Thailand’s New Tax on Foreign Income: What Expats and Transferees Need to Know

The following is a guest Op-ed from Issan Lawyers. Their opinions and statements are entirely their own and not those of The Pattaya News Company Limited but are happy to answer questions regarding tax laws by contacting them here.

As of January 1st, 2024, a significant change arrived in the Thai tax landscape. The Revenue Department began implementing a policy taxing foreign-sourced income for Thai citizens and permanent residents. This change impacts expats living in Thailand, retirees receiving overseas pensions, and individuals transferring funds from abroad.

While details are still being refined, here’s what we know so far:

The Change:
Previously, only income earned within Thailand was subject to income tax. Now, under Departmental Instruction No. Paw 161/2566, any foreign-sourced income brought into Thailand becomes taxable. This includes:
• Salaries from overseas employment
• Pensions and retirement income
• Investment income like dividends and capital gains
• Rental income from abroad

Key Requirements:

• If you’re a Thai citizen or expat resident (180 days or more per year), you must report your foreign income on your tax return if you bring it into Thailand.
• The tax now applies to income brought in in any tax year, The tax now applies to income brought in in any tax year, providing it was earned after the 31st of December 2023.
• You’ll be taxed based on the progressive tax rates used for domestic income, ranging from 0% to 35%.
• However, you may be eligible for foreign tax credits to avoid double taxation.

Impact on Expats and Transferees:

This new policy raises several questions for expats and those transferring money:
• Planning is crucial: Understanding your tax obligations for foreign income is essential. Consult a tax advisor familiar with the new regulations.
• Impact on investment strategies: Expats may need to reconsider how they invest overseas and manage their finances, potentially minimizing income repatriation to Thailand.
• Potential administrative burden: Reporting and compliance requirements may increase, especially for complex financial situations.
• Clarity is still needed: The implementation is ongoing, and some aspects remain unclear. Stay updated on official pronouncements and seek professional guidance.

Moving Forward:

The new tax law on foreign income in Thailand introduces significant changes for expats and individuals transferring funds. While uncertainties remain, proactive planning and seeking professional advice are crucial to navigating this new landscape. Remember, consulting a tax advisor can help you understand your specific situation and ensure compliance with the evolving regulations.

The Right Advice:

Here at Isaan Lawyers we have our own dedicated in-house accountants that can help you navigate the rules and laws, register you for your Tax Identification Number TIN and complete your yearly personal taxes.

Need assistance? Get in touch today.
084 471 5775
Email: accounting@isaanlawyers.com

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional tax advice. Please consult one of Issan Lawyer’s qualified accountants for personalised guidance.

Photo is a stock photo from The Pattaya News and meant to represent a “stress free” lifestyle which knowing your tax guidelines will give you.

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Adam Judd
Mr. Adam Judd is the Co-owner of TPN Media since December 2017. He is originally from Washington D.C., America, but has also lived in Dallas, Sarasota, and Portsmouth. His background is in retail sales, HR, and operations management, and has written about news and Thailand for many years. He has lived in Pattaya for over nine years as a full-time resident, is well known locally and been visiting the country as a regular visitor for over a decade. His full contact information, including office contact information, can be found on our Contact Us page below. Stories please e-mail Editor@ThePattayanews.com About Us: https://thepattayanews.com/about-us/ Contact Us: https://thepattayanews.com/contact-us/