Koh Samui Expats Chat
An English-speaking Telegram chat for people living in or moving to Koh Samui.
English only · Free · ModeratedOpen since Oct 2026
Join the Koh Samui chat (opens Telegram)
Opens in Telegram
Who it's for
Made for families in Koh Samui. Also known as Samui.
Common questions in this chat
How long can I stay visa-free on Koh Samui right now?
Since 15 Sep 2026 visa-free entry to Thailand is 30 days for eligible nationalities (60 countries; it was 60 days for 93 countries before), tourism only. If you entered before 15 Sep you keep the stay stamped. Check the official country list. Source: visasnews.com/en/thailand-to-officially-cut-visa-free-stay-to-30-days-on-september-15-2026/ and siam-legal.com/travel-to-thailand/thailand-approves-end-of-60-day-visa-free-stay/. Checked: 2026-10.
How much is a one-bedroom on Koh Samui?
Sources differ: roughly THB 8,000-15,000 for a city-centre one-bedroom in one guide, THB 12,000-18,000 in Chaweng or Lamai in another, and about THB 18,000 median in a third. Villas cost far more. Check local listings. Source: insidesamui.com/live/cost-of-living-koh-samui/ and expatica.com/th/cost-of-living/koh-samui/. Checked: 2026-10.
Do I need the Thailand Digital Arrival Card for Samui?
Yes, all foreign visitors must submit the free TDAC online before arriving in Thailand, including via Samui airport or by ferry from the mainland. Use the official site only. Source: tdac.immigration.go.th. Checked: 2026-10.
Where is the immigration office on Koh Samui?
In Na Thon, serving Samui and often Koh Phangan and Koh Tao; it handles extensions, 90-day reports and re-entry permits. Hours and appointments are best checked with the office before going. Source: thai-visa-services.com/immigration-offices/koh-samui-immigration. Checked: 2026-10.
Can I extend my tourist stay on Koh Samui?
A single 30-day extension of a tourist stay is generally possible at the Na Thon office with form TM7, a photo, copies and the fee in cash, at the officer's discretion. Check the official page for current requirements. Source: immigration.go.th and thai-visa-services.com/immigration-offices/koh-samui-immigration. 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 Koh Samui — housing, visas, work, health, events, tips.
- Report, don't argue: reply to the message with /report and moderators will look.