21 Practical Ways to Get Paid To Move To Thailand!

Looking to get paid to move to Thailand? As someone who’s traveled to Thailand multiple times, either on vacation or as a digital nomad, I definitely recommend Thailand as a place to live it. 

There are many things that make you want to be in Thailand. Thailand has something for everyone: mouth-watering food, vibrant cities, huge night markets, or deep spiritual roots. 

And living in Thailand, you can experience bustling Bangkok, relax on the gorgeous beaches of Phuket, or escape to the cool mountains of Chiang Mai.

This is all in one country! And that’s just 3 places out of the hundreds of amazing places in Thailand! 

Now let’s see how you can make any of these amazing places in Thailand your home and get on with the 21 ways to make that dream come true! Lets get move to Thailand and get paid!

21 Ways To Get Paid To Move To Thailand

1. English Teacher

2. Non-Profit Worker

3. Hospitality Manager (Restaurant, Bar, Hotel)

4. YouTuber

5. Real Estate Agent

6. Entrepreneur

7. Movie Extra Or Model

8. Digital Service Provider

9. Landlord

10. Fiverr/UpWork Service Provider

11. Remote Worker 

12. Diving Instructor

13. Multinational Company Employee

14. Musician

15. Blogger

16. Freelance Writer

17. International Development Worker

18. Embassy or UN Staff

19. Running A Dining Establishment 

20. Computer Contractor

21. Photographer 

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21 Ways To Get Paid To Move To Thailand

1. English Teacher

The first way to get paid to move to Thailand is teaching! Teaching – the well-trodden path down the foreigner working in Thailand lane. But that’s for a very good reason; it works!

Teaching English is a great career choice that will give you a decent living in Thailand.

If a classroom setting is not your cup of tea, no worries. 

There’s a lot of demand in Thailand language schools. You get a more open atmosphere here. 

So you can choose to do either one or supplement one income with the other!

You don’t need a Master’s Degree to teach in Thailand, but a TEFL certification will help you go a long way! 

You can also check out companies where you can teach English adults online and more online platforms where you can teach English! 

2. Non-Profit Worker

If you’ve ever thought about making a real impact, joining a non-profit in Thailand allows you to earn a living while helping others.

It’s also a great way to immerse yourself in Thai culture and work closely with the Thai community.

Most non-profits also provide dorms and meals to cover your basic living expenses. 

Here are some organizations you could volunteer at which has multiple volunteer programs:

• The Friends for Asia Foundation
• IRFE Volunteers
• Go Overseas
• Volunteer World
• World Packers

3. Hospitality Manager (Restaurant, Bar, Hotel)

Imagine managing a lively on the busy street of Patong or overseeing day-to-day operations in a lovely villa in Krabi. Sounds like fun to you?

Don’t be surprised if you see other foreigners running the show in hotels. 

Big hotel chains like Hilton and Marriot even offer higher management roles with expat packages.

So if you’ve got the right experience, you can live in Thailand and work a fun hospitality job. 

The key here is being proactive, so polish your CV and put your best foot forward!

4. YouTuber

Okay, before you dismiss this idea, hear me out!

Being a Youtuber isn’t just a Millenial/ Gen-Z thing. In fact, some YouTubers are cashing in paychecks that might just put your regular 9-to-5 salary to shame.

You can make your channel about anything you want.

Whether it’s sharing snippets of your everyday Thai adventures, spotlighting hidden historical gems, or featuring insightful chats with intriguing expats or anything else!

Here’s the best part: You can vlog from just about anywhere! Your cozy home office? Sure. A hidden beach in Thailand? Absolutely!

5. Real Estate Agent

Overseas investments are making a comeback after the pandemic, and there are many job openings in the real estate market.

To accommodate the target audience (foreigners), some companies hire a number of foreign workers to sell properties and timeshares. This is one of the ways to get paid to move to Thailand.

Companies like CBRE and PropertyScot are known to do this.

There’s a whole bunch of roles up for you can explore, from property sales to business development and even behind-the-scenes operational management.

6. Entrepreneur

How about building an empire of your own in Thailand? *Cue the opening soundtrack from the show Empire*

You can export goods, launch a start-up, or simply turn your passion into a business.

Many foreigner-owned businesses fall under the tourism sector: hotels, bars, restaurants, tour agencies, and entertainment spots. 

But there are also foreigners in Thailand running businesses like consulting. 

Just note that when you set up a Thai company, Thai nationals must own 51% or more of the shares.

If you’re worried about staying in Thailand for the long term, you can look into the SMART Visa. 

This visa is for highly-skilled workers, investors, executives, or startup entrepreneurs.

As long as you’re dealing in either of the below industries, you can be eligible for it:

• Affluent, Medical, and Wellness Tourism
• Agriculture and Biotechnology
• Alternative Dispute Resolution
• Automation and Robotics
• Aviation and Logistics
• Biofuels and Biochemicals
• Digital
• Environmental Management and Renewable Energy
• Food for the Future
• Human Resource Development in Science and Technology
• Medical Hub
• Next-Generation Automotive
• Smart Electronics

Finally, ensure your business is legal so you don’t get booted out faster than you can say, “Can I have a phad thai?”! 

Consider working with a law firm to ensure you align with the Thai Foreign Business Act.

7. Movie Extra or Model

If you got a flair for acting or are blessed with model-worthy looks, hear this. 

Thailand’s movie and modeling industry might be your golden ticket to earning while enjoying life in this tropical paradise.

Like any industry, building a solid reputation and expanding your network takes time. And not everyone skyrockets to fame or manages to make it a full-time job. 

However, there’s still potential to earn a substantial income.

Check out these international casting and modeling agencies in Thailand:

• Morgan & Preston Models Bangkok
• A1 Models
• CM Models
• MasterClass Studio 
• J.I.M Model

8. Digital Service Provider

Whether you’re a full-stack developer, an SEO writer, a PPC expert, or any other digital-related role, Thailand’s digital landscape is brimming with opportunities.

Companies often deal with international clients and appreciate having foreign employees on board.

This is especially for projects with unique skill sets that are not as easily found locally.

Global companies like Agoda, Booking.com, and Grab all employ foreign nationals. 

Not only are the positions well-paying, but you’ll also gain invaluable experience navigating the digital landscape of a different culture. 

9. Landlord

If you already have some money to invest while you’re looking to stay in Thailand, being a landlord could be a way to provide you with a steady income.

Property prices in Thailand are still lower than in many Western countries and can offer decent rental returns.

You find this is the case, especially in hotspots like Hua Hin, Phuket, Pattaya, Bangkok, or Chiang Mai.

While foreigners can’t own land in Thailand, you can interestingly still own the physical building or property itself.

From expats looking for modern units in Bangkok’s CBD to holidaymakers seeking luxurious villas in resort areas, there’s always a demand for rental properties.

10. Fiverr/ UpWork Service Provider

If you’ve not heard of Fiverr or UpWork, listen up. 

They are online marketplaces for freelance services, allowing you to connect with clients from all over the globe – perfect for you to start making money to move and get paid in Thailand!

Only downer is that the platforms take about a 20% cut on every sale you make.

11. Remote Worker

Picture this: You’re in Thailand, sitting at a local café, sipping Thai iced coffee with the scenic view of a bustling Bangkok street, and you’re working – sounds dreamy, right?

As a digital nomad, I can definitely give the vote to the pleasure of such a lifestyle. It’s exhilarating and liberating. 

You can explore various jobs like graphic design, copywriting, online marketing, website maintenance, and social media marketing, among others.

And remote work is now getting more and more popular, so you can easily find remote work on job sites like We Work Remotely, Working Nomads, and Jobspresso.

12. Diving Instructor

Now here’s a really unique and cool job!

If you’re a certified diver, you’re already halfway there. Don’t have the qualifications yet? No worries! 

There are many dive schools like The Dive Academy Samui – PADI 5 Star Centre Thailand and Dives courses in Thailand | Book online | PADI Adventures.

They can guide you through the process and even guide you on how to make a career out of it. 

By becoming a PADI-qualified instructor, you can work in gorgeous locations like Koh Tao, Phi-Phi Island, or Krabi and start a career that can take you to diving hotspots around the globe. 

13. Multinational Company Employee

Did you know that Bangkok houses some of the biggest multinational companies in the world? 

Yep, we’re talking about top companies like BM, KPMG, General Electric Co., Rolls-Royce Co., and Michelin, among others.

The big companies are always looking for big talents, so if you’ve got the skills and experience, this is your chance to take your career to new heights!

To help you out, you can look at this list of international companies in Thailand to get you started. 

If you already work for a global company, consider asking about a transfer to their Thai branch!

14. Musician

To become a musician in Thailand, you must first secure a legal contract with recognized establishments like hotel lounges or bars. 

And then you can sing your heart away! Or play the instrument 🙂

Turning up with your guitar and expecting to be paid isn’t how it works – you even risk being kicked out of the country if caught!

If you have the necessary qualifications, consider seeking positions in reputable music or performing arts colleges, academies, or even orchestras. 

15. Blogger

If you knew my background, this one’s a no-brainer 🙂 

But for our new friends, blogging is how I make my money now after the tried and tested paths like teaching, editing, and writing for others.

Whether it’s travel, food, lifestyle, or any other niche you’re passionate about, Thailand offers countless inspiring experiences to fill your blog posts with engaging content.

If you have a unique perspective and a way with words, your blog can pay for more than just your round-island tour. 

So, grab a good ergonomic keyboard and mouse and back support – because you’ll be on your desk for hours, and get started!

Plus, a successful blog can lead to other profitable ventures like sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and collaborations.

16. Freelance Writer

Freelance writing opens up a lot of opportunities for you. You could be a writer for blogs, magazines, advertising agencies, marketing companies, and more. 

If you’re not yet a writer, a beginner’s how to become a freelance writer course that costs less than a new outfit can help you get from zero to hero!

Now, I won’t sugarcoat it—building a reputation as a freelance writer takes some time and patience. 

But here’s the exciting part: once you’ve carved out your spot in the industry, you could find yourself landing fantastic gigs that bring in some serious cash.

17. International Development Worker

If you find fulfillment in serving others and creating lasting change, you could become an International Development Worker, working for the likes of UN and USAID.

As a development worker, you’d be part of efforts to establish sustainable solutions in diverse fields such as education, health, sanitation, or agriculture.

18. Embassy or UN Staff

If you’re up for a serious commitment while living in the land of smiles, consider working for an embassy or the United Nations. 

You get the chance to make a significant impact while exploring one of the most beautiful countries in the world. 

And they usually have great perks. 

Think generous housing allowances, health insurance for you and your family, education for your kids, and often, a bonus vacation allowance to help you explore all Thailand offers. 

Now the process is definitely not a walk in the park – expect intensive background checks and thorough career scrutiny – but once you’re in, can continue your career with them for a long time.

19. Running A Dining Establishment 

If you’ve got solid professional experience in restaurant management, it could be your ticket to a new life in Thailand.

Thailand’s food scene is a vibrant blend of local eateries AND upscale restaurants.

Upscale restaurants in the country occasionally open their doors to foreign managers, especially when they’re looking for specific language or culinary skills.

20. Computer Contractor

Thailand isn’t just about its beautiful beaches and fiery cuisine. 

It’s also a hub for innovation and technology. There is always room for a specialized computer expert, so if that’s your specialty, you’re in luck!

Whether you specialize in software development, network infrastructure, or cybersecurity, the opportunities are endless.

You could channel your skills into setting up your own business and be the boss you’ve always dreamt of being. 

Or, you could join a multinational company and become part of their IT support team, or even go freelancing with your skills.

21. Photographer

There’s so much to capture in Thailand, you’d never run out of subjects.

You could find work with local or international media or embrace the freelancer’s life with assignments that take you to every corner of this beautiful country.

One of the coolest things about being a photographer? 

You’d get easy access to places. Be it special events, behind-the-scenes action, or wildlife – you could be right in the heart of it all, capturing it through your lens.

You could also sell your prints and make an income that way on sites like iStock and Getty Images. This is how you get paid to move to Thailand.

If you’re not all that into super professional shots, you can even make use of what you have and sell the pics or turn your casual photography into other forms of digital art and sell them. 

Why Move To Thailand

• Diverse environment –  Thailand offers a unique blend of the traditional and the ultra-modern. You’ll find ancient temples, towering skyscrapers, the highlands, and of course, the famous beaches. 
• Lifestyle options – Whether you want to be in the thick of it all in bustling cities or on quiet beaches, Thailand has it all. Heck, they even have party beach lifestyles for those of you who can’t get enough of your full moon parties. 
• Affordable Living –  You can live comfortably with about $1,800 USD to $2,300 USD a month. If you live in the less popular places, away from the capital and tourist areas, the cost of living drops even more. 
• Food Paradise – I’d move to Thailand for the food alone! Thai food is not only incredibly delicious but also affordable and easily accessible. Plus, they’ve got everything from food stalls on the street to fine-dining restaurants.
• Competitive Healthcare – Thailand has affordable advanced medical facilities,  making it a popular choice, especially for retirees.
• Friendly People and Rich Culture – Thailand is known as the “Land of Smiles” for a reason – Thai people are known for their hospitality and friendliness. No matter where you’re from, coming as an expat to Thailand,  you’ll feel right at home!

Thailand Infrastructure 

Thailand has done very well compared with some other Southeast Asian neighbors when it comes to infrastructure. 

Appropriate infrastructure, like access to water and power, has helped Thailand fuel its rapid economic growth.

In a study by The International Institute for Management Development (IMD), Thailand ranks 42nd in the world regarding infrastructure. 

And the main factor for its ranking is the sub-factor of technological infrastructure, which Thailand has climbed up 9 positions. 

Speaking of technology, Thailand has generous high-speed data. 

Speedtest.net tells us the fastest internet service provider is AIS with a cool 43.52 Mbps on average. TrueMove H and Dtac follow, clocking in at 32.78 Mbps and 16.38 Mbps, respectively.

Popular Cities To Live In

1. Bangkok – Capital of Thailand and a bustling city that blends modernity with tradition. 

2. Chiang Mai – Rich in nature and heritage. Hosts some of Thailand’s best-loved festivals, like Yi Peng and the Chiang Mai Flower Festival.

3. Hua Hin – Affordable beach town. Hosts significant events such as the Thailand International Kite Festival, Hua Hin Jazz Festival, and Hua Hin Vintage Car Rally.

4. Pattaya – Beach and party scene without the high living cost.

5. Phuket – Famous for its vibrant nightlife, night markets, delicious seafood, and of course, the beaches. 

Cost Of Living In Thailand

Wondering how much does it cost to move to Thailand while getting paid?

Well, living in Thailand can be as expensive or as cheap as you want it to be. 

If you’re living it up in 5-star establishments, going out for fine dining every weekend, and buying designer goods in Bangkok all the time, it’s gonna be expensive.

But let’s talk about realistic expenditures.

For a family of 4 in Thailand, the estimated monthly spend is only about $2,050 USD, making it one of the most affordable places to live in. 

Seems like a good idea to move to Thailand and get paid from USA, eh?

Hear this, the average monthly expenses in Thailand are 41% lower than in the US, and rent in Thailand is 70% lower than in the US! 

*Packs bags and moves to Thailand immediately!*

If you’re enjoying the single life, you could spend as little as $800 USD a month.

To live in Thailand comfortably yet affordably, first secure affordable housing. 

Then, make a habit of eating at local restaurants, shopping at wholesale markets, using a bike or motorbike for transportation, and, importantly, avoiding tourist traps!

Tips For Moving To Thailand

I’ve lived in Thailand for a spell, and I’m armed with great tips on how to move to Thailand and get paid, wherever you’re coming from. 

Whether you’re moving to Thailand from Australia or looking for retirement in Thailand for Americans, you’ll want to look into these tips!

1. Apply For A Visa/Permit

So, how to immigrate to Thailand legally? Here’s a simple breakdown of your visa options depending on how long you’re planning to stay in Thailand:

• Tourist Visa  – Valid for 45 or 60 days. You can renew it for an extra 30 days, depending on your citizenship.
• Non-Immigrant Visa – Valid for one year, and you can extend it. You’ll need a bank statement or something similar to show you can support yourself.
• Education Visa – If you’re studying in Thailand, this visa is for you. You’ll need to show them proof of enrollment and your financial guarantee.
• Employment Visa – You’ll need to secure a work permit for this one already. 

Just a heads-up, visa rules can change quite a bit, so make sure you keep up with the latest info from the Thai embassy or immigration office before moving to Thailand.

2. Get Health Insurance

You know what they say? Insurance is something you pay for but hope never to have to use. 

Especially when you’re in a foreign country, insurance is essential to keep you secure in case something happens or you fall ill. 

I use SafetyWing! Super affordable and easy to use. Great customer service too!

2. Rent Or Buy Property

Before you get on the plane, you must secure accommodation. 

If there’s no one for you to bunk in with, you need to sort out your rental or purchase in advance. Let’s look at the two options:

• Renting

Finding a place to rent is quite straightforward. 

Expect to pay a deposit of two months’ rent and your first-month deposit upfront. You will need to provide your work permit (if applicable), passport copy, and proof of income.

Different regions will set you back at different rates, with the tourist spots like Koh Samui costing more, about $462 USD to $565 USD a month on a one-bedroom apartment, and places like Chiang Mai costing only about $278 USD a month.

Although it’s a capital city, rent in Bangkok is lower per month compared to Pattaya, Phuket, and other touristy areas.

• Buying

You may have heard that foreigners can’t own land in Thailand. Bummer right?

But you can own up to 49% of a condo or lease land for up to 90 years. 

Another option is to set up a Thai company to purchase property, but Thai nationals must own 51% or more of the shares.

And hey, psst, here’s a little-known secret: Though you can’t own the land, you can still own a house or any building on the land. Cool right?

All you need to do is apply for a construction permit to build the house in your own name, and you’re all set!

Move Your Belongings

I’ve moved countries plenty of times in my life, and I hate this part! It takes me months and months to pack up, so I feel your pain.

An easier option would just be to use a removal company like Seven Seas Worldwide, Allied, or AGS. 

Let someone else have the headache of packing things up accordingly and putting it back all nice and tidy in your new home 🙂

When you’re hiring a moving service, be sure to check the following:

• Packing and unpacking services
• Disassembling and reassembling furniture
• Delivery to your new home
• Insurance cover for your possessions
• Customs and importation documents

Open A Bank Account

It’s relatively easy to open a bank account in Thailand. 

There are many international banks like Citibank and Deutsche Bank. HSBC is a popular one amongst foreigners as they don’t require an annual minimum salary.

Some national Thailand banks that are known to be expat friendly are Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn Bank. 

To open a bank account, you just need your passport and pay a small fee, usually around 500 Thai baht ($14.23 USD).

Online banking is not as widely used in Thailand as in other countries, but you can still use it for some transactions. 

If online banking is your thing, check out Siam Commercial Bank, as they’re more online-friendly. 

Learn The Language

Thai is not the world’s easiest language to learn, with the tones and intonations, but I believe in you 🙂 

Just take classes in advance before you leave, or you could immerse yourself with the locals more to polish your language skills. You just need to know the basics to get by.

These apps can help you:

• Best Thai App For Beginners: Mondly
• Best App To Learn Thai Vocabulary: Drops
• Best App To Learn Thai Overall: Pimsleur

Don’t make the language one of the cons when asking yourself, “should I move to Thailand”! 

Restricted Jobs For Foreigners In Thailand 

While we’re all excited to get paid to move to Thailand, please bear in mind 40 occupations that the Thai Ministry of Labor prohibits for foreigners.

The Ministry of Labor advises strict adherence to the laws regarding work permits and authorized work activities. 

If you’re found in violation, you could face severe fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

Here are the restricted jobs for foreigners in Thailand:

Category 1: 27 Occupations Completely Restricted for Foreigners

1. Agent/broker services

2. Alms bowl making

3. Auction

4. Buddha statue making

5. Cigarette rolling

6. Gem cutting/polishing

7. Gold/silver/platinum smithing

8. Guide services

9. Hairdressing/beauty salon services

10. Hand-woven silk fabric production

11. Hand-weaving fabrics

12. Handmade paper production

13. Legal services

14. Loom weaving or manufacturing using straw, bamboo, chicken feathers, yarn, etc.

15. Motorcycle driving, excluding forklift operation

16. Paper/fabric umbrella making

17. Secretarial services

18. Silk thread spinning

19. Stone carving

20. Street selling

21. Thai alphabet arranging services

22. Thai doll making

23. Thai massage

24. Thai niello making

25. Thai traditional musical instrument making

26. Traditional lacquer making

27. Wood carving

Category 2: Occupations Allowed for Foreigners as per Agreements with Specific Countries

1. Profession of accountant

2. Profession of architect

3. Profession of engineer

Category 3: Skilled or Semi-Skilled Work with Conditions for Foreigners

1. Agriculture

2. Knifemaking

3. Masonry/carpentry/construction

4. Mattress making

5. Shoemaking

Category 4: Skilled Work Allowed for Foreigners with Employer Authorization and Entry as per MOU

1. Retail salesperson

2. Sculptor

FAQs On Get Paid To Move To Thailand 

How Much Money Do I Need To Move To Thailand?

Asking yourself, “How much money do I need to move to Thailand’? Well, about $650 to $3,000 per month – which is 2.6 times less than you’d spend living in the US! This is because food and utilities are affordable in Thailand. Of course, the exact amount differs depending on budget, wants, and needs.

Can A Foreigner Get A Job In Thailand?

So, can a foreigner get a job in Thailand? The answer is yes. Foreigners are allowed to work in Thailand provided you have a valid visa, a work permit and you’re employed in an occupation that doesn’t violate the Alien Employment Act. 

How Can I Move To Thailand To Work?

How can I move to Thailand to work, you wonder? First, apply for a Thai work visa in your country from an Embassy or Consulate. To legally work and live in Thailand, you must obtain a work permit and extension of your stay, regardless of your work visa. 

Can I Live With $1000 In Thailand?

Wondering “Can I live with $1,000 in Thailand”? Yes,  for up to two months if budgeted correctly. This amount is more than enough to keep you housed, fed, and hydrated in Thailand.

So, are you ready to get paid to move to Thailand? Which of the 21 ways do you think would work best for you in your mission to get paid to move to Thailand? Let me know in the comments! 

From my personal experience, the vibrancy of the country and the warmth of its people make every moment worthwhile. And did I mention food?? 🙂 

If you’ve found this article helpful, please do share it with that one friend who can’t stop talking about their Thailand vacation – maybe they can make living in Thailand a reality now! 🙂

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