 3 months or multiple entries for 1 year. You can get a work permit and open a bank account in Thailand, and 90-day reporting is still required.
Permanent Residency Visa: This type of visa would be the most difficult to obtain. Requirements for this type of visa are high and the process is lengthy and complex. Applicants need to have a non-immigrant visa with at least 3 years of consecutive extension in order to submit their application. Residence Visas are only granted to 100 people per nationality every year. With the application process being highly competitive, applicants need to provide extensive documentation and information. People who have made more investments in the country and speak an advanced level of the Thai language have a better chance of being selected for permanent residency. This application might not be optional for most, however long stay and living in Thailand is possible with other visa types.
Thai Elite Visa: This is a renewable, multiple entries Privilege Entry Visa promoted to the more affluent wanting a long stay in Thailand from anywhere between 5 to up to 20 years with a 1-year extension per each entry in exchange for a membership fee. This membership fee ranges from 600,000 Baht to 2.14 million Baht depending on the membership package which the applicant has chosen. This visa receives “first-class” benefits such as no-wait processes, not having to do visa runs every 90 days, and enjoying other complementary services such as airport transportation, annual medical checkups, and even spa treatments and golf. The application process requires doing immigration and criminal background checks and the process usually takes about 1 month for most nationalities and can be 3 months for special nationalities.
BE WARNED OF VISA OVERSTAYS: If any individual stays longer than the days permitted on the visa, the person will be in the country illegally and can suffer severe fines or even deportation. The holder of the visa will be fined 500 Baht (to a maximum of 20 000 Baht) for each day of overstay. Long overstays over 40 days can be punishable by serving time in the Immigration Detention Center before deportation and banning re-entry to the country.
PLANNING
YOUR EMIGRATION
GETTING AROUND:
Transport is so easy to find in Thailand especially in cities or tourist areas, that ex-pats don’t really bother with purchasing a vehicle. Scooters or motorcycles are more popular to buy than cars and even then, motor scooters and motorcycle rentals are so common that it seems unnecessary for most. On the other hand, if you do need to follow a strict schedule, don’t like to feel stuffy in public transport, or love the convenience of the get-up-and-go, buying a car in Thailand could be the better choice.
Tuk-tuks are the most famous and unique form of transportation in Thailand. They are seen as a must-do for first-timers in the country. The look and atmosphere of the vehicle created by the driver vary from one to the other. Because Tuk-tuks are known to be a tourist attraction they tend to be more expensive than other kinds of transport, and yet still remain popular and loved among foreigners.
Songthaews are also popular among locals and more known to ex-pats or tourists that have been learning their way around for a while. These vehicles are usually adapted from pick-up trucks with 2 long benches added in the back to be converted into a “passenger bus”. They usually follow the same routes and sometimes are specific colors for designated areas. They are very affordable and accessible which makes it one of the easiest ways to get around.
Scooters are probably at the top of the list in popular modes of transport for individuals. They are everywhere, and riders don’t usually show cause for concern on the road which is clearly indicated on Thailand’s road accident statistics, so caution should be seriously taken while riding. Scooter rentals are widely available and renting one is a very easy process. A driver’s license with an International Driver’s Permit is required to ride a motorbike or scooter in Thailand. In my experience of living here for 18 years, this is rarely enforced. I do however recommend getting a local Thai driver's license because it's easy, it's a fun experience, and then you are covered.
OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT:
Foreigners living in Thailand can open a bank account for personal or corporate purposes. A minimum deposit of 500 Baht is usually required to open savings accounts and a minimum amount of 10,000 Baht for current accounts. Having a work permit, permanent residency or another type of long-stay visa makes it a much easier process and allows for a wider range of services and bank accounts types such as short or long-term fixed deposit accounts and foreign currency deposit accounts. Individuals on a tourist visa can still open a bank account, although additional documentation will be needed. Requirements for opening a bank account are subject to change depending on the bank, however, a passport is asked for along with proof of Thai residency and/or work permit.
Foreigners with no work permit are usually asked to provide a reference letter from one of the following:
- - their home embassy
- - an overseas bank where the customer holds a bank account with a SWIFT
- - a trusted individual, company, school, university or organization located in Thailand that can be trusted by the bank
- - Or provide documentation of proof of ownership of a fixed asset
Top 3 Thai banks considered to be most foreigner-friendly:
1.
Kasikornbank
The K-Bank Account (Current Account) is usually the most popular account type for foreigners using this bank. There is no minimum deposit required for this account type. Most ex-pats seem to become long-term loyal customers and are happy with the overall service. This bank can treat foreigner requirements differ depending on the branch so it’s good to look around until you find the one you're satisfied with.
2. BangkokBank:
Bangkok Bank is not too far behind with ex-pat popularity. It is the largest bank in Thailand with branches overseas and almost ten thousand ATMs nationwide. It’s known to have a wide range of services available for ex-pats and makes it easy for international money transfers using SWIFT. Bangkok Bank’s online banking app is also well recognized for its convenience and user-friendliness.
SCB is still one of the most popular for making opening accounts for foreigners very hassle-free by usually only requiring a passport and funds for a deposit to qualify. This bank has many account options available to foreign customers who want to do more than just banking. It has a wide range of savings and investment options and insurance policies that cover loans, vehicles, property, health, life and more.
RENTING
The number 1 rule to the property is location, location, location. Thailand is no exception. Nonetheless, rent amounts in Thailand compared to other western countries are considerably lower and sometimes a steal. Rent for a 1-bedroom city center apartment in Thailand averages on about 13,000 Baht or 427 USD and continues to reduce further out of the city center. (Rents have come down in popular tourist areas as of writing)
Certain questions need to be asked before deciding on a place to settle. Do you want to live on the outskirts of the city? How big of a space are you looking for? Are you dependent on public transport? What kind of facilities do you want to include? The bigger and more popular the city, the more expensive the rent usually is, as is in any other country, however, it’s possible to find great rentals for a great price in low-key but popular ex-pat cities in the north, like Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai. It seems the more south you go, the more expensive the rent tends to get. When comparing the average cost of living in Chiang Mai to Bangkok (the capital city located in the south) rent is almost down by a third (28.14% less). (Note: Pattaya and Phuket are usually 20-30% more)
There’s a variety of accommodation to choose from such as apartments, condominiums, townhouses, and detached houses. Condominiums are usually the most popular with ex-pats as they are well maintained and include great facilities like pools, gyms, saunas, and other social or entertainment areas that create a hotel-like experience to daily life.
Many places are rented fully furnished with necessary home appliances. Utilities are usually not included in the rent and tenants should be advised that depending on the location, electricity can get
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| Patong Harbor View In Patong, Phuket, Thailand |
surprisingly pricey.
The rental process is usually quite easy and rental agreements among tenants and landlords can sometimes be stated ‘casually’, nevertheless, tenants should always make sure that they are protected so it’s a good idea to get a real estate agent to read through or if needed, draft a lease agreement between tenants and the landlord to ensure each parties’ responsibilities and obligations, especially if a deposit is required or if the tenant intends to rent long-term indefinitely.
It’s difficult to get to know the landlord beforehand, but
knowing whether they have a good level of English can benefit you in the long
run. Good communication between you and your landlord can reduce the
frustrations of language barriers and miscommunication when it comes to
property upkeep or any other obligations from either party. Maintaining a good relationship with
your landlord can also make visa and other official processes a lot smoother as
the landlord will need to provide supporting documents to the tenant for visa
applications, work permits, tax certifications, and so on.
Note: This blog is about Phuket rentals and condos for rent in Patong Beach. See additional posts we have about renting apartments in Patong Beach, Thailand. We offer 1 to 3 bedroom apartments starting from as little as 12,000 A Month. See Phuketrentals.net for more info.
BUYING PROPERTY
It’s well known that buying property is quite difficult for non-Thai nationals so the easy process of renting is almost always the preferred choice. Foreigners cannot buy land however they are able to own the property on the land by firstly obtaining a long-term lease on the land. This lease is a period not exceeding 30 years and is able to be extended twice by 30 years each, totaling 90 years. (I don't advise this method but just note we mention it for reference)
Foreigners can however buy condominium property in their name. Foreigners can legally own a maximum of 49% of the total purchasable area of the condo. A property tax known as a CAM fee is applied when owning a condo. This CAM fee (Common Area Maintenance fee) is a monthly fee applied for the management and general maintenance of the condominium.
It is strongly suggested that legal advice be sought right from the start before making any official decision on a long-term lease agreement or purchase on any property in Thailand.
Note: We have some listing on the bottom of the page.
ABOUT
THAILAND
COMMUNITY AND LIFESTYLE:
Thailand is rightfully called the Land of Smiles. Thai people are known for their hospitality and welcoming personalities. Sharing their culture with foreigners is something that can be seen through their friendliness and efforts in accommodating new and excited visitors in this land. The main native language spoken is Thai and English is used widely around the country commercially and for official purposes. English is a part of the educational curriculum from primary school onward so communicating in English is usually easy for most places however, the English level of natives do seem to lower in rural areas and the countryside and can sometimes make it a bit trickier to communicate with locals.
One of the great things about the Thai community is their moral standing on respect for one another, non-aggressive or non-confrontational behavior and the honesty policy. Thai people’s honesty can sometimes be misconstrued as straight forward or even rude to the inexperienced but no offense should be taken as it is considered very rude to lie, even if it is done to avoid unpleasantry.
About 95% of the Thai population are Buddhist, and most are usually governed by the principles and values stemming from their belief system. Lying or losing one’s temper bestows great shame on the people of this country. Pride and honor are also values that are highly adhered to. Committing any type of theft is also seen as losing one’s honor and admitting through the fault to being less superior to the one whose possessions have been stolen from.
THAILAND’S CLIMATE:
Thailand is a country in South East Asia with neighboring countries of Myanmar (Burma), Cambodia,
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| Samui Road in Chaweng Noi |
and Vietnam, with Malaysia bordering on the southwest peninsula alongside the Gulf of Thailand. It is mostly tropical which provides different variegated nature. Rain forests, mountainous regions, and tropical sand beaches are some of the many reasons Thailand is a popular place to visit or live in.
The weather is steadily hot all year round and has 3 seasons: cool, summer, and rainy:
The cool season, or Thailand’s winter, is from November to February where humidity drops by 50% to 60%. You could experience temperatures between 86-95°F (30-35 °C). The north tends to get colder and temperatures can drop to 50°F (10°C) at night during this season.
The summertime is from March to June. The weather can get very hot at an average of 104°F (40°C) with little to no rainfall. People usually work their way around this heat by doing their outdoor activities or to-do lists before 11 am, being indoors, or spending some time by the pool and starting off outdoors again at 5 or 6pm. Temperatures at night usually decrease and make for a busier nightlife.
The rainy season lasts from July through to October. This is a welcomed season after the heat of summer. This is not like a monsoon season where it is assumed to rain 24/7. There are usually sporadic daily downfalls of heavy to light rain for short periods. Warnings of rain are often shown in some parts of Thailand by very noticeable gusts of wind a few minutes before the showers start. High humidity is expected at this time of just under 90% with temperatures averaging at 84.2°F (29°C)
Emigrants considering living in the north should take note of another type of season in northern
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| Mountains Buring In Northern Thailand |
Thailand is known as a smoky or burning season. This happens during the summertime in March and April. Smog clouds cities and neighboring areas of Northern Thailand during the day which can create a difficult environment for some people. The smog is created from farmers burning their crops for the regrowth of new crops. Even though this method is actually good for soil and agriculture, some people complain of itchy eyes, sore throats, and sometimes chest problems. People usually tend to stick to their summer routine during these months and go out later in the evening after the smoke clears in the afternoon, and also wear masks if going outside during the day is needed. Some ex-pats residing in Northern Thailand also take this time as an opportunity to go South of Thailand for holidays or a change of scenery. ( I do this almost every year)
ETIQUETTE AND NO-NOS:
Greetings in Thailand don’t often involve a handshake. The custom is to put your palms together (as if in prayer) and bow your head. This type of greeting also depends on the hierarchy of the person. Elders, monks, and people of high social status are treated with high respect and the person with the lower hierarchy usually initiates the greeting.
When in Thailand, make no mention of the king or royal family. Speaking ill of or any insults towards the king is highly punishable by law, even a few sentences on social media could still land a person in jail with 10 or 20 years of imprisonment therefore it’s best to avoid the topic altogether. Thai people pride themselves on their hospitality and would in any case try to encourage positive and upbeat conversation. ( Never do this please no matter how frustrating the system may seem)
Many customs and good manners involve the soles of feet as it is regarded as the unclean part of the body and showing them could be taken as an insult to many. So, bear in mind that when in public make sure your feet are not faced with people to avoid any insult, and never show your soles during meal times. Thai people don’t wear shoes inside their homes that have been used outside so make sure shoes are taken off before entering someone’s home.
The dress code is usually modest. Wearing clothing that is very revealing can be seen as of lower social status. Always wear clothing that covers your shoulders and legs when entering religious temples out of respect. Swimwear is kept for the beaches and pool areas. Women wearing bikinis or men walking around shirtless in public is considered to be very distasteful. Otherwise, basic shorts and t-shirts are normal and common to wear daily for both locals and foreigners.
Dining etiquette is quite relaxed. Most Thai meals are eaten with a knife and fork and are placed along with chopsticks on tables in restaurants. Occasionally there are restaurants that require shoes to be removed before entering. When you are invited to someone’s home for a meal, a gift is not required however always appreciated if you would like to show your gratitude.
SO WHY
THAILAND?
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| My Joke of The Day |
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Email: scottriefler@gmail.com
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We have four deals right now on our blog that are undervalued properties and good for buyers in the current "buyer"s market.
1. Land In Chiang Rai Click here
2. Land In Surin, Thailand Click Here
3. Land In Doi Lo Chiang Mai
4. 104 sqm Condo in Patong Beach, Phuket
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