Being an expat worker in Thailand is a dream, but it has pros and cons that every retiree needs to know. Thai’s Foreign Business Act prohibits foreigners from getting jobs without a working visa. Otherwise, ex-pat workers will go to jail or experience deportation.
Some of the popular jobs for expats in Thailand are human resources, accounting, and other executive jobs. Expats can also apply as tour guides, educators, and consultants.
Employees will receive an after-tax salary monthly, enough to sustain everyday needs. Thailand has a growing economy making it the best choice to secure a job. It is also open to foreign investors, which will benefit locals and expats in the long run.
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Living Versus Working In Thailand
There is a vast difference between living and applying for a job in Thailand regarding visa application. It relies on the purpose of going abroad – to become a permanent resident or for work.
It is more complicated to get a retirement visa as it passes via immigration. Because some Thai organizations may even help expat workers obtain permits, many opt to work in Thailand.
Benefits For Expat Workers In Thailand
Living in Thailand as an expat worker is way better than working back home. But first, apply for a work visa. Here is a list of perks after visa approval.
Reduced Daily Expenses
Thailand is known for its cheap cost of living. According to data, expat workers in Thailand spend 50% less than those in the UK. Eating a three-course meal and rent and utilities are not that expensive. Every price is lower in Thailand compared to other countries.
The overall cost you will need depends on your lifestyle. Find a job in the cities, and you will encounter a more expensive lifestyle while living away from the city would limit your spending.
Access To Healthcare
An ex-pat worker with a retirement visa is covered with health insurance for a 12-month stay. It reduces hospital bills by up to 400,000 baht for inpatient treatment costs. This is an excellent help for ex-pats with severe health conditions trying to save money.
Enjoy Higher Salaries
To be financially independent is the primary goal of working overseas. However, ex-pat workers spend more hours earning a higher salary. Your working skills can pay you more than in countries like the US. The high-paying job in Thailand is in the teaching industry.
Understanding Thai law is necessary for proper accounting of the employee’s salaries. Most expat workers are subject to income taxes to get an average monthly pay.
Low Crime
Working in a low-crime environment increases safety among expats. Whether foreign or local employees, safety must be the top priority.
Thailand is among the countries with less risk of crime. Many expat workers can agree with this fact; know some precautions to keep yourself safe in a foreign land.
Opens Global Opportunities
Thailand is part of ASEAN communities to offer more jobs for expat entrepreneurs. It builds a broader network, making you more successful in the business. The startup costs are also low, including properties.
Possible Challenges For Expat Workers
Working abroad is more challenging than it seems. Thailand has different laws and policies an ex-pat worker must follow, or else it will result in trouble. Therefore, we searched for the most common challenges other ex-pats have experienced to keep your stay productive.
Thai Businesses Do Not Tolerate Lateness
There will be no valid excuses. Thai businesses are profound in terms of working hours. That is why they set meetings in advance so that employees won’t overlook even a minute.
Locals Are Not Fluent In English
To be an expat worker in Thailand, you must learn the language. It can be easier to communicate with the locals if you know how to speak like them. On the other hand, the language barrier is fine when working with an international company.
Culture Differences
Thailand is a place of unique cultures that might affect your working ethics. It is a Buddhist country; the good news is they cater to all faiths. Some unfamiliar cultures may confuse the ex-pat, but this is normal, and no worries, the locals are friendly.
Moreover, hierarchy is crucial in Thai companies. Observe that most junior staff do not share ideas with their seniors.
Facing Penalties
Getting the correct visas will help foreigners to work legally in Thailand. An expat should apply for a non-immigrant visa and work permit to start a job. First-time offenders of Thai labor laws will pay up to 50,000 baht, or worse, be jailed or deported. This is why getting familiar with the rules is essential, whether you are an expat or local.
Paying Taxes
Expat workers are required to pay income taxes in Thailand. It ranges from 5% to 35% of annual income. Foreigners will have to pay higher taxes when running a business. Hiring an accountant will help you pay taxes with the right amount and avoid possible fines.
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Final Thoughts
Whether living or working as an ex-pat in Thailand, there are factors to consider. These include getting visas, paying taxes, and learning cultures and languages. Understanding labor laws is crucial to avoid fines and penalties for committing mistakes in the workplace.
The present news is that the Thai government has opened the doors for expat workers to earn higher salaries than on the way back home. Therefore, start looking for a job that will benefit your stay in Thailand.