Your journey to Bangkok

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Moving abroad is easier in stages. Follow the journey below — tick off each step as you go (your progress is saved in this browser).

Before you leave

Plan your move

Decide why you are coming and what you need to arrange before you travel.

Choose the visa that matches your purpose — work, study, retirement or long-term stay (Immigration Bureau).
Check that your passport is valid for the whole stay and keep copies of key documents.
Arrange health insurance that covers hospital care in Thailand.
Compare neighbourhoods and living costs for your budget and commute.
Moving with family? Look at international schools. Bringing a pet? Check the import rules early.

Day 1 – week 1

Your first days: get from the airport to your temporary home and get connected.

Travel from Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang airport to the city — the Airport Rail Link connects Suvarnabhumi to central Bangkok.
Book temporary accommodation for the first weeks while you look for a home. Hotels and landlords report your stay to Immigration (the TM.30 notification).
Get a local mobile number — you usually need your passport.
Learn the rail network and ride-hailing options for getting around.
Save the emergency numbers (191 police, 1669 ambulance, 199 fire) and your embassy's contact.

First month

Find a home, set up money and healthcare, and arrange your right to work.

Find and sign a lease. Ask the landlord to report your address to Immigration (TM.30).
If you will work, apply for a work permit through the Department of Employment (your employer usually helps). Foreign residents with income in Thailand should also ask the Revenue Department about a tax ID.
Open a bank account. Requirements vary by bank — expect to show your passport, visa and proof of address or work.
Register with a hospital or clinic and find a nearby pharmacy.
Set up utilities, internet and transport cards.

Ongoing

Keep your paperwork up to date so life stays simple.

Foreign residents staying more than 90 consecutive days must report their address to Immigration every 90 days.
Note your visa and work-permit expiry dates and extend in good time.
Planning to drive? Apply for a Thai driving licence at the Department of Land Transport.
Keep copies of your passport, visa and lease accessible.

Every day

The best part — enjoy the city and become part of the community.