Getting a Thai phone number

5 parts · about 1 minute

Picking a network, registering a SIM in your own name, and why your Thai number matters more than you think.

The essentials

There are three networks: AIS, True (which merged with dtac in 2023) and the state-owned NT.
Every SIM must be registered to your passport. Get it registered in your own name, not an agent's.
Your bank app and many services are tied to your number. Keep it active, even when you travel.
eSIMs are available from AIS and True for phones that support them.
Tourist SIMs expire. Once you live here, switch to a normal prepaid or monthly plan.

Everyone staying longer than a holiday. A Thai number is needed for banking, delivery apps, Grab, and most sign-up forms.

	Prepaid	Monthly (postpaid)
Good for	Your first weeks, or keeping costs flexible	Once settled, for bigger data allowances
Paperwork	Passport only	Passport, sometimes proof of address or a Thai bank account
Watch out for	Top up before it expires or the number can be cancelled	12-month contracts on phone deals

1. Go to an official shop of the network (in any mall) with your passport.

2. Check the registration is in your name before you leave — staff can show you.

3. Set up auto top-up or a monthly plan so the number never lapses.

4. Use the same number for your bank account.

Using a SIM registered to someone else. After the 2025 crackdown on scam numbers these can be cut off.

Letting a prepaid number expire while abroad and losing access to the bank app.

Answering calls claiming to be from the police, a bank or a courier and asking for money or codes — hang up and call the organisation yourself.

Bank accounts, Internet, Emergency numbers.

Everything above is written from these. Rules change without notice, so check the relevant one before you book, pay or travel.

Last checked against these on 26 September 2026. Spotted something out of date? and we'll re-check it.