Moving to Thailand: What You Need to Arrange Before You Leave

Are you dreaming of moving to Thailand? You’re not alone. More and more Dutch people are leaving the gray weather and the 9-to-5 routine behind to enjoy the tropical life in the Land of Smiles. But before you pack your bags and book a flight, there are a few things you really need to know.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps and potential pitfalls so your move to Thailand goes as smoothly as possible.

Why Thailand?

Thailand is popular for a reason. Think delicious food, friendly locals, affordable housing, and stunning beaches. On top of that, it’s a top destination for digital nomads and other adventurers seeking more freedom.

But remember: living in Thailand isn’t a vacation. You’ll need to arrange things like visas, housing, and paperwork that sometimes works differently than in the Netherlands.

1. Which Visa Do You Need?

The most important step is securing the right visa for Thailand. Options depend on your plans:

Tourist Visa (60 days) – Great for an initial exploration, but not a long-term solution
Non-Immigrant O Visa – For retirees or people with Thai family
Education Visa (ED) – Useful if you want to study Thai or other courses
Business or Work Visa – If you work for a Thai employer
Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa – A new option for wealthy individuals or remote workers

For digital nomads, it can be a puzzle, but there are now options to work legally from Thailand. Tip: Always check the latest rules via the Thai embassy or a specialized visa agency.

2. Finding a Place to Live

Once your visa is sorted, it’s time to find housing. Popular spots for expats and digital nomads include:

Chiang Mai – Quiet, affordable, with many remote workers
Bangkok – Busy, lively, and full of amenities
Phuket or Krabi – Beach-focused lifestyle, more touristy
Koh Phangan – Small, relaxed, and increasingly popular among nomads

Rent prices vary widely: in Chiang Mai, you can find a decent studio for around €250 per month. In Bangkok or on islands, prices are higher depending on location and luxury.

3. Cost of Living

Thailand is known for being affordable, but costs depend on your lifestyle. Some examples:

Apartment rent: €250 – €600 per month
Meals at Thai restaurants: €1 – €4 per meal
Scooter rental: €60 – €100 per month
Internet / SIM card: €10 – €20 per month

With a normal lifestyle, you can comfortably live on €1,000 – €1,500 per month, depending on your location and habits.

4. Culture Shock

Moving to a new country always comes with cultural adjustments. Things work differently here. Patience is essential, and a smile goes a long way. Bureaucracy, traffic, and local customs may feel strange at first, but most Dutch expats adjust within a few months.

5. Practical Tips for a Smooth Start

Open a Thai bank account (possible with certain visas)
Get a local SIM card with data from 7-Eleven (AIS or TrueMove are popular) or use an eSIM
Download essential apps: Grab (transport), Foodpanda (food delivery), Wise (money transfers)
Visit a local immigration office for visa updates or notifications

Ready to Start Your Adventure?

Moving to Thailand is exciting, challenging, and—if done right—one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. Get your visa, pick your location, and give yourself time to settle in. Life here is different, but once you find your rhythm, you may never want to leave.

Have questions or need help with your visa, housing, or working in Thailand? Send me a message—I’m happy to help you get started! 🙌