Expat Legal – Legal Protection Insurance

Being right is good – getting justice is better. Your international legal protection for Thailand, underwritten by ARAG

Last updated: October 3, 2026

What is Expat Legal?

Expat Legal is the international legal protection insurance for expats, brokered by BDAE and underwritten by ARAG – one of Germany's leading legal protection insurers. If you face a legal dispute abroad, Expat Legal has you covered.

  • Underwritten by ARAG: One of Germany's leading legal protection insurers
  • Worldwide coverage: Valid in Thailand and all other countries outside Germany
  • Comprehensive legal areas: Contract law, tort law, tenancy law, traffic law, criminal law as victim
  • No German residency required: Can be taken out directly from abroad
  • Single or family plan: Flexibly adaptable to your situation

Which legal areas are covered?

Expat Legal covers numerous legal areas that are particularly important abroad:

  • Contract law: Disputes arising from contracts abroad
  • Tort law: Claims against third parties abroad
  • Tenancy law: Disputes with landlords (especially important in Thailand)
  • Traffic law: Including driving licence matters and traffic accidents
  • Criminal law: Legal protection as a victim of a crime
  • Regulatory offences: Defence in administrative fine proceedings

Why is legal protection important in Thailand?

Thailand has its own legal system that differs significantly from the German one. Without legal protection, lawyer and court fees can quickly become existentially threatening. Expat Legal protects you from these financial risks.

Requirements for taking out the policy

  • You do not need to have residency in Germany
  • The policy can be taken out directly from abroad (e.g. Thailand)
  • The entire process runs digitally via the BDAE portal
  • For certain legal areas, a waiting period of 3 months applies
  • Health questions must be answered truthfully

📥 Download application form

Official BDAE application form: Download PDF

📖 Learn more: Legal protection in Thailand

Read our comprehensive guide on legal protection in Thailand with practical examples and tips: Legal protection in Thailand: What expats really need to know →

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Frequently asked questions about Expat Legal

What is Expat Legal and who is the insurer?

Expat Legal is the international legal protection insurance for expats, brokered by BDAE and underwritten by ARAG, one of Germany's leading legal protection insurers. The plan offers comprehensive legal protection in disputes abroad.

Which legal areas are covered by Expat Legal?

Expat Legal covers numerous legal areas: contract law, tort law, tenancy law, traffic law (including driving licence matters), criminal law as victim, regulatory offences and much more.

Does the legal protection also apply in Thailand?

Yes, Expat Legal offers worldwide legal protection – including Thailand and all other countries outside Germany.

How much does Expat Legal cost?

The premiums depend on the chosen plan and the sum insured. You can find exact prices via the online quote tool.

Can I take out Expat Legal from Thailand?

Yes, the policy can be taken out directly from abroad. You do not need German residency. The entire process runs digitally via the BDAE portal.

Is there a waiting period with Expat Legal?

Yes, for certain legal areas a waiting period of 3 months applies. This begins with the start of the contract.

What sums insured does Expat Legal offer?

Expat Legal offers high sums insured for covering lawyer fees, court costs and expert opinions abroad.

Are tenancy disputes in Thailand covered?

Yes, tenancy disputes abroad are covered under the Expat Legal plan. This is particularly important for expats renting a condo or house in Thailand.

What happens in a traffic law dispute in Thailand?

Traffic law disputes (including driving licence matters) are covered under the Expat Legal plan. ARAG covers the costs for lawyer and court.

Can I also take out Expat Legal as a family?

Yes, Expat Legal is available as a single or family plan. The family plan covers the policyholder, the spouse and all minor children.

📚 Official sources & references