Live and work in Thailand
Thailand is very famous for their delicious cuisine, stunning nature, islands with beautiful water, and very friendly residents. But what else? And what can your life look like if you decide on moving to Thailand?
Here we aim to give you a deeper understanding of the tropical country.
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Latest available jobs in Thailand
Dutch Social Advertising Specialist, iGaming – the Netherlands (hybrid)
Do you speak Dutch fluently, and do you want an exciting job in sunny the Netherlands in a rapidly growing industry? Then this position might be for you. Contact us and apply today!
Dutch Social Advertising Specialist, iGaming – Malta (hybrid)
Do you speak Dutch fluently, and do you want an exciting job in sunny Malta in a rapidly growing industry? Then this position might be for you. Contact us and apply today!
Swedish E-commerce and Marketing Manager – Frankfurt (hybrid)
Do you speak Swedish and do you want a job in Frankfurt? We have a new job opportunity in e-commerce and digital marketing for a luxury brand. Apply now.
Currency
The currency in Thailand is Thai Baht (ISO code: THB, symbol ฿)
Famous people
Some notable Thai people are Mario Maurer, Buakaw Banchamek and Tatchakorn Yeerum
Population
Thailand has a population of around 71.6 million people, mainly in Bangkok
Typical food
Pad Thai (noodle stir fry), Tom Yum Goong (shrimp soup), Tom Kha Gai (chicken coconut soup), sticky rice with mango (sweet)
Avg. working week
Thailand has a 40 hour work week, 8 hours daily spread over 5 days a week
Location
Thailand is in southeast Asia, and borders Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Andaman Sea and the Gulf. The capital city is Bangkok.
Languages
The official language is Thai, and they use their own alphabet: Thai script
Healthcare
Public healthcare varies in quality but private is good. It is self-paid.
All you need to know about living and working in Thailand
There are many good reasons to work in Thailand, and it does not have to be difficult to find a job there. You get a tropical climate with endless hours of sunshine, the world’s most beautiful sandy beaches and a population world-renowned for their kindness and friendliness. If you want to combine your work with an everyday life that is radically different from the life in Europe, Thailand is definitely an amazing option for you.
In Thailand, a sea of culinary experiences beyond the ordinary awaits you. Opportunities for diving, hiking and sailing every day and beautiful sights no matter where you look. Read more about the country and about career opportunities in the following.
Work in Thailand and immerse yourself in Thai culture
When you live in another country to work, we always recommend that you set aside plenty of time to get to know the culture. In Thailand, there are a number of traditions that differ from what we are used to in Europe – much has to do with respect, courtesy and general tact and tone. For example, there are strict laws when it comes to insulting His Majesty, and the royal family is very important in Thai everyday life and self-understanding. When you enter a Buddhist temple, for all intents and purposes, you must leave your shoes outside – and in many other places, footwear is not appreciated.
When interacting with other people, politeness is one of the most important things. Thai people prefer to avoid confrontations and do not raise their voice, and if you need to point out a mistake or something you are not happy with, it should be done with great care and courtesy. If you make an effort to adhere to the cultural codes, you will find that the Thais are incredibly friendly, polite and accommodating people.
Work culture in Thailand
The business culture in Thailand is relatively formal and can be difficult to navigate at first. However, the locals are aware of this, and if only they can see that you have familiarised yourself with the culture and are trying to live it, it will be much appreciated. If you learn to speak a little Thai it’s also considered an expression of respect, and even with just a few courtesy phrases you can make a good impression. If you are going to live and work in Thailand for a long time, it is an advantage to learn Thai, as a large part of the population does not speak English.
When you are looking for a job in Thailand you might be lucky enough to get a job in an international company with a department in Thailand. This can for example be as a meeting booker, sales agent, or in digital marketing.
To work in Thailand, you need a work permit. Your employer can usually help you get a handle on this part – but familiarise yourself with the rules and start well in advance, as the process can be quite extensive.
The cost of living in Thailand is significantly lower than in Europe, and you can often eat at a local restaurant for around 3,5 EUR. The rental prices and costs of living are low as well.
Taxes in Thailand
It’s important that you know how taxes work for expats in Thailand if you’re planning to work there for a while. The first thing you need to know is that you become a resident of Thailand after spending more than 180 days there. Before this you will have to pay only for the income earned in Thailand, but once you’re a resident you must pay for your worldwide income. The tax rate is progressive and goes from 0% to 35% depending on your income. Regarding the social security system the employee contributes 5% of the first 15.000 baht of income while the employer contributes another 5%.
Why should you live and find a job in Thailand?
Working and living in Thailand is a great opportunity if you dream of a life in a tropical climate and in a country that offers completely different and amazing experiences compared to Europe. Combine your work with fantastic excursions, diving and exploration of huge cities – Thailand has it all.
Popular cities in Thailand
Speak to one of our recruiters
Life in Thailand
Living in Thailand is an incredible experience with amazing nature and warm hospitality. There are big markets, temples, and the most delicious and aromatic street food, especially in Bangkok. Thailand is also known as the Land of Smiles, and it is famous for its paradisiacal islands with turquoise waters and amazing rock formations and shores. Thai people have a relaxed “mai pen rai” (no worries) attitude that shows in their daily life. Remember to visit Chiang Mai where you can explore lush mountains and ancient temples.Thailand has stunning landscapes and a harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity, creating a lifestyle that will steal your heart.
Basic facts about Thailand
The Southeast Asian country Thailand has a population of 69 million people. The country is 513,000 square kilometres, and the capital Bangkok houses 5.6 million people. Thailand borders Myanmar, Cambodia and Laos. The climate is tropical with high temperatures and high humidity all year round – most of the year’s precipitation falls during the summer monsoon between May and October, and this is especially true in the northern part of Thailand. In the southern regions, precipitation is more evenly distributed throughout the year.
Buddhism has been the state religion in Thailand since the 13th century, and according to the constitution, the royal family must therefore also be Buddhists. Religion, state and monarchy are closely linked and Thai people have great respect for both the royal family and religion. As a tourist or newcomer it is therefore important that you comply with the Thais’ requirements and expectations for good behaviour. E.g. when it comes to visiting religious monuments and experiencing ceremonies, as well as how to refer to the royal family and religion in daily life.
Thai cuisine offers tropical fruits and lots of flavours
The Thai climate makes it Asia’s largest exporter of tropical fruits such as oranges, bananas, coconuts, lychees and mangos. It’s easy to fall in love with the many delicious fruits that just taste a little better in Thailand. Thai cuisine offers a great blend of flavours. The traditional Thai dishes often consist of many different spices which provide complex and intense flavours, and it is no wonder that Thai food is popular all around the world. Traditional dishes are pad thai (wok with rice noodles), tom yum goong (soup with shrimp) and khao pad (fried rice).
How to find housing and work in Thailand
It is always an advantage to do as much of the work as possible from home. You can search for housing on various online housing portals.
When you are looking for work, whether you want to work for a Thai company or an international, or European department in Thailand, we recommend that you get in contact with a recruitment agency specialising in international employment. You can read more about the experiences of the people we have helped finding jobs through Job Squad HERE .
Where to learn Thai?
If you’re planning to stay longer in Thailand and make a living in this country, we recommend you to learn the language. However, this can be difficult without the right tools and there are some courses you should avoid. HERE you can see a selection of Thai courses to start learning. Alternatively you can use apps for your phone, like Duolingo.
Still not convinced about Thailand?
Thai cuisine is a culinary adventure for your taste buds. From spicy tom yum soup to flavorful pad Thai and aromatic green curry, each dish is a masterpiece of flavours and fresh ingredients. Don’t forget to try the famous Thai street food, where delectable treats await you at every corner.
Living in Thailand means enjoying a relaxed lifestyle with balance and spirituality. Take part in Thai festivals like Songkran (Water Festival) or Loy Krathong (Floating Lantern Festival) and experience the rich cultural heritage of the country.
Thailand is also known to be a popular destination for digital nomads due to its affordability, vibrant culture, and welcoming environment. Many cities in Thailand, such as Chiang Mai and Bangkok, have developed a thriving digital nomad community with co-working spaces, cafes, and networking opportunities specifically catering to remote workers. The country offers a good quality of life with a variety of accommodation options, reliable internet infrastructure, and a range of amenities and attractions to explore during leisure time. Additionally, Thailand has visa options that allow digital nomads to stay for an extended period, such as the Thailand Elite Visa or the Non-Immigrant Visa (Category “O-A”). However, it’s essential to research and understand the visa requirements and regulations to ensure compliance with Thai immigration laws.
FAQ
Yes all foreigners have to apply for a work permit to work in Thailand. You can read all about it here.
Thailand has a tropical climate characterized by high temperatures and humidity. The country experiences three seasons: hot, cool, and rainy. The hot season lasts from March to June, with temperatures often soaring above 30 degrees Celsius. The cool season, from November to February, brings milder temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. The rainy season, from July to October, sees frequent showers and occasional storms.
The tax rates and thresholds may vary based on your income level and residency status. It’s important to consult with a tax professional or seek advice from the relevant Thai authorities to understand your specific tax obligations as a digital nomad in Thailand, as tax laws and regulations can change over time.
Thailand offers a range of public transport options to navigate its bustling cities and scenic landscapes. In urban areas like Bangkok, you’ll find an extensive network of skytrains, subway systems, and buses, providing convenient and efficient transportation. Tuk-tuks and taxis are also popular modes of transport for shorter distances. For longer journeys, trains and intercity buses connect major cities and tourist destinations. Fun fact: Thailand’s iconic long-tail boats are a unique way to explore coastal areas and rivers.
Thailand has a mixed healthcare system that includes both public and private providers. The country has made significant progress in developing its healthcare infrastructure and services, particularly in urban areas. Public healthcare facilities, operated by the Ministry of Public Health, provide affordable healthcare services to Thai citizens and legal residents. Private hospitals and clinics, on the other hand, offer higher quality and more specialized care, often preferred by expatriates and tourists. Bangkok is known for having some of the best private hospitals in the country. It’s recommended to have comprehensive health insurance coverage when staying in Thailand to ensure access to quality healthcare and to cover any unexpected medical expenses.
