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Stage 3 of 4
From driving licences and 90-day reports to internet providers, community and language — everything you need to build a solid long-term foundation.
Your landlord must file TM30 within 24 hours of your arrival at any address. Without it you cannot renew your visa, convert your driving licence or complete your 90-day report. Confirm it was filed immediately.
As of 2026, all foreign nationals must pass a written theory test at the DLT to obtain or convert a Thai driving licence. Walk-ins are no longer accepted. Book via the DLT Smart Queue app before you need the licence.
Thai condos may charge 7–8 THB per electricity unit against a government PEA rate of ~4 THB. In hot season this doubles your bill. Ask before you sign. It is non-negotiable once the lease is in place.
Your Journey
Relocation Checklist — Phase 3
You have Settling In tasks to complete. Track your progress and access the right guides.
Five Steps to Settled
The neighbourhood you choose shapes everything — your commute, your social life, your daily costs. BTS and MRT proximity is the single most important factor in Bangkok. Prioritise it above all else when negotiating a lease.
AIS, True and 3BB all deliver 1Gbps fibre. AIS is the most expat-friendly for English-language support. Electricity: confirm whether your building bills at PEA government rates (~4 THB/unit) or building rates (~7–8 THB). The difference is significant in hot season.
Thai immigration administration is precise and unforgiving of missed deadlines. These are the six things you need to know and act on.
TM30
Accommodation Registration
Your host must file within 24 hours of your arrival at any address. Required for driving licences, visa extensions and 90-day reports. Request the receipt and keep it.
Within 24 hours
TM47
90-Day Report
Mandatory if staying 90+ days on a long-stay visa. First report in person at immigration. Subsequent reports can be filed online. 2,000 THB fine for non-compliance.
Every 90 days
DLT
Driving Licence
All foreign nationals must pass a written theory test as of 2026. Book via DLT Smart Queue app. Documents: medical certificate, certificate of residence, TM30 receipt, passport.
Book in Advance
TM28
Address Change
If you change address mid-stay, TM28 must be filed at immigration. Your new landlord should file a fresh TM30 simultaneously. Missing this causes problems at visa extension.
Within 24 hours
Re-Entry
Re-Entry Permit
If leaving Thailand while on a long-stay visa, buy a re-entry permit before you depart or your visa is cancelled. Single: 1,000 THB. Multiple: 3,800 THB.
Before Leaving
Extension
Visa Extension
Most long-stay visas require annual renewal at a Thai immigration office. Book appointments early — offices can be 4–6 weeks out during peak season (Nov–Feb).
Before Expiry
Social infrastructure is as important as the legal setup. One recurring weekly activity — a gym, Thai class, golf group or running club — builds a real network faster than any other approach. THAIBK Connect is the starting point.
Even basic Thai changes how Thailand receives you. SOLA's contextual intelligence goes beyond translation — it teaches the register, tone and cultural nuance that make communication real rather than transactional.
First 4 Weeks
Action these in order. Check them off as you go.
Progress: 0 of 7 completed
Quick Access
Compare Bangkok's best expat areas by lifestyle, cost and BTS access.
Expert help finding and negotiating long-term rentals in Thailand.
Build your full monthly cost estimate with the THAIBK Budget Planner.
Supermarkets, apps and day-to-day life in Thailand.
Rental contracts, deposits, utility rates and finding a home.
Foreign ownership rules, condo quotas and the buying process.
Compare locations across Bangkok and beyond.
Downloadable guides covering the Thai property market.
You are established. Now comes the best part — building the life you came here for. Culture, community, travel, food and the experiences that make Thailand home.
