Last Updated: Feb 2026

Thailand Visa vs South Korea

Side-by-side comparison of tax rules, income requirements, and visa difficulty.

CriteriaThailandSouth Korea
Income$0 (Remote)$5,500/mo
Savings Option$14,500 (500k THB) in bank balanceN/A
Visa Fee$300$60
Processing5-10 days2 weeks
Validity5 years (multi-entry)1 year (renewable)
Cost TierLowHigh
Nomad Cost (est.)~$1,600/mo~$3,100/mo
1BR Rent~$650~$900
Internet200 Mbps280 Mbps
Pet Friendliness5/104/10
Tax trigger180 days183 days
Insurance requiredNoYes
Pet Catch (2026)Thailand requires an import permit and a 30-day 'home quarantine' for most pets.Strict quarantine unless you have a rabies titer test from an approved lab.

Travel Insurance Required

Thailand deep-diveSouth Korea deep-dive