Relocation Essentials
🛂 Visas & Legal
DTV, LTR, dependent visas, and real estate law explained in plain English.
🏫 Schools
Every international school on the island compared by curriculum, fees, and age range.
🏥 Health & Safety
Hospitals, insurance, mental health resources, and honest road-safety data.
🏠 Daily Life
Cost of living, utilities, connectivity, ferries, and pet-friendly housing.
🙏 Culture
Etiquette, Buddhist values, Songkran, and the holidays that shape island life.
🤝 Done-for-you help
When research isn't enough — concierge support for the whole move.
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Help us get started with 3 key questions to help families determine their relocation timeline and needs.
Common questions
What's the best visa for a family moving to Koh Samui?
It depends on who's earning the income and how long you plan to stay. Remote-working parents often use the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), while those with a qualifying pension or income may use the Non-Immigrant O-A. Each parent's visa also determines what Dependent Visa options exist for children. See our Visas & Legal guide for the full breakdown.
Are there international schools with full IB programs on Koh Samui?
No — nearly every international school on the island currently follows the British/Cambridge curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels). Families committed to the IB specifically should look at mainland options like Phuket, Bangkok, or Chiang Mai.
How much does it cost for a family of four to live on Koh Samui?
A family with two children in international school typically budgets roughly ฿125,000–236,000 a month (about $3,250–$6,140), with school fees usually the single largest line item. See our Cost of Living guide for a full breakdown by category.