Who can really live in Koh Samui: visas and work, without the sugar-coating

Koh Samui can be a wonderful place to live. But before villas and pools, we need to talk about the two things that decide whether it is possible at all: visas and income.

Aviram Savir, A.B Capital · Koh Samui

Hurdle one: the visa

Thailand does not let you simply stay. You need the right visa, and that depends on your age and where your income comes from.

From 50: the retirement visa. The most common and simplest route. The usual financial requirement is one of these: 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account, a steady monthly income of at least 65,000 baht, or a combination of both. The income can come from a pension, property, savings or investments anywhere in the world. Some retirement routes also require health insurance. A retirement visa does not allow you to work in Thailand.

Remote workers: the DTV. If you work online for an employer or clients outside Thailand, look at the DTV: a five-year multiple-entry visa, up to 180 days per entry with an extension option, and proof of 500,000 baht in savings. Very high earners also have the LTR route.

The rules change from time to time, so always check the current requirements with the embassy before you start.

Hurdle two: income

This is the part many people discover too late. Foreigners are almost never allowed to work in Thailand. Some professions are reserved for Thai citizens only, and what is allowed requires a work permit, checks, renewals and conditions. It is not simple.

So who does it really suit?

Retirees with steady income from abroad. Remote workers without a school system to manage. Investors living on passive income. And anyone who has solved those two questions, visa and income: from there, everything gets much easier.

We do not give immigration advice, but after 11 years here we know the right local professionals to point you to, and we guide you all the way.