Bangkok Expats Chat
An English-speaking Telegram chat for people living in or moving to Bangkok.
Active this week English only · Free · ModeratedOpen since Jun 2026
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Who it's for
Made for digital nomads and English teachers in Bangkok. Also known as BKK, Krung Thep.
Common questions in this chat
Do I really have to report to immigration every 90 days?
Yes, if you stay 90+ consecutive days on a long-stay visa (incl. DTV) you file form TM47 (the 90-day report). You can file from 15 days before to 7 days after the due date. First report in person at your immigration office (Bangkok: Chaengwattana, Government Complex B); after that you can use the online TM47 system. Late reports can be fined. Bring passport + TM30 receipt. Fees and fines change; see the official page for current amounts. Source: immigration.go.th. Checked: 2026-10.
Do I need an agent to rent a condo or can I just do it myself?
Agents are free for tenants in Bangkok - the landlord pays the commission (typically one month's rent on a 1-year lease) - so most expats use one: they speak Thai, filter listings and handle the contract. DIY also works: Facebook groups/Marketplace, DDproperty, Hipflat, or walk into a building you like and ask the office. Standard deal everywhere: 12-month lease, 2-month deposit, 1 month upfront. Source: superagent.co. Checked: 2026-06.
What's this digital arrival card everyone's talking about?
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) replaced the paper TM6. Every foreigner completes it free online at tdac.immigration.go.th before EACH arrival (check the site for the exact window) - you get a QR code that immigration scans with your passport. Never pay third-party sites. If you forget, there are kiosks at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. Required every entry, including quick border runs. Source: tdac.immigration.go.th. Checked: 2026-10.
Can I extend my tourist stay without leaving Thailand?
Yes, one 30-day extension of a tourist stay is possible at Bangkok Immigration (Chaengwattana, Government Complex B, Laksi). Bring passport, form TM7, one 4x6 cm photo and the fee in cash. Usually decided same day; arrive early to queue for a number. Works for both visa-exempt entries and tourist visas. Hours and fee: see the official page. Source: immigration.go.th. Checked: 2026-10.
What's a TM30 and do I need to worry about it?
TM30 is the residence notification your landlord or hotel must file within 24h of you moving in (and again after you re-enter Thailand). Filing is the owner's duty, but YOU need the receipt for extensions, 90-day reports and residence certificates. Fines apply to owners who skip it. Hotels file automatically; for condos ask your landlord or file online with the owner's documents. Source: immigration.go.th. Checked: 2026-10.
Chat rules
- No spam. No ads, promo or referral links without a moderator's OK.
- Nothing illegal or dangerous: no escorts, drugs, scams, fake documents.
- No forwards from channels while you're new — write your own words.
- Respect each other. No insults, discrimination or harassment.
- English only so everyone can follow.
- Stay on topic: life in Bangkok — housing, visas, work, health, events, tips.
- Report, don't argue: reply to the message with /report and moderators will look.