Moving to Thailand from the US
Last updated: March 2026
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Visa Options
Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa
For wealthy global citizens, wealthy pensioners, work-from-Thailand professionals, and highly skilled professionals.
Thailand Elite Visa
Premium membership program. No income requirement — just pay the membership fee.
Retirement Visa (O-A)
For those 50+ with income of $2,100/mo or savings of $25,000+.
Cost of Living
| Category | Low | High |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bed, city center) | $400 | $900 |
| Utilities | $50 | $100 |
| Groceries | $150 | $250 |
| Transport | $30 | $100 |
| Dining out (per meal) | $2 | $10 |
| Health insurance | $80 | $200 |
Tax Implications
- Thailand taxes residents on income remitted to Thailand in the same calendar year it's earned.
- Income earned abroad and not remitted is not taxed (as of 2024 rules, subject to change).
- No US-Thailand tax treaty, but FEIE still applies.
- No capital gains tax on foreign stock sales if not remitted.
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Healthcare
Bumrungrad, Bangkok Hospital, and other private hospitals are world-class and affordable. Routine doctor visit: $20-50. Private insurance: $80-200/mo. Public hospitals available but language can be a barrier.
Banking
Opening a bank account typically requires a work permit or long-term visa. Banks: Bangkok Bank, Kasikornbank, SCB. Wise and Revolut are popular alternatives for multi-currency needs.
Finding Housing
Bangkok: $400-900/mo for a modern 1-bed condo. Chiang Mai: $250-500/mo. Phuket/Koh Samui: $400-800/mo. Most condos come furnished. Facebook groups and Hipflat.co.th for listings.