Expat Jobs in Thailand – Foreigner Work Guide 2025

Thailand’s got it all – fantastic weather, affordable living, and incredible food. But when it comes to working here? That’s not so simple.

My family and I moved here in 2019, working remotely while raising our kids. We’ve met plenty of expats along the way – some doing great in teaching, business, hospitality, real estate, and remote work. Others struggle with visa problems, job scams, and expectations that don’t match reality.

Let me break down what you really need to know about finding work, getting proper visas, understanding salaries, and adapting to the work culture here.

Expat Jobs in Thailand: The Current Job Scene

According to the Thai Ministry of Labour, there are about 150,000 registered foreign workers in Thailand. The real number’s likely higher since many expats work remotely or run online businesses without formal registration.

Here’s how the jobs break down:

• Education makes up 40% of expat work
• Corporate roles take 25%
• Tourism and hospitality cover 15%
• IT and digital jobs account for 10%

Most foreign professionals work in Bangkok, while Chiang Mai has become a hub for remote workers and digital nomads. In Phuket and Koh Samui, hospitality jobs are the main deal. With 35 million tourists visiting Thailand each year, there’s a steady demand for English-speaking workers in hotels and travel agencies.

But here’s the reality check – only about 10% of job-seeking expats manage to get legal work permits each year. The process isn’t easy, but there are ways to make it work.

Understanding Thailand’s Job Market

As Thailand’s economy grows, more jobs open up for foreigners. But keep in mind that not every job is open to foreigners here. The Thai government has specific regulations about which job positions foreign nationals can legally hold. There’s actually a list of jobs that are reserved for Thai citizens only – things like hairdressing, market selling, farming, office admin work, and most manual labor jobs.

Best Jobs for Foreigners

Let me walk you through the jobs that actually work for expats here. These aren’t just possibilities – they’re roles where I’ve personally seen friends and colleagues succeed and build good lives.

1. Teaching English

Teaching English as a foreign language is the most common expat job in Thailand, and for good reason. There’s a strong demand, and you don’t need years of experience to start. Here’s what you need to know:

What you’ll need:

• A bachelor’s degree in any subject
• A TEFL, TESOL, or CELTA certificate helps a lot
• Some international schools want a teaching license from your home country

The pay varies quite a bit:

• International schools pay best (100,000+ THB ($2,840+) monthly) but want real teaching experience.
• Private schools offer around 30,000-50,000 THB ($850-$1,415) monthly.
• Public schools pay 30,000-40,000 THB ($850-$1,130) monthly but give long holidays.
• Universities might pay up to 60,000 THB ($1,700) monthly but usually want a master’s degree.

You can also do private tutoring or teach online through platforms like VIPKid. Being a native speaker gives you an edge, but I know several non-native speakers who’ve found good teaching jobs, too – it just takes more persistence.

2. Tech & Digital Jobs

If you work in tech, Thailand can be an ideal base. The internet is fast, living costs are low, and there’s a solid community of tech professionals here. Whether you want a full-time job or prefer working from cafes, you’ve got options.

What’s in demand:

• Software developers – web, mobile, and backend development
• UX/UI designers and digital marketers
• Cybersecurity experts
• SEO specialists and content strategists

The tech scene here breaks down into three main paths:

1. Working remotely for overseas companies
2. Joining a local startup
3. Getting hired by international companies with Thai offices

Salaries vary widely:

• International companies offer the best pay and benefits
• Local startups pay less but often have a more relaxed culture
• Remote work lets you earn foreign wages while living here

Where to look for tech jobs:

• Iglu – they hire tech workers and handle your work permit
• LinkedIn – lots of remote positions open to people in Thailand
• Local startup events in Bangkok and Chiang Mai

A few tech friends work for international companies and earn over 150,000 THB monthly. But most tech workers I know are remote employees or freelancers, trading slightly lower pay for more flexibility.

3. Hospitality & Tourism

Tourism is huge in Thailand, and it creates solid opportunities for expats. Hotels, travel companies, and tour operators often need foreign staff who understand international guests.

Best roles for foreigners:

• Hotel management and guest relations
• Travel agency sales (especially if you speak multiple languages)
• Tour operations – adventure tours, diving, yacht charters
• Event planning for destination weddings and corporate retreats

Where the jobs are:

• Bangkok – corporate hotel jobs and travel company headquarters
• Phuket – luxury resorts, diving, and yacht tourism
• Chiang Mai – boutique hotels and wellness tourism
• Koh Samui – resort management and hospitality

The catch? Tourism here is seasonal. November to March is peak season when most hiring happens. Jobs during low season (April to October) are harder to find but often offer more stability.

Pay ranges from 40,000 to 150,000 THB monthly, depending on your role and location. Management positions at international hotels pay best, while smaller tour companies offer lower starting salaries but often include perks like free accommodation.

4. Business & Corporate Jobs

Looking for a more traditional career path? Bangkok’s corporate scene has opportunities in marketing, sales, and management. These jobs typically offer better pay and stability than other sectors.

What’s available:

• Marketing and brand management
• International sales and business development
• Finance and consulting roles
• Project management
• HR for international companies

Most corporate jobs are in Bangkok, where multinational companies have their Thai offices. The pay is good – usually between 60,000 to 250,000 THB monthly, plus benefits like health insurance and housing allowances.

Where to find these jobs:

• LinkedIn works best for corporate roles
• Local recruitment agencies like Michael Page
• Networking events in Bangkok
• Company websites – check Agoda, Google, Grab

You’ll need solid experience and usually a degree. Speaking Thai isn’t always required, but it helps. Competition is tough, but international companies often prefer candidates with global experience.

5. Freelancing & Remote Work

Want more freedom? Freelancing from Thailand can work really well. Living costs are low, internet is reliable, and there’s a big community of remote workers here.

Popular freelance work:

• Content writing and copywriting
• Web design and development
• Digital marketing and SEO
• Online teaching and coaching
• Translation services

The best part? You can earn foreign rates while enjoying Thai living costs. This is called ‘geoarbitrage’—earning in a strong currency while living in a country with lower living costs. Many freelancers I know make between $2,000-5,000 monthly, which goes a long way here.

I even wrote a guide on how to become a digital nomad copywriter, sharing my personal story and tips on getting you started.

Where to work:

• Chiang Mai has a huge digital nomad scene
• Bangkok offers lots of modern coworking spaces
• Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and other islands if you want beach life

Just remember – freelancing means handling your own visa situation. Many people use tourist visas or education visas while working remotely for overseas clients, but it’s worth checking the latest rules.

Finding Work in Thailand

Landing a job here takes more than just sending out resumes. Here’s what actually works.

Job Search Basics

Most expat jobs get posted on:

• LinkedIn – best for corporate and tech jobs
• JobsDB – lots of teaching and hospitality roles
• Glassdoor – good for international companies
• Ajarn.com – specifically for teaching jobs

Each platform has its strengths. LinkedIn works best for professional roles, while JobsDB tends to have more local opportunities. Most jobs are in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.

The Power of Connections

Here’s something I learned quickly: in Thailand, personal connections often matter more than your resume. Some of the best jobs never make it to job boards – they’re filled through word of mouth and personal recommendations. That’s why networking isn’t just helpful here – it’s essential.

The expat community in Thailand is surprisingly tight-knit. Most cities have active Facebook groups where job opportunities frequently pop up. These aren’t just entry-level positions either – I’ve seen everything from marketing director roles to startup opportunities shared in these groups. The key is to be active in these communities before you actually need a job.

Professional meetups happen regularly in major cities. In Bangkok, you’ll find weekly networking events in different industries. Chiang Mai’s digital nomad scene hosts regular meetups at coworking spaces, where conversations often lead to job opportunities. Even in smaller cities like Phuket or Koh Samui, the expat business community tends to be well-connected.

Don’t underestimate the power of coworking spaces either. They’re not just places to work – they’re networking hubs. Many digital nomads and remote workers land clients or find partnerships simply by working alongside other professionals. Places like The Hive in Bangkok or Punspace in Chiang Mai often host events where you can meet potential employers or clients.

Working with Recruitment Agencies

If you’re targeting corporate positions, recruitment agencies can be valuable allies. Firms like Michael Page, Robert Walters, and Adecco have strong connections with multinational companies in Thailand. They often have exclusive listings that never appear on public job boards.

These agencies are free for job seekers – they make their money from employers. While they’re helpful, don’t rely on them exclusively. Think of them as one channel in your job search strategy, not the only one. It’s worth registering with several agencies since they often specialize in different industries or types of roles.

Work Permits and Legal Requirements

To work legally in Thailand, you need both a visa and a work permit. Your employer is usually responsible for helping you get these, but you should know what’s involved.

Who Can Get a Work Permit?

• You must have a job offer from a Thai company.
• Your job must be in an industry where foreigners are allowed to work.
• Your employer must sponsor your work permit and meet minimum salary requirements for hiring foreigners.

Documents You’ll Need

• A valid non-immigrant visa (you must have this before applying for a work permit).
• A signed employment contract from your Thai employer.
• A copy of your passport with visa stamps.
• Degree certificates and any relevant qualifications.
• A medical certificate from a Thai hospital.
• Your employer’s company documents, including tax and business registration details.

The process can take weeks to months, depending on how efficient your employer is. Until you have your valid work permit, you can’t legally work—even if you already have a job offer.

Common Visa Types for Working in Thailand

You need the right visa before you can apply for a work permit. Here are the most common options:

1. Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B Visa)

• Best for: Expats working for Thai companies.
• Who needs it: Teachers, corporate employees, hospitality workers.
• Validity: 90 days (can be extended to a one-year visa).
• Work permit: Required.

2. SMART Visa

• Best for: Tech workers, entrepreneurs, and investors.
• Who needs it: Expats in IT, startups, and innovation-driven industries.
• Validity: Up to four years.
• Work permit: Not required (this is a big advantage).

Money Matters: Salaries and Living Costs

Let’s talk real numbers. How much can you earn, and how far does that money go in Thailand?

What Jobs Pay Here

Teaching:

• Public schools: 30,000-40,000 THB ($850-$1,130) monthly
• Language schools: 40,000-60,000 THB ($1,130-$1,700) monthly
• International schools: 80,000-150,000 THB ($2,270-$4,250) monthly
• Universities: Around 60,000 THB ($1,700) monthly, with a master’s degree

Tech & Digital:

• Software developers: 80,000-200,000 THB ($2,270-$5,670) monthly
• Digital marketing: 50,000-100,000 THB ($1,420-$2,840) monthly
• Remote work/freelance: Varies widely, often higher if working with foreign clients

Corporate & Business:

• Marketing/sales: 60,000-120,000 THB ($1,700-$3,400) monthly
• Finance/consulting: 100,000-250,000 THB ($2,840-$7,080) monthly
• Management roles: Can go higher with experience

Tourism & Hospitality:

• Hotel management: 60,000-150,000 THB ($1,700-$4,250) monthly
• Tourism roles: 40,000-80,000 THB ($1,130-$2,270) monthly

Real Living Costs for One Person

Bangkok:

• Rent: 15,000-50,000 THB ($425-$1,415) (nice condo in a good area)
• Food: 10,000-20,000 THB ($285-$570) (mix of local and western food)
• Transport: 2,000-5,000 THB ($55-$140) (BTS/MRT, occasional taxis)
• Basic bills: 3,000-5,000 THB ($85-$140)
• Monthly total: 40,000-80,000 THB ($1,130-$2,270) for a comfortable life

Chiang Mai:

• Rent: 8,000-25,000 THB ($225-$710)
• Food: 7,000-15,000 THB ($200-$425)
• Transport: 1,000-3,000 THB ($30-$85)
• Basic bills: 2,000-4,000 THB ($55-$115)
• Monthly total: 30,000-60,000 THB ($850-$1,700)

Islands (Phuket, Samui):

• Rent: 20,000-50,000 THB ($570-$1,415)
• Food: 10,000-20,000 THB ($285-$570)
• Transport: 2,000-5,000 THB ($55-$140)
• Basic bills: 3,000-5,000 THB ($85-$140)
• Monthly total: 45,000-80,000 THB ($1,270-$2,270)

Tips for Budgeting & Financial Planning

1. Negotiate your salary – Expats often get higher salaries in multinational companies, so don’t accept the first offer.
2. Take advantage of the low cost of living – Eating street food, using public transport, and shopping at local markets will save you thousands each month.
3. Consider health insurance – Some jobs include it, but if you’re freelancing, get private coverage to avoid expensive medical bills. Check out my article about health insurance in Thailand here.
4. Avoid costly habits – Western-style apartments, imported groceries, and fancy bars add up fast.
5. Have savings before you move – It takes time to find a job, so arrive with enough money to cover a minimum of three months of expenses and a flight ticket back home.

Real Challenges and How to Handle Them

After living here since 2019, I’ve seen what trips people up most. Here’s what you need to watch for – and how to handle it.

Language Barriers & Cultural Differences in the Workplace

Thai people are polite, friendly, and indirect. That’s great for daily life but can be tricky at work.

• The “Yes” Culture – In Thailand, people rarely say “no” directly. Instead, they might say “maybe” or just smile. This can lead to confusion, especially in business settings.
• Saving Face – Criticism should be gentle. If you correct a coworker or employee too harshly, it can cause embarrassment.
• Hierarchy Matters – Seniority is respected. Questioning or challenging your boss publicly is a no-go.
• Meetings Take Time – Small talk is important, and rushing into business can seem rude.

💡 Tip: Be patient, read between the lines, and avoid confrontation. A little Thai language also goes a long way.

Work-Life Balance & Adapting to Thai Work Culture

Thailand has a mix of work styles. Some international companies stick to Western norms, while Thai businesses have a more relaxed but hierarchical approach.

• Office Hours Vary – Some corporate jobs follow a 9-to-5 schedule, but many expect overtime (especially in local companies).
• Hospitality & Tourism Jobs are Demanding – Long hours and working on weekends are common.
• Teaching Jobs Can Be Fun but Bureaucratic – Rules can be inconsistent, and last-minute schedule changes happen.
• Freelancing is Great for Flexibility – If you work online, you control your hours, but visa issues can be a hassle.

💡 Tip: If you value work-life balance, choose international companies, remote jobs, or freelancing over local corporate roles.

Common Pitfalls & How to Avoid Job Scams

Unfortunately, not all job openings are legit. Scams and shady employers exist, especially in teaching and tourism. Here’s what to watch out for:

🚩 No Work Permit Provided – If a company asks you to work under the table without a permit, it’s a red flag.
 🚩 Paying for a Job Offer – Some “agencies” ask for upfront fees to find you a job. Don’t fall for it.
 🚩 Low Salaries with High Expectations – Some schools and small businesses offer unrealistically low pay and expect you to work long hours.
 🚩 Visa Runs Instead of Proper Work Visas – Some employers tell you to stay on a tourist visa and do border runs instead of getting a work permit. That’s illegal and risky.

💡 Tip: Always check contracts carefully, research the company, and make sure they sponsor a proper work visa before accepting a job.

Useful Resources on Expat Jobs in Thailand

Here’s where to find reliable help and information:

Job Boards & Recruitment Sites

• Glassdoor – Expat job listings across various industries.
• JobsDB – One of Thailand’s largest job search platforms.
• LinkedIn – Great for corporate and professional roles.
• Expat.com – Jobs specifically for foreigners.
• Iglu – IT jobs and remote work solutions for expats.

Networking & Expat Communities

• Facebook Groups: Thailand Expats, Digital Nomads Thailand, Jobs in Thailand for Foreigners
• Reddit Threads: r/ThailandTourism (for job tips and expat life insights)
• Co-working Spaces: Punspace (Chiang Mai), The Hive (Bangkok), KoHub (Koh Lanta)

Visa & Legal Info

• Thai Ministry of Labour – Official work permit info.
• Thai Immigration Bureau – Further Information on Visa regulations and current updates.
• Thai Embassy – Visa applications, requirements, and consular services.

👉 You might also like:
– Living in Thailand Permanently – Your Visa Guide
– The Best Months to Visit Thailand
– What to Wear in Thailand? 20 Do’s and Don’ts
– How to Become a Digital Nomad Copywriter
– How to Travel Around The World and Make Money

Final Thoughts on Expat Jobs in Thailand

Is working in Thailand right for you?

For me, the good far outweighs the challenges. Yes, there are frustrations, but the lifestyle, people, and opportunities make it worthwhile. Just come prepared, do your research, and keep an open mind.

Would you work in Thailand? If you’ve tried it, what’s been your experience? Let me know in the comments!

Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu

Just a heads up: some links in the article “Expat Jobs in Thailand” on Nomadmum.com are affiliate links. This means if you click and buy, I might earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.