Moving to BangkokMade Simple

Determine which visa type suits your situation (tourist, retirement, work, elite)

• Tourist visa allows 60 days, extendable by 30 days at immigration
• Thailand Elite is best for long-term stays without work
• Work visa requires a Thai employer sponsor

Get international health coverage before you arrive

• Many condos and landlords now require proof of health insurance
• Thai hospitals are excellent but expensive without insurance
• Pre-existing conditions may have waiting periods

Arrange 2-4 weeks of temporary housing for your condo search

• Serviced apartments in Phrom Phong area are ideal
• Avoid committing to a condo before seeing it in person
• Many landlords prefer to meet tenants before signing

Get quotes and book your international shipment

• Sea freight takes 6-8 weeks, air freight 1-2 weeks
• Consider what to ship vs. buy new in Thailand
• Electronics work fine (Thailand uses 220V)

Pick up a local SIM at the airport or any 7-Eleven

• Airport SIM counters are convenient but slightly more expensive
• Bring your passport - required for SIM registration
• Tourist SIMs include data, calls, and easy top-up

Visit condos, meet agents, and find your new home

• Visit multiple units in the same building to compare
• Check water pressure, AC, and internet speed
• Negotiate - first price is rarely final price
• Standard lease is 12 months with 2 months deposit

Grab for transport, Line for messaging, and banking apps

• Grab is essential for taxis and food delivery
• Line is Thailand's main messaging app (like WhatsApp)
• Google Maps works well for navigation

Get a local account for rent and daily expenses

• Bring passport, visa, and proof of address (lease or utility bill)
• Some banks require a letter from your embassy
• KBank has the best mobile app for English speakers

Arrange fiber internet installation for your condo

• Check if your building has True, 3BB, or AIS fiber
• 300-500 Mbps is plenty for most households
• Installation usually takes 2-5 business days

Visit international schools and start the application process

• Top schools have waiting lists - apply early
• School fees range from ฿400,000 to ฿1,000,000+ per year
• Most schools offer campus tours - book in advance

Buy or rent furniture for your new home

• Many condos come fully furnished
• Rental furniture is great if you're unsure of long-term plans
• IKEA delivers and can assemble

Keep track of visa expiration and 90-day reporting

• 90-day reporting is required for all long-stay visas
• Can be done online through immigration website
• Set calendar reminders - overstay fines add up quickly

Even a little Thai goes a long way with locals

• Start with basics: hello, thank you, numbers
• Thai people appreciate any effort to speak their language
• Group classes are more affordable than private

Join expat groups and local activities

• Facebook groups are active for Bangkok expats
• Meetup.com has regular events
• Sports clubs and hobby groups are great for meeting people