Experienced a lifestyle shift by relocating to Thailand as a family; reveling in the freedom from excessive red tape
In a world where bureaucracy and expenses can often appear daunting, one American family has found solace in the tropical paradise of Thailand. The couple, who have six adult children, decided to make the move from the United States, seeking a lower cost of living and a more relaxed lifestyle.
The process of moving and setting up life in Thailand was surprisingly simple compared to the couple's experiences in the USA. Within just a few days, they secured an apartment, visas, and organised their life in Thailand. The individual paid the first and last month's rent via the Wise app, and the service staff helped set up utilities like electricity, Wi-Fi, and water the next day.
Thailand's visa processes are evolving to be more streamlined for certain groups, like digital nomads and affluent expats. The individual was granted a five-year Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) in less than a week before moving to Thailand. This visa offers several options, including the DTV for digital nomads, Long-Term Resident (LTR) visas for affluent individuals or those with specific qualifications, and Non-B visas for work purposes.
While the complex system of obtaining work permits, notarizing documents, and dealing with various government agencies can pose challenges for expats in Thailand, digital systems are improving, and traditional practices are gradually being phased out. In contrast, the USA has a more established and digitalized, though potentially more expensive, visa application process.
Fees and costs associated with moving and living in Thailand tend to be lower. The cost for applying for a visa in Thailand varies, with the DTV and LTR visas generally having fees in the range of THB 600 (approximately USD $20) to THB 1,900 (approximately USD $60) for the initial application, though additional registration fees apply. Work permits can cost around THB 1,000 to THB 3,000 (approximately USD $30 to USD $100) for the initial application, with renewal fees applying annually.
The lower costs in Thailand have allowed the individual to experience a liberation of mind and finances. They spend less time working and more time on pleasant activities since moving abroad. The couple's income stretches much further in Thailand, and they find the healthcare to be affordable and top-notch.
The individual's love for traveling was sparked during their formative years, with trips to Kenya and other travels. They have lived in several countries as an adult, including Maui, Medellín, Colombia, and various European countries, and spent extended periods of continuous travel. The individual wishes they had moved to a country with less bureaucracy earlier.
As "empty nesters," the couple's goal is an early retirement at 50 for the individual and 55 for their wife, and to move abroad. They have discovered that many countries offer lower cost of living and real improvements in quality of life, such as the ability to hire help, affordable healthcare, easily obtainable visas, and the chance to save more money by spending less. Thailand, with its low cost of living and affordable, top-notch healthcare, is the perfect destination for their new chapter.
The couple, residing in their newly-acquired Thai apartment, have embraced a more relaxed home-and-garden lifestyle, enjoying the affordability and efficiency of utility services. Their lowered living expenses have empowered them to engage in Travel, discovering Thailand's tropical beauty, and cherishing their newfound freedom both financially and mentally.
