Retire in Thailand • Retirement in Southeast Asia
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FAQ about Thailand Retirement
We get lots of questions about Thailand from people who are interested in retiring here. Unfortunately, we don't have all the answers. One problem - Thailand is diverse and continually changing.
This page is an attempt to tell you what we think we know. We will add to it from time to time and hope it is of some help to you.
This page is an attempt to tell you what we think we know. We will add to it from time to time and hope it is of some help to you.
What is the normal exchange rare for Thai currency, for dollars or euros?
The exchange rate varies, usually in a narrow range. If you have JavaScript turned on you can see the current ... exchange rate if not, you can use Yahoo financial
.
How do I go about getting an extended visa for Thailand?
Most of the answers about types of visa programs can be found at Visa
Note: Honorary Consulates (see resource page) are often easier to work with than Thai Consulates when applying for Non Immigrant "O" Visas. And you can deal with them by mail. One consulate in Denver is recommended.
Note: Honorary Consulates (see resource page) are often easier to work with than Thai Consulates when applying for Non Immigrant "O" Visas. And you can deal with them by mail. One consulate in Denver is recommended.
I want to get some certified translation done. Can you recommend someone.
Yes, experienced, very competent, fluent english speaker. AC Service
Can you give me some idea about the living costs in Thailand?
A great deal depends on the lifestyle you choose and the area in which you decide to live. I would class Thailand into roughly 4 price ranges/zones.
1 - Bangkok, with some exceptions, is most expensive, say 100%
2 - Second would be the areas that are predominantly tourist. Phuket, Pattaya, and Hua Hin are primary examples at maybe 80%. Beachfront housing is quite dear.
3 - Larger cities such as Chiang Mai, Korat, Haadyai, Udorn, Phitsanulok at 60%.
4 - Smaller cities and villages varying from 30 - 50%.
Comfortable Housing - Bt 10,000 and up ... prime locations, 2 to 3 times more.
Good meal in local Thai restaurant Bt 120 - 150
For a more details go to ... Thailand cost of living
1 - Bangkok, with some exceptions, is most expensive, say 100%
2 - Second would be the areas that are predominantly tourist. Phuket, Pattaya, and Hua Hin are primary examples at maybe 80%. Beachfront housing is quite dear.
3 - Larger cities such as Chiang Mai, Korat, Haadyai, Udorn, Phitsanulok at 60%.
4 - Smaller cities and villages varying from 30 - 50%.
Comfortable Housing - Bt 10,000 and up ... prime locations, 2 to 3 times more.
Good meal in local Thai restaurant Bt 120 - 150
For a more details go to ... Thailand cost of living
How much Thai do I need to speak to get by?
That depends a lot on the location and venue. English is the most common western language spoken in Bangkok, Phuket and Pattaya, although in Phuket and Pattaya, German and French are common. Out in the provinces it gets more difficult.
We strongly recommend that anyone planning to retire in Thailand take courses in Thai. It makes life easier and your efforts will be greatly appreciated by the thais.
We strongly recommend that anyone planning to retire in Thailand take courses in Thai. It makes life easier and your efforts will be greatly appreciated by the thais.
What about getting around. Is it difficult and expensive?
Cars are expensive in Thailand, Approximately double the price in the west. Bangkok has taxis thet are very reasonable.
Many westerners ride motorcycles. They are cheap and finding parking is easy, but some serious adjustment in riding attitudes are required.
Tuk-tuks and other motorized tricycles are common all over Thailand. They are also quite inexpensive. Bt 20 - 40 will get you across town in most cities.
Most provinces are serviced by Thai airways. Domestic travel is not overly expensive.
Many westerners ride motorcycles. They are cheap and finding parking is easy, but some serious adjustment in riding attitudes are required.
Tuk-tuks and other motorized tricycles are common all over Thailand. They are also quite inexpensive. Bt 20 - 40 will get you across town in most cities.
Most provinces are serviced by Thai airways. Domestic travel is not overly expensive.
Do I have to pay tax in Thailand on my earnings
Investment income earned in Thailand is taxed at 15%. The bank collects the tax and submits it to taxing authority. Any questions on taxation beyond the above should be answered by a competent attorney.
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