Expats

Stay updated on the latest expat news and insights in Thailand with The Thaiger. Our all-inclusive coverage brings you vital information on residency, visas, work permits, property, healthcare, and other expat-related issues. Adapt to the Land of Smiles seamlessly with our advice, guiding you through various aspects of life as a foreign resident in this enthralling country.

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    Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?

    Thailand’s healthcare system is well-regarded across Southeast Asia, with options ranging from public hospitals to world-class private facilities. But when it comes to foreign residents or tourists, healthcare access isn’t as straightforward. So, do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?...

  • Affordable and enriched living in Thailand attracts foreign investors

    Affordable and enriched living in Thailand attracts foreign investors

    Thailand is making waves on the world stage with what International Living defines as its attractive blend of enriched living at pocket-friendly costs. The gem in the Thai living appeal seems to be the lucrative real estate sector where, as International Living puts it: “Foreigners are able to buy condos very easily and there are bargains everywhere.” Along with attractive…

  • Singaporean man’s Bangkok airport mix-up leads to arresting headlines

    Singaporean man’s Bangkok airport mix-up leads to arresting headlines

    The Singaporean man arrested at Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok for allegedly stealing the belongings of a German man insists it was all a mix-up. Teo Yu Xuan Kenny was trying to board a plane home when Immigration Bureau officers swooped to apprehend the Singaporean for the alleged theft of 100,000 baht in cash, a laptop, and a passport…

  • Russian tourist dies in tragic fall from a pagoda in Phuket

    Russian tourist dies in tragic fall from a pagoda in Phuket

    Phuket, an exhilarating hub of Thai culture and heritage, yesterday turned into a scene of panic and concern. An unidentified Russian male tourist tragically lost his life after falling from the roof of a pagoda at the notable Wat Chaithararam, commonly known as Wat Chalong, situated in the Mueang district of the island. The police were alerted around 5.30pm when…

  • Koh Tao beach resort faces hefty fines and restoration orders on illegal structures and breaches

    Koh Tao beach resort faces hefty fines and restoration orders on illegal structures and breaches

    The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) and related agencies investigated a Koh Tao beach resort following viral social media images, consequently presenting four charges and ordering a restoration to its former state. The establishment in question, located on the popular Koh Tao island in Surat Thani province, a touristic gem often referred to as Turtle Island, came under scrutiny…

  • Unwrapped truth: Viral video of passenger cling-film wrapping three seats raises doubt (video)

    Unwrapped truth: Viral video of passenger cling-film wrapping three seats raises doubt (video)

    The authenticity of a recent viral video showing a female passenger using cling film wrap to create a makeshift bed across three economy seats is being questioned by netizens. The video, which has garnered 3.8 million views on TikTok, depicts the passenger diligently enclosing the space of the three seats she presumably booked using cling wrap. In the video taken…

  • From war heroes to war zeros: The unjust treatment of Julian Assange

    From war heroes to war zeros: The unjust treatment of Julian Assange

    We live in a world where war criminals are celebrated, worshipped, and praised while those who hold them to account are vilified, abused and thrown in prison, as in the case of Julian Assange. We live in a world where George Bush and Tony Blair can lead the United States, United Kingdom, and allies into an illegal war in Iraq…

  • Stepping for a cause: Brit expat’s 1,050km stroll from Pattaya to Phuket raises 1 million baht for abused children

    Stepping for a cause: Brit expat’s 1,050km stroll from Pattaya to Phuket raises 1 million baht for abused children

    British expat James Lee Valentine demonstrated the power of determination and charity by completing a 1,050 kilometre walk from Pattaya to Phuket in Thailand. The walk aimed to raise 1 million baht for Take Care Kids, a children’s foundation based in Pattaya that supports underprivileged children who have suffered abuse. The 59 year old, who has two children himself, was…

  • Regional guide: Teaching English in Phuket

    Regional guide: Teaching English in Phuket

    So, you want to live in paradise with an added bonus? We’re talking about Phuket, a dreamy tropical oasis in southern Thailand, replete with sun-kissed beaches, legendary street food, and stunning temples. As if this wasn’t fantastic enough, imagine immersing yourself in the local community, making a difference in the lives of others, and quite possibly changing your LinkedIn header…

  • Thai hospital misdiagnoses man’s gallstone condition, quick intervention saves health

    Thai hospital misdiagnoses man’s gallstone condition, quick intervention saves health

    A 42 year old expatriate named Nick reached out for help on May 21 after being discharged from the hospital without a clear diagnosis of his abdominal pain. He had been experiencing discomfort in his right lower abdomen and an ache in his left lower chest that radiated into his back and upper abdomen. Nick had been unwell for two…

  • Phuket motorbike crash injures elderly expat

    Phuket motorbike crash injures elderly expat

    A Phuket motorbike crash injured an elderly expat yesterday morning. Chalong Police arrived at the scene on Wiset Road in Rawai to find a foreign motorbike rider, 73 year old Georgi Simeonov Georgiev with minor injuries. The other rider involved in the accident was a 31 Thai man named Kittisak Buayai. Georgiev’s nationality was not provided by police. After reviewing…

  • Man discovers his 17 year old twins aren’t his, DNA test reveals wife’s cheating

    Man discovers his 17 year old twins aren’t his, DNA test reveals wife’s cheating

    A man was left stunned after discovering that his wife cheated on him and that the twins he had raised for 17 years were not his children after they took a random DNA test. The unnamed American man immediately realised that his wife had cheated on him when news of the DNA test was revealed. He shared the story on…

  • What are the visa options for digital nomads in Thailand

    What are the visa options for digital nomads in Thailand

    The digital nomad visa in Thailand is a popular choice for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who want to live and work in this beautiful and welcoming country. While Thailand does not offer a dedicated digital nomad visa programme, individuals can explore alternative visa types to suit their remote work and travel needs. With the digital nomad visa in Thailand,…

  • Activities for retirees to stay active and enjoy life

    Activities for retirees to stay active and enjoy life

    Activities for retirees in Thailand offer a vibrant and diverse social life, allowing individuals to enjoy their golden years to the fullest. From engaging in leisurely pursuits to exploring the rich culture and stunning landscapes, retirees in Thailand can find numerous ways to stay active, healthy, and socially connected. Top Activities for Retirees in Thailand Practice a sport Starting a…

  • Experts unite to oppose govt’s cannabis legalisation

    Experts unite to oppose govt’s cannabis legalisation

    A collective of medical professionals, academics, and civil organisations have released yet another open letter to express their opposition to the government’s decision to legalise cannabis. This marks their seventh open letter on the matter, urging the public to vote for political parties that do not support the removal of cannabis from the list of narcotics, as well as its…

  • Non-immigrant visa in Thailand: Your ultimate guide

    Non-immigrant visa in Thailand: Your ultimate guide

    A non-immigrant visa in Thailand is a crucial document for individuals who wish to stay in the country for an extended period without seeking permanent residency. This type of visa caters to various purposes, such as business, education, marriage, and retirement, allowing foreigners to reside in the country while they engage in their respective activities. The non-immigrant visa in Thailand…

  • Asoke Bangkok: Thailand neighbourhood guide 2023

    Asoke Bangkok: Thailand neighbourhood guide 2023

    Asoke Bangkok, located in the heart of Thailand’s vibrant capital city, is an area that offers the best of both worlds – a perfect blend of modern urban life and traditional Thai culture. Known for its bustling commercial district and lively nightlife, Asoke is a popular destination for locals and ex-pats alike, offering an array of shopping centers, entertainment venues,…

  • Your guide to a visa run in Thailand

    Your guide to a visa run in Thailand

    Visa run in Thailand refers to the practice of leaving the country temporarily in order to reset or renew one’s visa or extend their permitted stay in the country. This is often done by foreign tourists, ex-pats, or digital nomads who wish to stay in Thailand for a longer period than their visa or visa exemption allows. Typically, a visa…

  • Exploring the cost of living for retirees in Thailand

    Exploring the cost of living for retirees in Thailand

    The cost of living for retirees in Thailand has become an increasingly popular topic of discussion, as many individuals from around the world are considering spending their golden years in this beautiful and culturally rich country. Thailand offers a welcoming environment for those looking to enjoy a relaxed and comfortable lifestyle. However, understanding the financial aspects of retiring in this…

  • A practical guide to obtaining Permanent Residence in Thailand

    A practical guide to obtaining Permanent Residence in Thailand

    Considering permanent residence in Thailand as a gateway to a life free of visa hassles? Permanent Residence in Thailand refers to the legal status that permits foreign nationals to reside in the country without the need for constant visa renewals or work permit applications. It is the first step towards a more stable and long-term stay in Thailand for those…

  • Visa extension in Thailand

    Visa extension in Thailand

    Visa extension in Thailand is a process that allows foreign nationals to prolong their stay in the country beyond the initial duration granted by their visa. Whether you are a tourist wanting to explore more of Thailand’s beautiful destinations, a business traveller needing extra time for work commitments, or an expatriate planning to reside in the country for an extended…

  • Tourist visa in Thailand: Your ultimate guide

    Tourist visa in Thailand: Your ultimate guide

    Dreaming of exploring the vibrant streets of Bangkok or relaxing on the pristine beaches of Phuket? Then obtaining a tourist visa in Thailand is your golden ticket to this enchanting Southeast Asian paradise. The Thai tourist visa grants visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the country’s rich history, savour its world-famous cuisine, and engage with the friendly, warm-hearted locals.…

  • A guide to Thailand’s E-visa

    A guide to Thailand’s E-visa

    Planning your dream trip to the land of smiles and wondering how to obtain your visa effortlessly? Look no further, as the E-visa Thailand system is here to simplify the visa application process for you. To make the visa application process more accessible and stress-free, the Thai government has introduced this user-friendly online platform that allows visitors to obtain their…

  • Discover dreamy treehouse resorts in Thailand

    Discover dreamy treehouse resorts in Thailand

    If you’re looking for a unique and adventurous way to experience Thailand, why not consider staying in one of the country’s dreamy treehouse hotels? These treehouse resorts in Thailand offer guests an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the luxuries and comforts of a high-end resort. Nestled high up in the treetops, these treehouses provide breathtaking…

  • Pattaya motorcycle taxi rider threatens to kill 2 foreigners over fare dispute

    Pattaya motorcycle taxi rider threatens to kill 2 foreigners over fare dispute

    Pattaya Police yesterday arrested a Thai motorcycle taxi rider after he turned into a knife-wielding thug after a row with two foreign passengers over fare prices. According to reports, the taxi driver threatened to kill both foreigners during the altercation. The incident kicked off on Pattaya Second Road near Soi 6/1 early yesterday evening. Pattaya Police received a call about…

  • Speed demon down: Former world motorcycle champ crashes near Phuket

    Speed demon down: Former world motorcycle champ crashes near Phuket

    A former world motorcycle racing champion, who holds multiple speed records, has been involved in an accident near Phuket. Eric Teboul, better known in the motorcycle community as “Rocketman” after breaking the world quarter mile record on a bike just months ago, collided with another Honda ridden by Oleg Afanasenko, a Russian holidaymaker, on a bend near the scenic viewpoint…

  • Thailand travel 2023: Unveiling Instagram worthy wonders

    Thailand travel 2023: Unveiling Instagram worthy wonders

    Thailand Travel 2023 is even more exciting with these most Instagram worthy spots in the country that will leave your feed looking nothing short of spectacular. Thailand, the mesmerizing jewel of Southeast Asia, has long been a favourite destination for globetrotters and photographers alike. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and mouthwatering cuisine, Thailand provides endless opportunities for awe-inspiring…

  • Fruitless: Tourists they face jail time for bringing fruits to Thailand, govt warns

    Fruitless: Tourists they face jail time for bringing fruits to Thailand, govt warns

    The Thai government issued a warning to tourists that it would be fruitless to bring fruits into Thailand unless they wanted to go to jail. The Department of Agriculture specifically stated that transporting fresh fruit into Thailand without a phytosanitary certificate could result in a fine of 20,000 baht or a jail sentence of one year. The director-general of the…

  • Airline industry blames rising costs for expensive airfares, is this true?

    Airline industry blames rising costs for expensive airfares, is this true?

    Expensive airfares look set to stay for the foreseeable future according to the airline industry. The industry is trotting out the usual excuses that the recent spike in expensive ticket prices is attributed to a rise in operational costs, including surging fuel prices and other factors. Nok Air CEO, Wutthiphum Jurangkool, cited a surge in prices for aviation supply chain…

  • PM’s plan to tackle soaring cost of air ticket prices in Thailand

    PM’s plan to tackle soaring cost of air ticket prices in Thailand

    Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha has taken charge to address the soaring prices of air tickets with a comprehensive five-point plan. The plan comes after Deputy Transport Minister Atirat Ratanasate informed the ministry of the measures taken and those in the pipeline to address the substantial hikes due to the surge in demand after the Covid-19 pandemic and the recent decision…

  • Big Oil Majors production cuts, what this means to airfares

    Big Oil Majors production cuts, what this means to airfares

    The recent move by the Big Oil Majors to cut production by over one million barrels a day as a “precautionary” measure to stabilize the oil market will have a domino effect on airfares, according to industry experts. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) yesterday announced plans to lower oil production by 1.16 million barrels per day, starting…