Is Thailand or Vietnam better for expat tax?

Both countries impose progressive tax rates on resident individuals, with top rates of 35%. Thailand's LTR visa offers a concessionary 17% flat rate for qualifying professionals and categorically exempts certain visa holders from foreign income taxation. Vietnam has no equivalent programme. For senior expats who qualify, Thailand's LTR regime is structurally superior.

How is foreign income treated in Thailand vs Vietnam?

Thailand taxes foreign income remitted in the same calendar year it is earned (Por 161/2566, from January 2024). LTR Wealthy Global Citizen and Wealthy Pensioner visa holders are categorically exempt. Vietnam taxes residents on worldwide income with no remittance exemption. Both countries differ from Singapore's clean territorial system.

Can British expats use QROPS in Thailand or Vietnam?

Neither Thailand nor Vietnam has domestic QROPS schemes. British expats in either country should retain a UK SIPP or consider a Malta or Gibraltar QROPS. In both cases, the 25% overseas transfer charge may apply where the member is not resident in the same country as the QROPS. The UK-Thailand and UK-Vietnam DTAs provide partial pension treaty protection.

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Thailand vs Vietnam: Expat Finance Side by Side

Tax residency rules, income tax rates, pension access, property restrictions, estate law, and UK double taxation treaties compared for European expats.

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Thailand vs Vietnam: Expat Finance Side by Side

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