Reviewed by ThaiLawOnline, a licensed Thai law firm practising in Thailand since 2006. Thai lawyer of record: Wichuda Atthamethakon, LL.M., Thai Bar Licence 3149/2556.
Last updated on August 6, 2026
Thai colloquial term (ฝรั่ง) for a foreigner of Caucasian appearance. While generally neutral in everyday speech, the word has no legal meaning in Thai statutes. The official legal category is ‘alien’ (คนต่างด้าว) as defined by the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), the Alien Working Act, and the Land Code.
See also our full guide: property guide for foreigners in Thailand.
Thai Law Updates, free by email
Plain-English updates on Thai law changes that affect foreigners: property, visas, marriage, business and wills. One short email a month from a firm practicing since 2006. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.