Expat Tax: Frequently Asked Questions

Thailand signed up to the automatic exchange of information – Common Reporting Standards (CRS) – in 2020. They receive data from over 130 countries that are signed up to CRS. Thailand’s Revenue Department have links with other revenue department software, and they share information automatically every quarter for bank accounts, pensions, credit cards, as well as the account balances and transactions within that quarter for Thai tax residents. Therefore, the information is already being remitted and sent to the Thai Revenue Department. While it’s up to the individual to file a tax return, the Thai Revenue Department can check to see on individual’s accounts what is being remitted.

You can learn more about Common Reporting Standards and how Thailand’s tax authorities track your finances here. 

Thailand joined the Common Reporting Standards (CRS) and Automatic Exchange of Information (AEOI) agreements. As of September 2023, the Thai Revenue Department can receive information from other CRS-affiliated revenue departments. If audited, you must prove that any money you transferred into Thailand is not taxable income.

If you are required to file a tax return, you must obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN). Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including a fixed fine, a penalty of up to 200% of the unpaid tax, and an additional 1.5% charge per month on the amount owed.

Thailand signed up to the automatic exchange of information – Common Reporting Standards (CRS) – in 2020. They receive data from over 130 countries that are signed up to CRS. Thailand’s Revenue Department have links with other revenue department software, and they share information automatically every quarter for bank accounts, pensions, credit cards, as well as the account balances and transactions within that quarter for Thai tax residents. Therefore, the information is already being remitted and sent to the Thai Revenue Department.

You can find out more about how Common Reporting Standards and how Thailand’s tax authorities to track your finances here. 

If you are a Thai tax resident and the bank account you have registered as a Thai tax resident, then every quarter the revenue department where of the card remit every single transaction on that account, regardless of whether it was overseas or in Thailand. Thailand signed up to the automatic exchange of information – Common Reporting Standards (CRS) – in 2020. They receive data from over 130 countries that are signed up to CRS. Thailand’s Revenue Department have links with other revenue department software, and they share information automatically every quarter for bank accounts, pensions, credit cards, as well as the account balances and transactions within that quarter for Thai tax residents. Therefore, the information is already being remitted and sent to the Thai Revenue Department.

You can find out more about how Common Reporting Standards and how Thailand’s tax authorities to track your finances here. 

No, you must have a Thai-issued disability certificate to claim disability-related tax allowances.

No, foreigners must register separately for a TIN, even if they possess a pink card.

You must keep records for up to five years. Ensure all documentation is in Thai or English for compliance purposes.

The department accepts documents in Thai or English. Certification depends on the nature of the claim, but clear records, including bank statements, are essential for audits (up to five years).

You need to keep clear documentation, such as bank statements, to show the funds originated from non-taxable sources like savings, exempt pensions, or gifts.

In Thailand, the Revenue Department within the Ministry of Finance is responsible for collecting taxes. This includes overseeing the collection of taxes such as personal and corporate income tax, value-added tax (VAT), and other specific taxes and duties. The department ensures that tax laws are followed and helps taxpayers understand and meet their tax obligations.

Thailand’s tax system operates primarily on a territorial basis, taxing individuals and entities on income derived from within the country, whilst foreign-sourced income is taxed only if remitted into Thailand in the same year it is earned. The system encompasses a range of taxes including personal income tax, which is progressive and ranges from 0% to 35% based on income levels; corporate income tax at a standard rate of 20% for companies; value-added tax (VAT) at a standard rate of 7% applied to most goods and services; specific business taxes on certain industries like banking, insurance, and real estate; and customs duties on imported goods. Other taxes include property tax, stamp duties, and withholding taxes on certain types of payments to non-residents. Tax incentives and exemptions are available for investments in specific sectors or regions, as guided by the Board of Investment. Compliance with Thailand’s tax laws requires careful navigation of its rules and regulations, including the filing of annual tax returns.

Learn more about the Thailand Revenue Department’s announcements on foreign sourced income here

The conservative approach to gift assets is to give the assets overseas to the recipient, draw up a gift document demonstrating that the gift will not be returned, and get this notarised by a lawyer in the country the gift was given in. Once this is done, translate the document into Thai and get this held on file. Then, have the person that the gift is given to remit the funds into Thailand. It is recommended that if you are to gift assets, you seek advice as it is more complicated than simply sending money to a third party.

If you do not have any assessable income (Thai income or overseas income that is remitted to Thailand) then you don’t need a Tax ID number. Your spouse can use your passport number on her tax return.

You are not required to have a Thai tax ID number or file if you have no income (your wife can file as a joint married with a spouse with no income)

Yes, foreigners who work in Thailand are required to file a tax return, and their tax obligations are influenced by their residency status. An individual is considered a tax resident if they stay in Thailand for a period or periods totalling 180 days or more in a calendar year. Tax residents are subject to Thai income tax on their worldwide income remitted to Thailand, whereas non-residents are taxed only on their income derived from sources within Thailand. The tax year in Thailand runs from January 1st to December 31st, with the filing deadline being March 31st of the following year. It is essential for foreign workers to understand their residency status, as it significantly affects their tax liabilities. To ensure compliance and optimise their tax situation, foreign workers are advised to consult with a tax professional, especially to navigate the complexities of tax treaties and exemptions that might apply to them.

To file and obtain your tax return in Thailand, you typically need to go through the Revenue Department of Thailand’s official process. This involves registering for a taxpayer identification number if you don’t already have one, gathering all necessary documentation such as income statements, tax deductions, and allowances. You can file your tax return either online via the Revenue Department’s e-filing system or by visiting a physical office to submit your documents in person. The tax year in Thailand runs from January 1st to December 31st, with the deadline for filing usually set for the end of March the following year. After submitting your tax return, you can track the status online and, if applicable, any tax refund due to you will be processed by the Revenue Department. For specific guidance or assistance, it may be beneficial to consult with a tax professional or advisor familiar with Thailand’s tax laws and procedures.

Learn more about applying for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Thailand here and listen to a short podcast about the tax filing requirements for expats in Thailand here

In Thailand, you might get a tax refund if you’ve paid more tax during the year than you actually owe. This is figured out when you calculate your yearly income and subtract any deductions or credits you’re allowed. To get a refund, you need to fill out an annual tax return with details of your income, deductions, and what you’ve already paid in taxes. The deductions and credits you can get, and how you file your tax return, depend on your own situation, like the income sources you receive and the allowances and deductions available to you. Keep good records of how much you earn, what taxes you pay, and keep your receipts for things you can deduct so you can back up your refund claim.

It is not a law change, but a departmental order, which overules the previous tax ruling from 1987.

Here is a page of all the official announcements and information. The Thai Revenue Department have provided a lot of useful information and guidance on this change.

In Thailand, declaring taxes involves preparing and submitting an income tax return to the Thai Revenue Department. Individuals must accurately report their annual income and calculate their tax liability based on the prevailing tax rates and laws. The tax year in Thailand runs from January 1 to December 31, with the filing deadline typically set for the end of March. Taxpayers can file their returns electronically through the Revenue Department’s website or manually by submitting the necessary forms at a Revenue Department office. It’s essential to include all sources of income, deductions, and allowances to ensure an accurate tax calculation. Late submissions may result in penalties, so it’s advisable to prepare and file tax returns promptly. For those unfamiliar with Thailand’s tax laws or who have complex tax situations, consulting a tax professional is recommended to ensure compliance and optimise tax liabilities.

Thailand is not a tax-free country; it operates a comprehensive taxation system encompassing both direct and indirect taxes. Direct taxes include personal income tax, which is progressive and ranges from 0% to 35% depending on the income level, and corporate income tax, generally set at 20% for most companies. Indirect taxes involve Value-Added Tax (VAT), currently at 7%, and specific business taxes on certain transactions. Non-residents are subject to tax on income derived from Thai sources, while residents are taxed on their worldwide income, subject to certain conditions and exemptions. Thailand also implements double taxation agreements with numerous countries to prevent double taxation of income earned in one country by a resident of another.

Learn more about the Thailand Revenue Department’s announcements on foreign sourced income here

Yes, to file a tax return, you will need a TIN number. You can get this from your local revenue office. If people would like help with this we have a paid service to obtain on their behalf.

You can find out more about applying for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Thailand here. 

To obtain a tax ID in Thailand, an individual or company must first register with the Thai Revenue Department, a process which can be initiated online through the Revenue Department’s website or in person at a local tax office. If people would like help with this we have a paid service to obtain on their behalf.

Learn more about applying for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Thailand here. 

There are two specific time periods to file for tax. Most people will need to file by the end of March for the previous tax year. Some people, depending on their asset class, may have to file the mid-year tax file. For example, those who have rental property income.

Listen to this short podcast, Who Needs to File a Tax Return in Thailand and When? for more information.

It is best to keep as many records as possible. It is very important to keep a record of every transaction that is sent across and where the funds are from initially. (what is the source of the funds) It is advisable to set up accounts for different types of assets, as it will be easier for you to keep track and file properly once remitted into Thailand if non-taxable and taxable assets are kept separately.

Read our article on the best practices for keeping tax records for more information.

You must get a tax certificate or document to show that taxes are being paid in another jurisdiction. This can potentially be used to file as a credit against any tax owed in Thailand. You will need to file a Thai tax return, including the information of all funds remitted to Thailand.

It is the responsibility of the individual tax payer to prove that their assets are not taxable.

Yes you will need a Thai Tax ID Number (TIN). You can get this from your local revenue department. If you do need help with this, we do have a service to aquire the TINs.

Learn more about applying for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Thailand here. 

In Thailand, you need to file taxes if you live in the Kingdom for 180 days or more, or if the money was for work conducted in Thailand and your assessable income is over 120,000 THB as an individual or 220,000 THB as a joint filing married couple. The tax year is from January to December, and you usually have until the end of March the next year to file your taxes.

Thai tax filing is a legal requirement, not a voluntary act, if you meet the specified criteria. While other online posts may suggest otherwise, the law is clear on this matter.

Here’s a summary of the relevant rules:

If you are a Thai tax resident with income from a salary, the Thai Personal Income Tax Revenue Code Section 40(1) applies. The minimum income thresholds that require you to file a tax return are:

• THB 120,000 if you are single
• THB 220,000 if you are married and filing jointly

For foreign-sourced income or other types of income under Section 40(2)-(8) of the Revenue Code, the filing thresholds are:

• THB 60,000 if you are single
• THB 120,000 if you are married and filing jointly

If you remit foreign-sourced income that exceeds these limits, you are required to file a tax return, even if no tax is due.

For further details, you can refer to the specific Thai law here: https://www.rd.go.th/562.html

Please note that failure to file a required tax return or providing false information can result in significant penalties, including fines or imprisonment.

You have the option to file online with the Revenue Department or through a tax filing service like what Expat Tax Thailand provides.

Yes. If you have the account balances as of December 31st, 2023, then this is not taxable income in Thailand as per the November announcement. (Order No. P.162/2023)

It is very important that commingled funds and accounts are separated. Reporting and filing for tax becomes much simpler as it is easy to identify what is taxable and what is not. Remember it is up to the tax payer to prove there is no tax due on assets remitted.

In Thailand, intentionally avoiding tax payments or falsely claiming refunds is considered a significant violation. Those found guilty of tax evasion can face criminal penalties, including a jail term of three months to seven years and fines from 2,000 to 200,000 Baht. Financial penalties can be 200% of the tax evaded and interest of 1.5% a month. Our advice is to stay fully compliant and within the rules.

If you don’t pay taxes owed in Thailand, you may face serious consequences, including fines, penalties, and interest on unpaid taxes. The Thai Revenue Department has the authority to conduct audits and investigations into tax evasion. Failure to comply with tax obligations can lead to legal action, including criminal charges, which might result in imprisonment. Additionally, non-payment can damage your credit rating and hinder your ability to conduct business in Thailand, as it reflects negatively on your financial responsibility and legal compliance.

In Thailand, the personal income tax allowance system is designed to provide tax relief to individuals based on their income levels and personal circumstances. For the tax year 2023, every taxpayer is entitled to a basic personal allowance of 60,000 THB, which is deducted from their taxable income. Additionally, taxpayers can claim various other allowances and deductions, such as for dependents, mortgage interest, and contributions to retirement savings plans, among others. These allowances and deductions are intended to reduce the taxpayer’s taxable income, thereby lowering their overall tax liability. The specific allowances and deductions available may vary based on changes in tax legislation, so it is advisable for individuals to consult the latest tax guidelines or a tax professional to understand their entitlements fully.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here.

In Thailand, you can legally lower your taxes in a few ways. First off, you can invest into Thai tax saving structures like the Provident Fund, Government Pension Fund, or Retirement Mutual Fund, up to the allowed limits. Investing in Long-Term Equity Funds and Retirement Mutual Funds might also cut down your taxes, but there are rules about how long you must keep your money in them and how much you can put in. You can also reduce your taxes by claiming allowances for your family, like your children, parents, or spouse, and by deducting things like home loan interest and gifts to approved charities—just keep within the set boundaries. You can also take out Thai registered life or health insurance for you or your family members can give you extra tax deductions. Always make sure your tax strategies follow the Thai Revenue Department’s rules to ensure you remain fully compliant.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

You will need to keep the proof of where the source of the money is from. Bank statements is ok, but also you will need to show where the funds are from if they were from pre-2024 or from new income paid after 1st January 2024.

If people have over 120,000 THB of foreign-sourced income that is remitted to Thailand, then they must file a Thai tax return regardless of whether they have a tax liability or not. For married couples who wish to file jointly, they must file if they have over 220,000 THB.

You can find out more on this short podcast, ‘Who Needs to File a Tax Return in Thailand and When?‘

No you do not have to file a tax return for non-assessable income.

The salary is taxable if remitted to Thailand, but only if remitted.

The salary is taxable if remitted to Thailand, but only if remitted. You can read the Israel Thailand Double Tax Treaty here

Yes, taxes paid in another country can be claimed as a credit according to the terms of the relevant DTA.

This is dependent on the source of the income. You may be able to use tax credits on the salary in Israel, but this is dependent on the terms of the DTA and the actual asset.

There is a DTA in place, but taxes are dependent on the asset you are remitting. These vary and you need to check each asset type in the DTA.

You can read the Thailand-Sweden DTA here.

Pensions are taxed on income, not gains on the pension structure. This is subject to how much income has been remitted, if tax has been paid on this elsewhere and if there is a DTA in place. If there is no DTA, Thailand has the full right to tax any remittance as income, and there is no credit to be given due to no DTA in place.

No, these pensions are exempt under the Double Taxation Agreement (DTA).

Thai tax residents have a Thai tax filing and Thai tax obligation. All that has changed with the new rules is that you cannot leave funds overseas for one complete tax year and bring it in the next year. This has always been in the law, but there has been a departmental order change to overrule a ruling from 1987. Thailand has the right to tax foreign-sourced income that is remitted to Thailand. You may potentially use tax paid in your home country as a credit. You can read the Netherlands Thailand Double Tax Treaty here

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

You must check the Danish DTA for that specific type of pension. If there are no special rules to say that it is not taxable, then it is potentially taxable in Thailand. If the tax you paid in Denmark is considerably higher than the tax rate in Thailand, you may not need to pay anymore, as the DTA is there to protect you against paying more than the tax rate of your own country. Even if there is noextra tax to pay, it is likely you will still have to file a tax return.

You can read the Thailand-Denmark DTA here

No. You cannot use any other country’s personal allowance in Thailand. Thai tax residents have their own personal allowance, so it is important that you use this.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

Yes, Australia and Thailand have a tax treaty, formally known as the Agreement between the Government of Australia and the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand for the Avoidance of Double Taxation and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with Respect to Taxes on Income. This agreement is designed to prevent double taxation and fiscal evasion, making it easier for individuals and businesses to operate between the two countries by clarifying the tax obligations for income earned in either country. This treaty covers various forms of income, including dividends, interest, and royalties, and establishes the taxing rights of each country to ensure taxpayers are not taxed twice on the same income.

You must check the DTA for assets being remitted from. Canada. If there are no special rules to say that the assets being remitted are not taxable, then they are potentially taxable in Thailand. If the tax you paid in Canada is considerably higher than the tax rate in Thailand, you may not need to pay anymore, as the DTA is there to protect you against paying more than the tax rate alreay paid. Even if there is noextra tax to pay, it is likely you will still have to file a tax return.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

Regarding your overseas dividends, as a Thai-tax resident, these are taxable in Thailand if remitted. You can potentially offset taxed owed with tax credits from taxes paid in Australia. Remember, you’re taxed only on the amount remitted to Thailand.

If it can be proven that the work was done overseas, and the salary is not from work conducted in Thailand, then you can justify that it is not liable for tax in Thailand. However, if the work was conducted whilst living and working in Thailand, then it is potentially taxable in Thailand.

In the Australian-Thai DTA, bothvivil service and military pensions are exempt from tax in Thailand.

For more information on the Australia-Thailand DTA and other tax planning information for Australians watch our webinar here. 

If you transfer in the overseas income, this is assessable income. You can use the tax credits for tax paid already on this potentially and you will have to file a tax return. Our Assisted Tax Filing Service is the most suitable for you.

For more information on the Australia-Thailand DTA and other tax planning information for Australians watch our webinar here. 

Yes. This is for the 61 Double Taxation Agreement countries in place. The is a tax credit system with these 61 countries

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

If the assets are classed as assessable income and you are claiming the tax credits, you still have to file a tax return.

You are able to read through the DTA between the US and Thailand for your specific investments, savings or assets.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

We calculate manually the tax paid in the UK over the calendar year, using your tax return/records from April 2024 and then estimate the tax in the UK for the remaining calendar year.

Social security is not taxable in Thailand. It is taxed in the US, which takes precedent over Thailand.

If tax is paid in overseas jurisdiction and then funds are transferred into Thailand, it does not mean that Thailand does not have the right to tax this asset. If the country’s Double Taxation Agreement states that there is no right for Thailand to tax the asset, then it may not be taxable. If that is not the case, and the Double Taxation Agreement says they ‘may’ or ‘potentially’ taxed in that jurisdiction, Thailand can tax you according to Thai foreign-sourced income tax rules. You may be able to use any tax paid as a credit against some of the tax that is owed. Therefore, this does not mean that you do not have to file, and you may potentially still be liable to be taxed in Thailand.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

US Social Security is tax exempt under the USA-Thailand DTA. There are no differences between if you remit monthly or annually.

We recommend you watch our webinar on the USA DTA for more information

This is untrue. If the pension is transferred or remitted into Thailand, there is potentially a tax obligation depending on the specific DTA.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

Certain types of pensions in different countries, such as government or civil service pensions, are not taxable in Thailand, depending on the DTA. UK Army pensions are not taxable in Thailand.

US Social Security is not taxable in Thailand due to the DTA between USA & Thailand.

Veterens pensions are classed as government pensions. Both Social Security and government pensions are excluded from Thai income tax due to the Double Taxation Agreement. You don’t need to file a Thai tax return or get a Tax ID number

In the US DTA, it specifically states that US government and military pensions are not taxable in Thailand. 401k and similar accounts, however, are taxable in Thailand. You can use any tax paid on them as tax credit if they are remitted to Thailand.

No, you are not exempt. Exemption is dependent on whether you remit funds into Thailand or not and whether the remitted assets are excluded in the Thailand UK- DTA. Even if tax is paid on the assets remitted to Thailand, it doesn’t mean you don’t have to file and it doesn’t mean you don’t have a tax implication.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

You will have to file a tax return, but with your allowances and deductions, its likely you won’t have a tax obligation. We can file this for you with our essential tax filing. Here is more information.

Potentially, yes. This is dependent on the tax rate in the UK and if it was remitted into Thailand. State and private pensions in the UK are taxable in Thailand, but you can use tax already paid as a credit. Even if your tax rate is high in the UK, and even if there is no tax to pay in Thailand for your situation, you will still have to file a tax return.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

If the DTA states that it is not assessable income in Thailand, you do not need to file this on a Thai tax return.

Correct, the UK/Thai DTA shows that government services and government pensions are not taxable in Thailand and only in the UK.

The most important factors are how much tax you have paid, and how much have you received. You must calculate the net and gross and consider how much of that was sent to Thailand. You can then use that tax amount to deduct as a credit. It is not as straightforward as just considering a 20% tax rate: you must work out your net and gross from what was actually taxed. You cannot use your UK allowances, you get a Thai tax allowance. You will likely have to file a tax return in Thailand. There could be tax to pay in Thailand depending on the taxable income amount and your existing tax credits.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

Here is the US-Thai Double Taxation agreement. It sets out how certain assets are taxed and the articles in the DTA take precedent over local domestic Thai tax rules. We will host a webinar specifically on the US DTA next month, which I will invite you to join, as many people have had similar questions.

Social Security is mentioned in the DTA and is not taxable in Thailand. Here is the extract from the DTA from article 20 part 2 which mentions that social security shall be taxable only in the USA.

Article 20 (2) Notwithstanding the provisions of paragraph 1, social security benefits and other similar public pensions paid by a Contracting State to a resident of the other Contracting State or a citizen of the United States shall be taxable only in the first- mentioned State.

For 401k’s there is no such article in the DTA. This means that if you remit your 401k into Thailand, then it is an assessable income in Thailand if you are a Thai tax resident.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

Yes, withdrawals from a Roth IRA remitted to Thailand are treated as pension income. The entire amount remitted, not just the gains, is considered taxable income.

Investments are taxed on all-time capital gains. Unlike pre-2024 cash in the bank, investment gains are taxable regardless of when the assets were acquired.

Thailand currently uses a remittance-based tax system. You will only be taxed if you sell the crypto in a Thai tax year, realise a gain, and remit the proceeds to Thailand.

You can read more about cryptocurrency taxation here.

For Thai tax residents, capital gains are calculated based on the gains realised when selling assets. This applies regardless of whether the investments were held before 2024. It does not follow the “cash in the bank” rule.

No, proceeds from selling an asset in a non-Thai tax year are not taxable in Thailand, provided the sale occurred while you were not a Thai tax resident.

It is calculated on the date it arrives in Thailand (the initial date received in your account); the currency is irrelevant, it is the date the funds are remitted and received in Thailand.

If you transfer your investments to Thailand, you may be subject to capital gains tax. Any tax already paid can potentially be used as a credit against the tax owed in Thailand. Remitting funds to Thailand from investments would classify as an assessable income source.

The Canadian / Thai DTA is quite favourable for Thai tax residents. Pensions are only taxable in Canada and for investment capital gains you can use any tax paid in Canada as a credit.

If it can be proven that the work was done overseas, and the salary is not from work conducted in Thailand, then you can justify that it is not liable for tax in Thailand. However, if the work was conducted whilst living and working in Thailand, then it is potentially taxable in Thailand.

You cannot avoid or change the jurisdiction you want to be taxed if you are a Thai tax resident, and you have overseas assets. For example, a UK pensioner cannot easily get an NT tax code while being a Thai tax resident, meaning tax will usually be deducted at the source in the UK. If you then transfer funds into Thailand, it’s taxable, but you can potentially use any tax paid as a credit against taxes owed in Thailand.

Yes, in Thailand, tax residents must pay taxes on their foreign-sourced income remitted to Thailand. This means if you’re considered a tax resident in Thailand—defined as someone who spends 180 days or more in the country in a calendar year—you must include your income from abroad in your annual tax return and pay Thai taxes on it. However, to avoid double taxation (paying taxes on the same income in both Thailand and the country where the income was earned), Thailand has tax treaties with many countries that allow for tax credits or exemptions. It’s important to consult a tax professional to understand how these treaties may apply to your situation and to ensure compliance with Thai tax laws while maximising available benefits.

You can learn more about Thailand’s new rules on foreign-sourced income here. 

Not everything that is transferred into Thailand is taxed. Only assets that are classed as foreign-sourced income are liable to tax.

If you are legally married and the biological parent is not claiming the children as dependents, you can claim allowances for up to three stepchildren.

Yes, allowances are permitted for stepchildren if no other parent claims them and you are legally married to their parent.

If both have income, they must file separately, as joint filing is allowed only when one spouse has no income.

A passport, proof of address, visa details, and income documentation are required. The TIN can be applied for online or in person. Please see our TIN service for fast, simple, stress-free online process. 

No, as long as you can prove the money originated from income earned in Thailand and was not treated as taxable income after being sent overseas. Only the gains or interest earned on the money while overseas would be taxable.

if the sale occurred before becoming a Thai tax resident, the proceeds are not taxable. If the sale is conducted while a tax resident, they are taxable if brought into Thailand. We would recommend that you get professional advice before remitting proceeds from a property sale. More on property here

Filing is unnecessary unless you have domestic income (e.g., rental income) or remitted foreign-sourced income while residing in Thailand.

No, as long as remitted funds can be proven to be pre-2024 savings and not foreign-sourced income like pensions or salaries, you do not need a TIN or to file a tax return.

If you are a Thai tax resident, you need to file a tax return only if:

• You have domestic income, e.g., rental income or salary.
• You remit foreign-sourced income exceeding ฿220,000 (married) or ฿120,000 (single).

UK state pensions are taxable in Thailand if remitted. However, the exact tax treatment depends on the amount remitted due to Thailand’s allowances and deductions, which could mean you have to file but not have tax to pay. If you have less than THB220,000 remitted in a calendar year and are married, or less than THB120,000 if you are single, you do not need to file a Thai tax return for your UK state pension. If it is above these limits then you do, regardless if you have tax to pay or not. 

No, provided the card is cleared using pre-taxed or non-assessable income.

Yes, if used to evade taxes (e.g., paying off the card with untaxed offshore income). Following the spirit of Thai tax rules is essential to avoid penalties if audited.

If the funds are proven to be pre-2024 savings, there is no need to file a tax return. Proper documentation (e.g., first-in, first-out records) is essential.

It depends on your situation. If you’re a Thai tax resident (staying in Thailand for 180 days or more per year), you only need to file a Thai tax return if:

1. You have domestic income (e.g., rental property or salary).
2. You remit foreign-sourced income (e.g., pensions, capital gains, or dividends) above certain thresholds. For married individuals, pensions under 220,000 THB are exempt. For singles, the threshold drops to 120,000 THB for pensions. Other income types have lower thresholds.
   Tags: Filing Requirements, Tax Residency, Pension, Taxable Income, Foreign-Sourced Income

If the savings were accumulated before becoming a Thai tax resident, they are not taxable when remitted. Maintain clear records to prove the source of the funds.

Yes, pre-2024 cash savings can be remitted tax-free in subsequent years if proper documentation is maintained.

Thailand only recognises married couples for tax allowances and deductions.

Yes this is correct, Canadian pensions are not taxable in Thailand and do not need to be filed on a tax return. You still keep your 120k limit

In Thailand, if you earn money by renting out property, you have to pay income tax on that rental income. This tax is progressive, meaning it can range from 0% to 35%, based on your total yearly income, including what you make from renting out property. For renting out non-residential properties, you might also need to pay a business tax called the House and Land Tax, which is 12.5% of the property’s annual rent or its assessed value, whichever is more. Property owners must report their rental earnings each year and pay the necessary taxes to the Thai Revenue Department. Keeping precise records of rental income and related costs is crucial to comply with Thai tax regulations.

The income tax structure in Thailand is progressive, meaning that the rate of taxation increases as income increases. Individuals earning income in Thailand, including foreigners residing in Thailand for more than 180 days a year, are subject to this tax. The rates start at 0% for annual incomes up to 150,000 baht, and increase through several brackets to a maximum of 35% for incomes over 5 million baht. Other than the standard deductions and allowances for personal, spousal, and child care, there are also deductions for expenses such as health insurance, education, and donations to charity. This system aims to balance the tax burden across different income levels while providing incentives for social and personal investments.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

If you do benefit from the gift, it is a gift with reservation of benefit. This means that while you’ve gifted the asset away, you’ve continued to benefit from it in some form. This can potentially be classed as remittance of the income, and the gift can be looked at and reassessed in the future. This means that it is very important that gifts are real gifts that are not going to be benefitted from. It is recommended that if you are to gift assets, you seek advice as it is more complicated than simply sending money to a third party. You need to ideally have evidence on file that this is a formal gift.

Learn more about Gifts and Taxation in Thailand

I’m afraid it is only cash in the bank in your personal bank account

Funds are potentially taxable when they are remitted into Thailand depending on the source of the money and your tax residency status. It does not matter what currency it is held in in Thailand.

If you are the only one with income, then file jointly, and use your wifes allowance. This will give you an extra 60,000 THB of allowances.

In Thailand, your personal income tax is calculated based on a progressive tax rate system, where the amount of tax you owe increases as your income rises. This system is divided into several tax bands, each with its own rate ranging from 0% to 35%. Your annual income is assessed and placed into these bands, with each portion of your income within a specific band being taxed at that band’s rate. Deductions and allowances, such as those for personal and dependent allowances, are subtracted from your gross income to determine your taxable income. This taxable income is then used to calculate the total amount of tax you owe by applying the corresponding tax rate for each portion of your income that falls within the different tax bands.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

In Thailand, the income tax rate for expatriates, much like for local residents, is based on a progressive scale, starting at 0% for those earning up to 150,000 baht and can rise up to 35% for incomes exceeding 5 million baht. Expatriates are considered tax residents if they spend 180 days or more in Thailand within a tax year, which runs from 1 January to 31 December, and are then taxed on their income derived from Thai sources and foreign sourced income remitted to Thailand.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

U.S. expatriates in Thailand might have to pay taxes in Thailand. This depends on their income sources, residency status, and how long they stay. Thailand taxes people based on their residency and where their income comes from. Expats who stay in Thailand for 180 days or more in a year are considered tax residents and must pay taxes on their foreign sourced income remitted to Thailand. Those who don’t meet this residency requirement only pay taxes on the income they make in Thailand. The US/Thai DTA sets out how certain assets are taxed for residents in Thailand and certain exclusions, like US social security.

In Thailand, foreigners are subject to taxation based on their residency status and the source of their income. Expatriates who reside in Thailand for a period of 180 days or more within a calendar year are considered tax residents and are obligated to pay tax on overseas income they bring into Thailand. Conversely, expatriates who stay in Thailand for 179 days or less within a calendar year are only required to pay tax on the income that is sourced within Thailand. The applicable income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 0% to 35%, depending on the amount of taxable income. It is imperative for expatriates to ensure compliance with Thai tax laws to avoid legal complications and penalties.

Learn more about the Thailand Revenue Department’s announcements on foreign sourced income here

My interpretation is that you do not remit any pension funds from Switzerland. If you do not remit or transfer foreign-sourced income into Thailand, then you do not need to file a tax return.

It depends on the source of the savings. Cash In the bank from pre-2024 can be remitted to Thailand and isnt assessable income.

The date of remittance (transfer to Thailand) is when the funds were sent to Bangkok Bank. As this was before January 2024 then this is the date you use, if you convert the currency afterwards then that does not affect or impact this.

In Thailand, expatriates are subject to taxation based on their residency status and the source of their income. Expatriates who reside in Thailand for a period of 180 days or more within a calendar year are considered tax residents and are obligated to pay tax on overseas income they bring into Thailand. Conversely, expatriates who stay in Thailand for 179 days or less within a calendar year are only required to pay tax on the income that is sourced within Thailand. The applicable income tax rates are progressive, ranging from 0% to 35%, depending on the amount of taxable income. It is imperative for expatriates to ensure compliance with Thai tax laws to avoid legal complications and penalties.

Learn more about the Thailand Revenue Department’s announcements on foreign sourced income here

Stocks, investments and pensions are not mentioned in the notable amendment in Order No. P.162/2023. This means they do not follow the pre-2024 rule. For stocks in particular, it does not matter if they were held before 2024 or not. Rather, it depends on the capital gains on the stock since you have owned it.

Listen to a short podcast here to learn more about pre-2024 savings in relation to Thailand’s foreign-source income tax.

This may potentially be classed as a gift. If this was a gift and it will not be returned, you need written evidence of this. It is advisable that you get a gift document drawn up to prove that it is a gift that does not need to be returned.

Learn more about Gifts and Taxation in Thailand

In response to evolving economic conditions, Thailand has introduced a significant tax regulation, effective from 1 January 2024. As announced by the Revenue Department of Thailand, Order No. 16/2023 mandates that Thai tax residents must report and pay income tax on foreign-earned income that is remitted to Thailand. This includes salaries from overseas employment, pensions, investment income such as dividends and capital gains, and rental income from abroad. It is important to note that this change marks a departure from previous tax practices, wherein expatriates were not required to pay Thai income tax on foreign-earned income brought into the country. This rule change affects foreigners and Thai nationals alike and is not a ‘new tax on foreigners’

Learn more about the Thailand Revenue Department’s announcements on foreign sourced income here

If money has been in a bank account since before 1 January 2024 it can be remitted to Thailand at any time in the future without being liable to tax. The notable amendment in Order No. P.162/2023 is the clarification added to the first item of Order No. P.161/2023, which stipulates that the new taxation rule does not affect income earned before 2024. This specific exemption provides a transitional period for taxpayers, allowing them to adapt to the new system without the worry of retrospective taxation.

Gifting means you’ll never benefit from the gift or receive the gift back at any time in the future. You can gift up to 20 million Thai Baht to ascendants or descendants in any tax year before gift tax. It is recommended that if you are to gift assets, you seek advice as it is more complicated than simply sending money to a third party. You need to ideally have evidence on file that this is a formal gift.

Learn more about gift tax for expats in Thailand here. 

In Thailand, the personal tax allowance system incorporates a range of deductions and allowances aimed at reducing taxable income for individuals, including both residents and foreign residents. Standard allowances include personal and spouse allowances of 60,000 Baht each, provided the spouse does not file their own return. Additionally, there is a 30,000 Baht allowance for each child, with an extra 30,000 Baht for the second child born in or after 2018. Deductions for the care of dependent parents or a disabled or incapacitated person offer 30,000 Baht and 60,000 Baht respectively. For employment income, a standard deduction of 50% up to 100,000 Baht is permitted. Other specific deductions cover life and health insurance premiums, contributions to retirement and savings funds, mortgage interest, and charitable contributions, among others. Notably, the system also allows for tax deductions related to health insurance premiums, including premiums for the taxpayer and their parents, with varying limits. The detailed structuring of these allowances and deductions is designed to offer tax relief based on personal circumstances and financial commitments.

Wihtholding tax is not deducted by receiving banks for personal funds remitted to Thailand. Any tax which is due on foreign sourced income remitted to Thailand for Thai tax resident needs to be declared on the tax return.

Based on your information here are the answers:nIf less than 220k of foreign sourced income you don’t need to file.nIf the money is from savings from before 1st January 24 then this is not a foreign sourced income but savings, so doesn’t need to be filed. Foreign sourced income are assets like pension income, capital gains, property rental income etc.. Make sure you keep good records that prove that this money is not a taxable income source.

Yes. Gift tax rules are different to income tax rules. Gift tax rules states you may gift 20 million Thai Baht to family members (ascendants and descendants) and 10 million Thai Baht to anyone else wihtout gift tax. The gift tax rate starts at 5% over this. It is recommended that if you are to gift assets, you seek advice as it is more complicated than simply sending money to a third party. You need to ideally have evidence on file that this is a formal gift.

Learn more about Gifts and Taxation in Thailand

You get the child allowances already in your tax return. If you remit foreign sourced income to the school for school fees or any other purpose to anyone in Thailand, it is assessable income and potentially taxable, even if you send to a third party.

Thailand is considered a moderately taxed country, especially in comparison to Western standards. The country operates a progressive income tax system for individuals, with rates ranging from 0% to 35%. For corporations, the standard corporate income tax rate stands at 20%. Additionally, Thailand imposes a Value-Added Tax (VAT) at a rate of 7% on most goods and services. While there are certain taxes and duties that businesses and individuals must navigate, including stamp duties and specific business taxes, the overall tax burden is generally perceived to be reasonable, making Thailand an attractive destination for both investors and expatriates looking for tax-efficient jurisdictions.

If you have an overseas salary or fees for work conducted in Thailand, they must be declared, and tax paid on this overseas income.

No. Only Thai registered medical insurance plans, can be used as a tax deductible.

In Thailand, the 2024 tax exemption threshold is ฿150,000 for both residents and non-residents. Tax rates range from 5% to 35% for income above this level. A standard personal allowance of THB60,000 also applies. Thai tax residency is generally determined by physical presence, with those staying in Thailand for 180 days or more in a tax year typically qualifying as residents.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

If it is a legitimate gift that you do not benefit from and you can prove that, then this could be interpreted as a gift under the gift tax rules.nBest practice on gifting should include gifting the assets overseas (not directly into Thailand) and having a gift document drawn up and notarised overseas where the gift is made. This should be translated into Thai and filed in case of an audit in the future.nIf you are not filing a tax return, then the Thai revenue auditors can ask for information going back 10 years. It is recommended that if you are to gift assets, you seek advice as it is more complicated than simply sending money to a third party.

Learn more about Gifts and Taxation in Thailand

Starting in 2024, Thailand requires foreign retirees who are tax residents (those staying more than 179 days in a year) to pay taxes on foreign-earned income remitted to Thailand, with rates ranging from 0% to 35% based on the progressive personal income tax scale. This change, which includes pensions, may see taxes levied on these incomes, although Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs) between Thailand and many countries can mitigate this, potentially meaning any tax already paid can be credited against any income tax due. Notably, income accumulated in savings in the bank before moving to Thailand won’t be taxed if it was before the individual became a tax resident. Given the complexity of these new regulations, it’s advisable for foreign retirees to consult with tax professionals to navigate these changes efficiently and ensure compliance with Thai tax laws.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

If the money is in the bank from previous tax years, this can be remitted (transferred) to Thailand anytime In the future without a tax liability.

This depends on what you remit into Thailand and the frequency. If it is one source of income then this will be essential tax filing. If it is multiple sources, then this is THB12,000.

Please feel free to book a call using the link at the top of the page to book a call and discuss your requirements further.

If you remain in Thailand for 180 days or more in a calendar year, retired expats are classes as Thai tax residents. Depending on the source of income for anything remitted to Thailand, they could be liable for taxes in Thailand.

You can find out more about tax residency rules in Thailand by listening to a short podcast here. 

If you have no income, then you do not need to file a tax return, even if you are in Thailand more than 180 days. If you spend less than 180 days in Thailand, then even if you do have foreign sourced income paid into Thailand, you do not need to file a tax return.

If the source of the funds is your personal pension, then by remitting the funds to your wifes Thai account, it doesn’t cause a tax implication for your wife, but still for you who remitted the funds.

Your tax return would need to include both the transfers to your Thai account and to your wife’s Thai account. You cannot simply pass the 300k on to your wife’s personal income tax.

If the work was not conducted In Thailand then as a non-Thai tax resident you can transfer to Thailand without any tax liability

Please obtain a bank statement showing the account balances at 31st December 2023. This cash can then be potentially remitted to Thailand without any tax implications if it was pre-2024. Always put on the remittances ‘pre2024 savings.

Keep good records as you can be audited for up to 10 years.

This will depend on the double taxation agreement between Switzerland and Thailand. You must check for these specific pensions. If it likely if the money is remitted to Thailand then it must be declared and taxed in Thailand, as you are a Thai tax resident.

I recommend you keep the bank statement as you mentioned on your file and don’t transfer any other potentially taxable assets into this account (keep it clean with non-taxable assets) this was it makes reporting and transferring to Thailand simpel and easy to trace.

It depends on where the money is from. If it is income, for example, from investments, a pension or property rental, it is potentially taxable. If it is from savings from pre2024, it is not classified as a taxable asset and is not taxable. Depending on they jurisdiction for where your assets are based, there may be relief under a Double Tax Agreement using tax credits.

This is classed as foreign sourced income and the capital gains needs to be filed in Thailand. Thailand tax residents must pay taxes on their foreign-sourced income remitted to Thailand. This means if you’re considered a tax resident in Thailand—defined as someone who spends 180 days or more in the country in a calendar year—you must include your income remitted from abroad in your annual tax return and pay Thai taxes on it. However, to avoid double taxation (paying taxes on the same income in both Thailand and the country where the income was earned), Thailand has double tax treaties with 61 countries that allow for tax credits or exemptions. It’s important to consult a tax professional to understand how these treaties may apply to your situation and to ensure compliance with Thai tax laws while maximising available benefits.nn

The amount of money you can transfer to Thailand typically depends on the regulations of the sending and receiving banks, as well as any applicable laws in both the sending country and Thailand. Generally, for personal transfers, most banks and financial institutions allow significant sums to be sent; however, for very large transfers, you might need to provide additional documentation to comply with anti-money laundering regulations. The Thai government does not impose a limit on the amount of money that can be received from overseas, but transactions over a certain threshold may need to be reported to the Bank of Thailand. It’s advisable to check with your bank or financial institution for specific limits and requirements, as well as any fees or exchange rate considerations that might affect the transfer. n

Savings in the bank from pre2024 are not a taxable source of income in Thailand. Also you do not have to declare a pension if it is not remitted into Thailand. However, if you do remit that pension, then it becomes a potentially taxable source.

It is prudent to make sure that you aqcuire bank statements as of the 31st December 2023. You can then show in the future that this account is from before the rule changes. It is also important that you do not add new money into this account which is taxable, as it is then difficult to distinguish between non-taxable and taxable assets.

The notable amendment in Order No. P.162/2023 is the clarification added to the first item of Order No. P.161/2023, which stipulates that the new taxation rule does not affect income earned before 2024. This specific exemption provides a transitional period for taxpayers, allowing them to adapt to the new system without the worry of retrospective taxation. Money that is in the bank from 2023 or before can be transferred in the future without any tax liability.

Listen to a short podcast here to learn more about pre-2024 savings in relation to Thailand’s foreign-source income tax.

If the money is remitted from pre-2024 savings, it doesn’t need to be declared or filed because it is not a taxable income source. The notable amendment in Order No. P.162/2023 is the clarification added to the first item of Order No. P.161/2023, which stipulates that the new taxation rule does not affect income earned before 2024. This specific exemption provides a transitional period for taxpayers, allowing them to adapt to the new system without the worry of retrospective taxation.

You can learn more about pre-2024 savings in relation to Thailand’s foreign-source income tax by listening to a short podcast here.

The 190k is on top of the 60k personal allowance.

The spouse allowance is if they are not working and you want to file jointly.

So if you and your wife are over 65

190k
60k
60k

THB310k of assessable income can be remitted before the tax brackets.

Plus any other deductions or allowances (like Thai medical insurance)

Then the first 150k is tax exempt. So you can in effect bring in 460k THB of foreign sourced income or assessable income and not pay tax.

You do have to file if the income is greater than 220k jointly.

Loans are not taxable in Thailand, so if there is a loan agreement drawn up and it is a real loan that is being remitted, then it’s not a taxable asset. It is best to check with a tax advisor or accountant that the loan meets the criteria first before remitting to Thailand. It is very important that you keep the documents on file because there could be serious tax implications if not.

You will have to file a tax return, as this is over the single filing limit of THB120k and the married filing limit of THB220k.

This doesn’t mean you have to pay tax. It depends on your other allowances and deductions.

You can find out more about Thailand’s tax rates, allowances and deductions here or if you prefer to listen to a short podcast here

In Thailand, if you reside in the country for 180 days or more in a year, you are considered a tax resident. This means you have to pay tax on income you earn both inside and outside Thailand. However, income earned outside Thailand is taxed only if remitted to Thailand. If you do not reside in Thailand for 180 days or more, you only pay tax on the income you earn in Thailand.n

If you are a Thai tax resident (180 days or more) And transfer in or spend on an ATM any funds from overseas that are classed as foreign sourced income, then this is potentially taxable. It doesn’t matter what the money is used for. I recommend you watch our videos on this subject or podcasts which explain what is classed as taxable transfers

Not everything that is transferred into Thailand is taxed. Only assets that are classed as foreign-sourced income are liable to tax.

Gifts are not taxed as personal income, but under gift tax rules. It is not a solution to ‘resolve’ tax implications if you are going to benefit from this in the future.

You should seek advice before using this as a tax planning strategy, as this doesn’t seem like a gift as you mentioned you will receive the money back. This is called a ‘gift with reservation of benefit’ and is not a gift.

You can gift assets, if you don’t benefit from the gift at anytime in the future and it is a legitimate gift. You cannot be seen to benefit from the gift and its best practice to get a gift document drafted and signed by a laywer that this is a gift and you will not benefit from this.

We recommend that you gift the assets overseas and draw up a gift document with a lawyer in the juridiction you gift the asset. Then get this notarised, and translated into Thai and kept on file.

Please seek advice if you are going to look at gifting.

You might find out article on gift tax useful additional information. 

Only if it is a gift with no benefit for yourself and you never to benefit from this money. Otherwise it’s a gift with reservation of benefit and its not a gift. I don’t recommend this strategy if you will benefit.

We recommend that you gift the assets overseas and draw up a gift document with a lawyer in the juridiction you gift the asset. Then get this notarised, and translated into Thai and kept on file. Also you cannot benefit from the gift at anytime in the future.

If you are benefitting from the money transferred in then this is still remittance. If you are not benefitting then this is a gift.

Learn more about Gifts and Taxation in Thailand

The conservative approach to gift assets is to give the assets overseas to the recipient, draw up a gift document demonstrating that the gift will not be returned, and get this notarised by a lawyer in the country the gift was given in. Once this is done, translate the document into Thai and get this held on file. Then, have the person that the gift is given to remit the funds into Thailand. It is recommended that if you are to gift assets, you seek advice as it is more complicated than simply sending money to a third party.

We’ll still file your return using the required information you provided in your organiser. If you do not provide the recommended supporting documents, we won’t be able to confirm accuracy or provide advice. If audited later, you’ll need to supply proof yourself.

We recommend keeping them for at least 10 years. While the standard Thai statute of limitations is 5 years, this can be extended to 10 years in serious cases. Keeping your records for the full 10 years is the safest approach.

No. We only submit the required filing data and any required certificates (e.g., TAWI50 for interest). Other supporting documents are stored securely in your portal and only submitted if there is an audit or specific request.

In this case, only gains, such as interest earned abroad, are taxable.

We are happy to confirm that UK military disblement pension and all UK government service pensions are excluded from tax in Thailand. They are not assessable income and do not have to be declared on a tax return. We advise keeping relevany documents to hand in the event you are asked.

Generally, defence/military pensions are taxed in the originating country if a Double Tax Agreement (DTA) with Thailand explicitly excludes them from Thai taxation. Countries like the US, Australia, the UK, Canada, and most EU countries typically include such exclusions.

If the trading is conducted outside Thailand, tax applies on gains on assets sold and brought into Thailand.

No, under the US-Thailand DTA, Social Security income is not taxable in Thailand.

Yes, under the UK-Thailand DTA, teachers’ pensions are not assessable income in Thailand. This applies to other government services pensions as well.

Offshore income earned before becoming a Thai tax resident (e.g., pre-2024 savings) is not taxable in Thailand if the cash was held before the residency start date. Accurate records must be maintained to prove the source of funds.

No, remittance exemptions for property purchases are not available. Taxation depends on the source of funds.

No, pre-2024 savings remain non-taxable if remitted in future years, provided proper records are maintained.

Foreign income remitted during non-residency (less than 180 days) is not taxable.

UK defined contribution pensions  are assessable income in Thailand if remitted. You can use any UK tax paid as a credit.

Thailand is a remittance tax basis (so its taxable if its sent to Thailand). If the investments are transferred to Thailand then this is an assessable income source and taxable on the capital gains.

This isnt inheritance, it would be a gift. You can gift your children assets if you wish, up to THB20m per annum. You should draw up a gift document and have this notarised. I recommend you gift the funds overseas and they remit the funds into Thailand.

Read our Expat’s Guide to Thailand Inheritance Tax to learn more. 

If the money earned online by a Thai tax resident was conducted while living in Thailand, it is fully taxable as foreign-sourced income regardless if it was remitted or not. It needs to be declared on the tax return.

UK rental property income is a assessable income source in Thailand. You can use tax paid as a credit against some or all of the potential tax owed.

You can learn more about tax assessable foreign-sources income here

Yes, these are taxable if remitted to Thailand. You are taxed on the capital gains.

If you sell your ISA when you are a Thai tax resident, then anytime In the future that the funds are transferred to Thailand the capital gains are potentially taxable.

Yes, rental property income in Thailand is a taxable asset and needs to be reported on the mid-year tax return.

UK defined benefit company pension are assessable income in Thailand if remitted. (You can use any tax paid as a credit.

Correct, if you are non-tax resident at the time of sale, then this can be remitted to Thailand without a tax implication

For bonds, tax is calculated on the capital gains that are remitted to Thailand. This concerns the time you’ve held the structure and what the gains are on the overall structure. You cannot separate yourself, capital, interest and income. It is calculated on the amount of gains within the whole bond or investment structure.

An Australian Veterans’ Affairs Disability Pension is typically classified as a government pension.  This type of pension is paid by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA)  It is distinct from superannuation or private retirement pensions as it serves as compensation for service-related injuries rather than retirement income.

In the context of Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs), a Veterans’ Affairs Disability Pension is typically regarded as a government pension. Our understanding is this is not taxable in Thailand under the Aus / Thai DTA.

You may find our webinar on the Thailand-Australia Double Tax Treaty useful; you can watch it here. 

Any funds remitted into Thailand from investments are taxed on the capital gains within the structure, since the start of the structure. This needs to be filed on the tax return and evidence provided. There maybe tax credits available if tax has been paid in the other jurisdiction, depending on the DTA between that country and Thailand.

Yes, this asset is a taxable income source when remitted into Thailand, It must be declared.

Learn more about tax assessable foreign-sources income here

If the money is still in a cash account and you can prove that that money was from your taxed Thai earnings, then this should be sufficient.

This article just means that Thailand is a remittance tax basis.. which means you’re only taxed on assets transferred to Thailand. If they are earned outside and not remitted (transferred in) then they are potentially not taxable, depending on the type of income.

Share sales into UK bank account transferred to Thailand using Wise are assessable for tax on the capital gains. You can use any capital gains tax paid in the UK as a credit

Foreign equities, like capital gains on overseas investments, are taxed on the capital gains on the structure since you have held it, not since you have become a Thai tax resident.

Learn more about tax assessable foreign-sources income here

It depends on the source of the funds. If it is from taxable income when you were a Thai tax resident then this is classed as remittance

If you meet the criteria of a Thai tax resident (180 days or more in a calendar year) and you transfer (remit) the your superannuation pension to Thailand, then this is classed as assessable income. This means that if the amount of assessable income remitted to Thailand in a calendar year is over THB220,000 as a married joint filing with a non-working spouse, or THB120,000 for single filing then you will have to file a Thai tax return. You can use the Thai allowances and deductions available..

You may find our webinar on the Thailand-Australia Double Tax Treaty useful; you can watch it here. 

In Thailand, the tax implications of selling a house can vary based on several factors, including the duration of ownership and the type of property. Generally, sellers are subject to several potential taxes: Transfer Fee (2% of the registered value), Stamp Duty (0.5% unless exempt, in which case a Specific Business Tax of 3.3% applies), Withholding Tax (calculated at a flat rate of 15% of the assessed or actual selling price for corporations, or under a progressive income tax rate for individuals), and Capital Gains Tax, which is often considered under the Withholding Tax for individuals. The exact tax liability can depend on whether the seller is a company or an individual, the length of property ownership, and any applicable exemptions or deductions. It’s advisable for sellers to consult with a tax professional to understand their specific tax obligations and potential exemptions that may apply to their situation.

Social Security is not an assessable income source in Thailand due to the US & Thai Double Taxation agreement. This means Thailand has no right to tax this.

401k is an assessable income in Thailand if remitted. If you do remit your 401k to Thailand, then this is assessable as income. You can offset any taxes with the taxes paid on this money in the US as a tax credit.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

As you are exempted from the income tax in your home country, its likely all of the income is taxable as earned income in Thailand. If the work was conducted while residing in Thailand, it is likely that all of the income is taxable.

Yes, Thailand is a remittance tax basis, so you are liable for tax on the capital gains, if they are remitted / transferred into Thailand. If they are not transferred to Thailand, they are not a taxable income source.

Foreign-sourced income is a taxable asset if remitted to Thailand for Thai tax residents.

Learn more about the Thailand Revenue Department’s announcements on foreign sourced income here

If it isnt remitted to Thailand, it doesn’t have to be declared as it is not an assessable income source as it is a remittance tax basis.

You can find out more about cryptocurrency tax in Thailand here 

Thailand doesn’t tax crypto at 15%. It deducts 15% witholding tax at source, it is not the same thing. You still need to file gains remitted to Thailand on your personal income tax return.

You can find out more about cryptocurrency tax in Thailand here 

It does not matter what the purpose of a transfer of funds is, but, rather, the source of the funds originally. For example, if it’s from a pension, income or investments it is taxable, it is from saving or income earned before becoming a tax resident it is not.

This is a general overseas investment account. You will be potentially taxed on funds that are remitted to Thailand. You are taxed on the capital gains. If you do not remit the funds to Thailand, they are not liable for tax in Thailand and do not need to be declared. If you do remit the funds to Thailand,and there have been capital gains, this needs to be declared on your tax return.

It does not matter what year the funds are remitted, but rather if you were a Thai tax resident when the income was earned. If you are a Thai tax resident in 2024 with UK income that is not remitted to Thailand, and you remit it in 2026, then it is potentially taxable in Thailand.

Thai tax residents are liable for tax on foreign sourced income if remitted to Thailand. From January 1, 2024, new tax rules apply to income from outside Thailand. If you’re a Thai tax resident and you bring in more than 120,000 THB (or 220,000 THB for married couples) from foreign retirement income to Thailand, you will need to file a Thai tax return. You do get Thai allowances and deductions, and can potentially use tax paid on that retirement income as a tax credit against tax owed in Thailand, but this depends on the specific DTA between the jurisdication where your retirement pension is based and Thailand.

Learn more about tax filing requirements for expats in Thailand by listening to this short podcast. 

Stocks and shares, are taxed on the capital gains if they are remitted to Thailand. It is calculated since the date you have held the shares, not 31st December 2023.nn

Thailand will not tax you. It depends on whether your residency status in the UK to whether they will tax you.

This is classed as assessable income if it is remitted to Thailand at anytime in the future.

This is dependent on the source of the income, whether it’s from assets like pension, income, investments, or capital gains. This is important so you can know if you have to file a tax return.

Yes, UK pensions are subject to taxation in Thailand if you are a Thai Tax resident, which is defined as someone living in Thailand for 180 days or more in a calendar year. Thailand taxes residents on foreign sourced income remitted to Thailand. This includes UK pensions. If you transfer the UK pension to Thailand it is taxable. However, there is a double taxation agreement (DTA) between the UK and Thailand, which aims to prevent the same income from being taxed in both countries. This agreement may allow for some relief or exemptions, depending on the nature of the pension and other individual circumstances. It is advisable to consult with a tax professional to understand how the DTA applies to your specific situation and to ensure compliance with both UK and Thai tax laws. If it is a State pension or private pension, these are both taxable in Thailand. You can use any tax paid already as a credit against any tax owed in Thailand.

Learn more about Double Tax Agreements for expats in Thailand by watching our video here. 

It is up to you to go through these funds and calculate what are the capital gains, dividends and interests on those assets. You need to keep clear records for each asset type. Remember it is up to the tax payer to prove what the source of remittance is from and how they are to be taxed.

Read our A Guide to Understanding Assessable Foreign-Sourced Income in Thailand to learn more. 

No, inheritance is not taxed as income tax and does not need to be reported on an income tax return.

Read our Expat’s Guide to Thailand Inheritance Tax to learn more. 

There are many factors here such as if you are a Thai tax resident (180 days or more) and what type of structure you hold. If it is an investment account and you sell assets and transfer to Thailand, then you are liable for the percentage capital gains on the investment. You need to check the DTA to see how your asset is treated.You may find our webinar on the Thailand-Australia Double Tax Treaty useful; you can watch it here. 

You may find our webinar on the Thailand-Australia Double Tax Treaty useful; you can watch it here.

Superannuation is classed as pension income. I have a video explainer video for the Australian / Thai Double Taxation agreement. Here is the video https://youtu.be/y1chBfp8_XE

If you withdraw and remit (transfer to Thailand) AUD6,000 per month, then AUD72k (1.7m THB) is assessable income.

You can deduct off your allowances and deductions, then you will follow the Thai tax tables.

If you living in Thailand for 180 days or more in a calendar year and you transfer (remit) in more than THB120,000 (or THB220,000 for married couples) per year of foreign-sourced income from outside Thailand, you’ll need to file a tax return for 2024.

This includes UK pensions. You can use any tax you have paid as credit against tax owed in Thailand, but it doesn’t mean you don’t have to file and you may have further tax to pay.

If you are a Thai tax resident, it is only remittance that becomes assessable. If funds are left overseas, they are not taxed in Thailand. However, if funds are remitted into Thailand, it is potentially taxable. There are no exemptions for pensions for pre-2024 values. You can find detailed guidance on what constitutes assessable income here. 

This depends if your UNICEF pension is tax exempt in Thailand. This is not in the revenue code and you will have to get written confirmation that this is tax exempt. We can help you obtain this / ask for this is you wish.

In Thailand, capital gains are subject to taxation, but the specifics depend on the nature of the gain and the taxpayer. Generally, capital gains earned by individuals from the sale of shares and property are subject to personal income tax, with rates varying from 0% to 35% based on the individual’s total annual income. However, for residents, capital gains from securities traded on the Stock Exchange of Thailand are exempt from tax. Capital gains from overseas investments are taxed if remitted into Thailand.

This is dependent on where and how the gold is held. It is potentially taxable if it’s overseas in an investment account and you have a gold ETF. If it makes a profit and you sell that asset and remit into Thailand, you will be taxed on capital gains. You cannot use losses to offset future gains or for other assets or asset classes. There maybe tax credits available if tax has been paid in the other jurisdiction, depending on the DTA between that country and Thailand.

Learn more about tax assessable foreign-sources income here

Yes, dividends are taxed in Thailand. The rate of taxation can vary depending on whether the recipient is a resident or non-resident individual or a corporation, as well as other factors such as the source of the dividend income. Generally, for individual shareholders, dividends received from Thai companies are subject to a withholding tax, which may be credited against their personal income tax liability. Dividends from overseas are taxable if remitted to Thailand.

The rules are clear if you are a Thai tax resident then you are liable for capital gains tax on the property, depending on the DTA.

Both your state pension And private pensions are classed as assessable income If you transfer To Thailand. You will likely have To file a tax return. Our Assisted Tax Filing Service will help you to claim the tax credits for tax paid In the UK. This is called assisted tax filing. Click here to learn about foreign sourced assessable income.

No you do not have to file a tax return for non-assessable income.

Fixed deposits are taxed on the capital gains that have been made and what percentage of the gains are remitted into Thailand. You will have to declare this on your tax return. There maybe tax credits available if tax has been paid in the other jurisdiction, depending on the DTA between that country and Thailand.

If you have investments and have not made a profit, so there is only capital and no gain, you can potentially remit that into Thailand without any tax implication or obligation. It is best to check this with a tax advisor before remitting the funds if you are unsure.

Learn more about assessable foreign-sources income here

Under domestic Thai personal income tax rules for Thai tax residents (180 days or more in Thailand) you are liable to pay income tax on any pensions remitted to Thailand. You can use any tax already paid as a credit, but as you mentioned this doesn’t help with Superanuation pensions.

Anything remitted to Thailand is taxed as assessable income. It is not on the capital gains, it is a pension, therefore the pension amount you transfer to Thailand is assessable income in Thailand. You get your Thai allowances and deductions and can also deduct up to THB100,000 off the pension before using the tax tables.

It is only the UK government pension which is only taxable in the UK. If you remit the property rental income then this is assessable income in Thailand

This is assessable income. Its likely with your allowances and deductions you will have a little of no tax to pay. We can help you file this with our ‘Essential tax filing’ which is THB7,500 per year.

For more information for Australians watch our webinar here. 

This would potentially cause the assets capital gains to be assessable income. You will need to check the DTA to see how properties are treated for tax purposes.

Tax liability is dependent on the source of the money that is remitted into Thailand. It does not matter what the purpose of a transfer of funds is, but, rather, the source of the funds originally. For example, if it’s from a pension, income or investments it is taxable, it is from saving or income earned before becoming a tax resident it is not.

Unfortunately, you can’t select whether you send capital or income to Thailand from an investment.

The UK state pension is considered assessable income in Thailand if remitted. You can use any tax paid as a credit.

Inheritance from someone living outside Thailand is not subject to Thai income tax. However, it’s important to keep detailed records of the transaction. I also recommend keeping this inheritance separate from any taxable assets in the bank account where it is deposited.

If funds are savings from pre-2024 or inheritance, it does not need to be filed and you do not need to submit a tax return for those assets. You will need to keep clear records showing the moneys original source in case you are asked in the future.

Listen to a short podcast here to learn more about pre-2024 savings in relation to Thailand’s foreign-source income tax.

This depends on the type of pension that you have. If this is a government pension or civil service pension there are exclusions for tax under the double taxation agreement. If it is a Superannuation, annuity or age pension, then these are assessable income sources if remitted to Thailand if you are a Thai tax resident (180 days or more in Thailand in a calendar year)

You may find our webinar on the Thailand-Australia Double Tax Treaty useful; you can watch it here. 

There is no rule within the Income Tax law in Thailand on credit card use, unlike other countries such as Singapore and the UK. This creates a problem as it becomes open to interpretation. It is important to consider whether overseas credit card transactions are within the spirit of the tax law, and what they are being used for. If it is to circumvent tax, it will be looked through and trated as remitted income. Ultimately, it is up to the tax payer to follow the remittance tax rules in Thailand and keep good records.

No. The purpose is not relevant, the question is what is the source of the money remitted into Thailand. If it is foreign sourced income then it is assessable income.

Yes you do, it is a different form and depending on the visa you may haver no tax liability.

How funds are treated depends on the source of the money remitted. Not all money remitted into Thailand is treated as income. This depends on whether the money was in the bank before becoming a tax resident and also if it was from non-income tax sources like inheritance for example.

Income paid into the account from 1 January 2024 onwards will be classed as assessable income if remitted to Thailand.

This is dependent on which airline is used. If booked through a Thai airline and paid through a Thai office, then this is remittance of foreign-sourced income and is taxable.

If you were a Thai tax resident when the income was paid into the account, then if you remit this into Thailand at any time in the future, this is liable for income tax in the year it is remitted. This started from 1st January 2024 onwards.

Credit cards and debit cards are quite a grey area, as they are not specified in the Thai income tax law. Under audit, if it is seen that these are being used for day-to-day expenses and living, then credit card usage is likely to be classed as remittance. If you use your debit card, it depends on the source of the funds in the debit account. If it is classified as foreign-sourced income, then it is assessable income.

It depends on the source of the money that you remit and whether they are classed as foreign sourced income. Thailand tax residents are liable for taxes on their foreign-sourced income remitted to Thailand. This means if you’re considered a tax resident in Thailand—defined as someone who spends 180 days or more in the country in a calendar year—you must include your income remitted from abroad in your annual tax return and pay Thai taxes on it. However, to avoid double taxation (paying taxes on the same income in both Thailand and the country where the income was earned), Thailand has double tax treaties with 61 countries that allow for tax credits or exemptions. It’s important to consult a tax professional to understand how these treaties may apply to your situation and to ensure compliance with Thai tax laws while maximising available benefits.

You will have to file a tax return, but with your allowances and deductions, its likely you won’t have a tax obligation. We can file this for you with our essential tax filing. Here is more information.

Non-residents (under 180 days) are not required to file unless they have Thai domestic income.

If one spouse has no income, you may file jointly and claim a 60,000 THB allowance for the non-earning spouse. If both have incomes, you must file separately.

Generally, no. If you are not a Thai tax resident (fewer than 180 days), you are not subject to Thai tax obligations unless you have Thai-sourced income, such as Thai rental property income or a local salary.

Foreign income remitted during non-residency (less than 180 days) is not taxable.

Being a Thai tax resident is dependant on the number of days you reside in Thailand, rather than your Visa status. If you remit foreign sourced income to Thailand and it’s over the minimum requirements, you may have to file and you may have a tax liability.nn

To become a tax resident in Thailand, an individual must be present for a total of 180 days or more in a calendar year. This establishes the individual’s liability for paying taxes on foreign-sources income remitted to Thailand. It’s crucial for prospective tax residents to accurately track their days in the country and to familiarise themselves with Thailand’s tax regulations, including the need to file an annual income tax return if their remitted income exceeds the minimum threshold.

Learn more about Thailand tax residency by listening to a short podcast here. 

Before remitting large sums of money, please seek advice and a consultation before acting. In principle if you are a non-Thai tax resident, you can remit the assets to Thailand as a non-Thai tax resident, or just keep the money in an account in Australia. This can be remitted in the future as the ‘crystalisation event’ took place when you were a non-Thai tax resident. I recommend that you seek advice and clarity before acting.

You may find our webinar on the Thailand-Australia Double Tax Treaty useful; you can watch it here. 

It depends on the type of structure you hold. Cash in the bank from previous tax years when you were a non-Thai tax resident is not assessable income. If it is an invesment fund then you would be liable for the capital gains on the investment fund, not from the date you moved to Thailand. In most cases there is no relief for when you were a non-tax resident. Please seek a 1-1 consultation to discuss specifics and before taking action.

You can get a tax ID number (TIN) regardless of whether you have a work permit or not, and you need to file if you have over TBH120,000 of income in tax year, regardless whether you have a work permit or not. If people would like help with this we have a paid service to obtain on their behalf.

If you are in Thailand for under 180 days per calendar year, you are a non-tax resident and you do not have to file a Thai tax return for foreign-sourced income. If you have income within Thailand, you may need to still file a return.

Learn more about Thailand tax residency by listening to a short podcast here. 

If you remain in Thailand for 180 days or more in a year, you are considered a Thai tax resident. As a Thai tax resident, you are liable for income tax on foreign sourced income remitted to Thailand.

Learn more about Thailand tax residency by listening to a short podcast here. 

You can have a TIN and not be a tax resident in a following year correct.

Income from years when one is not a tax resident can be remitted into Thailand anytime in the future. Individuals are only liable for tax on assets that are remitted to Thailand when you are a tax resident. It is advised to keep very good records to prove this if asked in the future.

A Thai tax resident is someone who spends 180 days or more in Thailand in the calendar year.

Learn more about Thailand tax residency by listening to a short podcast here. 

Being a non-tax resident depends on the amount of days you are in the country, but you have to be careful that you don’t accidentally become a tax resident in a jurisdication which could have a tax implication. If you are planning to become a non-tax resident and transfer assets to Thailand, I recommend you seek advice regarding where  you will remain for the rest of the year before doing so.

We need more context around this to give a definitive answer, but in principle you could sell the asset while you are a non-Thai tax resident. You need to check the DTA in place between the country where the house is situated and Thailand.

You are a Thai tax resident if you remain 180 or more days a calendar year. You do not need to apply for a Thai Tax ID number if you do not have Thai tax liability. If you do have income over THB120,000 in a calendar year remitted to Thailand, then you need to file a tax return and will need to get a Tax ID Number (TIN) You can get this from your local revenue office. If people would like help with this we have a paid service to obtain on their behalf.

Learn more about Thailand tax residency by listening to a short podcast here. 

If you do not spend 180 days or more in Thailand per year, you are considered a non-Thai tax resident. Foreign-sourced income that is remitted into Thailand is not a taxable asset. However, if you have an income in Thailand, you are liable for tax.

Learn more about Thailand tax residency by listening to a short podcast here. 

You can use the property to qualify for the property investment requirement, but as it is in joint-ownership between you and your wife, half of the purchase price can be used towards the investment requirement for the LTR as the property is considered to be shared 50:50 between the applicant and spouse.

Any property needs to be in the applicant’s name to qualify as an investment under the requirements of the LTR. Therefore, the condo in your wife’s name cannot be used.

No it doesn’t, but it does have a favourable tax rate. There are 4 LTR Visa types and the Highly Skilled Professionals LTR Visa is intended for individuals who have their main income earned while working within Thailand. This category has a flat personal income tax rate of 17% rather than a tax exemption on foreign remittances.

You can learn more about the tax benefits of Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa here. 

If you are a Thai tax resident (180 days or more) and transfer in, carry across the border or spend on an ATM any funds from overseas that are classed as foreign sourced income, then this is potentially taxable. It doesn’t matter what the money is used for.

I recommend you watch our videos on this subject or podcasts which explain what is classed as taxable transfers

Witholding tax is not deducted by the receiving bank. Taxpayers must use personal income tax returns to declare any tax due.

Yes the Wealthy Pensioner LTR is exempt from foreign sourced income if remitted the following tax year.

There are two types of LTR visas which are exempt from foreign-sourced income with a royal decree: Wealthy Global Citizen and Wealthy Pensioner.

You can learn more about the tax benefits of Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa here. 

No. A tax declaration or Tax ID Number (TIN) is not a current requirement for visa renewals in Thailand. If one has Thai tax obligations, then they’d be required to file a tax return, but this is not necessary for a Visa if they do not have personal income tax filing need.

No. There is only one type of visa that is now exempt from foreign-sourced income tax, which is the LTR visa.

You can learn more about the tax benefits of Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa here. 

This may be the right option for certain people, depending on their circumstances. However, you must meet the criteria and requirements for the LTR.

You can find out more about the tax benefits of Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa here. 

A tax declaration or Tax ID Number (TIN) is not a current requirement for visas in Thailand. Please register for our tax alerts to stay informed of any changes.