If I move to Thailand it will be with a single suitcase - maybe one that qualifies as cabin luggage. I have long got over the desire to take my life's detritus everywhere with me. I'll need to buy/rent a well-furnished condo.
Open Thai bank account is relatively easy. All you need a mobile phone with Thai number ( you can get it at airport) , visa longer than 30 days and some letter from legal attorney ( I used Siam Legal). It took me around 3 hours from visit to legal office to prepare some paper and open account at Bangkok bank. Of course some creativity is always required in Thailand.
Did research on Bangkok Bank, which has a pass-through branch in New York City and is on the ACH transfer network between U.S. banks and other entities. In fact for Americans you can set up direct deposit between Bangkok Bank and the Social Security Administration. I can not speak to other banks. Bangkok Bank has all the paperwork on their website. The Thai government insures up to one million Thai BAHT per depositor in Thai bank accounts.
That’s really helpful information. I was researching HSBC and noticed they do business in Thailand as well, and have a banking center in Bangkok, and appear to have an affiliation with Bangkok Bank ATMS and branches as well. I’ve heard several stories about what a pain it is to give Thai banks your money, and seems like it should be easier. Would be awesome to just get this all set up from the states before getting to Thailand.
I JUST made a transfer through my Bank of America account to Bangkok Bank. Once you set it up it easy to just click on the accounts you want to pull and send to.
I'm excited for the big move (probably within '24). You have no idea how much this new channel is exactly what I need- or maybe you do lol! I'll be heeding your advice on everything you dish out, so don't hold back anything!! Thanks again, Chris.
Long Term Residence and Elite (Privilege) visas include multi entry. Also, why not just move to Thailand with suitcases only. There is no need for an expensive mover and have to pay customs taxes. My wife and lived in Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur for 5 months with just 3 suitcases and we didn't miss anything. I would go back to USA once a year to see children and grandchildren. I would have an opportunity to bring more things then.😮
I'm on vacation in the Caribbean right now. I've been watching your videos since I got back from Thailand a month ago. I think my whole family are going to pull the trigger this year. We're 40 and my parents 70.
All I can say, from one Canadian to another, is - THANK YOU ! Thank you for creating this channel, and thank you for staying who you are - a Thai - Canadian !
Hey Chris. Great content. Fellow Canadian here. Not living in Thailand now, but considering an ED visa when we retire in 2ish years. We've travelled to SEA a few times. On our 2nd trip, we booked an appointment with a Thai hospital to get all the immunizations we would need for travelling throughout the area. It was expensive but would have been about 20x more expensive here in Canada. The immunizations are the same but costs are based on GDP, so much more affordable in Thailand. The doctors we met were Internationally educated, spoke fantastic English and were extremely friendly, helpful and interested.
Hey Mr Parker , I decided to move to Thailand , most likely to Hua Hin after viewing your recent health check video. I visited Thailand for 3 weeks last month ,Bangkok ,Hua Hin and Pattaya. My desire to move to Thailand became a conviction . So i'm watching all your new videos for the great information you freely give your subscribers . Hope to see you ,your family and friends in Thailand . Have a good one hey !!. Mario from Trois-Rivieres ,Quebec
important ....YOU CAME HERE at a glance ..but every day you will live in Thailand ,in your real mind you will need to escape and GO BACK HOME ...loulou ..thai ...22/12/2004 ..no fake ...reality lol....
Chris I am 72 years old. Will be moving to BK within 5 months. I will be watching every video you put out, not once but repeatedly so I don’t miss anything. Thank you Chris. You are a huge help .
Excited for the moving to Thailand with a dog. That's my biggest obstacle at the moment. My dog is my child and he's my biggest concern about relocating. You are killing Chris! Keep it up brother, we appreciate you!
We are moving our dog in February. Best ones suggest stopover at animal facility in Amsterdam. Great animal rest break. New intl rules must have holes no bigger than inch. Current kennels need chicken wire over side air vents to fix this.
Thank you Chris! Just arrived in BKK last night for the first time and your videos gave me the confidence and info I needed! Especially your recent arrival video. Thinking about relocating here next year myself. I really appreciate your work!
per bangkok bank website no limit on funds transferred from abroad. however must specify purpose of funds for reporting to bank of thailand by bangkok bank.
I am so glad you made this video. I am an Australian looking to start a new life in Thailand. I have been living in a thai household for almost 2 years now. I have also been learning the language. But the thing that has stumped me is the Visa, so many options and Very confusing for an Australian looking to relocate 😅
Thank you Chris for this great video, this became so handy because i am now planning to move there in Thailand and all these things that you listed are super important and to have idea at least what to prepare now has really given me realistic picture how to proceed with this whole process of moving there, thanks again!
I am 43 now and want to get out of the rat race here in the US in about 10+ years and have been doing research since last year. Ive already had a great party life when I was younger so the nightscene isnt a priority. I just want to vibe out, connect with positive people and live out the rest of my life with as little stress as possible. I appreciate all the videos and I have 10 years to continue my research before deciding. Cheers!!!🎉💚💙
@@stand.6008 well its a 10+ year plan. But 58 is my target. Fortunately having a condo will help finance my goal and being in a corporate career 18 years (currently) with 401k matching really helps.
@@stand.6008 Its a 10+ year plan. Target date is 58 but its just a plan. Who knows what life will throw at me. Fortunately I have a condo in a neighborhood that sells well and corporate career 18 years going strong with matching 401k. Having no kids helps 😆
I sold everything and moved with what I could take on the airplane. Booked 1 month airbnb while looking for a one year lease. That made things so much easier so I would recommend to really think about if you cannot just sell all your things and buy new stuff in Thailand. If the answer is no, think again! Besides way easier logistics you save money and get a nice feeling of freedom when you don't have all that luggage you have been dragging around your whole life. You probably have boxes you never opened after your last move. When I arrived prio was a SIM card, bank account and visa as well as looking for that 1 year lease. Health insurance I bought before moving.
thank you Chris, I look forward to buying you a beer in Bangkok. I owe you one for letting me dream & now believe that I can make the move to Thailand. Still 5+ years away but I work towards it everyday. Truly appreciate your help, wisdom & advice
I really appreciate both of your channels and all of your information. I'm looking at 7 to 10 years before I will probably be retiring to Thailand but I am doing all my homework and research now. Your information for me is priceless!
Thankyou very much for this useful information. We are planning to move to Thailand in a few years. But my wife and I are both not Thai and we are in our 30’s. So it will be a challenge but thanks to your channel it’s going to be a lot easier. 🙏🏼
You sound like us, a dog and boxes of stuff . Glad to hear we don’t have to sell everything we built up over the years . This has stopped us moving forwards. Thanks for the great Tips . At nearly 70 and still working full time I hope this can be a viable off ramp . We been to Thailand several times and the culture lifestyle is much better than where we are without a prospect of retirement.
Hi Chris I am so thankful for both your channels. Because of your channel, I visited Thailand in March this year and decided I was moving to Thailand at the beginning of low season 2024. I have a couple of questions: 1) any tips on how I would find a trusted visa agent? What would be a ballpark of what they charge? 2) I noticed that you didn’t get health insurance through a Thai health insurance agency; is there a reason for that? Best regards Tonya
Very informative & practical vid ‼️ Myself not yet ready for emigration. Decided the coming years to first stay over 4-5 month during winter time here, (the Netherlands) see how it is compared to just staying in a nice hotel for 10 days ; after doing this for 3-5 years I ll be retired by than and gathered a lot of experience & language skills from which I hope to make a well evaluated decision to make the big switch 😉😅 I can’t wait till Nov this year , for my initial 4-5 months stay in Pattaya
You need a drivers licence from your own country/state/province and the International Driving Permit. You need to obtain a Thai driver's licence within 3 months of commencing to reside in Thailand. A International Driving Permit is only valid for up to 3 months of commencing residency in a country - it is a condition stated in the International Driving Permit. Also International Driving Permit is only valid for 12 months. Also under Thai law one needs get a Thai Driver's licence within 3 months. As also both one's Drivers Licence and International Driving Permit needs to be endorsed for the vehicle type one is driving eg, car and/or motorcycle etc.
Fantastic info! The only thing I’m struggling to find as I’m looking into moving me and my wife to Bangkok is information on how taxation works in Thailand for example what is the taxation for renting over there and general tax costs. Thanks!
Great video and we will definitely use the check list. We’re about 5 years from retirement - to get our full pensions. We will mostly likely split between abroad and CAN (6/6 months).
Just a comment on your banking info. About two weeks ago I transferred 1.1M thb from BMO in Canada to Krungsri Bank. It showed up in my thai bank account within 3-4 business days. I used 1M thb of it to buy the elite visa but lol I am not as you say "stinking rich" I just did the math and weighed the options and think it is best for me. I was scared of the retirement visa potentially changing so this way I know I am locked in for 20 years, I got in before Sept 15 changes to the Elite Visa.
wanted to say hi, your content and person are special. we appreciate you and your beautiful family... hope to connect when I come to Thailand.. thanks for being u
19:20 what about for people that own wasps, geckos, ants, crocodiles and/or big cats? native and non native sp. like vespa tropica, polistes carnifex, gekko gecko, rhacodactylus leachianus, harpegnathos venator, paraponera clavata, paleosuchus palpebrosus, crocodylus siamensis, panthera tigris, panthera pardus some species to research for that video i guess.
I'm in the Philippines now and will be in Thailand a few weeks from now. I intend to see Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and maybe Phuket. Hua Hin really interests me. Philippines is cool but I like the infrastructure of Thailand. Thanks Chris. You and Adam are great and your videos are invaluable.
Thanks Chris! Love your channel! I’m in Samui now and figuring things out to make the move permanent in May. Your advice is very helpful! Will definitely contact you for a beer with ice once I have a bit more stability here.
Excellent, thank you for all the information, I may be a year or two out, but learning from you will help me prepare! Thanks for putting this online. Kent
Some very useful stuff here Chris, I'm just waiting for my house sale to go through and then I'm moving over to live in Jomtien around Feb/March 2024, I'll be in Bangkok to begin with but would be great to pick you brains a bit more on arrival.
Good video. I will add from my experience as an American who moved here 2 years ago. Banks/Money. I kept my money in American and kept my credit card. I use ATMs to get cash when I need it. My ATM card with Schwab refunds debt transaction fees every month, so I don't lose money. I do have a Thai bank account where I keep about 75000 baht for cases that my debt card is lost/stolen/damaged. This will float me until I can fly back to America to get a new card; wont' send card to Thailand. Since I have a Thailand Privilege visa, I was able to just walk in and easily get the account with KBank. Another thing on Thai Banks, make sure you pick one that has a lot of locations, not all banks have locations in every city/town. Also, on ATMs, when traveling around the world in general, never let an ATM do the conversion. Always decline it as you will lose money.
I never comment on videos. You have a lot of good information. I’m considering visiting a few countries over there then making a plan to move. Thanks for all of the info!
Great video! Thanks! If you get round to it, would love to hear some of your ideas about moving there with young kids. Heard there are different types of schools with (very) different types of fees. And maybe other stuff to think about?
One thing to note for bank options is that K-Bank just recently bought majority of a crypto exchange, so if you're one of those people who is retiring with plans to dip into your btc investments, there's a good chance that K-Bank will be easy to send to. Instead of someone in the US going from a US exchange to their US bank, then wiring it to their Thai bank, you might be able to link K-Bank to your exchange and just send to K-Bank.
Thank you so much for your advice. Yes, there's a lot of us interested in a better life, and there's probably gonna be a lot more soon, as shit is getting increasingly ridiculous in our so called first world countries. It's not just about retirement anymore, I'm in my early 40s with a very well paying job but I just wanna get tf out as soon as I possibly can.
Did your wife look into a re-entry permit when you leave the country and plan to return. These are availiable at immigration or at the airport. You can get a single or multi entry permit.
I lived in Thailand from December 2017 until April 2022. Unfortunately, I had to move back to Australia because Thai insurance companies have an aversion to covering anyone with pre-existing health conditions. They may give you a policy, but they will exclude the most important items. I originally relied on the fact that I could always jump on a plane and go back to Australia for treatment if anything serious happened - Covid put a stop to that.
Which insurance company were you will, I have found the health insurance I used has been fine, I have arthritis and have been covered even through pre exisiting
@@getsmartpaul I have Osteoarthritis and had knee surgery previously, in Thailand tore knee ACL and they couldn't of been more helpful in getting me sorted, they paid for the car service to collect me, take me to my hospital, paid 100% of costs and return car service, and even covered 3 weeks of nursing visits every 2-3 days...way better service than I could have in my home country ..
Hey Chris! One thing I am struggling finding answers for is how to get Thai phone number. I know all providers have Tourist SIMs with good deals directly on the airport, but to my understanding those SIMs are not "permanent" so to speak. Whats the best way to get a regular Thai phone number, lets say from AIS?
Regarding moving boxes, some moving companies require double-walled boxes. Check before you buy any - they may require that the moving company does the packing & boxing.
Hi I hope my answer can help you. Actually, you just walk into the AIS shop in any department store and ask them to open a new number with registration for foreigner. Yes, you are the foreigner. You need to show them your passport with VISA. What kind of visa do you have? just use that visa to register your number. If you have a driving license, it is good for you. If you have a work visa, show them your work permit. 😊
And how about like a digital entrepreneur, is it smart to like also transport your "home" office like desk, monitors, chair to Thailand or are there good "co working" spaces around bangkok where they like include a good desk/chair and have the option for monitors or maybe better to buy new ones of there since shipping cost? Or maybe take a extra suitcase and place the monitors in there?
Hi Chris, I am glad I found your channels. I visited Bangkok and Phuket in September this year. I love it so much that I will be back very soon. I have been thinking about applying for the Thailand visa. Thanks so much!
Great video Chris. I would love a video about car buying/ownership in Thailand. I know there are a lot of videos on youtube already but would love one from you.
I bought a car from a Honda dealer here last year. It was pretty easy. I just needed a residency certificate, my passport with my long term visa, and then paid for the car in full with my banking app. The staff at the dealership took care of of the documentation and registration. I just bought a motorcycle from another expat and that was also pretty easy. He got the list of required documents from the local Department of Land Transportation.
Thank you for all of the replies in my last post and I wanted to clear things up for a better understanding. My and quote "options" are little to none I cannot retire because i'm under the age of 50 so therefore I do not qualify for a retirement Visa at this moment in time. I am not married to a Thai national so that's another one out of the book. I do not have enough to invest in the thai market so again get the picture lol. I do not work I am retired, under the age of 50 so I don't qualify for the work visa and permit. I do make a pension to help sustain my lifestyle so by acquiring the Elite Visa that IS my only option but it has a lot of perks attached and well worth it.
Hi Chris, I have been watching your videos for over one year- maybe more. Thank you so much for great advice. I expect to relocate in Feb / March 2024 from Ireland to Thailand and marry my Thai girlfriend, whom I have been with for 7 years. Fortunately we already have a home in Rangsit.
This is fantastic information. Thank you very much for all you do for people like me who has never been to Thailand but have decided to leave Australia to spend my days there. 2024 to be exact.
I had never been either though had a Thai partner for 4 years then 1 year ago I retired and have been here 3 months now and havent missed Western Australia at all
Im on the way. Moving in may to IDEO RAMA 9 Asoke from Miami,Florida. Lol and yes I tried to solidify my apartment this month and the agents were like just call in may the units will be available lol.
Hi Chris, thanks for the amazing, crammed with info on moving to Thailand, that you are producing! My wife and I, 60and 64, after visiting Thailand 4 times, have decided that we would like to get a visa, probably the OA retirement one, from the South African embassy, to stay there for a year or longer. Our problem is, that we do not want to be stuck in one place, with a long term lease, which seems to be one of the requirements to get a bank account! Have you any solution for us please? Regards. Jaco and Louise
I arrived 3 months ago from Australia and was recommended Hua Hin Visa Services , so a week after I arrived I paid Khun Orn a visit and she arranged for my 90 day visa then a 12 month retirement multi entry visa , she also took me to the bank and organized the bank account for me and from there she took me to immigration to submit my application. Two weeks later my visa arrived it does cost you the first time but after the 90 day one ends the 12 month one can easily be done online by yourself or you can pay an agent I think about 1,900BAHT
Thanks you so much for your videos!! I am still in the phase of dreaming, not yet making detailled plans to move to Thailand. But I have two concerns, where I am interested in hearing your and other‘s opinions: 1) Dont you miss your family, especially your children and grandchildren? How often do you see them? 2) what are you doing the whole day if you are not a successful RUclipsr? Maybe 2 or 3 months I can spend my time with traveling in Thailand and doing sightseeing. but after half a year or more I might need to have a „job“. I dont expect that someone would want to see my videos . 😅
Hi Chris, you’re the reason I’m retiring in Thailand at least that’s the plan so far… my question is how do I open a bank account if I don’t have a 12 month lease? I don’t see myself committing to anyone place initially.. Of course I wanted to see a few different areas before I got a six month lease, how do I get a bank account in that situation? thanks buddy, I appreciate your help.
If I move to Thailand it will be with a single suitcase - maybe one that qualifies as cabin luggage. I have long got over the desire to take my life's detritus everywhere with me. I'll need to buy/rent a well-furnished condo.
You can travel with a small carry on suit case and full back pack. The back pack is considered as your personal bag.
Open Thai bank account is relatively easy. All you need a mobile phone with Thai number ( you can get it at airport) , visa longer than 30 days and some letter from legal attorney ( I used Siam Legal). It took me around 3 hours from visit to legal office to prepare some paper and open account at Bangkok bank. Of course some creativity is always required in Thailand.
Where and how you get the letter from legal attorney?
@@dennythedavinchi3832you need to find the Law firm to do for you. Above comment said Siam legal, which is a Lawfirm inthailand.
Did research on Bangkok Bank, which has a pass-through branch in New York City and is on the ACH transfer network between U.S. banks and other entities.
In fact for Americans you can set up direct deposit between Bangkok Bank and the Social Security Administration.
I can not speak to other banks. Bangkok Bank has all the paperwork on their website.
The Thai government insures up to one million Thai BAHT per depositor in Thai bank accounts.
This is awesome info. Direct deposit from Soc. Sec. to Bangkok Bank? Wow! Thanks.
That’s really helpful information. I was researching HSBC and noticed they do business in Thailand as well, and have a banking center in Bangkok, and appear to have an affiliation with Bangkok Bank ATMS and branches as well. I’ve heard several stories about what a pain it is to give Thai banks your money, and seems like it should be easier. Would be awesome to just get this all set up from the states before getting to Thailand.
ขอให้
I JUST made a transfer through my Bank of America account to Bangkok Bank. Once you set it up it easy to just click on the accounts you want to pull and send to.
What is the cost to transfer money? Is there a percentage or a flat rate?
I'm excited for the big move (probably within '24). You have no idea how much this new channel is exactly what I need- or maybe you do lol! I'll be heeding your advice on everything you dish out, so don't hold back anything!! Thanks again, Chris.
Another great video thanks I'm 7 months away 😊❤🙏
Long Term Residence and Elite (Privilege) visas include multi entry.
Also, why not just move to Thailand with suitcases only. There is no need for an expensive mover and have to pay customs taxes.
My wife and lived in Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur for 5 months with just 3 suitcases and we didn't miss anything. I would go back to USA once a year to see children and grandchildren. I would have an opportunity to bring more things then.😮
I'm on vacation in the Caribbean right now. I've been watching your videos since I got back from Thailand a month ago. I think my whole family are going to pull the trigger this year. We're 40 and my parents 70.
All I can say, from one Canadian to another, is - THANK YOU ! Thank you for creating this channel, and thank you for staying who you are - a Thai - Canadian !
yes that would have been just terrible imagine if he didnt stay a Canadian and chose Thai-Mexican or Thai-Australian what then
@@bravefart1000 Well, I hope it wouldn’t have changed his character, but I also wouldn’t have gotten the answers I need in order to move to Thailand.
Obviously. But you also can’t expect to get all the answers you’re looking for out of 1 episode.
Hey Chris. Great content. Fellow Canadian here. Not living in Thailand now, but considering an ED visa when we retire in 2ish years. We've travelled to SEA a few times. On our 2nd trip, we booked an appointment with a Thai hospital to get all the immunizations we would need for travelling throughout the area. It was expensive but would have been about 20x more expensive here in Canada. The immunizations are the same but costs are based on GDP, so much more affordable in Thailand. The doctors we met were Internationally educated, spoke fantastic English and were extremely friendly, helpful and interested.
Hey Mr Parker , I decided to move to Thailand , most likely to Hua Hin after viewing your recent health check video.
I visited Thailand for 3 weeks last month ,Bangkok ,Hua Hin and Pattaya.
My desire to move to Thailand became a conviction .
So i'm watching all your new videos for the great information you freely give your subscribers .
Hope to see you ,your family and friends in Thailand .
Have a good one hey !!.
Mario from Trois-Rivieres ,Quebec
Coming from Ottawa for Jomtien Jan 16th for retirement. Thought about Hua Hin. I prefer sunsets to sun rises. I definitely will visit it.
@@mikebaker4190 i hope to see you in paradise 4190
important ....YOU CAME HERE at a glance ..but every day you will live in Thailand ,in your real mind you will need to escape and GO BACK HOME ...loulou ..thai ...22/12/2004 ..no fake ...reality lol....
@@louloufarangset i doubt it
Chris I am 72 years old. Will be moving to BK within 5 months. I will be watching every video you put out, not once but repeatedly so I don’t miss anything. Thank you Chris. You are a huge help .
Lived here 18 years surin provence, bangkok is dreadfull on pollution levels, good luck !
Please share how you will handle health insurance...especially if from the US.
Excited for the moving to Thailand with a dog. That's my biggest obstacle at the moment. My dog is my child and he's my biggest concern about relocating. You are killing Chris! Keep it up brother, we appreciate you!
We are moving our dog in February. Best ones suggest stopover at animal facility in Amsterdam. Great animal rest break. New intl rules must have holes no bigger than inch. Current kennels need chicken wire over side air vents to fix this.
Another Canadian here in BKK considering the jump. Great channel and appreciate the videos.
You are my most favorite RUclipsr to watch for Thailand goodies!:)
Thank you Chris! Just arrived in BKK last night for the first time and your videos gave me the confidence and info I needed! Especially your recent arrival video. Thinking about relocating here next year myself. I really appreciate your work!
Glad I could help!
per bangkok bank website no limit on funds transferred from abroad. however must specify purpose of funds for reporting to bank of thailand by bangkok bank.
I am so glad you made this video. I am an Australian looking to start a new life in Thailand. I have been living in a thai household for almost 2 years now. I have also been learning the language. But the thing that has stumped me is the Visa, so many options and Very confusing for an Australian looking to relocate 😅
Thank you Chris for this great video, this became so handy because i am now planning to move there in Thailand and all these things that you listed are super important and to have idea at least what to prepare now has really given me realistic picture how to proceed with this whole process of moving there, thanks again!
Thank you - always direct, fun to listen to, and informative information - love it!
I am 43 now and want to get out of the rat race here in the US in about 10+ years and have been doing research since last year. Ive already had a great party life when I was younger so the nightscene isnt a priority. I just want to vibe out, connect with positive people and live out the rest of my life with as little stress as possible. I appreciate all the videos and I have 10 years to continue my research before deciding. Cheers!!!🎉💚💙
You need to save as much money as you can for 10 years for that to happen. 53 is pretty young to retire.
@@stand.6008 well its a 10+ year plan. But 58 is my target. Fortunately having a condo will help finance my goal and being in a corporate career 18 years (currently) with 401k matching really helps.
@@stand.6008 Its a 10+ year plan. Target date is 58 but its just a plan. Who knows what life will throw at me. Fortunately I have a condo in a neighborhood that sells well and corporate career 18 years going strong with matching 401k. Having no kids helps 😆
I sold everything and moved with what I could take on the airplane. Booked 1 month airbnb while looking for a one year lease. That made things so much easier so I would recommend to really think about if you cannot just sell all your things and buy new stuff in Thailand. If the answer is no, think again!
Besides way easier logistics you save money and get a nice feeling of freedom when you don't have all that luggage you have been dragging around your whole life. You probably have boxes you never opened after your last move.
When I arrived prio was a SIM card, bank account and visa as well as looking for that 1 year lease. Health insurance I bought before moving.
Yeah. Bangkok bank seems to have no limit. I transferred 200k last week
I’m curious how you do that. I figure I’ll have about 750k in assets to transfer into an other country.
@@SimRacingVeteran through transferwise
thank you Chris, I look forward to buying you a beer in Bangkok. I owe you one for letting me dream & now believe that I can make the move to Thailand. Still 5+ years away but I work towards it everyday. Truly appreciate your help, wisdom & advice
January 16th land in Jomtien. Visa agent 17th, for non O multi entry retirement visa. Cash will always be king.
cool. visa agent located in Jomtiem?
I really appreciate both of your channels and all of your information. I'm looking at 7 to 10 years before I will probably be retiring to Thailand but I am doing all my homework and research now. Your information for me is priceless!
Where can I get a Cobra vaccinated? Asking for a friend. THNX
Thanks so much Chris for all your help. Thanks to you it works for all of us. God bless.
Bring shaving cream/lotion. Super expensive in Thailand.
Or just don’t shave 🤙🤙 just get a beard trimmer.
Thanks Chris for this super relevant video.
Liked and saved for future reference. ❤🙏🇹🇭
Thankyou very much for this useful information. We are planning to move to Thailand in a few years. But my wife and I are both not Thai and we are in our 30’s. So it will be a challenge but thanks to your channel it’s going to be a lot easier. 🙏🏼
You sound like us, a dog and boxes of stuff . Glad to hear we don’t have to sell everything we built up over the years . This has stopped us moving forwards. Thanks for the great Tips . At nearly 70 and still working full time I hope this can be a viable off ramp . We been to Thailand several times and the culture lifestyle is much better than where we are without a prospect of retirement.
I appreciate you! And I can NOT wait to visit & make my plans to move there!! It feels like home to me there & I have never been there before!:)
Thank you always 😊
Hi Chris
I am so thankful for both your channels. Because of your channel, I visited Thailand in March this year and decided I was moving to Thailand at the beginning of low season 2024. I have a couple of questions:
1) any tips on how I would find a trusted visa agent? What would be a ballpark of what they charge?
2) I noticed that you didn’t get health insurance through a Thai health insurance agency; is there a reason for that?
Best regards
Tonya
Very informative & practical vid ‼️
Myself not yet ready for emigration. Decided the coming years to first stay over 4-5 month during winter time here, (the Netherlands) see how it is compared to just staying in a nice hotel for 10 days ; after doing this for 3-5 years I ll be retired by than and gathered a lot of experience & language skills from which I hope to make a well evaluated decision to make the big switch 😉😅
I can’t wait till Nov this year , for my initial 4-5 months stay in Pattaya
Great tips! Thanks Chris!
*** Don’t forget to get your International driver license ready! They last only ONE year though!
You need a drivers licence from your own country/state/province and the International Driving Permit.
You need to obtain a Thai driver's licence within 3 months of commencing to reside in Thailand.
A International Driving Permit is only valid for up to 3 months of commencing residency in a country - it is a condition stated in the International Driving Permit. Also International Driving Permit is only valid for 12 months.
Also under Thai law one needs get a Thai Driver's licence within 3 months.
As also both one's Drivers Licence and International Driving Permit needs to be endorsed for the vehicle type one is driving eg, car and/or motorcycle etc.
Fantastic info! The only thing I’m struggling to find as I’m looking into moving me and my wife to Bangkok is information on how taxation works in Thailand for example what is the taxation for renting over there and general tax costs. Thanks!
It's all changed as of 1st January 2024. Keep researching as things will probably change as they work out the bugs. Good luck 🙂
Great video and we will definitely use the check list. We’re about 5 years from retirement - to get our full pensions. We will mostly likely split between abroad and CAN (6/6 months).
Just a comment on your banking info. About two weeks ago I transferred 1.1M thb from BMO in Canada to Krungsri Bank. It showed up in my thai bank account within 3-4 business days.
I used 1M thb of it to buy the elite visa but lol I am not as you say "stinking rich" I just did the math and weighed the options and think it is best for me. I was scared of the retirement visa potentially changing so this way I know I am locked in for 20 years, I got in before Sept 15 changes to the Elite Visa.
Love this new channel. The information provided moves my finger closer to the trigger. Thank You Chris!
Thanks for the video and inputs, if I have to move to Thailand, I'll sell everything only to bring 2 luggages, 1 bag pack & 1 personal item
awesome content once again,....super useful and indeed things that most (including me!) overlook way to quickly,....
Can confirm there is no 50,000 THB limit on Kasikorn or SCB. Haven't tried Bangkok bank yet
wanted to say hi, your content and person are special. we appreciate you and your beautiful family... hope to connect when I come to Thailand.. thanks for being u
19:20
what about for people that own wasps, geckos, ants, crocodiles and/or big cats? native and non native sp. like vespa tropica, polistes carnifex, gekko gecko, rhacodactylus leachianus, harpegnathos venator, paraponera clavata, paleosuchus palpebrosus, crocodylus siamensis, panthera tigris, panthera pardus some species to research for that video i guess.
call your mom sometime
I'm in the Philippines now and will be in Thailand a few weeks from now. I intend to see Bangkok, Hua Hin, Pattaya, and maybe Phuket. Hua Hin really interests me. Philippines is cool but I like the infrastructure of Thailand. Thanks Chris. You and Adam are great and your videos are invaluable.
Phillipines is third world compared to Thailand
Great Blog Chris, very informative
Thanks Chris! Love your channel! I’m in Samui now and figuring things out to make the move permanent in May. Your advice is very helpful! Will definitely contact you for a beer with ice once I have a bit more stability here.
Another great data dump from the mind of Chris Parker at RW4U. I enjoy your other channel, but I appreciate the straight talk.
Excellent, thank you for all the information, I may be a year or two out, but learning from you will help me prepare! Thanks for putting this online. Kent
january 2024 is when i move there ,thank you for the information ,another usefull video,Thanks and Hello from from Sydney 👍🙏
Some very useful stuff here Chris, I'm just waiting for my house sale to go through and then I'm moving over to live in Jomtien around Feb/March 2024, I'll be in Bangkok to begin with but would be great to pick you brains a bit more on arrival.
Thanks Chris! ขอให้ปราศจากศัตรู ภยันตราย ทุกข์ทางใจ ทางกาย และทางใจ ขอให้สรรพสัตว์ทั้งที่มองเห็นและมองไม่เห็นในทุกมิติและทุกภพทุกชาติอำนวยพรแก่ท่าน ขอให้สรรพสัตว์ทั้งหลายสัมผัสได้ถึงความสงบและความสุขภายใน สาธุ สาธุ สาธุ
Awesome checklist Chris! Retired Military guy living in Phuket 🐸🔱
Great info!
Good video. I will add from my experience as an American who moved here 2 years ago. Banks/Money. I kept my money in American and kept my credit card. I use ATMs to get cash when I need it. My ATM card with Schwab refunds debt transaction fees every month, so I don't lose money. I do have a Thai bank account where I keep about 75000 baht for cases that my debt card is lost/stolen/damaged. This will float me until I can fly back to America to get a new card; wont' send card to Thailand. Since I have a Thailand Privilege visa, I was able to just walk in and easily get the account with KBank. Another thing on Thai Banks, make sure you pick one that has a lot of locations, not all banks have locations in every city/town. Also, on ATMs, when traveling around the world in general, never let an ATM do the conversion. Always decline it as you will lose money.
Very useful info. Thank you.
This channel is one of the best resources for living in Thailand…really appreciate the down-to-earth advice based on first hand experiences 👍.
I never comment on videos. You have a lot of good information. I’m considering visiting a few countries over there then making a plan to move. Thanks for all of the info!
Great video! Thanks! If you get round to it, would love to hear some of your ideas about moving there with young kids. Heard there are different types of schools with (very) different types of fees. And maybe other stuff to think about?
Moving to the Land of Smiles in November 2024. Chris, you are one cool dude and always do great work on both your channels.
One thing to note for bank options is that K-Bank just recently bought majority of a crypto exchange, so if you're one of those people who is retiring with plans to dip into your btc investments, there's a good chance that K-Bank will be easy to send to. Instead of someone in the US going from a US exchange to their US bank, then wiring it to their Thai bank, you might be able to link K-Bank to your exchange and just send to K-Bank.
Hi Chris, Love ur vids. Have u done any videos with suggestions for anyone travelling/moving to Thailand with pets (dogs in particular)? Thanks
Hi Chris. Loving all your vid`s they are so helpful and informative, keep them coming were learning so much for our future plans.
Thank you so much for your advice. Yes, there's a lot of us interested in a better life, and there's probably gonna be a lot more soon, as shit is getting increasingly ridiculous in our so called first world countries. It's not just about retirement anymore, I'm in my early 40s with a very well paying job but I just wanna get tf out as soon as I possibly can.
Did your wife look into a re-entry permit when you leave the country and plan to return. These are availiable at immigration or at the airport. You can get a single or multi entry permit.
I see they are already referring to "the old Elite Visa" being replaced with "Thai Privilege Visa"
The new privilege visa is utter crud
Truly wish I worked remote so I could come to Thailand. It's been a dream. Feels though it may never happen.
Keep at it. Sometimes things happen and an opportunity comes along - even the blind squirrel get an acorn, 😂
Yeah i've been looking for an opportunity for almost 3 years now. Some day @@paulh7798
Chris you are amazing. Thank you for your kindness and hard work. Bless you ❤
Great show Chris! Stay cool kind and generous! Go Wings! 😊
For what i read even if you went back to the 416 for health care worst case scenario you just have to wait 3 months before you have access again
I lived in Thailand from December 2017 until April 2022. Unfortunately, I had to move back to Australia because Thai insurance companies have an aversion to covering anyone with pre-existing health conditions. They may give you a policy, but they will exclude the most important items. I originally relied on the fact that I could always jump on a plane and go back to Australia for treatment if anything serious happened - Covid put a stop to that.
Which insurance company were you will, I have found the health insurance I used has been fine, I have arthritis and have been covered even through pre exisiting
Everyone has pre-existing health conditions, so do you have cancer, heart attack stents, alcoholism? Thanks
@@getsmartpaul I have Osteoarthritis and had knee surgery previously, in Thailand tore knee ACL and they couldn't of been more helpful in getting me sorted, they paid for the car service to collect me, take me to my hospital, paid 100% of costs and return car service, and even covered 3 weeks of nursing visits every 2-3 days...way better service than I could have in my home country ..
Was there a period of time before preexisting conditions would become covered or is it just simply “this happened before we covered you. No way”
Hey Chris! One thing I am struggling finding answers for is how to get Thai phone number. I know all providers have Tourist SIMs with good deals directly on the airport, but to my understanding those SIMs are not "permanent" so to speak. Whats the best way to get a regular Thai phone number, lets say from AIS?
Really like this new channel always useful information. Thanks Chris
Glad to hear it!
Hi Chris. Thank you for your help and guidance.your videos are really so
informative and clear.Thanks again.bless you.cheers.
A-mazing, concentrated information, thanks ! If trhere is an upcoming video, it would be also nice to learn how pet friendly the condos are.
Regarding moving boxes, some moving companies require double-walled boxes. Check before you buy any - they may require that the moving company does the packing & boxing.
Hi I hope my answer can help you. Actually, you just walk into the AIS shop in any department store and ask them to open a new number with registration for foreigner. Yes, you are the foreigner. You need to show them your passport with VISA. What kind of visa do you have? just use that visa to register your number. If you have a driving license, it is good for you. If you have a work visa, show them your work permit. 😊
And how about like a digital entrepreneur, is it smart to like also transport your "home" office like desk, monitors, chair to Thailand or are there good "co working" spaces around bangkok where they like include a good desk/chair and have the option for monitors or maybe better to buy new ones of there since shipping cost? Or maybe take a extra suitcase and place the monitors in there?
Hi Chris, I am glad I found your channels. I visited Bangkok and Phuket in September this year. I love it so much that I will be back very soon. I have been thinking about applying for the Thailand visa. Thanks so much!
Great video Chris. I would love a video about car buying/ownership in Thailand. I know there are a lot of videos on youtube already but would love one from you.
I bought a car from a Honda dealer here last year. It was pretty easy. I just needed a residency certificate, my passport with my long term visa, and then paid for the car in full with my banking app. The staff at the dealership took care of of the documentation and registration. I just bought a motorcycle from another expat and that was also pretty easy. He got the list of required documents from the local Department of Land Transportation.
Thanks Chris, super helpful Vids, you're a star.
very helpful, thanks!
Very useful information. Thanks Chris.
Hi Chris
Thanks for all the good information.
My pleasure!
Thank you for all of the replies in my last post and I wanted to clear things up for a better understanding. My and quote "options" are little to none I cannot retire because i'm under the age of 50 so therefore I do not qualify for a retirement Visa at this moment in time. I am not married to a Thai national so that's another one out of the book. I do not have enough to invest in the thai market so again get the picture lol. I do not work I am retired, under the age of 50 so I don't qualify for the work visa and permit. I do make a pension to help sustain my lifestyle so by acquiring the Elite Visa that IS my only option but it has a lot of perks attached and well worth it.
what perks?
Chris, Well Done ! Thanks for another great video...
I suggest a video on the Thai legal system, if not yet done. i.e. along the lines of how to stay out of hot water.
Hi Chris, I have been watching your videos for over one year- maybe more. Thank you so much for great advice. I expect to relocate in Feb / March 2024 from Ireland to Thailand and marry my Thai girlfriend, whom I have been with for 7 years. Fortunately we already have a home in Rangsit.
This is fantastic information. Thank you very much for all you do for people like me who has never been to Thailand but have decided to leave Australia to spend my days there. 2024 to be exact.
I had never been either though had a Thai partner for 4 years then 1 year ago I retired and have been here 3 months now and havent missed Western Australia at all
Thanks for the information. Enjoy the day.
Very helpful information! Thank you for creating this channel.
Im on the way. Moving in may to IDEO RAMA 9 Asoke from Miami,Florida. Lol and yes I tried to solidify my apartment this month and the agents were like just call in may the units will be available lol.
Hi Chris, thanks for the amazing, crammed with info on moving to Thailand, that you are producing! My wife and I, 60and 64, after visiting Thailand 4 times, have decided that we would like to get a visa, probably the OA retirement one, from the South African embassy, to stay there for a year or longer. Our problem is, that we do not want to be stuck in one place, with a long term lease, which seems to be one of the requirements to get a bank account! Have you any solution for us please? Regards. Jaco and Louise
I arrived 3 months ago from Australia and was recommended Hua Hin Visa Services , so a week after I arrived I paid Khun Orn a visit and she arranged for my 90 day visa then a 12 month retirement multi entry visa , she also took me to the bank and organized the bank account for me and from there she took me to immigration to submit my application. Two weeks later my visa arrived it does cost you the first time but after the 90 day one ends the 12 month one can easily be done online by yourself or you can pay an agent I think about 1,900BAHT
@@bravefart1000 Thanks
Very nice actually usable info.
Thanks you so much for your videos!!
I am still in the phase of dreaming, not yet making detailled plans to move to Thailand. But I have two concerns, where I am interested in hearing your and other‘s opinions:
1) Dont you miss your family, especially your children and grandchildren? How often do you see them?
2) what are you doing the whole day if you are not a successful RUclipsr? Maybe 2 or 3 months I can spend my time with traveling in Thailand and doing sightseeing. but after half a year or more I might need to have a „job“. I dont expect that someone would want to see my videos . 😅
Thanks !!! This list is a great starting point.
Can you make a specific video on how to pay for a rental there? (Before we have a bank account) cash, money order, cash from the usa, and so on? Ty!
Hello Chris - your channel is full of insight and solid advice, thanks for what you do!
Appreciate the masterclass Chris! Very helpful!
Hi Chris, you’re the reason I’m retiring in Thailand at least that’s the plan so far… my question is how do I open a bank account if I don’t have a 12 month lease? I don’t see myself committing to anyone place initially.. Of course I wanted to see a few different areas before I got a six month lease, how do I get a bank account in that situation? thanks buddy, I appreciate your help.