Thailand has been welcoming a growing community of expats for decades. But how many expats actually live in Thailand? This basic question is not so easy to answer. First, a definition must be given to the word “expat“. Secondly, data are sometimes missing or are not totally trustworthy. The report about Thailand issued by the International Organization for Migration (2019) is probably one of the most reliable and updated source to estimate the number of Read more…

Australia, Canada, United Kingdom, Italy, France, and America are some of the top places for expatriates across the globe. But Asian countries have been gaining immense popularity. One is definitely Thailand.

With a variety of options, Thailand has a special and unique place in people’s hearts. In fact, it has been creating a buzz among people of many nationalities.

But wondering why you should select Thailand over the others? Here are some of the topnotch reasons you should know.

When securing a health insurance plan in Thailand, be sure to confirm with your insurance broker what the exclusions are. You do not want to be caught in a situation where you make a claim only to be told by your insurer that owing to one or more exclusions your claim is invalid; for the insurer to inform you in this manner will come as a nasty surprise indeed.

So for those that are unaware of what it means, a health insurance exclusion refers to cases in which the company does not provide coverage. These are conditions that are excluded (more…)

Whether you are a veteran traveler or one who is making their first steps in travel, it pays to know that the world we live in is a vast and unpredictable place with many associated risks.

What is therefore essential is the need to secure appropriate travel insurance to cover those risks, including the most obvious such as medical emergency costs and for travel related mishaps. Medical emergencies overseas can be really expensive, especially if you’re traveling in a remote location and in need of medical evacuation.

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Contrary to popular belief, not all medical treatments are affordable in the Land of Smiles. Expenses can definitely add up, especially for major procedures at the most established private hospitals, many of which are frequented by medical tourists and expats in Thailand.

A gastric bypass in Bangkok, for example, can cost up to USD 42,000! Finding the best expat health insurance plan that covers the increasing cost of healthcare here is, therefore, strongly recommended to protect your finances and give you maximum peace of mind.

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191 – National Emergency Call

199 – Bangkok Fire And Rescue Department

1669 – Emergency Medical Services

1155 – Tourism Police Division

1193 – Highway Police

1192 – Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Center

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Road risk

The road network is generally in good condition. However, the road accident rate is one of the highest in the world. In 2013, 20,000 people died in road accidents. Compliance with speed limits is highly recommended and extreme caution is advised, especially when driving at night. The use of two-wheelers is particularly dangerous (in Thailand, 75% of fatal accidents occur on two-wheelers.) Helmets are rarely up to standard. (more…)

Geographical data

Area: 513 120 km²
Capital: Bangkok (5, 7 million inhabitants)
Major cities: Chiang Mai (130,268 inhabitants, province of 1.7 million inhabitants), Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat) (129,680 inhabitants, province of 2.6 million inhabitants), Udon Thani (130,274 inhabitants, province 1.6 million inhabitants), Hat Yai (159,233 inhabitants), Khon Kaen (120,143, province of 1.8 million inhabitants), Pattaya (118,511 inhabitants). (more…)

The “SMART Visa” is a new type of Visa available in Thailand (starting Feb. 2018).

This visa targets specific profiles:
– Smart “T” for the highly-skilled expert
– Smart “I” for the investors
– Smart “E” for the senior executives
– Smart “S” for the entrepreneurs
– Smart “O” for the spouse and children

Specific requirements are defined for each type of visa: salary conditions, targeted industries, qualifications, etc.

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What is a Work Permit?

A work permit is an official document that allows a foreigner to work legally in Thailand. The document is a blue color booklet that specifies the identity of the owner (similar to a passport), the name of the company and the specific occupation of the foreigner. The foreigner is only entitled to work for the company and at the position that are specified in the work permit.

Is it mandatory?

According to the Working Alien Act (see WORKING OF ALIEN ACT,B.E. 2551 (2008), Official website of the Ministery of Labor), all foreigners need (more…)