Why Thailand is STILL the Best Place for Remote Workers in 2025: Visas, Work Permits, and Community

In this episode, I speak with Jimmy Bernberg from Iglu to discuss the nuances of starting and running a business in Thailand. Jimmy, a Swedish citizen living in Thailand since 2016, shares his journey from landing his first job in Thailand to becoming a Senior Sales Manager at Iglu. We dive into the benefits of the BOI and outsourcing models, the lifestyle and community perks of living in Thailand, and valuable tips for establishing legal work. If you’re considering Thailand for remote work, business development, or are just curious about the expat lifestyle, this episode is packed with insights and real-life experiences. Plus, Jimmy shares his love for motorcycle racing and how the hobby has connected him with a vibrant community of expats.

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Building a remote work setup in Thailand involves sorting through visa options, compliance rules, and community building, which can feel overwhelming at first. Here are five key insights from our conversation with Jimmy Bernberg, each addressing typical hurdles for professionals aiming to work here effectively.

• Explore Flexible Visa and Work Permit Paths for Long-Term Stability: Jimmy highlights options like outsourcing through companies such as Iglu for non-BOI setups, which handle visas and permits without the hassle of starting your own entity. This avoids the high costs and ratios of Thai hires required in standard companies. In my experience advising since 2012, many overlook these routes and get stuck in bureaucratic loops; choosing the right path early, like a business visa, sets you up for smoother renewals and even permanent residency if you commit long-term.
• Leverage Outsourcing to Cut Setup Costs and Risks: For those not ready for a full BOI company, partnering with providers like Iglu simplifies everything from payroll to HR, making it ideal for testing the waters. Jimmy notes how this model suits short-term stays without heavy investments. I’ve seen firms struggle with hidden fees in self-setup; outsourcing reduces that burden, letting you focus on work while staying compliant in Thailand’s regulated environment.
• Tap into Diverse Remote Work Opportunities Beyond IT: While developers were once the focus, roles in sales, customer service, and consulting are growing, especially with expanded BOI licenses. Jimmy shares how non-tech pros can thrive if they bring unique skills, like language expertise. From my consulting work, I’ve noticed more overqualified talent accepting these positions for the lifestyle; it counters the myth that only tech jobs pay well here, opening doors in a competitive market.
• Build Community Through Hobbies for Networking and Retention: Jimmy’s motorcycle racing story shows how shared passions lead to friendships, leads, and even jobs in expat circles. Events like track days connect senior professionals naturally. In my years here, I’ve found these organic networks combat isolation in remote setups; they boost happiness and retention, turning potential burnout into collaborative opportunities in Thailand’s vibrant scene.
• Balance Cost of Living with Quality of Life for Sustainable Remote Work: Thailand offers low costs, good infrastructure, and time zone advantages, attracting seniors who blend high earnings with affordable living. Jimmy emphasizes perks like coworking spaces and events for well-being. I’ve advised many who undervalue this; prioritizing community and work-life balance helps navigate rising expenses, making Thailand a smart hub for regional operations.

What struck me most about Jimmy’s approach is how he’s cracked the code on making Thailand work for you instead of fighting against the system. I see so many people get paralyzed by the visa and work permit maze, or they jump into setting up a full company when they don’t need to. The outsourcing route through companies like Iglu isn’t sexy, but it’s smart, especially if you’re testing the waters or don’t want the headache of managing Thai HR and compliance yourself. The other thing Jimmy nailed is the community piece. Remote work can be isolating anywhere, but Thailand has this unique advantage where you can actually build real relationships around hobbies and shared interests, not just work. I’ve personally found that these connections (whether it’s through sports, events, or coworking spaces) are what make living here sustainable long-term. It’s not just about cheap rent and good food. If you’re considering Thailand as a base, don’t just think about the logistics; think about how you’ll stay connected and engaged. That’s what turns a short experiment into a decade-long adventure.