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Thailand

Southeast Asia, Asia

About Thailand

Southeast Asia's top expat destination with $1,000-2,000 monthly budgets.

Thailand remains Southeast Asia's premier expat destination with monthly budgets ranging from $1,010 for minimalists to $2,020+ for comfortable living. The Non-Immigrant O-A retirement visa requires either 800,000 THB (~$22,000) in savings or 65,000 THB (~$1,800) monthly income for those 50+. The new 10-year O-X visa and Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa expand options for retirees meeting investment thresholds. Healthcare is excellent and affordable - budget $600-$1,500 annually for comprehensive private coverage. Chiang Mai offers 20% lower costs than Bangkok while maintaining modern amenities and a large expat community.

Country Overview

Key indicators to help you understand what life in Thailand might be like

Cost of LivingExcellent

Healthcare QualityGood

SafetyGood

English PrevalenceModerate

Visa AccessibilityGood

Data last updated: 1/7/2026

Highlights

✓Comfortable living on $1,450-2,020/month budget
✓Retirement visa requires only $22,000 savings OR $1,800/month income
✓New 10-year visa option for qualified retirees
✓World-class private healthcare at fraction of US prices
✓Chiang Mai 20% cheaper than Bangkok with strong expat scene
✓Tropical climate with modern infrastructure

Considerations

!90-day address reporting required for visa holders
!Cannot work on retirement visa - remote work grey area
!Language barrier significant outside tourist areas
!Extreme heat and humidity April-May
!Long-term accommodation requires Residence Card (difficult to obtain)

Visa Options

Available visa types for Americans looking to move to Thailand

Long-Term Resident Visa

LTR

For wealthy individuals, retirees, and remote workers

120 months

$6,650/mo min

Path to Residency

Retirement Visa (O-A)

Retirement

For retirees 50 years and older

12 months

$1,900/mo min

Ready to Plan Your Move?

Get detailed guides, visa checklists, and connect with others who've made the move.

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