What do I need to know before retiring in Thailand?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Thailand, they said...

"I think the best advise is to make sure you have a way of earning money that does not involve having to find work here - unless you are an English teacher. If you can find an opportunity to work remotely, that is best. If you are from the US, there is a 12 hour time difference. This actually works to your advantage because you can answer emails in the morning and then again at night. This allows you to respond promptly to clients and also allows you to enjoy the entire day without distractions (as everyone in the US is sleeping). A new law is requiring all expat to enroll in an insurance plan. I would have advised that anyway, but it is now mandatory. I would also say, bring less clothes than you think you need and bring more of your favorite cosmetics and linens. There are many knock-offs in Thailand in the cosmetic offerings and more likely than not, you will be buying an inferior product. It is also hard to find good quality sheets and towels and even pillows, so I recommend bringing your own. Good quality water shoes and practical shoes are also hard to find and when you do, quite expensive," explained one expat living in Ao Nang (Krabi), Thailand.

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"First, you need to have an independent source of income. To secure a one-year visa here you need to have about $23,000 held in a Thai bank or show proof of at least $1,800 in monthly income. Second, Hua Hin is somewhat difficult to get to, as you have to fly into Bangkok and then take a bus for 3 hours to Hua Hin. As to what to bring, Hua Hin has most, if not all, of what you will need. Western-style housing, food, clothes, appliances, etc., are all available. And while Hua Hin has some party areas, the town is pretty quiet, as you would expect from a primarily retirement community," said another expat in Hua Hin, Thailand.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Thailand?

If you live in Thailand, newcomers to Thailand would love to hear your answer to this question.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.