Have recently bought a condo in BKK and want to bring some of my personal effects from Europe. These will be sent by airfreight and should amount to a couple cubic metres. I will come initially on a 2 month tourist visa, but may apply later for a retirement visa (which I should readily qualify for).

My question is: will I be able to import and clear these personal effects when they arrive in Thailand? If so, will I be expected to pay import duties?

thanks, RickSee

Cannot answer the import question but for staying in Thailand long term based on retirement you have to be at least 50 years old. As you are only 39 you are going to have to find another solution.

Yes, you will need to pay import duties.

take a peek at customs.go.th That will help you see where you stand. How much did you pay for the condo' ?

Whatever it is going to be , regardless of what the Customs web site says, it isn't worth it

You and your shipper are completely at the mercy of whichever customs agent is assigned to you. Once you include your shipping costs and customs agent fee you will find that it is cheaper to buy what you need here in Thailand