The Deputy Government Spokesperson revealed that Vietnamese and Malaysian media highlight Thailand as a top global destination, ranking 3rd for digital nomads and 4th for retirees. The government plans to leverage this to attract purchasing power to Thailand throughout the year.
On 12 September 2026 GMT+7, Ms. Lalida Pertvivatana, Deputy Spokesperson of the Prime Minister's Office, stated that Vietnam’s VnExpress International and Malaysia’s The Star reported on the Rumavi Global Relocation Index 2026, which evaluated 192 countries and territories worldwide. Thailand was ranked the world’s 3rd best destination for digital nomads with a score of 75.4 and 4th for retirees with a score of 74.3. This reflects that Thailand excels not only in tourism but also as a global destination for "living long-term, working, and lifestyle."
For digital nomads, Thailand ranks 3rd globally, behind Malaysia and Portugal. For retirees, Thailand is 4th, following Malaysia, Panama, and Portugal. In both categories, Thailand ranks 2nd within ASEAN.
Thailand’s strengths include affordable living costs with a score of 96.9, stable currency and banking systems at 91.8, digital infrastructure at 89.4, and both quality and cost of healthcare services at 78. These factors suit both remote workers and retirees seeking long-term residence.
Ms. Lalida said the government views these rankings as an "economic opportunity" because foreign digital nomads and retirees tend to stay and spend continuously on accommodation, food, travel, health, and various services. Attracting longer stays would increase cash flow and distribute income to entrepreneurs and communities year-round.
"The goal is not just to make people worldwide want to visit Thailand but to encourage those with potential to stay longer and spend more within the country. Ranking 3rd globally for digital nomads and 4th for retirees is an opportunity Thailand must convert into income and economic value," Ms. Lalida said.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, the government will build on these strengths by advancing the digital economy, service sectors, and healthcare systems, while promoting Thailand as a quality destination 365 days a year. The focus will shift from "visitor numbers" to increasing "value per visitor and length of stay."
For digital nomads, the government will develop digital infrastructure and environments that support long-term work and residence. For retirees, efforts will link to upgrading healthcare services, eldercare, health economy, and aging economy sectors, which are high-value service areas where Thailand has strong potential.
"Thailand’s strength today is not just being a great tourist spot but also being a place where people can live, work, and retire. The government will build on this strength to make Destination Thailand a driver of purchasing power, new income, and more opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs," Ms. Lalida said.
The rankings also highlight areas Thailand must urgently develop, including English language accessibility, business opportunities, and the rule of law. The government will incorporate these to enhance the country's competitiveness, making Thailand a desirable place to visit, live, work, and invest in the long term.