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moving to Thailand from the Netherlands

Comprehensive Guide on Moving to Thailand from the Netherlands 

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on moving to Thailand from the Netherlands. Thailand, known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and delicious cuisine, has become a popular destination for expats and digital nomads. The Netherlands, being a developed country with a high standard of living, offers a comfortable starting point for those looking to relocate to a new country. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps, tips, and considerations to make your move to Thailand as smooth as possible.

Moving to Thailand from the Netherlands is an exciting journey, but it requires careful planning and preparation. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know when moving to Thailand from the Netherlands.

Thailand offers a unique blend of culture, adventure, and lifestyle opportunities that make it an attractive destination for expats. Some of the reasons why you might consider moving to Thailand from the Netherlandsinclude:

1. Research and Preparation

Understand Thai Culture and Lifestyle

Learn about Thai culture, traditions, and basic Thai phrases. Thai culture is rich and vibrant, offering a unique experience for those interested in exploring new traditions, foods, and ways of life. Familiarise yourself with the local lifestyle, food, and social norms.

Visit Before Moving

Spend some time in Thailand to explore cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya to decide where to live. Thailand is famous for its stunning beaches, islands, and outdoor activities, providing endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.

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2. Visa and Immigration

Types of Visas

Tourist Visa: For short-term stays.

Non-Immigrant Visa: For work, retirement, education, or long-term stays. Common categories:

Non-Immigrant O Visa: For retirees or dependents of Thai nationals.

Non-Immigrant B Visa: For employment or business.

Education Visa (Non-Immigrant ED): For studying Thai language or courses.

Elite Visa: A long-term visa for high-net-worth individuals, valid for 5 to 20 years.

Visa Application

Apply at the Thai Embassy or Consulate in the Netherlands. Requirements vary based on visa type but generally include:

A valid passport.

Visa application form.

Financial proof (bank statements).

Proof of purpose (e.g., job offer, enrollment letter).

Retirement in Thailand

If you’re over 50, you may apply for a Retirement Visa.

Requirements:

Minimum income of 65,000 THB/month or 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account.

Valid health insurance.

3. Work and Employment

Work Permit

When moving to Thailand from the Netherlands, you need a work permit to work in Thailand legally.

Common industries for expats: teaching, IT, hospitality, and international businesses.

Sponsored by your employer.

Job Search

Explore platforms like LinkedIn, JobsDB, and local agencies.

Consider teaching English if you have a TEFL/TESOL certificate.

Jobs in Thailand (1)

4. Housing and Accommodation

Where to Live when moving to Thailand from the Netherlands

Bangkok: Urban, vibrant, and great for work opportunities.

Chiang Mai: Affordable and laid-back, ideal for retirees or remote workers.

Phuket/Koh Samui: Coastal lifestyle with beautiful beaches.

Renting a Home

Research housing options online (DDproperty, FazWaz).

Rental costs:

Studio/1-bedroom in Bangkok: ~15,000–30,000 THB/month.

Outside Bangkok: ~8,000–15,000 THB/month.

Lease agreements typically require:

1–2 months’ deposit.

First month’s rent upfront.

5. Cost of Living

Compared to the Netherlands, Thailand has a relatively low cost of living, making it an ideal destination for retirees, digital nomads, or individuals looking to stretch their budget.

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Thailand offers a lower cost of living compared to the Netherlands:

Accommodation: 8,000–30,000 THB/month.

Food: Street food (~50–100 THB/meal) or dining out (~300–500 THB/meal).

Utilities: ~2,000–4,000 THB/month.

Transportation: BTS/MRT rides (~16–60 THB), taxis (~40 THB base fare), or motorbike rental (~2,000–3,000 THB/month).

Health Insurance: ~2,000–5,000 THB/month for basic expat coverage.

The above have to be looked into when moving to Thailand from the Netherlands.

6. Healthcare

 Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage that is valid in Thailand, as medical care can be expensive. Thailand has excellent healthcare with public and private hospitals.

Consider expat health insurance from providers like Cigna or Aetna.

Private hospitals like Bumrungrad and Bangkok Hospital are popular among expats.

health insurance in thailand

7. Banking and Finances

Open a Thai bank account (Kasikorn, SCB, Bangkok Bank) is essential when moving to Thailand from the Netherlands.

Requirements: Passport, visa, and proof of address.

Use Wise or Revolut for cost-effective international transfers.

8. Transportation

Public Transport: Efficient and affordable in major cities (BTS, MRT, buses).

Driving: Obtain a Thai driver’s license (required if you plan to drive).

Ride Apps: Grab, Bolt, or Gojek for taxis and motorbikes.

9. Education (If Moving with Children)

International Schools: Popular choices include Bangkok Patana School, NIST International School, and British International School Phuket.

Tuition Costs: ~200,000–600,000 THB/year.

10. Social Life and Networking

Join expat groups and communities on Facebook (e.g., Bangkok Expats, Chiang Mai Expats).

Attend meetups and local events to build a social network. While Thai is the official language, English is widely spoken, making it relatively easy for expats to communicate and navigate.

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Taxes: Check tax implications in both Thailand and the Netherlands.

Thailand taxes worldwide income if you stay over 180 days/year.

Dutch Obligations: Notify Dutch authorities about your move and handle tax formalities.

12. Pets

Importing pets requires:

A health certificate.

Rabies vaccination.

Microchip.

Check with the Department of Livestock Development in Thailand for details.

13. Final Steps

Cancel utilities and subscriptions in the Netherlands.

Ship personal belongings (via air or sea freight).

Arrange for international health insurance.

Moving Checklist

Here is a checklist to help with moving to Thailand from the Netherlands:

1. Apply for a visa.

2. Research housing options.

3. Arrange international health insurance.

4. Notify Dutch authorities of your move.

5. Book flights and temporary accommodation in Thailand.

Settling in Thailand: Tips and Advice

Once you arrive in Thailand, here are some tips and advice to help you settle in:

1. Learn Thai: Enroll in a language course or use online resources to learn basic Thai phrases and language skills.

2. Connect with expats: Join online communities or attend local meetups to connect with other expats and build a network.

3. Get familiar with local customs: Learn about Thai customs, traditions, and etiquette to avoid cultural misunderstandings.

4. Stay healthy: Take care of your physical and mental health by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and seeking medical attention when needed.

5. Stay informed: Stay up-to-date with local news, weather forecasts, and travel advisories to ensure your safety and well-being.

Moving to Thailand from the Netherlands requires careful planning and preparation. By following this comprehensive guide on moving to Thailand from the Netherlands, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the process and make a successful transition to your new life in Thailand.

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