A worked example: $60k remote salary
Say you earn $60,000/year remotely and become a tax resident in each country (240 days), no dependents:
- Thailand, remitting ~50%: only the money you bring in is taxed, after deductions β a meaningfully lower bill, and potentially zero with an LTR visa.
- Vietnam: the full $60k is taxable as a resident regardless of where it's paid β a higher effective rate, though the generous new 2026 deductions soften it, especially with dependents.
The exact numbers depend on your remittance pattern, dependents and visa β which is why the two calculators above let you model your own situation rather than rely on a generic figure. The structural point stands: Thailand rewards keeping income offshore; Vietnam doesn't recognise the distinction.
Beyond tax: cost of living & lifestyle
Tax is only half the decision. Rough monthly budgets for a comfortable single nomad (2026):
- Vietnam (Da Nang): $900β1,400 β generally the cheaper base
- Thailand (Chiang Mai): $1,000β1,500 β deeper nomad infrastructure
- Thailand (Bangkok) / Vietnam (HCMC): $1,300β2,500 β big-city premium either way
Vietnam often wins on raw cost; Thailand wins on established nomad community, visa options (LTR, DTV) and healthcare. The tax structure can outweigh both β model it before committing to 183+ days anywhere.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Can I just stay under the residency threshold in both?
A. Many nomads do exactly this β splitting the year. But watch Vietnam's rolling 12-month rule (not just calendar year) and Thailand's 180-day line. Crossing either makes you resident with very different consequences.
Q. I'm American β does any of this remove my US tax?
A. No. US citizens are taxed on worldwide income regardless of residence. The FEIE and foreign tax credits may reduce US tax, but you still file. Local tax here is in addition to, not instead of, US obligations.
Q. Which should I pick?
A. If you can keep income offshore or qualify for Thailand's LTR, Thailand usually wins on tax. If your priority is lowest cost and you'll stay under 183 days, Vietnam is attractive. Run both calculators with your real numbers.
Sources: Thai Revenue Department (Por.161/2566), Vietnam PIT Law 109/2025/QH15. For informational purposes only β not tax advice. Tax outcomes depend on individual circumstances; consult a qualified adviser before relying on any figure.