Whether you are planning a short visit or considering a longer stay, understanding the practicalities of daily life is key to making the most of your time in Thailand.

On this page you will find all the important information – from choosing the right visa for entry to managing your finances abroad and local rules of conduct that will help you avoid unnecessary conflicts and travel complications.

Entry to Thailand

Thailand offers various entry options, some of which depend on your nationality and the purpose of your stay. If you do not have the required entry documents, you may be refused entry.

Short-term stays

If you are visiting Thailand as a tourist, you may be eligible for the Thai visa exemption. This allows you to stay in the country for up to 60 days (with the possibility of extending for another 30 days) without a visa.

However, if you do not meet the requirements for this program but are planning a shorter stay, you may be eligible for the Thailand Visa on Arrival, which allows you to stay in Thailand for up to 15 days.

However, if you are not eligible for any of the above programs, you will need to apply for a tourist visa for Thailand. This entitles you to a stay of up to 60 days in Thailand, with the option to extend this for another 30 days at the nearest immigration office.

Long-term stays

If you are planning to settle in Thailand long-term, below is a list of visas you can choose from:

  • Thailand Spouse Visa: The Thailand Spouse Visa is for foreigners who are legally married to a Thai citizen and wish to live in Thailand. It also entitles the holder to work in Thailand, provided they apply for and receive a Thai work permit.
  • Thailand Visa for Retirees: The Thailand Visa for Retirees, also known as the Non-Immigrant OA Visa, is very popular with expats who wish to spend their retirement in Thailand. However, applicants must be at least 50 years old and meet various other requirements, such as proof of financial security and health insurance.
  • Business visa for Thailand: The business visa for Thailand, also known as the Non-Immigrant B visa, was designed for foreigners who want to find employment in Thailand or start their own business.
  • Thailand Destination Visa: The Thailand Destination Visa (DTV Visa), also known as the "Digital Nomad Visa," was designed for location-independent workers and freelancers, as well as individuals planning a long-term stay in Thailand. It allows for a five-year stay in Thailand with multiple entries and stays of up to 180 days per entry, which can be extended.
  • Long-term residence visa: The long-term residence visa (LTR visa Thailand) is aimed at retirees, skilled workers, and digital nomads who wish to settle in Thailand long-term. It offers a 10-year visa with benefits such as reduced tax rates, an accelerated immigration process, and simplified application for a Thai work permit for certain categories.
  • Thailand Elite Visa: The Thailand Elite Visa is a long-term tourist visa that offers a comfortable and attractive way to settle in Thailand. It is available through various membership packages that allow stays of 5 to 20 years, making it an interesting option for those planning an extended stay. Thailand Elite Visa holders also benefit from a variety of complimentary perks and advantages, including priority entry at international airports in Thailand, spa treatments, wellness offers, and exclusive gifts and discounts.

    • Travel and health insurance

    Although travel insurance is not mandatory for most visitors, it is highly recommended as it can protect you from unexpected medical expenses, travel delays or loss of luggage that could disrupt your plans in the country.

    If you are planning a longer stay, you may need health insurance in Thailand to meet the requirements for certain visas, such as the Thailand Retirement Visa.

    health system

    Healthcare in Thailand is generally affordable for outpatient treatments and minor illnesses. However, hospital stays can be significantly more expensive, especially in private clinics with modern facilities and English-speaking staff. Public hospitals offer a cost-effective alternative, but patients may experience longer waiting times, fewer amenities, and language barriers.

    Time zone

    Thailand is in the GMT+7 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time. This means the time remains the same all year round. Upon arrival in Thailand, remember to adjust your watches, smartphones, and other devices to the local time zone.

    National currency

    The national currency in Thailand is the Baht (THB). Below is a brief overview of the different forms of the national currency:

  • Banknotes are available in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 THB, with the higher denomination notes being larger.
  • The coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5 and 10 THB.
  • Satangs, coins representing fractions of a single THB, are available in denominations of 25 and 50 Satang.

    • Due to inflation, satangs are rarely used in everyday life, but they can occasionally be found in price tags in convenience stores and on certain bus fares.

    In Thailand, you can get by with most major credit cards, as they are widely accepted. However, it's advisable to always carry some cash to pay for things like taxis or street vendors, who may not accept electronic payments (at least not foreign ones).

    There are numerous currency exchange offices in Thailand, especially in urban areas. However, caution is advised when using exchange offices in tourist hotspots outside of Bangkok. Due to high demand in these remote areas, exchange rates are generally less favorable.

    VAT refund

    In Thailand, a 7% value-added tax (VAT) is levied on a wide variety of goods and services. However, tourists are eligible for a refund on certain purchases, which can save you money, especially if you plan to shop during your stay in Thailand. To claim this refund, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Must not be a Thai citizen.
  • Is currently not allowed to have a residence in Thailand.
  • Departure from Thailand must be by flight from a Thai international airport.
  • You must leave Thailand with the purchased goods within 60 days of the purchase date.
  • The goods must be purchased in stores with the label "VAT refund for tourists" and at least 2,000 THB must have been spent.
  • You must have filled out the form “Application for VAT refund for tourists”.

    • In Bangkok and at international airports, there are VAT refund counters everywhere. Therefore, allow extra time before your flight to collect your refund and keep all receipts for goods and services for which VAT was charged.

    Income tax

    Your tax obligations in Thailand depend on factors such as your residency status, your sources of income, and any recent changes to regulations regarding the taxation of foreign income. Short-term visitors don't need to worry about this, but if you stay in Thailand for an extended period, you may be liable for income tax if any of the following apply to you:

  • Tax residency rules: Foreigners are considered tax residents in Thailand if they stay in the country for 180 days or more within a calendar year. Tax residents must file a tax return for income earned in Thailand as well as for all foreign income transferred to Thailand during the same tax year (which coincides with a calendar year).
  • New regulations regarding foreign income: According to the updated regulations, all foreign income earned after 2023 and transferred to Thailand is now taxable. This means that income earned abroad in 2024 and transferred to Thailand in 2025 will also be subject to Thai income tax. Previously, foreigners could avoid taxation by waiting until the following tax year to transfer the income to Thailand. This option has now been closed. All income earned from 2024 onwards will be taxed immediately, regardless of when it is transferred to Thailand.

    • Opening a Thai bank account

    Opening a Thai bank account offers numerous advantages that simplify the complexity of everyday financial transactions.

    One disadvantage of a foreign bank account is that additional fees may apply for money transfers, withdrawals, or the use of foreign credit cards in Thailand. Furthermore, there is a risk that the bank will block your card if unusual activity is suspected, which could cause you problems abroad.

    With a Thai bank account, you can use mobile banking apps, which are widely available in Thailand. These apps allow you to pay bills, transfer money, and manage your finances on the go. Most transactions can be carried out easily and free of charge using a QR code on your smartphone – much more convenient than with international banks. Since mobile banking apps are so commonplace in Thailand, the absence of such an app may limit your options for certain transactions.

    Depending on which long-term visa you apply for, you may also need a Thai bank account to meet certain eligibility requirements.

    Buying property in Thailand

    Foreigners can purchase real estate in Thailand, but only certain types. While ownership of condominiums is legal, it is limited to 49% of the building's total usable floor space. The remaining 51% must be owned by Thai citizens. Therefore, one can own multiple apartments in a building, but not more than half of a condominium complex.

    For other types of real estate, such as land and houses, you can enter into a 30-year long-term lease agreement that is renewable and effectively grants you control over the property. It is also possible to purchase buildings constructed on land owned by Thai nationals.

    Thailand etiquette

    Culture and respect play a central role in everyday Thai life. Whether you visit temples, eat with locals, or explore the country, understanding Thai customs can enrich your encounters and help you avoid unintentional misunderstandings.

    Dos in Thailand

  • Respect the Thai royal family: The monarchy enjoys high esteem in Thailand. Avoid jokes or derogatory remarks about the royal family, as these can have serious consequences such as fines or even imprisonment. Public displays of respect, such as standing during the national anthem, are customary.
  • Modest attire in the temple: Temples are sacred places, so men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing or overly casual clothing such as tank tops or shorts. Many temples provide scarves or sarongs if needed.
  • Please remove your shoes before entering houses or certain buildings: this is a sign of respect and cleanliness. Look for signs or shoe racks near the entrance. Not removing your shoes can sometimes be interpreted as disrespectful and careless, especially in private homes or religious sites.
  • Use the wai greeting: The wai is a polite gesture in which you press your palms together in front of your chest, as if in prayer, and bow your head slightly. It is customary to perform the wai towards elders or people in a position of respect. However, it is not expected from children or service staff.

    • Things to avoid in Thailand

  • Touching someone's head: In Thai culture, the head is considered the most sacred part of the body. Even stroking a child's head, which is considered friendly in some cultures, can be perceived as disrespectful.
  • Do not point your feet at other people or sacred objects: The feet are considered the lowest and most impure part of the body. Avoid sitting with your feet on other people or Buddha statues. When sitting, draw your feet up to the sides or underneath you.
  • Public displays of affection: Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing in public is generally frowned upon. Keep physical affection private to respect local norms.
  • Raise your voice in case of disagreement: In Thai culture, maintaining composure is highly valued, as speaking loudly or showing anger may be seen by locals as impolite or a lack of self-control.

    • Cigarettes

    Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand, but it is appreciated as a sign of gratitude. Leaving a small amount of change in a restaurant or rounding up the taxi fare is a polite way to express your appreciation for the service. Although tipping is not expected, it significantly contributes to acknowledging good service and creating positive experiences during your stay in Thailand.

    drinking water

    In Thailand, tap water should be avoided, as it is considered unsafe and unhygienic due to old pipes, inadequate treatment, and potential sewage leaks. Filtered or bottled water is recommended instead. Industrially produced ice is generally safe, but caution is advised when buying crushed ice from street vendors.

    prostitution

    Prostitution is a complex issue in Thailand. Although it is widespread in certain areas, particularly tourist hotspots like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket, prostitution remains illegal under Thai law.

    Engaging in or soliciting such activities can lead to fines, legal consequences, and even imprisonment. Thai authorities also occasionally conduct raids to enforce the law, particularly in areas known for commercial sex work.

    Against this backdrop, a draft law to legalize prostitution in Thailand was presented in March 2023, but it has not yet come into force. Therefore, prostitution remains a notorious and risky area in Thailand.

    Start your life in Thailand with Siam Legal

    If you are planning a short stay, an extended trip, or even a long-term stay in Thailand, contact Siam Legal International. We are a full-service law firm and visa consultancy with over 20 years of experience assisting local and international clients with their immigration and legal matters in Thailand. Our services include:

  • Bank account opening services
  • Contract review and support for real estate purchases in Thailand
  • Legalization and authentication services
  • Criminal defense and representation in civil proceedings

    • For a smooth and stress-free start to your Thailand trip, don't hesitate to contact Siam Legal and schedule a consultation now!

    Frequently asked questions about living in Thailand

    Do I need a visa to enter Thailand?

    Most visitors need a tourist visa for Thailand if they wish to enter for tourism purposes, unless they meet the requirements for visa exemption or a visa on arrival. However, those who wish to settle in Thailand or live there long-term require a long-term visa.

    What time zone is Thailand in?

    Thailand operates in the GMT+7 time zone and does not observe daylight saving time. Therefore, be sure to set your devices to the local time upon arrival in Thailand.

    How can tourists in Thailand apply for a VAT refund?

    Tourists can claim a 7% VAT refund on purchases made in participating stores by submitting the "Tourist VAT Refund Application" form along with their passport and receipts for the purchased goods to a Thai VAT refund counter (at international airports).

    Is tipping customary in Thailand?

    Tipping is not mandatory in Thailand, but it is appreciated. Leaving some small change in restaurants or rounding up taxi fares is considered a polite gesture for good service.

    Can I drink tap water in Thailand?

    Tap water in Thailand is not safe to drink due to old pipes, inadequate treatment, and potential sewage leaks. It is recommended to drink treated or bottled water. Water dispensers and bottles are available in most places.

    Is cannabis legal in Thailand?

    Cannabis flowers are legal for medicinal and recreational purposes, and products with less than 0.2% THC are decriminalized. However, public consumption is prohibited and can be punished with fines of up to 25,000 THB.

    Can I, as a foreigner, open a bank account in Thailand?

    Yes, foreigners can open a bank account in Thailand. A local account reduces fees for international transactions, simplifies financial management, and is sometimes required for long-term visas. However, since your visa may complicate the account opening process, it is recommended to use an account opening service to ensure success.