Legal-Visa Arrests for overstay without a visa Keep a close eye on your visa renewals. Staying in Thailand without a visa is illegal. Also remember that working in Thailand is illegal without a work permit. If you want to stay in Thailand for a long time and perhaps work here, we can help. https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2822408/foreigners-arrested-for-long-overstays-in-phuket | Tue Jan 28 18:13 (id: 683)
Legal-Inheritance Inheritance law in Thailand is significantly different If you have hereditary residence in Thailand (often means living here >50% of the days per year), it affects your ability to distribute your inheritance - provided that you have written a will. The statutory inheritance law that exists in many western countries, for example, does not exist in Thailand. The inheritance classes are different, and you can distribute everything by will - if it is done correctly. We can guide you. | Tue Jan 28 18:12 (id: 664)
Legal-DriversLic Driving license in Thailand Thailand has many traffic accidents per capita. Especially the Thai New Year is dangerous with close to 450 casualties 2024-2025 (10 day count). Because of the many accidents, rental companies now require an international driving license even when renting motorcycles, which is why you should have one. (NEVER leave your passport when renting if asked, a photo copy is enough) If you are a resident here, you can easily get a Thai driving license using a valid foreign driving license. If you do not have a valid foreign driving license, you must get a Thai one. We can help you with knowledge on how and where to do this. | Tue Jan 28 18:11 (id: 663)
Legal-Tax New tax rules for foreign income 1(5) This issue has been on the table for about a year, and as usual, many rumors abound both in local media and on social media. Sometimes it is difficult to know if a decision is really a decision, and above all if and when it will really come into effect. In response to growing concerns among foreigners, the Thai Revenue Department has issued Order No. P. 161 and 162/2566, effective January 2024, to provide clear guidelines for the taxation of foreign income. Here is a detailed overview of what these new rules mean and how they affect residents and expatriates in Thailand. | Tue Jan 28 18:11 (id: 684)
Legal-Tax New Foreign Income Tax Rules 2(5) Reporting Foreign Income: Effective January 1, 2024, all Thai residents must report income from abroad when it is brought into the country. This includes income from employment, investments, and assets outside Thailand. However, any income earned before this date can be repatriated to Thailand tax-free if done by December 31, 2024. Residency requirements: According to Section 41, Clause 3, anyone who stays in Thailand for one or more periods totaling at least 180 days in a tax year is considered a resident and must comply with these tax rules. | Tue Jan 28 18:10 (id: 685)
Legal-Tax New Foreign Income Tax Rules 3(5) Repeal of Conflicting Provisions: All previous provisions that conflict with the new regime are officially repealed. This move is aimed at eliminating inconsistencies and ensuring a consistent approach to foreign income taxation. Exemption for income before 2024: The amendment explicitly states that income earned before January 1, 2024 is exempt from these new provisions if transferred to Thailand by the end of 2024. This gives taxpayers a period of time to adapt to the new rules. | Tue Jan 28 18:09 (id: 686)
Legal-Tax New Tax Rules for Foreign Income 4(5) - PENSION Expatriates with Taxed Income: For foreigners who receive income that has already been taxed in another country, such as pensions, these amounts will not be subject to additional Thai taxes. This is particularly relevant for retirees living in Thailand who receive pensions from their home countries. | Tue Jan 28 18:08 (id: 687)
Legal-Tax New tax rules for foreign income 5(5) - ADVICE Income from foreign employment or assets: Income from employment or assets located abroad must be reported if transferred to Thailand from 1 January 2024 onwards. This includes dividends, interest, rental income, and capital gains from foreign investments. ADVICE: Everyone's situation is unique, so it may be wise to consult a tax lawyer if your situation is a bit special. In the near future, a number of typical cases will also be presented so that further guidance is provided. Here is the link if you want to read more. https://www.pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/new-tax-rules-for-foreign-sourced-income-464735 | Tue Jan 28 18:07 (id: 688)
Legal-Marriage Marriage in Thailand If you want to marry a Thai man or woman in Thailand, certain documentation will be required to prove that you are not a criminal and that you are not married elsewhere. Information about your family will also be required. A legal marriage can then be obtained at your local amphoe (district) office. A traditional marriage is completely separate and may be required by tradition. A dowry from the man to the bride's parents is tradition but whether one is required can vary depending on the person. You should have a prenuptial agreement written by a Thai lawyer. Many (especially men) have lost everything they own and have through their marriages here, so be careful. | Tue Jan 28 17:57 (id: 682)
Legal-RealEstate Owning or renting property In Thailand Owning land here is impossible for farangs. Therefore, in a real sense, you can only rent detached houses. However, foreigners can own up to (current laws) 49% of the apartments in each apartment building. If you rent an apartment, be careful with the deposit fees. If you buy a house with a Thai wife or husband, you should know that the house is registered as your partner's property. More about this under marriage in Thailand. | Tue Jan 28 17:56 (id: 681)