PHUKET, THAILAND – A foreign investor caused a stir on social media platform X after claiming he could live tax-free in Thailand by buying a 56‑million‑baht villa in Phuket, presenting the country as a new alternative to tax havens such as Dubai or Monaco.
Luxury villa at Bang Tao Beach
The social media user posted a photo with his partner and proudly announced the purchase of his “dream home” in Phuket. The property near the popular Bang Tao Beach reportedly cost about 56 million baht, equivalent to roughly £1.3 million.
He described the property as a freehold asset in his name. According to his post, this status was intended to pave the way for a permanent stay in the kingdom.
The promise of zero tax
In his message, the man claimed that this arrangement would allow him to remain in Thailand without time limits. The key point, he suggested, was that he would no longer have to pay any taxes on his worldwide income.
The post triggered an intense debate across Thai social networks. Many local users expressed doubts and questioned the legal basis for such a sweeping tax exemption.
The “Wealthy Global Citizen” program
The user referred to Thailand’s program for “Wealthy Global Citizens”, which is tied to the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa. This scheme targeted affluent foreign nationals and highly qualified professionals seeking long-term residence.
The entry thresholds were high. Applicants had to show assets of at least US$1 million, an annual income of US$80,000, and an investment of US$500,000 in Thailand.
Tax rules in a legal grey area
Whether the advertised 0 percent tax on worldwide income was actually possible under Thai law remained unclear. The competent authorities had not officially confirmed this specific claim.
Experts frequently warned against using social media posts as a substitute for professional tax advice. They stressed that Thai tax laws were complex and subject to ongoing changes.
Major reform wave for expats
Separate from this individual case, Thailand was in the midst of its most extensive overhaul of expat policy in decades. The reforms affected economic legislation, visa regulations and rules on property ownership.
The government aimed to position the country as a leading destination for investors in Southeast Asia. With this strategy, it responded to increasing competition from regional neighbours such as Vietnam and Malaysia.