Opening a Thai bank account
What banks ask for, which ones are realistic without a work permit, and how to move money in.
The essentials
- Requirements vary by branch, not just by bank — a refusal at one branch does not mean a refusal everywhere.
- A work permit or long-stay visa makes the process straightforward; tourists often need an agent or a specific expat-friendly branch.
- Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn (KBank) and Krungsri are the most commonly used by foreigners.
- Bring your passport, proof of address, and a Thai phone number.
- Thai debit cards carry an annual fee, typically 300–600 THB.
What to bring
Passport with a valid long-stay visa stamp.
Work permit, if you have one — this alone usually unlocks the account.
Proof of address: a lease agreement, a TM30 receipt, or a residence certificate from Immigration.
A Thai mobile number for OTP verification.
An initial deposit, usually 500–1,000 THB.
If you do not have a work permit
Try large branches inside central Bangkok malls, which handle foreigners daily.
A residence certificate from your local Immigration office (or your embassy) is the single most effective document to bring.
Some banks offer a foreigner account tied to a fixed deposit; the terms are worse but the account is real.
Moving money in
For visa applications requiring proof of funds, transfers must usually be coded as foreign currency inbound. Ask your Thai bank for a credit advice or FET form.
Compare the total landed cost, not the headline fee: Wise and similar services usually beat traditional bank wires for amounts under a few thousand dollars.
Cash withdrawals from Thai ATMs on a foreign card attract a 220 THB fee per transaction on top of your own bank charges.
Everyday banking
PromptPay QR payments are used everywhere, from street food to hospitals; it is the main reason to have a local account.
Mobile banking apps require a Thai SIM for OTP. Keep the number active if you travel.
Official sources
Everything above is written from these. Rules change without notice, so check the relevant one before you book, pay or travel.
This page was last checked against those sources on 1 July 2026. Spotted something out of date? and we'll re-check it.