Thailand is no longer just a postcard destination to be visited for the summer. For many French families, the “Land of Smiles” has become the ideal place to start a new life. Between the dazzling modernity of Bangkok, the spiritual calm of Chiang Mai and the endless beaches of Phuket, settling in Thailand with children is an adventure that promises incomparable open-mindedness. However, a successful expatriation cannot be improvised: it requires a thorough understanding of the school system, health issues and the real cost of living for a family.
Why living in Thailand with children appeals to French families
Thailand’s success is based on a simple promise: a superior quality of life at a cost that is often lower than in Europe. Beyond the tropical climate, it’s access to world-class infrastructure that reassures parents. Whether in Bangkok, Chiang Mai or Phuket, you’ll find ultra-modern hospitals, giant shopping malls with indoor playgrounds and daily security that makes life a lot less stressful than in the West.
The cultural aspect also plays a major role. Having your children grow up in Thailand gives them a uniquely open mind. They rub shoulders with diverse cultures, learn tolerance thanks to the local Buddhist philosophy, and often become polyglot within a few months, juggling French at home, English at school and Thai in everyday life.
Schools in Thailand for expatriate children: options and budgets
This is undoubtedly the most complex part of your project. As the Thai public system is difficult to access due to the language barrier and very different teaching methods, almost all expatriates turn to the private sector.
International schools are legion, particularly in Bangkok and Phuket. Most follow the British or American curriculum and often prepare students for the International Baccalaureate (IB). These establishments offer infrastructures worthy of American universities (Olympic-sized swimming pools, theaters, state-of-the-art laboratories). However, this excellence comes at a price: expect to pay between €10,000 and €25,000 per child per year.
For families wishing to maintain a strong link with the French education system, the Lycée Français International de Bangkok (LFIB) remains the absolute reference. There are also approved or partner schools in Koh Samui or Pattaya, offering a more intimate setting. These schools are often a strategic choice for tighter budgets, while guaranteeing high academic standards.
The French network (AEFE)
Thailand has seven AEFE-approved schools. The most emblematic is the Lycée Français International de Bangkok (LFIB). It’s the choice of continuity: your children follow the classic French curriculum. On the budget side, schooling requires careful planning:
- A kindergarten class costs around €7,800 a year.
- The price rises to around €9,600 for middle school.
- Added to this are the initial registration and catering fees.
Health in Thailand with children: insurance and medical care
While Thailand is world-renowned for its medical tourism, with private hospitals such as Bumrungrad and Bangkok Hospital, access to this elite care requires solid coverage. Unlike France, there is no free universal coverage for foreign residents.
Please note: For families, access to English- or French-speaking pediatricians is a key criterion, especially in Bangkok and Phuket, where the offer is highly developed.
A simple hospitalization for dengue fever – common in the tropics – can quickly cost several thousand euros. That’s why it’s essential to take out international health insurance, either from the 1st euro or in addition to your CFE (Caisse des Français de l’Étranger). These policies don’t just reimburse your expenses; they often include repatriation assistance and, crucially for parents, civil liability coverage adapted to expatriation. At Santexpat, we take a close look at these family needs to ensure that unforeseen medical circumstances do not become financial obstacles.
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Where to live in Thailand with your family?
Your choice of city will radically transform your experience.
- Bangkok is the economic hub. It’s here that you’ll find the greatest cultural diversity and the best professional opportunities, but you have to deal with pollution and traffic jams. The districts of Sukhumvit and Sathorn are popular for their proximity to international schools.
- Chiang Mai, in the north, is attractive for its lower cost of living and its intellectual and artistic atmosphere. It’s the ideal city for families in search of nature and serenity, although the slash-and-burn season (February to April) is a health factor to watch out for.
- Phuket and Koh Samui offer the seaside dream. They are prime destinations for web entrepreneurs and active retirees. They offer the perfect balance between modern infrastructure (international hospitals, shopping centers) and absolute relaxation by the sea.
Preparing administrative formalities
Visas are the lifeblood of the business. In 2026, the options have diversified. If one of the parents works for a local organization, the Non-Immigrant B Visa is the norm. For others, the LTR (Long-Term Resident) or Elite Visa offers stability over 5 to 10 years, avoiding the notorious “visa runs” at the border. It is essential to note that each child must have his or her own residence permit, often an O (Dependant) Visa attached to that of a parent.
Which visa for your family in 2026?
Thai migration policy is very specific. Each family member must have his or her own residence permit:
- Non-Immigrant Visa B: For those working for a local company.
- Non-Immigrant O (Dependant) Visa: This is the most common visa for the spouse and children attached to the work visa holder.
- Smart Visa: Ideal for technology experts or investors, it offers simplified benefits for the whole family.
- The Elite Visa: An expensive but reassuring option for wealthy families, allowing you to stay for 5, 10 or 20 years without the usual administrative hassle.
Cost of living in Thailand for an expatriate family
While the price of a pad Thai on the street remains derisory, the “food basket” for a family may come as a surprise. Imported products (cheese, Western cereals, branded infant milk) are taxed.
To live comfortably for four (3-bedroom apartment with swimming pool, schooling, health care, leisure activities), a budget of €3,500 to €5,000 per month is often necessary to maintain a standard of living similar to or higher than that which you had in France. This budget varies enormously depending on whether you choose the urban jungle of Bangkok or the more affordable mountains of Chiang Mai.
Your family trip to Thailand
Living in Thailand with your children is a rare opportunity to provide them with a global education and resilience in the face of change. However, the key to a worry-free start lies in financial and security planning. A well-chosen school and robust health insurance are the foundations on which you’ll build your family memories. Planning your departure? The Santexpat team can help you find the best healthcare solution for your new life in Thailand.
