r/Thailand • • 4d ago

Question/Help Monthly FAQ thread for October, 2026

3 Upvotes

Hi folks,

The following types of questions should be posted into this thread - any standalone posts of this kind posted outside this thread will be removed, with a moderation comment asking the author to repost to this thread:

  • Questions about visas/immigration (including 90-day reporting, TM30, DTV, etc) - if they aren't answered here, try Asean Now's immigration forum.
  • Questions about banking (including transfers) and/or investing (including crypto)
  • Questions about working in Thailand or starting a business in Thailand
  • Questions about taxes in Thailand (including import duties / customs charges)
  • Questions about studying in Thailand, including questions about universities and schools, where to study, what to study, grants and scholarships
  • Questions about moving to Thailand in general
  • Questions about Thai Citizenship or Permanent Residence - but you should probably read this site first.
  • Questions about where to live, whether and how to buy/rent property in Thailand
  • Questions about where to get particular medicines, supplements or medical treatments (including cosmetic)
  • Questions about medical insurance
  • Questions about cannabis, kratom or other legal drugs (posts asking where to get illegal drugs will be removed)
  • Questions about vapes and vaping and the legality thereof

If you have any questions along the lines of any of the above topics, you're in the right place! You can ask away in the comments below, but first, have a read below - and search the sub - it has most likely been answered already.

Please also us know below if you have suggestions for other frequent topics - including links to recent posts on those topics to demonstrate their frequency. If the moderators agree that we're seeing an excessive number of posts on a given topic, we'll add that topic to the list above.

Any other suggestions? Let us know below!


r/Thailand • • 2h ago

News As Thailand cracks down on foreigners, a tourist paradise reconsiders its welcome

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30 Upvotes

r/Thailand • • 17h ago

News Drunk Driver Hits and Kills Two German Tourists in Bangkok’s Thong Lor

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222 Upvotes

On October 3, Pol Lt Col Parinya Tho Pengcharoen, Deputy Inspector of Thong Lor Police Station, received a report of a fatal accident in which a car struck two pedestrians on Thong Lor Road, in front of Soi Thong Lor 3 in Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana district, Bangkok. He immediately went to the scene with rescue workers.

At the scene, two injured German women, aged 22 and 23, were found in critical condition. Rescue workers rushed both women to a hospital, where they later died from their injuries.

The driver was identified as a 28-year-old man, whose surname was withheld. He appeared to be intoxicated and admitted to being the driver of the gray MG HS PHEV involved in the crash. The vehicle struck the two pedestrians as they were crossing the road.

Police took the man to Thong Lor Police Station for a breathalyzer test. His blood alcohol level was measured at 145 milligrams per 100 milliliters.

He was charged with driving while intoxicated, causing a collision that resulted in the deaths of others, and was taken into legal custody for further proceedings.

Edit: The deceased were a 23-year-old Thai woman, Ms. Thitima, and a 22-year-old German woman, Ms. Michelle.

หนุ่มเมาแล้วขับ! ซิ่งเก๋งชนสาวไทย-นักท่องเที่ยวสาวเยอรมัน ดับ 2 ศพ ขณะข้ามถนนทองหล่อ ตรวจเมาพุ่ง 145 มิลลิกรัมเปอร์เซ็นต์


r/Thailand • • 19h ago

News US Navy personnel from the USS GEORGE H.W. BUSH (CVN-77) and USS DELBERT D BLACK (DDG-119) go ashore for shore leave in Phuket

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102 Upvotes

Over 5,000 US military personnel have been steadily disembarking in Phuket Province as the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN-77) and the guided-missile destroyer USS Delbert D. Black (DDG-119) anchor off the coast of Phuket for an official visit to Thailand from October 4 to 9.

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1HqFuNNiUq/


r/Thailand • • 7m ago

Visas/Documents Feedback on getting a retirement visa without an agent?

• Upvotes

I'm starting to think an agent is unnecessary and would like to hear any success stories.

I've lived in Thailand 4 years. No black marks for any reason in passport. Have the 800k fully seasoned in the same bank account I've had 4 years. Lease, good landlord, 50 years old.

Sooooo...there's really no point in an agent, right?


r/Thailand • • 1d ago

Politics Thai PBS reasserts its independence following proposed new public media bill | Thai PBS World

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49 Upvotes

Thailand’s Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS) has urged against political intervention in its funding model or in the role of the country’s public service media, as the ruling Bhumjaithai Party proposes a bill that has sparked concerns over media independence and freedom.

In its statement on Friday, Thai PBS said that the draft bill, which propose changes to the national broadcaster’s revenue structuring, directly affects the organisation’s independence.

“It [the independence] serves as a guarantee that the public has access to information and public spaces that are free from state, political or business influence,” it reads.

The remark came as Bhumjaithai’s legal eagle Suphachai Jaismut seeks to replace Thai PBS’s legally ringfenced funding source with an allocation from the annual fiscal budget, which is controlled each year by the political groupings in power at the time.

According to the 2008 Thai Public Broadcasting Service Act, Thai PBS is funded by an earmarked 1.5% share of taxes collected on sales and importation of liquor and tobacco.

The legally mandated funding is capped at two billion baht per fiscal year. Thai PBS also operates outside the direct control of any specific ministry but is subject to scrutiny by independent entities, such as the State Audit Office.

Suphachai said that the bill aims to “unify the nation’s fiscal system” and would effectively allow participation by parliament and the government in managing the money collected.

Critics fear that the proposed changes would provide a route for political pressure or influence to be exerted on Thai PBS’s coverage and neutrality.

Thai PBS said that concrete legal and institutional guarantees must be put in place to prevent the changes from being exploited for political gain and argues that the twin pillars of monetary discipline and public service media independence must both be protected.

“The public must have confidence that public service media operates independently, free from the influence or control of state power holders,” it said.

The draft is the subject of public hearings until October 14. It will then be proposed for Cabinet approval before being submitted to parliament for deliberation.


r/Thailand • • 8h ago

Question/Help Making friends and learning about local culture

0 Upvotes

When I was young I had foreign ESL pen pals. I enjoyed learning about regular people in other parts of the world. I do not participate in the social media platforms common in the West, because of how toxic they are, and how toxic the owners are. This means I am at a loss as to how to meet English speaking people from other parts of the world. I can help them with their English if they would benefit from that.

My goal is to learn about them and their culture and eventually visit them in their country. I have no desire to live sheltered in some enclave of entitled American expats. I don’t think normal tourism with regular guides will really show me what a place is really like. Are there any subreddits or web platforms to meet people this way? I am seeking friends only, not romantic interest.

I wish to make friends online who live in any of the regions that western expats tend to land with SE Asia, central America, and possibly Mexico being high on the list. Unfortunately for me, my ignorant country does not value learning a second language. My greatest handicap is that I only speak English. I am willing to learn to communicate better where ever I end up, but I am far better with STEM subjects than I am with languages.

Apologies if this is not appropriate for this sub. I am an American in my late 40’s hoping to retire early (in 6 to 10 years) somewhere where I can be part of the local community. I have many reasons for wanting to do so. The men in my family tend to die fairly early. My father collected 1 social security check before dieing, even though he had paid into SS since he was 12 years old. Going back 12 generations the Average age of death is 67 and the median is 56.

With the rise of the oligarchs in the states and their market capture of all aspects of modern life, I feel disheartened trying to stay and retire in the USA. I feel like I am giving them my hard earned money every day and getting less and less in return. I understand that the same is more or less an issue in many parts of the world, it just feels like the developing world still has pockets of local economies where the money I spend to by food, to pay rent, and to support local events, helps the local community.

Previously I have traveled to many rural areas in the western US thinking of retiring there. But the rural politics have now become so toxic, I do not wish to be a part of their communities.


r/Thailand • • 1d ago

Politics Bhumjaithai seeks to shift Thai PBS funding from ‘sin taxes’ to state budget | Thai PBS World

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21 Upvotes

Bhumjaithai’s chief legal adviser has proposed holding a public hearing on whether the Thai PBS Act should be amended to end the public service broadcaster’s funding from liquor and tobacco tax revenue, or “sin taxes”, and replace it with direct funding from the state budget.

Suphachai Jaismut suggested that the questions for public comment should include:

• Do you agree or disagree that the law governing the funding, assets and revenue of Thai PBS should be amended?

• Do you agree or disagree that the collection of liquor and tobacco tax revenue for Thai PBS should be scrapped?

• Do you agree or disagree that there are problems with the enforcement of the Thai PBS Act and whether an amendment to the Act could solve them?

The Bhumjaithai MP said the amendment would aim to overhaul Thai PBS’s revenue structure.

It would scrap Sections 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 of the Act concerning liquor and tobacco taxes, ending the broadcaster’s authority to collect 1.5% of such tax revenue, up to a maximum of 2 billion baht per year, to fund Thai PBS.

Funding for Thai PBS should instead come from the state budget, he said, adding that the Thai PBS Act may violate the principles of fiscal discipline.

Under the current Act and its funding model, no individual donor, external organisation, political entity or commercial interest has the authority to influence the editorial priorities, topic selection, verification processes or fact-checking conclusions of Thai PBS.

Editorial independence is institutionally protected through a clear separation between editorial operations and administrative management.

Individuals or entities associated with organisational funding do not exercise influence over published content, including matters involving government agencies, public officials or influential institutions.

Follow-up: Thai PBS reasserts its independence following proposed new public media bill | Thai PBS World


r/Thailand • • 12h ago

Education How can I get a scholarship to study at a university in Thailand as an international student? And what are the job opportunities after graduation?

0 Upvotes

I'm an international student currently studying at a college in Russia, and I'm interested in continuing my education at a university in Thailand after I graduate.

I'm currently in my final year and expect to graduate in June 2027. My current major is Media, Advertising, PR, and Marketing. I'd like to continue studying in a related field at a Thai university, but I'm also interested in Performing Arts, Dance, Choreography, Musical Theater, or Dance Performance as an alternative major.

I'm hoping to find scholarship opportunities for international students, particularly for bachelor's degree programs. I'd also like to understand the career prospects and job opportunities in Thailand for international graduates in these fields.

I'd really appreciate advice on the following questions:

Scholarships and university admissions:

  • What scholarships are available for international students who want to pursue a bachelor's degree in Thailand?
  • Are there any full or partial scholarships that cover tuition fees, accommodation, or living expenses?
  • Which Thai universities offer programs and scholarships in Media, Advertising, PR, Marketing, or Performing Arts, Dance, Choreography, Musical Theater, or Dance Performance?
  • Since I expect to graduate in June 2027, when should I start applying for university admission and scholarships?
  • What are the usual admission and scholarship requirements, such as GPA, English proficiency tests, portfolios, or auditions?

Job opportunities and career prospects:

  • How difficult is it for an international student to find a job in Thailand after graduating in one of these fields?
  • What kinds of jobs are available for international graduates in Media, Advertising, PR, and Marketing? For example, digital marketing, social media management, advertising, public relations, or working in international companies.
  • What about career opportunities in Performing Arts, Dance, Choreography, Musical Theater, or Dance Performance?
  • Do Thai companies or entertainment organizations hire international graduates in these fields, particularly those who don't speak Thai fluently?
  • Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs foreigners can do in Thailand, and how difficult is it to obtain the appropriate visa and work permit after graduation?
  • Would studying at a Thai university make it easier to find internships or employment in Thailand?

I'd especially appreciate advice from international students or graduates who have studied or worked in Thailand in either of these fields. Hearing about your experiences with scholarships, university applications, internships, and finding employment would be extremely helpful.

I'm still researching my options and trying to figure out which path would be the most realistic for me, both academically and professionally.


r/Thailand • • 15h ago

Question/Help can foreigners buy esims online?

0 Upvotes

not the ones for tourists that expire after 30-60 days.


r/Thailand • • 16h ago

Question/Help Claiming Physical concert tix ThaiTicket major

0 Upvotes

Hi! Im from the Philippines and I need help, the debit card I used to purchase my concert ticket was damaged so the bank issued a new one. I saw that when claiming the physical concert ticket, I need to show the debit card I used. I can provide bank statment and photo of the old card , emailed thai ticket too but still no response. Anyone who has same experience?


r/Thailand • • 1d ago

Discussion Thai dual citizen

12 Upvotes

Hello all,

My spouse and adult daughter have recently reclaimed their Thai citizenship. Additional info: My spouse is a US naturalized citizen born in Thailand, both parents Thai, Mother remarried a US soldier in the 60's and my daughter (and her siblings) are considered Thai because he is. They both now have their Thai ID's, passports and are living here in Bangkok.

My spouse speaks Thai, but can not read it, and Daughter is in the process of learning both. My spouse does have half siblings who live in Thailand who are very supportive, but it's different because they don't share or necessarily understand the challenges of assimilating into a whole new life.

Is anyone aware of any Reddit communities that focus on this type of situation and offer support?

We've looked at Thaithai but it appears that all posts need to be in Thai writing.

Our goal is to find people in the same situation for communication and sharing of experience of immersing themselves into the culture and community.

We know there is an expat community, but I don't really think they fit into that description.

Any suggestions?


r/Thailand • • 14h ago

5555555 Can anyone even read his name?

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0 Upvotes

นายแพทย์ขัติญพัณศ์ อเล็กซีส กฏอัศญทีปณ์

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19m2ut29Fo/


r/Thailand • • 18h ago

Question/Help Do you know this driving school?

1 Upvotes

Hey people i found online this driving school https://thandriving.com/

I also already chatted with them i wanted to ask someone know them and have already expirience with them? I Would like to do my thai licence so i have no troubles and can enjoy my vacation.


r/Thailand • • 22h ago

Question/Help Things to know going to a concert at Rajamangala

2 Upvotes

Hi all.

This will be my first time attending a concert at Rajamangala (11th October) and I had a few questions and was hoping someone could kindly help with answers. For context I have the standing tickets:

  1. I will be collecting tickets on the day of and am wondering how early do you recommend that I go collect the tickets from TTM at the venue

  2. (once I have the tickets with me) How early should I come to the venue before the concert so that I end up having a good-decent experience leading up to the concert?

  3. Am I able to carry a small tote bag with me? With a small handheld fan with the obvious essentials (IDs, money, etc)

  4. Anything else you think would be useful or must have essentials you think would be best to carry on the day to the venue?

  5. Would getting transport be hard after the concert ends? Any recommendations on how to effectively find something (like a grab) after the show ends.

  6. Last but not least, what is the standing experience like for people who have been before? Is it hectic? Any places to sit around if tired etc (new to this so do forgive my ignorance)

Thank you so much in advance.


r/Thailand • • 1d ago

Discussion Two Japanese rescued after being forced into border scam work

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55 Upvotes

Is this problem bigger than I think it is in Thailand? In Thai social media I always see mentions of neighboring countries with this problem. Is Thailand just better at sweeping it under the rug?


r/Thailand • • 2d ago

Pics Tattoo fest in Pattaya 2026

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384 Upvotes

r/Thailand • • 1d ago

News Two German tourists killed in Khao Lak hit-and-run

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109 Upvotes

r/Thailand • • 21h ago

Question/Help Getting rid of Bic C jingle in head

0 Upvotes

Hi guys, i've been back home from Thailand for 2 days but the Big C (or some supermarket jingle la-la-laa la-la-laaa) is still in my head and won't go away.

Any advice ?


r/Thailand • • 22h ago

Question/Help Does anyone know where I can purchase decorative/ faux books like Ikea?

0 Upvotes

I can’t order it online as I need it urgently. I’m around Nothanburi, Bangkok area.


r/Thailand • • 1d ago

Food and Drink Trying to find the coriander (AKA Cilantro) Lays, were they only limited edition? I can’t find anywhere in Bangkok.

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23 Upvotes

r/Thailand • • 1d ago

Old News Ajahn Jayasaro becomes first foreign-born Somdet

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2 Upvotes

r/Thailand • • 16h ago

ภาษาไทย Nuengnonsuwan

0 Upvotes

Nonsuwan by nuengnonsuwan

Https://www.nonsuwan.com/pixel/#

ใครทำแบบนี้.ทำเพื่ออะไร.(คุณเอาออกจากชุมชน.เพราะอะไรคุณปิดกัน.ความโปร่งใสรึสาธาระณะ.ทำไมกันเหตุผลคนทำงานราชการมันต้องมี..อธิบาย.เดียวนี้


r/Thailand • • 21h ago

Question/Help Getting tickets to through thaiticketmajor

0 Upvotes

Has thaiticketmajor always been this broken?

It's my first time trying to purchase tickets, I used google chrome and when it was my turn, it said Access Denied in a blank page.

So I tried using Firefox, but when I entered my passport ID, it said it's invalid (despite it being the exact same ID written on my profile).

Has someone encountred similar issues?

Thank you!


r/Thailand • • 1d ago

Culture The Thai women putting Thailand on the global stage

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27 Upvotes