This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

What is the process for expats to settle in Thailand regarding job, residency, and lifestyle?

Nov 9, 2025
a day ago
Samiya ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi I'm planning to come to Thailand. I need info like if i want to settle there what process do i need to follow? Like job, residency and life?
1,890
views
5
likes
43
all likes
17
replies
0
images
11
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
To settle in Thailand, you need to navigate certain processes regarding residency and employment. It's crucial to understand that obtaining a job in Thailand can be challenging, as many positions are reserved for locals, and a work permit is necessary for any legal employment. It's suggested to secure income from abroad or have substantial savings. If you plan to work, consider fields where foreigners are accepted, like teaching, which typically requires relevant qualifications. Overall, research and careful planning are essential for expats intending to live in Thailand.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Frank **********
If you need to rely on a job in Thailand in order to live, you should reconsider. Most jobs are reserved for Thai people. Even if you find a job most likely it would be on a yearly contract basis which means you could have a job for year and possibly not next year.
Michael ********
Really depends what you can do ?

Get a job here first if your profession allows it.
Samiya ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Michael *******
i have masters degree
David ******
This is not True, you need a work permit .But you teach if you have a degree and diplomas .

It's hard to walk into the job .
Samiya ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@David *****
yes i have masters degree and i am 32 y.o
Tae'lur ********
Oy
Robbie *******
Job , residency and life ? Can you be a bit more specific ?
Samiya ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Robbie ******
lf i move to thailand, what are the probabilities that i get the job?
Robbie *******
Slim to none unless you have a rare skill that a Thai person can’t do .
Jx ******
You don't move to Thailand if you need a normal job here.
Sally ********
If you want to work you will need a work permit..
Samiya ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Sally *******
and the what is the process to get it? What are the chances to get job? I have masters degree
Sally ********
1st of all how old are you??
Samiya ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Greg *********
No job available for you that an average Thai person can do. It’s the law. Sorry, you’ll need some income coming in from outside Thailand every month or a substantial savings account in order to support your self here. You can’t work in the country without a work permit.
Peter ******
🤪
Anthony ********
@Peter *****
😝 😜
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else