Living in Thailand: A Guide for New Zealanders

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Key Highlights

Thinking of moving to Thailand? There are a few key things you need to know before you go.

The cost of living in Thailand is much less than in New Zealand. This is great if you want to save money or see new places.
You have to look at all the visa options to stay in Thailand for a long time.
It is good to get health insurance so you can use medical care if you need it.
Setting up a work permit or getting a bank account may take time and care. Stay patient with the paperwork.
If you learn some Thai words and get to know the thai people, your expat life will be much better. It’s worth embracing the culture.

Before you go, remember all of these points about thailand, the cost of living, health insurance, your work permit, bank account needs, and getting to know thai culture and people. This will help you have a good start as an expat.

Introduction

Many people in New Zealand dream of leaving the long white cloud for the Land of Smiles. Living in Thailand looks great because of the bright culture, tasty food, and warm weather. The idea can be very exciting for people. This guide is here for Kiwis who want to make the move. No matter if you want a short trip or plan to stay for a long time, this guide will help you. We will go over what you need to do and know to help make your journey from New Zealand to Thailand as an expat smooth and successful.

What to Expect When Moving to Thailand from New Zealand

Moving from New Zealand to Thailand is a big step. You will leave behind what you know for new places in southeast Asia. There are busy cities and calm beaches to visit in Thailand. The cost of living is much lower, which is why many expatriates want to move here. Many people say the rich Thai culture and how open Thai citizens are makes the most difference.

But it is not always easy. There are problems, such as dealing with a language you do not know well and working with a new system of rules. It helps to know both the good and hard parts before you go. Let’s see why so many people from New Zealand move to Thailand. Find out what happens when you get there, and learn about some problems you may have.

Why New Zealanders Choose Thailand

Many people from New Zealand want to go to the Kingdom of Thailand for many good reasons. One big reason is that the cost of living in Thailand is much lower than in western countries. This means you can get more for your money when you buy food, travel, or pay for a place to stay in major cities. You can live well there, even if you could not do that at home.

The Thai people are also very friendly and make others feel welcome. Thailand is called the “Land of Smiles” for a good reason. Many Kiwis find it easy to fit in and start a new life here. The warm weather and lovely views are big draws as well. You can enjoy a nice tropical break from the cooler weather in New Zealand.

Here’s a quick summary of the attractions:

Affordable cost of living compared to western countries.
Warm, tropical climate year-round.
Rich cultural experiences and tasty Thai food.
Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere for expats.

First Impressions: Culture, Language, and Lifestyle

When you arrive in Thailand, you will see right away that life here is full of colour and feels very Thai. Life as an expat can mix things you know with things that are new for you. Simple things like going out to the market or asking for some food can feel like a fun, small trip. The mix of what you see, hear, and smell is a treat for your senses. Things move fast, but there is also a calm feeling mixed in.

The language can be hard at the start. A lot of thai people in tourist spots can speak english, but if you learn a few easy thai words, you will find it is much better to talk with local thai people. Learning thai shows them you want to try, and it will help you get things done. Do not worry if you don’t say every word right. Most people in thailand will just be happy that you gave it a go.

The way of living here is not the same as what you may be used to. thai people care a lot about family and spend time in their groups. You will see people care less about time. This slow pace in life can feel good. If you want to be happy and have a good time as an expat in thailand, it helps if you go with these ways and not try to fight them.

Common Challenges for New Zealand Expats

Life in Thailand brings many good things, but New Zealanders will run into a few real issues. One of the hardest parts of moving is dealing with all the paperwork and rules. Tasks like opening a bank account or getting a work permit can take a lot of time. You have to fill out many forms and wait for things to happen.

There are also some things you need to know about healthcare. Medical care in Thailand can be very good, mostly in private hospitals. Still, you need to have strong health insurance. It is not a good idea to use public services if you do not have proper medical insurance. You also have to get used to managing your money using Thai baht. The banking system is not the same as back home.

Here are some hurdles you might face:

Getting the right visa and work permit.
Facing language problems when doing everyday things or dealing with the government.
Sorting out your money and opening a Thai bank account.
Figuring out how the healthcare system works and making sure you have enough health insurance.

Essential Things to Know Before You Move

Before you move to Thailand, you need to sort out all your important stuff. You can’t just pack a bag and go without a plan. This is true for all expatriates. The most important thing is getting your legal and paper work done. If you have your documents ready, you will not have much stress when you land.

Your passport and visa help you move to Thailand without problems. If you do not have the right papers, your plan to live in Thailand could stop before it starts. In the sections below, you will see the entry rules for Kiwis, what documents you must bring, and some key health and safety tips. All this will help you be well set up before you go.

Entry Requirements and Visa Options for Kiwis

For New Zealanders, entering Thailand starts with understanding the visa rules. If you’re just visiting, you can often enter under the visa exemption scheme, which allows a stay of 30 days. However, for a long-term move, you will need to apply for a specific type of visa from a Thai embassy or consulate before you leave New Zealand.

The Thai government offers several visa options for foreign nationals, depending on the purpose of your stay. These include non-immigrant visas for work, study, retirement, or marriage to a Thai citizen. Staying long-term requires careful planning, as each visa has specific requirements, such as proof of funds or employment. Overstaying your visa is a serious offence with significant penalties.

Here is a brief overview of common options:

Visa Type	Purpose	Typical Duration
Visa Exemption	Tourism	30 days (extendable)
Tourist Visa	Extended tourism	60 days (extendable)
Non-Immigrant B	Business/Work	90 days, then extends to 1 year
Non-Immigrant ED	Education	90 days, then extends
Non-Immigrant O	Family/Retirement	90 days, then extends to 1 year

Important Documents and Paperwork

It’s really important to have all your key documents organised if you want to move to Thailand. Your passport is the most important document. It needs to be valid for at least six more months. The visa is also very important. It lets you to enter and stay in Thailand for a set reason.

If you want to work in Thailand, you will need a work permit as well as a visa. The work permit is usually given to you by the thai company that hires you. Getting this permit can take time and needs a lot of documents from you and your employer. If you are getting married in Thailand, you will need a paper from the New Zealand Embassy in Bangkok which shows your status. This needs to be translated and made official before it is used.

Be sure to keep both a digital and paper copy of these important documents:

Valid New Zealand passport
Appropriate Thai visa
Birth certificate
Educational qualifications and transcripts (if working or studying)
Marriage or divorce certificates, if you need them

Vaccinations, Health, and Safety Tips

Your health and safety should always come first when you move to Thailand. Before leaving, talk to your doctor about what vaccinations you might need. You do not need any shots just to enter from New Zealand, but your doctor might suggest getting one for diseases like Hepatitis A, Typhoid, or Tetanus. The advice you get will depend on your health and your travel plans.

Having good health insurance is a must. Thailand’s private hospitals offer very good medical care, but it can cost a lot if you don’t have medical insurance. A solid policy will help pay for things like routine doctor visits and emergencies. You can use the public health system, but it can be hard for people from other countries to work out how it all works. Because of that, it’s better to get private insurance.

In everyday life, know that there are scams out there that target tourists and expats, especially in major cities. Stay alert if something doesn’t seem right, never leave your passport with a rental company, and say no to deals that look too good. Always wear a helmet if you ride a scooter, and make sure your insurance will cover you for the vehicle you use.

Beginner’s Guide to Getting Started in Thailand

When you get to Thailand, this is where the real adventure starts for an expat. Those first weeks can be hard as you work out how to live there. You might feel a bit lost, but with time things get better. You need to find somewhere good to live and open a bank account early on. These are some of the most important things for anyone starting a new life in Thailand.

This first part is about getting the basics set up for your new daily life in the country. If you handle these things at the start, you can slow down and begin to enjoy all the good things this place has for you. Now let’s talk about what you should do to settle in. We will look at how to look for good accommodation and how to take care of your money, like setting up your bank account.

What You’ll Need: Essentials for Settling In

When you first get to Thailand, there are a few important things and papers you will need to make things easier. If you have these items well organised, you can feel more sure when you do things like open a bank account or look for a flat to rent. Your passport and visa are the main things you need every time you do something official.

It is good to keep both paper and digital copies of these documents in a safe place. You should also have some Thai Baht in cash, as you may need to pay some costs right away and some shops do not take cards. Getting a local SIM card will help you with calls and online maps while you move around.

Here is a checklist of what you need to have:

Passport and a valid long-stay visa.
Proof of address, such as a letter from your landlord or a utility bill.
Enough Thai Baht for deposits and costs when you first arrive.
Health insurance details.
A Thai phone number.
Work permit or a letter from your boss, if you have one.

Finding Accommodation in Popular Thai Cities

Finding a good place to stay is one of the first things that helps you feel at home. In Thailand, you can find all sorts of accommodation. There are modern high-rise condos in Bangkok, nice houses in Chiang Mai, and beachside villas in Phuket and Koh Samui. What you pick will depend on how you like to live, how much you want to spend, and where you need to be for work or your day-to-day life.

You can look for places online using property sites, but some of the best options are not always listed there. When you first get to Thailand, you might want to book a hotel or serviced apartment for a few weeks. This way, you can check out different neighbourhoods and see the property yourself before signing any long-term rental deal.

When you start your search for accommodation, think about these things:

Bangkok: Here, you will find modern condos with things like pools and gyms. Many are also close to public transport.
Chiang Mai: This city has cheaper houses and life moves at a slower pace.
Phuket & Koh Samui: These spots are good if you want to live by the sea. You can pick from simple apartments or go for a fancy villa.

Managing Money: Banking and Finances for New Zealanders

Looking after your money in Thailand is very important if you want less stress. The first thing you should do is open a local bank account. This will help you pay bills, get paid if you work, and avoid high fees for sending money from overseas. You will need to bring your passport, your visa for staying longer and some proof of your address. Some banks might also ask you for a letter that says who you are.

When you have your account, you can spend money in Thai Baht each day. The cost of living in Thailand is low in most cases, but it’s a good idea to make a simple budget so you can see where your money goes. Many people from New Zealand keep their home bank account for savings and move money to their Thai bank account with Wise (also called TransferWise). This way, they can often get a better exchange rate than what banks usually give.

Remember, good planning helps because sending money between countries can sometimes be a bit tricky. The best way to deal with money each day is to use your local account in baht. Make sure you keep watching the NZD to THB rate, because it can go up and down and this can change your costs.

Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Step-by-Step Guide to Starting Your New Life in Thailand

Moving to Thailand from New Zealand can seem like a big job, but if you break it into smaller tasks, it gets much easier to handle. This step-by-step guide is here to help you through each part, starting with the paperwork and ending with settling into your new place. If you stick to a simple plan, you can be sure that you do not forget anything important.

You can use this as your own list to tick off things as you go. Just do one thing at a time, and you will slowly get used to your new life as an expat in the Land of Smiles. Let’s talk about the main steps you will need to follow.

Step 1: Arranging Your Visa and Legal Matters

The first thing you need to do is get your visa sorted out. This is very important because your right to live in Thailand depends on this. You cannot work or stay in Thailand for a long time with just a tourist visa or visa exemption. You have to apply for the right non-immigrant visa at a Thai embassy or consulate before you leave New Zealand.

The visa you need will be based on what you plan to do in Thailand, like if you want to retire, work, study, or join your family. Each type of visa has its own list of things the Thai government asks for. This might be proof of your money, an employment contract, or a letter from your school. The process can take a long time, so it’s a good idea to start early, before your travel date comes up.

After you get to Thailand with your non-immigrant visa, there are more things you need to do. If you will work, your boss will help get your work permit. You also have to do 90-day reporting to the immigration office to let them know your address. Keeping up with what the Thai government needs from you is key for a good and easy stay in Thailand.

Step 2: Securing Housing and Local Transportation

Once you get to Thailand and have your visa, the next thing to do is look for a place to live. Picking the right accommodation is important. It helps you feel happy and comfortable each day. In major cities like Bangkok, many expats choose modern apartments, or condominiums. These places often have a pool and a gym. They also stay close to public transport.

In other urban areas or on the islands, you will see more options. There are traditional townhouses and also homes by themselves. It’s a good idea to take your time with this choice. Rent somewhere to stay for a few weeks at first. This way, you can check out different neighbourhoods. You get to know which place fits you best. In Thailand, signing a one-year lease is common after you know where you want to be.

When it comes to getting around, lots of expats in cities use public transport. They also use ride-hailing apps and taxis. If you are going to live outside a big city centre, you might rent or buy a scooter or car. But never ride a scooter without the right licence and a helmet. Be aware, too: if you don’t have a licence for that scooter in your home country, your travel insurance might not help you if something goes wrong.

Step 3: Setting Up Finances and Mobile Connectivity

With a roof over your head, it is now time to sort out your money and how you will keep in touch. You should open a local bank account to help you handle day-to-day things in Thai Baht. With a Thai bank account, it will be much easier to pay rent, pay utility bills, and buy things each day. For this, you need your passport, your long-term visa, and proof of your Thai address.

Getting a local SIM card should be one of the first things you do. It does not cost much, and you get a Thai phone number along with mobile data. This helps a lot with maps, using translation apps, and keeping in touch with people. You will find main phone network stalls at the airport, so you can get set up as soon as you land in Thailand.

To get internet at home, you can pick a package after you find your accommodation. Thailand has fast and steady internet, more so if you live in a city. A local bank account and a local phone number will help with these things, from hooking up utilities to buying online.

Step 4: Accessing Healthcare and Insurance

Getting to know the Thai healthcare system is very important for any expat. The healthcare you get, mainly in private hospitals in big cities, is great. But you will pay more for it. That is why having health insurance is a must. Do not think you will be okay without it.

Your medical insurance needs to cover many things. It should help with a normal visit to the doctor. It should also cover you for emergency hospital stays and if you need to be moved to another place for care. You have to check different plans to see what fits your needs and your budget. There is a public hospital system, but it often has many people waiting. It is also hard to get help if you do not speak Thai. That is why most expats use private healthcare.

A good health insurance policy gives you peace of mind. It lets you get quality help without worrying about huge bills. If you are planning to move to Thailand for a long time, think about the cost of strong insurance. This is a big part of your money plan. Health insurance is something you need for a safe life in Thailand.

Step 5: Integrating into the Community and Adapting to Thai Culture

The last step to starting your new life in Thailand is the one that will make you feel most at home. This is when you become part of the community. It is not just about all the things you need to do to move. It is also about choosing to live in a new way. If you take the time to learn about the culture, get to know thai people and meet other expats, you will enjoy your new place much more.

When you learn some thai, it helps. A few simple thai words or greetings make a big difference. People will see that you want to connect. Try to join in local activities, walk around your new neighbourhood, and try things that are different. You can also look at joining clubs like the New Zealand Society or the Australian-New Zealand Women’s Group (ANZWG). These groups are a good way to meet other expats and get help.

These tips will help you settle in:

Learn some basic thai words and know the common rules for behaviour.
Be patient and ready to change your plans; sometimes things go in another way to what you want.
Go and see places outside the usual areas where expats live.
Try to make friends with both thai citizens and other expats.

Daily Life in Thailand for New Zealanders

Daily life for a Kiwi expat in Thailand is a mix of things you know and some that are new. You might start your day with coffee from a street seller. There is the busy commute to work on the BTS Skytrain. In the evening, you could head out to a busy night market.

Living in Thailand is a good mix of what is new and what feels like home. At one time, you can have great modern things, and then later enjoy simple and real joys. In the next parts, we will talk about the cost of living, food and shopping, work, and the many ways you can travel or relax as an expat in Thailand.

The Cost of Living Compared to New Zealand

One of the most significant draws for New Zealanders moving to Thailand is the lower cost of living. Your New Zealand dollar will stretch much further, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle on a budget that would be challenging back home. From accommodation and food to transport and entertainment, most expenses are considerably cheaper.

For example, renting a modern one-bedroom apartment in a city centre is significantly more affordable than in Auckland or Wellington. Eating out is also incredibly cheap, especially if you enjoy local street food, where a delicious meal can cost just a few dollars. While imported goods and fine dining can be expensive, day-to-day living is very budget-friendly.

Here’s a rough comparison of average monthly costs (prices are estimates in NZD):

Expense	Thailand (Major City)	New Zealand (Major City)
Rent (1-bed apt)	$600 – $1,000	$2,000 – $2,500
Utilities	$80 – $120	$200 – $300
Meal (Inexpensive)	$3 – $6	$20 – $25
Monthly Transport	$50 – $80	$150 – $220

Navigating Food, Shopping, and Local Markets

Food is a big part of Thai life, and if you are an expat in Thailand, you get lots of chances to try many new things. There are small street food stalls with noodle soup, mango sticky rice, and so much more. The fresh local markets are full of bright fruit and veggies you may not see anywhere else. These food adventures make every day special. Plus, eating like a local in Thailand is good and will not cost much.

Shopping in Thailand gives you two kinds of experiences. You will find big shopping malls with air-con, where there are global stores, movie places, and food courts that can make you feel like you are back at home. You also have busy local markets. At these, you can try to get a good deal on clothes, handmade things, or items for your house. These markets are very busy and exciting in the best way.

If you go shopping in big malls, you can use English and be fine. But, if you try the local markets, learning some Thai words for numbers and food will help you a lot. It’s fine to point and smile if you do not know what to say. Make sure you have small cash in Baht, because you can’t use a card at most small stalls or markets.

Work Opportunities and Employment Options

For many Kiwis, moving to Thailand means you need to find work. The job market for foreign nationals has its own rules to follow. You can’t work in Thailand without having the right visa. You also need a work permit, and this must be backed by a Thai company. It is not always an easy process. Because of that, it’s best to get a job before you leave.

A lot of people teach English when they move to Thailand, but there are other jobs too. You can find jobs in hospitality, IT, marketing, and management, especially with big companies in Bangkok. Keep in mind, though, that there are some jobs that only Thai citizens are allowed to do. This means your choices can be limited.

Here are some work options for people moving to Thailand:

English Teacher at a language school or international school.
Corporate professional in a multinational company.
Hospitality manager at a hotel or resort.
Digital nomad or freelancer (needs a certain visa).
Starting your own business (the law is quite tough for this).

If you’re looking to work for a Thai company, or as a foreign national, make sure you follow the visa and work permit rules. This way you won’t get in trouble with Thai laws.

Leisure, Travel, and Exploring Thailand

One of the best things about living in Thailand is how easy it is to relax and travel. On weekends and holidays, you can visit old temples, enjoy beautiful beaches, or walk through green national parks. Thailand has many different places to see, so there is always something new. You can travel from the mountains in Chiang Mai to the nice beaches in Phuket and Koh Samui.

Travelling around Thailand is simple and cheap. Thailand has many low-cost airlines, long-distance buses, and trains that cover the whole country. If you fly out from Bangkok, you can be in a totally new place in a short time. This means you can often take quick trips away on the weekend when you live here.

Thailand is also a great base for travelling through Asia. It is easy to get flights to other countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Malaysia. These places are close and tickets often do not cost much. Living in Thailand lets you see many more places in Asia than what you could do if you lived in New Zealand, and helps you tick off more dreams on your travel list.

If you want to have a good time in Thailand, it helps to know and respect the way people there live. Thai culture is shaped by Buddhism, and people care a lot about their place in the group. If you are an expat, learning some basic rules about social behaviour will make your life better. It also helps you get on well with thai people.

Little signs of respect can really help every day. Even small things can change the way others see you. Below, you will find some main cultural differences to think about, and how you can build real connections with local thai people and other expats.

Key Cultural Differences to Prepare For

One thing you’ll notice about Thai culture is the idea of “saving face.” Thai people do not like public arguments or angry words. It’s best to stay calm and polite, even if things get tough. This way of acting is very important in the country. It’s something every expat must know.

Respect for the royal family and religion is also very strong. Always show respect for the King and the royal family. When you visit a temple, you should cover your shoulders and knees with your clothing. Thai people see the head as the most sacred part of the body. So, you should not touch someone’s head. The feet are thought of as low and dirty. Try not to point them at other people or at a religious statue.

Many Thai people know some English, especially if they work in tourism or business. Even so, talking in Thailand feels a bit different. When you hear “yes,” it might just mean “I listen,” not that they agree. As an expat, it’s good to pay attention to body language. With time, you will learn what people mean, even if they don’t say it out loud.

Building Relationships with Locals and Expats

Building a strong group of friends is key to your happiness and to your well-being in Thailand. You can have a much richer life when you get to know local Thai people and other expats. Each group can give you different kinds of help and views.

Making friends with Thai people gives you the chance to learn more about thai life and culture. These can lead to better and more real experiences. It helps to be open, kind, and patient. Trying to learn some words in thai is one of the best ways to make the first move. It shows that you care about their world. You can also try to share a meal or join a sports club to get to know people.

On the other hand, meeting other expats, especially if they are Kiwis or Aussies, can make you feel closer to home. Groups like the Australian-New Zealand Women’s Group (ANZWG) or the New Zealand Society set up times to meet and hangout. They also give you help with things that only people who live in another country will get.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even if you do lots of planning, new expatriates going to Thailand can still end up making the same mistakes. Some of these problems are small, but others can be big and even lead to legal trouble or loss of money. It helps to know about these risks early. That way, you can save time, avoid stress, and keep your move to Thailand simple.

People often have trouble with their visas, money, or even expect too much. You can dodge many of these problems if you think ahead. Here, we will talk about mistakes with visas, finding a place to live, and handling your money. We will also discuss how you can change your thinking to settle in well for the long term in Thailand.

Pitfalls with Visas, Finances, and Housing

Many expat mistakes are linked to three main things: visas, money, and a place to live. Some people do not realise how important it is to have the right visa. If you work on a tourist visa or if you stay longer than you should, there can be big problems. You could get a fine, be sent out of the country, and even end up on a list so you can’t come back. You should always check the rules about your visa. Make sure you know when you need to renew it.

When it comes to money, not having enough to set yourself up is a common issue. Another mistake is not sorting good health insurance from the start. There might be a time when you need to see a doctor, or something unexpected happens. Without health insurance, it can cost a lot and put you in a tough spot. The same thing goes for looking for accommodation. People get into trouble when they don’t look at a place well or don’t read the lease before they pay a deposit.

Here are some pitfalls you should look out for:

Overstaying your visa or working without a work permit.
Not having adequate health insurance.
Leaving your passport as a deposit for rentals.
Falling for common gem or property scams.
Not having a financial buffer for emergencies.
Failing to do 90-day reporting to immigration.

Adjusting Expectations for Long-Term Living

Living in Thailand long-term is not like having a long holiday. Many expats find that to fit in well, you have to stop thinking like a tourist and start thinking like a local. The things you enjoy on a two-week break can turn annoying when you deal with them every day. You need to know what your life in Thailand will really be like, not just dream about the good bits.

The cost of living is low, which is a big plus. But, you will still run into red tape, busy traffic, and things you might not understand. It stays hot all year, and visa runs and not knowing the language can be hard. It’s a good idea to move your life to Thailand only if you are ready for these things. You have to be strong, open to new ways, and ready for both the ups and the downs.

Be ready for things to be different. They may not be better or worse, but they will change. Learning how to do things the Thai way is key, and you should try to be patient and keep your sense of humour. Not every day will go well, but many people find that the great times in Thailand make up for the hard times.

Conclusion

In the end, moving to thailand as a New Zealander can give you many new things to see and do. You get to enjoy a colourful culture, lots of adventure, and many fresh experiences. If you take some time to learn about the local way of life, follow the rules you need for moving, and know what common problems can come up, you will find it easier to settle in.

Try to follow the local customs and make friends with people in your new place. This will help you get more out of your time in this beautiful country. Getting ready ahead of time is very important as it helps make your move go well. If you feel ready for this new start, and want a bit more help or advice, you can ask for support any time.

Enjoy every moment of your thai experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easy for New Zealanders to stay long-term in Thailand?

Staying for a long time in Thailand means you need to plan well. It is not easy, but the steps are clear if you do things right. An expat must get the right visa for a long stay, like a retirement or business visa. If you want to work, you also need a work permit. To keep trouble away, you have to follow all the thai government rules.

What are the biggest advantages of living in Thailand compared to New Zealand?

The biggest benefits are the low cost of living, the warm tropical weather, and the lively Thai culture. Living in Thailand is so affordable that you can travel more and have more time for fun. Its spot in Southeast Asia makes it easy to visit other places in Asia. At the same time, you get to enjoy life in the major cities of Thailand.

How much money do I need to live comfortably in Thailand?

The amount of money you need will change based on your lifestyle. But, if you have a budget of 60,000 to 90,000 Baht each month (about NZ$2,700 to $4,000), you can live well in a big city. That will cover your accommodation and day-to-day costs. You also need to include the price of private health insurance when you plan your spending, as health insurance is important.

What are some common mistakes expats make when moving to Thailand?

Some common mistakes are working without a valid work permit or staying in the country after your visa has ended. Many people do not get the right health insurance, and this can give you big bills if you need help. Others forget to check where they will stay, or they do not think enough about how hard it is to deal with rules and language problems, especially when visiting a public hospital.