Thailand
Discover the unique culture, demographics, and society of Thailand.
The Story
Overview
A unified Thai kingdom was established in the mid-13th century. Following a bloodless revolution in 1932, it became a constitutional monarchy. Since 2005, Thailand has experienced several rounds of political turmoil, including military coups and major street protests. The country maintains an upper middle-income economy with substantial infrastructure and is a major electronics and automobile parts exporter.
Immigration Guide
Living in Thailand
Explore the various visa and residency options available for living in Thailand. From retirement visas to digital nomad programs, discover the pathways to making Thailand your new home.
Lifestyle & Retirement
Options for those seeking a change in lifestyle, whether retiring or working remotely.
Retirement
Perfect for retirees looking to spend their golden years abroad. This visa is designed for those who can demonstrate retirement income or pension.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Digital Nomad
Ideal for remote workers and digital professionals who want to live in the country while working for overseas companies.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Investment & Business
Pathways for those looking to invest or work in the country.
Investment
For those interested in making a significant financial investment in the country, such as purchasing property or starting a business.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Working
Permits you to work locally in the country, either for a specific employer or in general.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Long-term Residency
Options for those seeking to establish permanent roots.
Easy Residency
A straightforward path to residency with simplified requirements and processes.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Permanent
Long-term residency rights that allow you to live in the country indefinitely.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Citizenship
Limited AvailabilityThe opportunity to become a full citizen of the country, often after meeting specific residency requirements.
Status in Thailand: Available with some restrictions. We recommend consulting with an immigration lawyer for the latest details.
Additional Options
Other pathways including education and family reunion.
Student
Designed for those pursuing education at local institutions.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Family
Options for bringing family members or joining relatives already in the country.
Status in Thailand: Fully available. This is an established visa pathway in Thailand.
Note: Immigration policies can change. Always consult with the Thailand embassy or a qualified immigration lawyer for the most current information and personalized advice.
The Land
Geography
Area
Climate
Tropical with rainy, warm, cloudy southwest monsoon (mid-May to September); dry, cool northeast monsoon (November to mid-March); southern isthmus always hot and humid
Natural Resources
Leadership
Government
Government Type
constitutional monarchy
Capital
Bangkok
Executive Branch
Chief of State
King WACHIRALONGKON(since 2016-12-01)
Head of Government
Prime Minister PHAETHONGTHAN Chinnawat(since 2024-08-18)
Demographics
People and Society
Population
69,920,998 total residents
Ethnic Groups
Languages
Thai, Burmese, Other
Religions
Population Growth
0.17% annual growth rate (2024 est.)
Your American Community in Thailand
Explore
Cities in Thailand
Safety First
Travel Safety & Requirements
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise normal precautions in Thailand. Some areas have increased risk.
View Current Travel Advisories →Passport/Visa Requirements
Please consult the U.S. State Department for current visa requirements
Check Requirements →US Embassy/Consulate
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
View Travel Considerations →Recommended Vaccinations
Routine vaccinations recommended. Consider hepatitis A, B, typhoid, and Japanese encephalitis depending on activities.
Learn More at WHO →Getting Started
Helpful Things to Know
In Case You Need Help
Emergency Number to Call
191
Country Phone Code
+66
Local Money
Baht (THB)
What Time Is It?
UTC+7
Plugging In Your Devices
Power Voltage: 230
Power Frequency: 50
Power Plug Types You'll Need: A, B, C, O
About the Water
Bottled water recommended
Local Knowledge
Travel Tips & Culture
Driving
Suggested
Drive on the Left side of the road
Cultural Practices
The head is considered the sacred part of the body and not to be touched without permission.
Tipping Guidelines
Restaurants
10% if no service charge, otherwise loose change
Bars
20-40 baht per drink
Tour Guides
200-300 baht per day
Taxis
Round up to nearest bill
Hotels
20-50 baht per service
Experience
Tourist Information
Popular Destinations
Traditional Cuisine
Pad Thai
Stir-fried rice noodles with eggs, fish sauce, dried shrimp, tamarind pulp, bean sprouts, peanuts, and tofu