Your Expat Community in Thailand

With InterNations, you never stand alone. Whether you are moving to another country or going on a business trip somewhere — our communities around the world are there to make you feel at home wherever you are. Feel free to check out our vibrant InterNations Communities in countries like Saudi Arabia or France.

Frequently asked questions regarding expats in Thailand

Why are expats moving to Thailand?

Of course, the individual reasons why expats decide to move to Thailand can vary a lot. But thanks to our vast member base and our annual Expat Insider survey, we were able to uncover some of the underlying trends that make Thailand an appealing place to move to. Notably, the most valued attributes of Thailand as an expat destination are relatively high salaries combined with very low cost-of-living, friendly and welcoming population and great leisure-options.

How much do expats earn in Thailand?

On average, expats make on average just below 250,000 USD according to the ECA Expat Salary Survey for salary levels of expats in middle management positions. This is not the cash salary that American expat workers take home after taxes, but the total value of their expat package that usual includes healthcare, cost of education, and housing (among other things). This relatively high salary combined with the not-too-high cost of living explain why Thailand scored so amicably in the Personal Finance Index (13th) and the Cost of Living Index (15th) in 2019.

Where are expats living in Thailand?

Usually the expat population concentrates in places that offer the most career opportunities — at least for those who aren’t just looking for a place to retire in the sun. According to our member base these are the most popular cities for expats in Thailand:

• Bangkok
• Chiang Mai
• Phuket

Embark on Your Life as an Expat in Thailand

Thailand is famous for its heavenly beaches and resorts and islands such as Krabi and Koh Samui hum with tourists seeking a relaxing holiday. On Phuket you can stay right on the beach in one of the abundant and cheap huts. Thailand is also the birthplace of Muay Thai, a form of martial arts that has recently become popular all over the world. The InterNations community will help you find your local club. You may think you have tasted Thai food in your home country, but when you get an authentic taste of it on Bangkok’s streets or sitting on a beach with a nice cold beer it will be a revelation. Thailand has something for adventurers as well those in search of high culture. But of course, most expats come to the country to seek employment and take advantage of the many economic opportunities. Bangkok throngs with financial and office-based jobs that are prevalent in the world’s largest cities. Thailand has a rich agricultural heritage and although that is slowly being overtaken by the industrial and tourism sectors it still takes pride in its farming. It is the world’s third-highest exporter of seafood and that industry employs many expats in Thailand who wish to live by the beautiful coastline. As an expat, your salary will probably go further in Thailand than it does in your home country and you can hope to live a full and varied life even on a modest income.

InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 420 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in China or Bahrain, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.

Find Like-Minded People to Share Your Adventure in Thailand With

InterNations is a vibrant community of members who are dedicated to upholding our guiding principles. Politeness, trust, being friendly and welcoming are vital components of InterNations. The outcome of that is that you will be able to interact and make relationships in an incredibly safe environment. You can ask questions on any aspect of life in Thailand. Whether it be facts, or tricky paperwork issues, such as obtaining a work permit, which all expats in Thailand need to have. It is important that you keep up with your hobbies, so you may want to join one of the groups organized regularly in the community. Whether you live in Bangkok, Phuket, or Chiang Mai, there will be a get-together that is useful for you. The groups encourage bonding over shared love of cuisine and culture. There are many volunteering opportunities for InterNations members to help them feel that they are a true member of the Thai community. And lastly, remember to make the most of the larger social and networking events organized by the InterNations community so you can be introduced to the most interesting global minds you’ll ever meet!