Healthcare and insurance in Thailand

Before moving to Thailand, it’s absolutely essential you take out health insurance. According to Thai law, all expats living in Thailand must be covered by either:

  • Public Thailand health insurance, which is only available to working expats enrolled on the Universal Coverage Scheme, or
  • Private health insurance

If you choose public health insurance, you will gain access to Thailand’s state healthcare system. The 2021 Legatum Prosperity Index positioned it as the 27th best globally (discover which countries offer the best healthcare systems in the world here). However, be prepared for potential extended waiting times for treatment.

Many expatriates opt for international health insurance, which grants them access to private clinics and hospitals, ensuring expedited treatment. Additionally, such comprehensive coverage includes benefits such as maternity and cancer treatment insurance. This provides a sense of security and peace of mind for individuals living abroad.

Culture and customs in Thailand

The predominant faith in Thailand is Buddhism, embraced by approximately 95% of the population and deeply ingrained in local traditions and lifestyle. The country’s magnificent temples and landmarks are a major attraction for visitors. Residents can anticipate frequent encounters with Buddhist monks and, if fortunate, opportunities to explore martial arts, yoga, meditation, and engage in Buddhist ceremonies at nearby temples.

Despite its strong religious influence, Thailand is recognized as one of the most progressive cultures in Asia. The nation has traditionally been open and accepting of LGBT travelers. However, there has been a recent emergence of anti-foreign sentiment in an increasingly nationalistic and socially conservative landscape. Individuals with darker skin may encounter racial discrimination while residing in Thailand.

Similar to many Asian cultures, Thailand upholds a significant code of moral and behavioral ethics known as ‘Face’. Face holds great social significance in Thailand, encapsulating an individual’s collective reputation, dignity, and honor. It can be “lost” through actions like public displays of anger or intoxication, while it can be “given” through the public acknowledgment or praise of others. It is crucial to always “save face” by avoiding potentially scandalous situations.

Thailand is a society that values collectivism and stresses the importance of the family unit. Accepting invitations to meet or dine with a family is considered essential etiquette. Thais also demonstrate strong loyalty to their local community and nationality. Nevertheless, the downside to this collectivism is the existence of a rigid social hierarchy with limited social mobility.

Your handy ”moving to Thailand” checklist

To begin, it is crucial to ensure that you have addressed the following key requirements.

Accommodation

  • ☐ Have you enthusiastically researched places you’d like to call home?
  • ☐ Have you reached out to the landlord with enthusiasm and made a compelling offer for the apartment or house you’re interested in renting?
  • ☐ Have you received your tenancy agreement for the place you’ve agreed to live in? Make sure you’ve got this essential document squared away!

Work

  • ☐ Have you been fortunate enough to receive a promising job offer from a Thai employer who fulfills the eligibility criteria to sponsor your application?
  • ☐ Have you kicked off your application for your Non-immigrant B Visa and Thai Work Permit?
  • ☐ Make sure you gather all the paperwork needed to conquer your work permit application! This means: striking passport photos; a clean bill of health; your trusty passport; a shining letter of employment; evidence of your hard-earned degrees; and a solid proof of your address. Get ready to make your dream a reality!
  • ☐ Are you ready and excited to cover the required fees with cash?
  • ☐ Are you incredibly excited about the prospect of checking in to the embassy at least once every three months, especially if you are already living in Thailand on a work permit?

Healthcare

  • ☐ If you are depending on state healthcare, are you enrolled on the Universal Coverage Scheme?
  • ☐ If you need to take private healthcare, have you taken out international health insurance before moving to Thailand?
  • ☐ Have you looked into other forms of health insurance, such as life insurance and income protection?

Banking

  • ☐ Do you have all the paperwork necessary to complete your application for a bank account? This includes: a copy of your visa; passport; proof of address; proof of employment; letters of reference e.g. from your home embassy, home bank, education institution, etc

Relocation

  • ☐ Have you looked into the cost of relocation? If you’re bringing your own furniture from home, have you received a reliable quote from a shipping company?
  • ☐ Have you looked into schooling for your children? If you are relying on state education, you may need to contact schools to see if they have places available

Before you go…

Moving to another country can be an exhilarating adventure, brimming with the promise of new experiences and opportunities. As you embark on your expat journey to Thailand, remember that taking care of your well-being is paramount. Securing the right international health insurance will provide you with the peace of mind you need to fully embrace this exciting chapter in your life. I wholeheartedly wish you the utmost success and fulfillment on this incredible venture!