Managing retirement savings in Thailand

Cheryl · 2025-08-20T09:31:12+02:00

Explore practical advice for expats managing retirement savings in Thailand, including local options, tax tips, and challenges with pension funds.

Cheryl Moderator

Member since 15 October 2018

CherylModerator20 August 2025 07:31:12

14618

Hello everyone,

Saving for retirement as an expat in Thailand can be challenging. With different options, rules or even taxation, expats have to understand how it works to make informed decisions. We invite you to share your insights in order to help other expats and soon-to-be expats manage or plan their retirement savings in Thailand.

How do you handle retirement savings in Thailand?

Have you faced any challenges accessing pension funds from your home country (or from other countries)? How do you deal with taxation or the currency exchange rates?

What local options are available to expats, either public or private, to help you save for retirement?

What are the most popular private pension or investment plans popular among expats in Thailand?

What do you wish you had known earlier about saving for retirement as an expat?

Thank you for your contribution.

Cheryl
禁漫天堂 Team

PaulWyatt333 New member

Member since 03 September 2014

PaulWyatt333New member15 September 2025 04:17:24

It really depends on whether you have Thai taxable income or not. If you do, then banks offer mutual and provident funds which offer tax relief, but they can be expensive. Otherwise its a question of what not to do. Most "advisers" here sell insurance bonds for lump sum and regular savings. These are incredibly expensive and pay them large hidden commissions which saddle you with high charges for your investment term.

California4me Contributor

Member since 10 March 2016

California4meContributor22 October 2025 05:55:27

133

@PaulWyatt333

For me I just save money in my retirement account, and move it for 6-12 months every year to get better interest, but I always keep the required amount in the account for Immigration requirements.聽 Also have money with my wife鈥檚 accounts.

Pimchanok Srisuk New member

Member since 21 August 2025

Pimchanok SrisukNew member29 October 2025 10:54:53

I鈥檇 say, start with a simple plan, figure out your monthly budget, keep some money handy in Thailand, and don鈥檛 put all your eggs in one basket. And check in on it every now and then things can change fast.