Business Newsday 4 hours ago Embrace the digital nomad lifestyle. – Photo by Keron Rose
After spending the last 10 years in TT, I decided to move to Thailand and I couldn't be more excited about this new chapter in my life.
The average person never leaves their home country, some never even leave their hometown. This will be my third country to move to, and I'm happy to prove what many have told me over the years: living in different countries is the best way to grow personally and professionally.
Many people ask me, “Why Thailand?”
I wanted to share with you why.
This decision opened up a whole new world for me, and I hope it inspires others to think beyond the usual relocation destinations.
unconventional
For many in TT, emigration usually means looking to the US, UK or Canada.
Although these countries are attractive, they have complicated visa procedures, high costs of living, and other issues. I have lived in Toronto for 28 years, but I have no plans to move back because of the rising cost of living.
Thailand offers a unique option with a lower cost of living, a higher quality of life and an easier relocation process.
This is an exciting option for those ready to explore new cultures and opportunities.
So why Thailand? Let me explain:
Cost of Living: Thailand offers an affordable lifestyle that allows you to put your money to better use than many Western countries.
From renting a modern condo to enjoying delicious food, you can live comfortably without breaking the bank. Apartments start at just $20 a month, while luxury condos with every amenity you can imagine start at $190 a month.
Culture: Thailand has a lot to explore, including its rich history, nature, culture and events.
Digital nomad lifestyle: For those who work online, Thailand’s strong digital infrastructure and large expat community make it an ideal location for remote workers and entrepreneurs.
Ease of Travel: Thailand's central location in Southeast Asia makes it a great base for exploring. Affordable flights to neighboring countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia and Malaysia make it easy to explore the whole region.
Explore your visa options
One of the things I like most about Thailand is that the visa process is much more flexible than in countries like the US or Canada.
Here are some of the most popular visa options for people considering relocating.
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Visa-free: Nationals from Tajikistan, Jamaica and the Dominican Republic can enter Thailand visa-free for 60 days, which can be extended for an additional 30 days.
Three months later, you can cross the border into the neighboring country for breakfast and return to Thailand to collect your new 60-day residence permit.
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You can do this run in three-month increments for a year before immigration asks you for a long-term visa, but by then you'll probably know if you want to stay in Thailand long-term.
· Education Visa: If you want to learn Thai or pick up a new skill like Muay Thai or Thai cooking, an education visa is the perfect option.
This visa allows for one year of stay and can be renewed annually.
Digital Nomad and Remote Worker Visas: Thailand is expanding visa options for remote workers and freelancers.
The new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) allows for a five-year stay with multiple entries, allowing you to live and work in Thailand without having to renew your visa frequently.
· Long-term visas: If you are looking for a more permanent solution, there are long-term visas available for retirees, investors and business owners.
More information on Thai visas is available at thaievisa.go.th or to find a visa agent.
Support from visa agencies
Meeting visa requirements can seem daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. An agency can handle the paperwork, support your application, and make sure you're on the right track.
It also makes it easy to extend your visa or switch to a different one if your needs change after you arrive in Thailand.
One agency you can check out is Thai Kru, who are extremely helpful in all aspects of moving to Thailand and can even help with things like opening a bank account and getting a driver's license.
Thailand has a low crime rate and is currently ranked 98th out of 146 countries in the World Crime Index. Meanwhile, Thailand is ranked 7th in the world for the country with the highest crime rate in 2024.
Thailand also ranks 6th in the world for the quality of healthcare.
Thank you TT for the past 10 years. It's been a truly wonderful 10 years.
My work in the Caribbean will continue as I continue to learn, grow, and give back to the region.
Kellon Rose is a digital strategist who works with businesses to build their digital presence and monetize their platforms.
For more information, visit KeronRose.com or listen to the Digipreneur FM podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Google Podcasts.
