Pattaya Expats Chat
An English-speaking Telegram chat for people living in or moving to Pattaya.
English only · Free · ModeratedOpen since Oct 2026
Join the Pattaya chat (opens Telegram)
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Who it's for
Also known as Jomtien.
Common questions in this chat
How long can I stay in Pattaya visa-free 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 in your passport. Check the official country list and any late changes before you fly. 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.
What does a monthly condo rental typically cost in Pattaya?
As of 2026 agency guides, a basic studio on a yearly lease runs roughly THB 8,000-15,000 a month, a one-bedroom around Jomtien and Pratumnak about THB 12,000-20,000, and sea-view units more. Two months' deposit is typical. Treat these as ranges, not quotes. Source: superagent.co/en/blog/pattaya-condo-rental-market-2026-prices-and-value-for-expats and iamkohchang.com/blog/cost-to-live-in-pattaya.html. Checked: 2026-10.
How do I open a Thai bank account while living in Pattaya?
Thai banks have branches across Pattaya, but rules vary by branch and visa: expect to need a passport, your visa, often a work permit or a letter from immigration or your landlord, and sometimes proof of address. Requirements are set by each bank, so ask before going. Source: bangkokbank.com and kasikornbank.com. Checked: 2026-10.
Where is the immigration office for Pattaya?
Chonburi Immigration's Banglamung branch, usually called Jomtien Immigration, is on Soi 5, Jomtien Beach Road, Nongprue, Banglamung. It handles extensions, 90-day reports and TM30 for Pattaya, Jomtien and Banglamung. Check the opening days and contact details before you go. Source: thai-visa-services.com/immigration-offices/pattaya-immigration and pattaya.guide/guide/useful-numbers-pattaya. Checked: 2026-10.
When is the best time to visit Jomtien Immigration?
Mornings around opening are reported as the busiest, and the office has been swamped after long holidays; afternoons and mid-week tend to be quieter. Queue numbers are limited, so late arrivals may be turned away for the day. Take originals and copies and cash for fees. Source: pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/pattaya-jomtien-immigration-swamped-after-holidays-430846 and pattayamail.com/latestnews/news/jomtien-immigration-unusually-busy-488584. 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 Pattaya — housing, visas, work, health, events, tips.
- Report, don't argue: reply to the message with /report and moderators will look.