Thailand remains one of the world's most popular expat destinations, offering warm weather, affordable living, world-class cuisine and welcoming visa options for retirees, remote workers and families.
Updated: 20 May 2026 : Editorial Team, eVisa-Card.com
Since 15 September 2026, the visa exemption is 30 days instead of 60
Nationals of 60 countries and territories, including France, can enter without a visa for a tourist stay of up to 30 days; Seychelles and Mauritius qualify for 15 days. Beyond this period, or if your nationality is not exempt, you must obtain a visa before departure on the official portal thaievisa.go.th. The free TDAC must still be completed before arrival.
Sources: Thai Government · France Diplomatie (French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs) · Verified on 13 October 2026.
Thailand at a Glance
| Capital | Bangkok |
| Currency | Thai Baht (THB) |
| Language | Thai |
| Monthly cost | ~$800-1,500/month |
Work, study and residence
A tourist exemption or visitor visa does not automatically authorise employment, long-term study or residence. Check the appropriate permission before starting these activities.
Check your own nationality, passport type, residence, route and travel dates with the official authority. The French-passport summary is not an eligibility decision for another nationality.
Use the official checklist for passport validity, permitted entry points, accommodation, funds, onward travel and insurance where required. Requirements for minors, emergency passports and dual nationals can differ.
Choose the category matching the actual purpose of travel. Apply through the government portal or its appointed provider, check the fee before paying, and allow for requests for additional documents. Approval and entry are decided by the competent authorities.
Apply to the competent authority before your current permission expires. An extension, change of status or re-entry is subject to its own conditions; submitting a request does not by itself establish a right to remain.
Thailand — Visa and entry requirements 2026Healthcare in Thailand
Public Healthcare
Thailand's public healthcare system (30-Baht Scheme) is available to Thai nationals and permanent residents only. As a non-resident expat, you cannot access public healthcare at subsidised rates.
Private Healthcare
Private hospitals in Thailand (Bangkok Hospital, Bumrungrad, Samitivej) are world-class and significantly cheaper than Western equivalents. A consultation costs 500-1,500 THB (~$14-42). Major surgery is 60-80% cheaper than in the US or Europe.
Typical Healthcare Costs
| Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| GP consultation (private) | 500-1,200 THB (~$14-34) |
| Specialist consultation | 1,200-3,000 THB (~$34-85) |
| Emergency room visit | 2,000-8,000 THB (~$57-228) |
| Hospitalisation (per night) | 5,000-25,000 THB (~$143-714) |
| Dental cleaning | 800-1,500 THB (~$23-43) |
| Eye exam + glasses | 2,000-5,000 THB (~$57-143) |
Supplementary Health Insurance
International health insurance is mandatory for retirement and LTR visas. Even on other visas, it is strongly recommended. Thai private hospitals can be expensive for major procedures, and repatriation costs without insurance can exceed $50,000.
Top Providers for Expats
Local insurer specialising in expats in Southeast Asia. Plans from ~$800/year. Good network of Thai private hospitals.
Strong regional network. Plans from ~$1,000/year. Well-regarded for cancer coverage.
International coverage, ideal if you travel frequently or split time between countries. From ~$1,500/year.
Comprehensive plans with worldwide coverage. Particularly suited for high earners on LTR visas. From ~$1,800/year.
Flexible modular plans. Can add dental, optical and maternity. From ~$1,200/year.
Opening a Bank Account in Thailand
A Thai bank account is practically essential for expats : it's required for the retirement visa deposit (800,000 THB), utility payments, rent transfers and daily transactions.
Recommended Banks
Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Non-Immigrant visa (tourist visa may be refused at some branches)
- Proof of address in Thailand (rental contract or TM.30 confirmation)
- Thai SIM card or phone number
- Initial deposit (typically 500-2,000 THB)
Step-by-Step Process
- Visit the bank branch in person (online opening not available for foreigners)
- Request a savings account (บัญชีออมทรัพย์)
- Present all documents to the bank officer
- Receive debit card same day or within 5 business days
- Activate online/mobile banking (may require Thai phone number)
Buying Property in Thailand
Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand, but they can own condominium units freehold (up to 49% of a building's total floor area may be foreign-owned). Houses and land must be held through a Thai company, a 30-year leasehold or a Thai spouse.
Ownership Options for Foreigners
Full ownership permitted for foreigners. Must be paid from overseas in foreign currency (proof required). Most popular option.
Land and houses can be leased for 30 years, renewable twice (total 90 years in practice). Common for villas and townhouses.
A Thai limited company (min. 51% Thai shareholders) can hold land. Complex, legal fees $2,000-5,000. Requires ongoing compliance.
Land can be registered in a Thai spouse's name. No legal protection in case of divorce. Not recommended.
Purchase Process
- Hire a reputable real estate lawyer (budget 30,000-80,000 THB)
- Verify the title deed (Chanote / Nor Sor 4 : the only fully secure title)
- Sign a Reservation Agreement and pay deposit (50,000-100,000 THB)
- Due diligence: check no liens, correct zoning, building permits
- Transfer funds from overseas bank to Thailand (keep FET form for proof)
- Sign Sale & Purchase Agreement (SPA)
- Transfer at the Land Office : both parties must attend
- Pay transfer fees (typically 2-3% of assessed value)
Typical Purchase Costs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transfer fee | 2% of the appraised value (split buyer/seller) |
| Stamp duty or specific business tax | 0.5% stamp duty OR 3.3% SBT if sold within 5 years |
| Withholding tax | 1-3% (paid by seller) |
| Lawyer fees | 30,000-80,000 THB |
| Agent commission | 3-5% (paid by seller) |
About This Guide
This guide is researched and maintained by the editorial team at eVisa-Card.com. Last updated: 20 May 2026. We strive to keep all information current but visa rules, healthcare costs and property regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements with official government sources and consult a licensed professional before making major decisions.