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You are here: Home / Thailand Living / How to Open a Thai Bank Account: Choices, Requirements, Reader Experiences

How to Open a Thai Bank Account: Choices, Requirements, Reader Experiences

If you're working, retiring, or frequenting Thailand then it makes sense to have a bank account.

Why?

Because using foreign credit and debit cards involves high fees, on top of local ATM charges. And then there's the frustration of cards being rejected by ATMs.

Opening a Thai bank account isn't the same process at every bank. There are different requirements for each. I tried at least five different branches of different bank brands before I had success in opening an account.

What struck me was that quite often the bank staff cited different requirements to that on the bank's website.

When I did cite the requirements stated on the website, I was told that “things had changed”, or “the manager said…”

So I figured others must be struggling too and decided to write this article to help other foreign nationals, like you.

thai bank account for foreigners

My Current Banking Arrangements

My Thai Bank Account

Since writing the first version of this post, hundreds of people have reported their experiences of opening bank accounts in Thailand, making this post a solid resource for others wanting to do the same.

I still bank with Bangkok Bank, with a debit card, with access to Bualang online banking.

The online banking was set up for me at the ATM of the branch where I opened the account.

The ATM card was issued on the spot, for a 300 Baht fee, and I've had to replace it once due to wear and tear.

Transferring Money

I now regularly transfer money to my Thai bank account via Wise.  This is an international money transfer service, and usually the cheapest option.

Using this means I can avoid the sending and receiving bank charges and inflated currency conversion fees involved in money transfer.

It feels so good to beat the banks!

+ Read more about that here

Multi-Currency Account

I also have a Wise account, which, by the way, is a great option if you don't want to open a Thai bank account, or need a pre-move banking solution until you are able to set one up.

This account lets me hold money in different currencies (GBP, USD, Euros, whatever) and then convert the money to THB whenever I like. I can do this at a time when the exchange rate is favorable.

Or, I can allow the currency conversion to take place in real time as I spend money in Thailand on the debit card (MasterCard), which is issued with the account.

If you are someone who has a regular income paid in a one or more currencies, this is a good solution for getting paid into an account that you can readily access in Thailand.

+ More on this type of account here

So I have my Bangkok Bank card, my TW Borderless card, and my home bank cards – which I never really use.

How to Open a Thai Bank Account

Things are a hell of a lot easier in Thailand when you have a Thai ATM card and an account to transfer money into.

But despite the permission to stay you have, be it a retirement visa, work permit, or Non Immigrant O Visa based on marriage, opening a bank account can be frustrating.

Indeed, I've heard from people on tourist visas who've had less hassle opening an account than someone on a long-stay visa who is married to a Thai national.

So before you trudge around town and get frustrated as hell, read this post and see which bank is most likely to work best for your situation.

What you'll find below is the requirements for each bank, and a summary of reader experiences reported in the comments section.

Since starting this post many moons ago, it seems that the overwhelming consensus is that Bangkok Bank is the most friendly bank when it comes to opening accounts for foreigners.

The easiest, however, may very well be K-Bank, depending on the branch.

There's a bit of a gap in 2019/20, where, because of COVID-19 not many foreign nationals were opening bank accounts, but you'll see some recent experiences starting in late 2021 and some new ones for 2022.

1. Bangkok Bank

Requirements:

  • Passport and one other official identification document: for example, a reference letter from your embassy, your home bank or a person acceptable to the bank.
  • You will also need to provide evidence of your address in Thailand as well as your regular address in your home country.
  • UPDATE: In some cases Bangkok Bank is now asking for a certified letter from your Embassy. This letter must state that you have presented your passport to the Embassy, and that it is indeed your passport. Depending on the Embassy cost will be between 1150-1750 Baht)

If you have a work permit, are a permanent resident, or hold a long-stay visa, you can apply for a wider range of services such as a cheque account, internet banking and online international funds transfer services.

I opened my account with my passport, Non Immigrant O visa and my driver's license. This got me internet banking too. This was done at the Exchange Tower branch in Asoke, Bangkok. The rule regarding a letter from the embassy was not in place when I opened my account.

Reader Experiences:

  • (2020) Alex opened an account in Khon Kaen with a Dutch marriage statement, his identity papers, Thai wife's ID card, and a written guarantee from his wife.
  • (2020) At the second branch he tried in Isaan, John opened an account with passport, original marriage certificate, Thai wife's Tabien Baan, and drivers license (Thai and Australian).
  • (2021) Sebastian was able to open an account at Bangkok Bank (Central Embassy Branch) with the following documents:- Passport
    – ED Visa
    – Acceptance letter from Thammasat University
    – 500 THB opening deposit
  • (2021) John managed to open a Bangkok Bank account at Lotus’s Branch Thalang (Phuket) with a Tourist Visa, UK Passport and a letter from immigration (300 Baht.)
  • (2022) Nishan opened an account on a Tourist Visa in Phuket (Patong) with a passport and letter from immigration. He got an ATM card, mobile banking, but had to take out a life insurance policy for 7,900 Baht.

2. Kasikorn Bank (K-Bank)

Requirements:

Individuals who have base in foreign countries:

  • Passport
  • Work permit or education-based visa (seems these are not required at every branch)

Reader Experiences:

  • (2019) Anthonin opened an account at Pantip Plaza Pratunam with his passport, an address in Thailand, and a confirmation letter of internship.
  • (2021) Phil opened a bank account with his passport and UK driving license. He was set up with telephone banking, mobile banking.
  • (2021) Reetus opened an account at Kasikorn Bank Central Festival Pattaya with his passport (ED visa) and a letter from his language school. The ATM card was issued on the spot.
  • (2021)  Justin was able to open an account with Kasikorn at the Thanon Sri Nakharin branch, across the street from Paradise Park in Bangkok, using his education visa (technically an education guardian visa). He also showed them his townhome lease.

3. UOB Bank

Requirements:

Individual Non-Resident Account:

  • A copy of passport
  • A copy of work permit (seems this is not always required, depends on the branch)
  • 50,000 Baht deposit
  • Phone number

Reader Experiences:

  • Danny opened a UOB account with a passport, phone number, proof of address and 50 000 baht. He got a bank card on the spot.
  • (2021) Sebastian also opened an account with UOB Thailand to have an alternative. They  required the following:
  • Passport
    – ED Visa
    – Acceptance letter from Thammasat University
    – A 50,000 THB opening deposit, which can be immediately withdraw after opening the account.

4. SCB

Requirements:

  • A work permit and passport are required to open an account.

Non-Resident accounts are for:

  • Branches or representative offices of Thai corporations established in countries outside Thailand.
  • Tourists and other overseas visitors.
  • Foreigners temporarily working in Thailand.
  • Foreign government agencies, including embassies, consulates, or specialized UN agencies such as ESCAP, FAO, UNICEF, etc.
  • International organizations or institutions located in Thailand, but established by the government of the country to which such organizations belong.

Note: The implication is that any non-resident can open an account.

Reader Experiences:

  • Scott opened a SCB savings account at the Tesco Lotus Fortune Town branch, with nothing but a passport and money to open the account. He had previously tried at the Central Rama 9 branch and failed.

5. Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri)

Requirements:

At least one or more of the following:

  • Work permit
  • Condominium Lease Agreement (at least 1 year)
  • Thai Driver’s License
  • House Registration Documents (proving you live in a particular house)
  • A Thai wife’s ID card and Marriage Certificate

Reader Experiences:

  • Joe opened a bank account (with a debit card) with just his passport on Sukhumvit Road (near Robinsons, between Nana and Asoke BTS stations). He showed his Non-Immigrant O-A visa (retirement visa). He used his girlfriend's address, but they did not require evidence of this. The visa card cost him 350 Baht.
  • (2019) Tim opened a savings account with Krungsri (Onnut branch) with a 1-year lease contract for his condo and his passport.
  • (2019) ASDF opened an account at Central Festival in Phuket. only a work permit was required.

6. CIMB

Requirements:

  1. Citizen ID card or passport (for foreigner)
  2. Savings account book or Current account number

Applicant Qualification:

  1. The applicant must be aged 15 or over.
  2. The applicant must own an individual savings and/or current account or a joint account that authorizes either owner to withdraw cash or a merchant account with single account owner.
  3. Other terms and conditions are as specified by the Bank.

Reader Experiences:

  • Theo opened a CIMB Thai bank account using his friend as guarantor. Only his passport was needed and his friend's contact details, address, etc.

7. KrungThai

Requirements:

  • For foreigners: Passport, alien certificate, work permit issued or endorsed by any credible organization or visa which is valid for at least 3 months.
  • For international students: Passport and student certificate issued by school/college.

Reader Experiences:

  • John was able to open a KrungThai savings passbook account in Chumphon. He used his passport and Non-Immigrant O visa.
  • JP opened a savings account at Krung Thai on his Non O marriage visa, and also one at the SCB branch in Kalasin, which only required his passport and a deposit.
  • (2018) Robert opened an account at Kuung Thai in Sattahip, with passport and address information.

How to Transfer Money to Your Thai Bank Account & Avoid Fees

Once you have opened your Thai bank account, you'll want to start transferring money into it from your bank in your home country.

Unfortunately, this can be a costly process, especially if you are transferring money every few months, or even more frequently.

Your home bank (the sending bank) will change you a fee of between $10-20, and the receiving bank will charge you around $10.

In addition, you will be charged a currency conversion fee – because the banks don't give you the mid-market rate, but instead a rate they decide on.

So, on $1,000 or £1,000, you could be looking at saving $50 or more in fees.

The good news is that you can avoid these fees using a great service that I've used for many years now.

+ Find out more here

Transferring Money Out of Thailand

So that's the best way to transfer money in, but what about transferring out?

if you want to know the best way to send money from your Thai bank account to an account overseas, check out this post for a run-down of all the options.

——

Share Your Experience & Help Others

It would be great if you can let me know what bank account you have and on what terms you acquired it.

This will save other readers time and hassle, and help them find the most “farang-friendly” branches, so to speak. I will then add the information to the list below.

——

More Tips for a Better Life in Thailand

Improve Your Thai Skills:

Learning Thai makes life here easier and more fun. I use Thaipod101. It is free to get started & easy to use.

Get Good Health Insurance:

Start with a quick quote from Cigna. Then compare my other recommendations here.

Protect Your Online Privacy:

A VPN protects you against hackers and government snooping. I always use one. You should too. Read why here.

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Last Updated on July 19, 2022

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Comments Sort by : newest | oldest

  1. garth says

    March 23, 2023 at 9:04 pm

    This is probably a dumb question: To open a thai bank account you have to be a resident? Or can you just provide the address of whatever AirBnB you happen to be staying at?
    Reply

    Mar 23, 2023 at 9:04 pm

    • Max says

      March 23, 2023 at 9:13 pm

      Officially, you have to be a resident with a permanent address. Hotels or Airbnb is not accepted. Several banks asks for a work permit. Bangkok Bank,for example, also accepts retirees but with a permanent address, a hotel address is not accepted. This is the short version.
      Reply

      Mar 23, 2023 at 9:13 pm

      • garth says

        March 23, 2023 at 9:41 pm

        that's what I thought but always like confirmation. WISE it is until I can swing the move. Thanks for the quick education.
        Reply

        Mar 23, 2023 at 9:41 pm

        • Max says

          March 24, 2023 at 8:18 am

          Garth, you shall not stop using Wise even when you've been able to open a Thai bank account and you still have a bank account back home. Never do bank to bank transfers, you'll get lower exchange rates and higher fees,in most cases both sending and receiving fees. Wise's transfers are also faster. Just add your Thai bank account to Wise.
          Reply

          Mar 24, 2023 at 8:18 am

    • JamesE says

      March 23, 2023 at 9:29 pm

      What you need is a certificate of residence OR an Affidavit of Residence notarized by your country's embassy or consulate. The first (according to some) requires you have a TM-30 filed to provide proof that you're actually residing there. The second is basically a sworn statement identifying yourself and providing your address. (Note: Bangkok Bank wants it to show both your Thai address and your home address.)
      Reply

      Mar 23, 2023 at 9:29 pm

      • Max says

        March 23, 2023 at 10:15 pm

        James, Bangkok Bank (and some other banks) doesn't "officially" accept the Residence Certificate from immigration anymore. Now they want the equivalent from an embassy or consulate. Which countries embassies asks for a sworn statement about identification and address? That's what a passport is for together with a contract/lease. That's what my embassy and consulates asks for. You're from the US,right? The US Embassy in BKK have basically stopped issuing any type of notarized/legalized documents helping their citizens.
        Reply

        Mar 23, 2023 at 10:15 pm

        • JamesE says

          March 24, 2023 at 8:08 am

          Yikes! Thanks for that Max. I had no idea. I'm on the Department of State's email list and don't recall seeing that in any notification. Time for Plan B...
          Reply

          Mar 24, 2023 at 8:08 am

          • JamesE says

            March 24, 2023 at 8:16 am

            Follow up: There is an exception for opening a bank account: "Can I still notarize an affidavit of residency to open a bank account?

            • For now, yes, though we are working with the Royal Thai government to find a way to provide necessary residency
            information that does not involve an expensive and inconvenient notarization"

            source: https://th.usembassy.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/90/factsheet-cessation-of-residency-affidavits.pdf
            Reply

            Mar 24, 2023 at 8:16 am

            • Max says

              March 24, 2023 at 6:37 pm

              This is a good one:
              " an expensive and inconvenient notarization".
              How much is an expensive notarization? If the US Embassy admits it's expensive then they don't want you to apply for one. I paid ฿400 for a notarization a few years ago at my embassy in BKK,and the cost is same for every type of notarization/certification. The price has probably gone up a bit, but not much. Doesn't the US Embassy know about the Residence Certificate from immigration? This so called info is just BS.
              James, have you ever checked the official requirements regarding opening a savings account at the most common commercial banks in Thailand? I guess you haven't because the only bank I can remember who accepts the equivalent to a Residence Certificate from an Embassy or consulate is Bangkok Bank. No other bank mentions it. Not one bank mentions the Residence Certificate from immigration. It's totally irrelevant if you can open an account in a bank somewhere without any official documents. It's just about official requirements. Not many years ago you could (again officially) open an account as a foreigner at several banks in Thailand. But that changed in 2019 for an unknown reason. The new ttb Bank and Krungsri Bank mentions foreigners (without work permit) but not for every type of savings account. So, telling people to go for a Residence Certificate from either immigration or from an Embassy in BKK won't work. It will work at some branches, though, because they don't care about changes announced from head office. As far as I know Bangkok Bank on Jomtien Second Road still accepts the Residence Certificate from immigration but it's a foreigner friendly branch and only 90 meters from immigration.
              Reply

              Mar 24, 2023 at 6:37 pm

          • Max says

            March 24, 2023 at 6:48 pm

            I read the statement from the US Embassy in BKK a couple of days ago on expat.coms website. They mentioned at least 5 different documents they won't notarize/certify anymore. It included for example the marriage certificate when married to a Thai national. That will be a problem for US citizens married in the US with a Thai, and who wants to apply for a 1 year extension based on marriage. They most likely have to get married again in Thailand.
            Reply

            Mar 24, 2023 at 6:48 pm

    • garth says

      March 24, 2023 at 9:12 pm

      So the moral of the story is, when I get ready to move, I camp out at an AirBnB for awhile and find an apartment / condo with a long term lease. Once I have established a long term lease, I visit my embassy and try to get these various certs. And then play roulette with various branches of Thai Banks until I g hit the jackpot.

      Gentlemen, I really appreciate all the feed back. I plan to visit Phuket again in July (two weeks) and then Pattaya / Koh Samui / Hua Hin this Christmas (one month). More research to figure out the where and the how much...
      Reply

      Mar 24, 2023 at 9:12 pm

      • Max says

        March 24, 2023 at 10:50 pm

        Maybe you should decide where to stay. The reason for the stay might also be important. I'm talking about the type of visa/permission of stay. Where are you from by the way? If you can get a Residence Certificate from your embassy in BKK, my suggestion would be Bangkok Bank. That's the only foreigner friendly bank in my opinion. Playing roulette is about going from bank to bank without any proper documents until you get lucky. It works sometime but it might also be a waste of time.
        Reply

        Mar 24, 2023 at 10:50 pm

        • garth says

          March 24, 2023 at 11:27 pm

          United States. I retire in about five years if I am fortunate and I like to scuba dive and I like to play golf. So for the next year or so, I plan to visit Thailand as often as I can, staying in Phuket / Koh Samui area. Going to give Bangkok / Pattaya a look and probably Chiang Mai (no scuba up there, but I hear its affordable). Once I iron out the where, I move on to the logistics piece.
          Reply

          Mar 24, 2023 at 11:27 pm

          • Max says

            March 25, 2023 at 12:08 am

            Chiang Mai? Well,see where it's located on a map and you'll understand why it's affordable. Staying there for a few days is ok,living there,no way. In five years, much sooner I think ,you won't be able to get a Residence Certificate from the US Embassy in BKK,they're cutting down on notarizations. Helping US citizens living in Thailand isn't a priority.
            Reply

            Mar 25, 2023 at 12:08 am

  2. Doug says

    March 13, 2023 at 12:56 pm

    Last Friday, I wanted to change banks. Closed account w/ Krung Thai and went to BKK Bank. I was unsuccessful at the 2 BKK Banks branches in Nong Khai. I've a non-immigrant O, long-term VISA w/ extension and yellow book. They tried to sell me insurance and when asked them what I am buying, "just want to sell products the bank sells". I told them I did not need nor want the insurance. What will it take to open an account? Need certificate from embassy. Since I'm from USA, no way the embassy will issue any document or "resident certificate".
    Now, I do not have a bank account, but funds are in very trustworthy wife's account.
    To me, opening a bank account is a simple process - give funds to a bank and keep in bank account provided regulatory requirements are met. Selling insurance is completely unnecessary and not related to the banking process.
    After reading most of the postings here, I was going to visit the local immigration office and get the resident certificate. Well, after reading the most recent post, I'm now not so sure.
    BTW, ya did a good job with information on your website as I reference or read it a lot. Thank you!

    Any suggestions regarding the bank account?

    I will likely go to either Kaisikorn Bank or SCB (Siam) if not successful w/ BKK Bank.
    Reply

    Mar 13, 2023 at 12:56 pm

    • Max says

      March 13, 2023 at 7:10 pm

      Never ever close a bank account before you have opened a new one. Kasikorn Bank branches follows different requirements (other banks,too). Some branches don't care the least when official requirements changes. Early 2019 K-Bank went from a bank where you could open a savings account if you were retired and had the "Retirement" stamp in the passport, to a bank where foreigners aren't officially allowed to open a simple savings account. But, some branches still asks for what type of visa you have. Krungsri Bank, the former Ayutthaya Bank and the new ttb Bank, (Thai Military Bank and Thanachart Bank merged early last year) are two options. I have read that they aren't impossible to deal with. Some Bangkok Bank branches do still accept the Residence Certificate from immigration (just ask them) while other branches asks for the equivalent from an embassy or consulate. There can't be that many BKK Bank branches in the area where you're staying,right? What are you going to do when you're up for next extension? Having 800k in your wife's account won't help.
      Reply

      Mar 13, 2023 at 7:10 pm

      • Doug says

        March 14, 2023 at 12:35 am

        Late yesrerday afternoon, i obtained a Residence Certificate from immigration & successfully opened BKK account today/late afternoon.
        800k is not required in my situation.
        Yes, agree best to not close account first when changing banks.
        Thanks.
        Reply

        Mar 14, 2023 at 12:35 am

        • Max says

          March 14, 2023 at 9:43 am

          Did they force you to buy the insurance when you opened the account?
          Reply

          Mar 14, 2023 at 9:43 am

          • Doug says

            March 14, 2023 at 4:59 pm

            No, i did not need to purchase the insurance.
            Fyi, i did find on BKK bank website the information about the insurance. The insurance is a product offered by the bank.
            Reply

            Mar 14, 2023 at 4:59 pm

            • Max says

              March 14, 2023 at 5:05 pm

              I know about the insurance. Bangkok Bank have been forcing it on customers when opening an account for years.
              Reply

              Mar 14, 2023 at 5:05 pm

  3. Phillip says

    March 8, 2023 at 9:01 pm

    Really helpful post.

    I went to the BB Head Office in Bangkok today. Overheard that they now have a blanket policy across the bank that they do not open bank accounts for anyone on a tourist visa anymore. Today is literally the first day they have started enforcing the rule. Not sure how credible this is though.
    Reply

    Mar 08, 2023 at 9:01 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      March 9, 2023 at 12:22 am

      Interesting. I wonder if this rule will filter down to all branches correctly. I'm surprised, since many people spend 3-6 months a year in Thailand on tourist visas and having a bank account helps facilitate that. Moreover, those same people usually end up making a more permanent move at some point.
      Reply

      Mar 09, 2023 at 12:22 am

      • Max says

        March 9, 2023 at 12:24 pm

        It doesn't say anything in Bangkok Banks official requirements about not being allowed to open an account on a tourist visa. A person on a tourist visa can be a condo owner. Since last year a hotel is officially not accepted as a permanent address when opening a bank account at Bangkok Bank. Even a Residence Certificate from immigration isn't officially accepted anymore. Officially is the keyword.
        Reply

        Mar 09, 2023 at 12:24 pm

  4. Dan says

    January 15, 2023 at 4:33 pm

    Just tried to open an account at Kasikorn Pattaya Central Festival. Not possible, work permit or special visa needed. Maybe bad luck, will try it again another day.
    Reply

    Jan 15, 2023 at 4:33 pm

    • Max says

      January 15, 2023 at 6:43 pm

      A work permit is quite normal to ask for,but there's no such thing as a special visa. On what type of visa did you arrive? Are you going to stay here long term?
      Reply

      Jan 15, 2023 at 6:43 pm

    • Tony says

      March 9, 2023 at 12:01 pm

      BBank is the one I'd recommend for westerners. As I am now married I have a yellow book (house registration book) for foreign residents who have a property in Thailand. So if you've bought property (Condo) you can then apply for the book which in turn will make things far easier in getting a Thai bank account.
      It did make things go smoother for me, being married to a Thai person, but so long as you have property, applying for the yellow book shouldn't be a problem. Also once you have it, you can then apply for the pink ID card, which is another handy addition for getting through the nation's red-tape coditions, when needed.
      Reply

      Mar 09, 2023 at 12:01 pm

      • Max says

        March 9, 2023 at 6:39 pm

        You don't need to be an owner of a property to apply for a yellow house book. It just shows you have a permanent address. Yellow for foreigners and blue for Thai nationals. And the yellow house book is not officially accepted as a residence certificate at any bank in Thailand. If it works when opening a bank account,then it's just pure luck. Same with the pink ID-card, it's not equivalent to the blue national ID-card, and it actually just shows you have a yellow house book. It was initially issued for stateless people or people who had alien status in Thailand,and later for guest workers from neighboring countries. If authorities wanted the pink ID-card to work like the real Thai national ID-card it would for example be in both Thai and English,but it's not.
        Reply

        Mar 09, 2023 at 6:39 pm

        • Tony says

          March 14, 2023 at 6:42 pm

          Not sure where in Thailand you are but I'm in Udon Thani and B Bank's first question to me was do you have a yellow book (registration book for foreigners)? It has subsequently helped me to open a bank account, apply for a driving license, purchasing a condo in Thailand without applying for a Certificate of Residence at the local Immigration Office. The ID card (pink card) was the cherry on top and sometimes it's good to have that on your person if you haven't got the book on you as the card is nice and small and fits into your wallet, if you got the card it means you have the book!
          Reply

          Mar 14, 2023 at 6:42 pm

          • Max says

            March 14, 2023 at 7:09 pm

            The yellow card might work (way up) in Isaan,but I promise you it's almost useless in the real world. Same with the pink ID-card. You have to understand the difference between official and local requirements in banks in Thailand. But it's nice it works for you up there. In Pattaya,the only time a pink ID-card might come in handy is when I have forgotten my front door keys. 😁
            Reply

            Mar 14, 2023 at 7:09 pm

  5. Tony says

    December 14, 2022 at 12:08 pm

    Hi Peter, I've been living in Udon Thani, Thailand for just under 3 years now, I have a Bangkok Bank in Udon Thani, and so far they have been trustworthy and helpful. Do you think it's best to stay with them or can you suggest another bank, as I've heard a lot of corruption goes on in Thai banks that westerners are not too familiar with?

    Kind regards
    Tony
    Reply

    Dec 14, 2022 at 12:08 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      December 14, 2022 at 6:11 pm

      Bangkok Bank has been great for me. I've used branches all over the country and I've never had any issues. The only other bank I'd consider is Kasikorn, as my wife banks with them.
      Reply

      Dec 14, 2022 at 6:11 pm

      • Max says

        December 14, 2022 at 7:02 pm

        I've had bank accounts in three provinces since 1990 or 1991 without having any problems what so ever. I'm banking with both Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn Bank. There are always a lot of rumours about this and that when it comes to Thai banks. They have caught a few employees out in the sticks stealing money from customers but it's over a very long time. It's a much bigger problem in western countries.
        Reply

        Dec 14, 2022 at 7:02 pm

      • Tony says

        March 9, 2023 at 12:02 pm

        Thanks for that Max,

        and I'm still with them!

        Tony
        Reply

        Mar 09, 2023 at 12:02 pm

    • Martin1 says

      March 9, 2023 at 1:09 pm

      Hey Tony,
      I can recommend two other banks: Ttb with their "All Free" account and card, and Krungsri.
      With both banks, when you travel much, you do not have to pay fees in other provinces.
      And the latter one, like OUB and others (Citi has closed their business for private customers) has the slight change to get a loan in Thailand as a foreigner, as they are foreign banks.
      Reply

      Mar 09, 2023 at 1:09 pm

  6. David Ben-Asher says

    September 10, 2022 at 6:46 pm

    First: I am looking into retiring in Thailand and this site is a GODSEND!!! The tip about Wise alone makes me want to buy you a drink! Khob khun mak krap! 🙏🙏🙏

    Second: I have a question: To obtain the O-A retirement visa you have to have ฿800,000 in a Thai bank for at least two months. But to open a Thai bank account you need an address in Thailand. How can I have an address in Thailand before I am permitted to live there? How can I open a Thai bank account before I actually move to Thailand?

    Thank you again for this amazing site!
    Reply

    Sep 10, 2022 at 6:46 pm

    • Max says

      September 10, 2022 at 7:22 pm

      I think you're talking about the O Visa, not the O-A. Having an address in Thailand has nothing to do with living here permantly. A lot of people are snowbirds and they stay here during the winter in condos they bought as tourists. You can rent a condo and that will be your address as long as you have a lease/contract. Getting a bank account is another story because you might need a Residence Certificate from immigration or the equivalent from an embassy or consulate. But every embassy/consulate won't issue that document. It depends on where you come from. It's a catch 22 for some people. A lot of people goes from bank to bank until they get lucky, especially in Bangkok. For some strange reason being able to open a bank account is easier in malls. Maybe they work on commission 😁. Every big mall have a lot of banks.
      Reply

      Sep 10, 2022 at 7:22 pm

    • JamesE says

      September 10, 2022 at 10:21 pm

      Yes, it is. Probably the best site on living in Thailand on the web. And you can buy TTL a drink. He's got Buy Me A Coffee page which will allow you to buy him as many drinks as you see prudent given he has to set an example for his kid. More of us should. https://www.buymeacoffee.com/thethailandlifeAs to your question, you don't need the ฿800K in a Thai bank for an O-A until you go to renew it in Thailand. You can get your initial O-A using funds in your home country and then sorting out the rest once in Thailand. BUT as you'll see reading TTL's posts and comments on retirement visas in general and the O-A in particular, your better option is the O (Retirement) visa which doesn't have the same health insurance/background check/19th Century disease checks as the O-A.
      Reply

      Sep 10, 2022 at 10:21 pm

  7. Nicolas Martin says

    August 20, 2022 at 9:56 am

    It isn't true that credit cards have "high fees" for transactions in Thailand. Of the two Visa cards and one Mastercard that I have in the US, two charge one percent per transaction, and the third charges no international transaction fees. That card is Amazon's Visa Signature. None of the three charges an annual fee.
    Reply

    Aug 20, 2022 at 9:56 am

    • Nicolas Martin says

      August 20, 2022 at 9:58 am

      I should also mention that my Fidelity debit card reimburses for any ATM fees in or out of the United States.
      Reply

      Aug 20, 2022 at 9:58 am

    • Max says

      August 21, 2022 at 1:54 pm

      It's not Visa or MasterCard who decides the fees, banks/providers do. American Express has always been been expensive abroad,both for the card owner and stores. That's why many stores rejects American Express. It seems you think that every tourist in Thailand comes from the US. They don't. The reason you don't pay an annual fee is that every bank/provider wants you to pay your debts in installments. That's when the interest kicks in. Even if you have up to maybe 55 days to pay your debt before you have to pay interest,most people pays a fixed sum (normally the lowest) every month. That's what banks wants. So,in the long run when using a credit card abroad for every purchase incl dinners at fancy restaurants,the bank always win.
      Reply

      Aug 21, 2022 at 1:54 pm

    • Max says

      August 21, 2022 at 2:59 pm

      I forgot one thing. Don't pay for rooms at hotels and guesthouses with a credit card unless you have to. It's very common in Thailand they'll charge you extra. There are normally signs at the reception/front desk telling you how much extra.
      Reply

      Aug 21, 2022 at 2:59 pm

  8. Robert says

    August 17, 2022 at 10:37 pm

    I have a CITI credit card issued to me in America. Will this help me open a bank account at the CITI bank in Bangkok?.
    Reply

    Aug 17, 2022 at 10:37 pm

    • JamesE says

      August 18, 2022 at 1:45 am

      It probably wouldn't hurt but CITI Thailand and CITI US are two separate entities. The main drawback to using a foreign bank is that you won't have the ATM access you'd expect when you travel around Thailand, at least not without a hefty fee. There is only one 24-hour ATM location in Bangkok (out of three total). The CITI Thailand website seems pretty comprehensive.
      Reply

      Aug 18, 2022 at 1:45 am

    • Max says

      August 18, 2022 at 1:07 pm

      When opening a bank account in Thailand you should always go for a large Thai bank with offices and ATM's everywhere. For example: Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank or SCB = Siam Commercial Bank. Kasikorn Bank also offers Visa Debit Cards and they are not connected to TPN = Thai Payment Network which is total crap.
      Reply

      Aug 18, 2022 at 1:07 pm

      • JamesE says

        August 18, 2022 at 10:06 pm

        Robert, The caveat here, as Max says, is that an account with a Thai domestic bank is much more preferable than with a foreign bank. However, a US checking/savings account with CITI may be a useful addition to a domestic account. Your US CITI account will allow CITI-Thailand ATM access to US funds at the interbank rate (much like using a foreign credit card) which is extremely close to the mid-market rate offered by Wise. I think Charles Schwab is the only other bank that does this although the transactions are structured differently. I'd check with CITI and see what they can offer you in terms of a checking/savings account with foreign-fee free debit card.
        Reply

        Aug 18, 2022 at 10:06 pm

        • Max says

          August 19, 2022 at 9:26 am

          When withdrawing money from an ATM using a foreign card,you always get the so-called TT buy rate,unless you make a very common tourist mistake. That is answering yes on the first question about accepting a specific exchange rate.Always click on No.
          Reply

          Aug 19, 2022 at 9:26 am

  9. Sammy Choi says

    August 17, 2022 at 8:08 am

    I went to 5 branches of Bangkok bank, They are refuse to open an account for me. I have an account in Pattaya opened 15 years ago. I was intending to open and extra account in Bangkok so I do not have to go to Pattaya to do banking. I have another account with security division of BBK with investment of more than 4millions Baht. I have 2 Condos in BBK and can produce the title document to them but they were not interested. All ask me to get a letter from the Embassy to endorse the opening of an account with BBL. Cost me more than 8 hours to do the exercise. What a Nightmare
    Reply

    Aug 17, 2022 at 8:08 am

    • Max says

      August 17, 2022 at 3:35 pm

      One official document (out of several) Bangkok Bank is asking for when opening a savings account is the "Residence Certificate" from the local immigration office. Another one is the equivalent from an Embassy or Consulate. I guess that's the one the bank asked for. Just out of curiosity,what banking do you have to do in person you can't do online using for example mobile banking or internet banking?
      Reply

      Aug 17, 2022 at 3:35 pm

    • JamesE says

      August 17, 2022 at 9:58 pm

      Yeah, the embassy affirmation letter is a new thing. I tried to open a second account with BBK and was told I needed an embassy affirmation of both my Thai and US addresses, this despite having both of those addresses already on my existing account. Thai banks love them some needless paperwork.
      Reply

      Aug 17, 2022 at 9:58 pm

      • Max says

        August 18, 2022 at 8:26 am

        At my Bangkok Brank branch in Jomtien, I can open any type of (new) account just showing my current bank book and passport. Customer service there is actually easy to deal with. Knock on wood.
        Reply

        Aug 18, 2022 at 8:26 am

  10. Lily Yeung says

    August 10, 2022 at 11:02 pm

    1) Is Bangkok Bank the only bank requiring insurance policy payment when opening bank account? How much is that? Heard that it is very hefty.
    2) Is there bank transfer fee if you open account in Bangkok and pay someone in Phuket, local currency?
    3) How long does it take to open a new bank account in Phuket?
    Reply

    Aug 10, 2022 at 11:02 pm

    • Max says

      August 10, 2022 at 11:31 pm

      1)
      It's actually a small scam but not expensive. It's just the annual fee for the Siriraj debit card,599 baht. Just change debit card year two,then the fee is 2-300 baht.
      2)
      Transfers online when using for example mobile banking is free,even to other banks. Local currency? Phuket is a part of Thailand,so we're talking baht.
      3)
      The time depends on customer service and if your required documents are in order. But normally about about 30-45 minutes.
      Reply

      Aug 10, 2022 at 11:31 pm

    • Martin1 says

      August 11, 2022 at 1:57 pm

      Hey Lily,

      To my eyes Max answered all your questions excellently, didn't he?

      But please let me add something important (despite you hadn't asked): There will be fees if you withdraw cash on ATMs of other banks (one or two times you may without being charged).
      And there will be fees if you withdraw cash (even on Bangkok Bank's ATMs !) in other provinces!

      As far as I know the only card which one can use w/o fees is the ttb ALL FREE.

      So opening up bank accounts in other provinces you plan to be regularely would be not a bad idea.

      P.S.: To Max's #2: It is free now, yes. But in the past you had to pay fees as well (10, 20, 30 Baht)
      Reply

      Aug 11, 2022 at 1:57 pm

      • Max says

        August 11, 2022 at 5:59 pm

        No fees when withdrawing money from ATM's in other provinces, it's in other regions. It's not the same thing. Earlier there were officially 4 regions in Thailand, now there are 6 administrative regions. You can check fees at every banks website. But if you're smart while travelling in Thailand,you don't withdraw small amounts like 500 baht during a 2 weeks trip, and I think people can afford a 15 baht fee once in a while. There won't be any fees in the future when transferring money online. Thai banks have learned that it's not very smart. Why fees still exists 2022 when withdrawing money from an ATM in another region is a bit of a mystery. Some banks says it's because of maintenance,but I guess they just want to make money. If you ask a bank branch manager,they don't know what to say.
        Reply

        Aug 11, 2022 at 5:59 pm

  11. Adam says

    August 5, 2022 at 11:04 pm

    Hey there, wanted to share my experience for other readers on opening a bank account:

    Opened a bank account with Bangkok Bank today, only had to bring a legalised/certified copy of my passport issued by the Dutch embassy (970 baht) and my passport.

    500 baht to open the account (gets deposited in account), and had to take a debit card for 599 baht which includes a year of personal accident insurance. This was at the Fortune Town 2 branch in Bangkok. Left the bank with a new bank book and debit card and mobile banking.

    I’m on a visa exemption by the way.
    Reply

    Aug 05, 2022 at 11:04 pm

    • Max says

      August 5, 2022 at 11:42 pm

      The requirements are not the same at every branch,strange but true. Many Bangkok Bank branches rejects the legalized passport copy and instead requires the Residence Certificate from immigration or the equivalent from an Embassy. The 1 year PA-insurance is a Bangkok Bank scam. They force it on new customers and I guess they get a commission from Siriraj Hospital. The insurance is basically useless because of the low amount it covers.
      Reply

      Aug 05, 2022 at 11:42 pm

  12. Niall says

    July 21, 2022 at 5:24 pm

    Can I change my home branch?

    Chiang Mai to Pai?
    Reply

    Jul 21, 2022 at 5:24 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 21, 2022 at 5:27 pm

      No, I don't think so. I'm quite sure you'd have to open a new account in the new province. Or close the old one and open a new one.
      Reply

      Jul 21, 2022 at 5:27 pm

    • Max says

      July 21, 2022 at 5:47 pm

      You can not change branch. Branches has nothing to do with each other,even if they are located in same province. Just open a new account in Pai,but keep your account in Chiang Mai. You never know when you'll need it. Just keep some money in it. Otherwise it will get cancelled.
      Reply

      Jul 21, 2022 at 5:47 pm

    • JamesE says

      July 21, 2022 at 10:10 pm

      One of the eye-opening things about Thai banking is the complete dependence on paperwork. When I go into my US bank the banker just looks at the computer screen and has my entire history with the bank going back 35 years. It doesn't matter whether I'm in California or Florida. In Thailand, when I go to the bank, the banker tells me to have a seat, goes into the back room, and comes out with a stack of paper as thick as my thigh. If you try to do anything at a different branch - no paper, no help. It's more like hundreds of different banks all with the same name than what you'd think of as actual branches. As Max says, keep your other account open with a little money in it, just make sure you leave enough to cover the ongoing fees
      Reply

      Jul 21, 2022 at 10:10 pm

      • TheThailandLife says

        July 22, 2022 at 7:30 pm

        One wonders where is all the paperwork kept. There must be a a couple of vaults with all the immigration paper work stacked up somewhere.
        Reply

        Jul 22, 2022 at 7:30 pm

        • Max says

          July 22, 2022 at 8:10 pm

          My Bangkok Bank branch in Jomtien must be the smallest in greater Pattaya. Where they keep the paperwork and copies is a mystery. I don't know how many bank books I have had and on top of that several debit cards. At least a 100 copies of this and that and forms,too. Just changing a passport number 2-3 months ago created about 4-5 copies which I had to sign.But immigration must be winners if we're talking about copies of everything. I need 12-13 copies,my bank letter and the TM7-form every year. Then another 4 copies + a form for the 90-days money check. That's 17-18 papers for just 1 person for an annual extension. Thousands and thousands of expats are doing the same every year in just Pattaya.Not to mention tourists applying for extensions and the TM30's. You need a huge warehouse to store everything. I haven't figured out how long they store all this crap (if they store it), but I'm not curious enough to ask.
          Reply

          Jul 22, 2022 at 8:10 pm

  13. Tom Young says

    July 20, 2022 at 11:53 pm

    Hello Peter, Thank you for your reply. I would like some more info on how to set up a Wise bank facility and a bit of help doing so, a fee for help would be paid. I am not very good at doing things online so all help would be appreciated. I am coming over to Thailand on 1-9-22 till 30-9-22 with hopes of regenerating an excising bank acc, Bank of Bangkok and getting a condo for a year. Regards Tom.
    Reply

    Jul 20, 2022 at 11:53 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 21, 2022 at 4:33 pm

      Hi Tom, do you mean an account with Wise, as in the company I discuss here: https://www.thethailandlife.com/how-to-send-money-to-thailand-no-bank-feesIf so, please ask any questions you have in the comments section on that post and myself and others will help.Once you have rented your condo and have a residential address you will be able to open an account with Bangkok Bank.
      Reply

      Jul 21, 2022 at 4:33 pm

      • Tom says

        July 21, 2022 at 4:44 pm

        Peter, Thankyou for your reply, any help would be greatly appreciated. I am not good at computer skills so meeting up with someone who is when I arrive would be a blessing. I just hope that I can get in touch with you when I arrive. I am so eager to have things go well. I will be in Thailand on the 2-9-22 for a month, fly out 31-9-22 and then back to Thailand end of October for good.Kind regards Tom
        Reply

        Jul 21, 2022 at 4:44 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          July 21, 2022 at 4:52 pm

          Hi Tom, sorry but I'm unable to meet up to help with banking and visas and stuff like that. I get a lot of requests but I have to work and have a family so I just don't have the time. I do try to help as much as I can on here by answering questions, and I can also advise by email if need be.
          Reply

          Jul 21, 2022 at 4:52 pm

    • Max says

      July 21, 2022 at 4:55 pm

      Tom, Wise is not a bank and you're not opening a bank account per se.
      Check out this link how to register at Wise. A bit down you can see the green button saying "Get started".
      Then just follow the instructions. It's dead easy.Doing it online is the only way, there's no way around it.
      https://wise.com/
      Reply

      Jul 21, 2022 at 4:55 pm

      • TheThailandLife says

        July 21, 2022 at 5:00 pm

        As I understand it, Tom, you want to set up a Wise account so that you can transfer money to the Wise account from your home country bank and then forward it from Wise to your Bangkok Bank account, which you plan to open once you get to Thailand.Is that correct? As Max said, just follow the onscreen instructions and you can get Wise set up. They have customer support too, including phone and email. Please drop back here if you have any questions, but better to leave them on the Wise post which I linked previously.
        Reply

        Jul 21, 2022 at 5:00 pm

        • Tom says

          July 21, 2022 at 5:40 pm

          Peter,I understand,Max,I notice I didn’t explain that back in late 2017, October,I opened a bank account with bank of Bankok with the help of immigration. At the end of 2018 I had to leave Thailand because of health problems,I still have bank book and bank card, I withdrew what monies were in the account.I will endeavor to get a new account or revitalize the old account. I very much appreciate all the info you and team have given I just hope I can get things sorted,Regards Tom
          Reply

          Jul 21, 2022 at 5:40 pm

          • Max says

            July 21, 2022 at 6:21 pm

            Tom, if you withdraw all the money in a Thai bank account, the account will after a while get cancelled. So, even if you have a bank book and an ATM-card, those are not valid anymore. You can not re-open same account again. If you have an official address in Thailand, you can get a Residence Certificate from the local immigration office. With that certificate you can open a new bank account at Bangkok Bank.
            Reply

            Jul 21, 2022 at 6:21 pm

            • Tom says

              July 22, 2022 at 3:49 pm

              Max,sorry for late reply to your post. Thankyou for advice, will follow it through,regards Tom
              Reply

              Jul 22, 2022 at 3:49 pm

  14. Tevin Ricketts says

    July 9, 2022 at 10:44 am

    I am just about to start studying in Thailand Bangkok and it seems like a lot of hassle to open a bank account which would save me lots.
    Ca you also do a guide to Renting and Buying a Condo in Thailand
    Thanks have a great day
    Reply

    Jul 09, 2022 at 10:44 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 10, 2022 at 3:21 am

      If you're studying you'll have no problem getting an account. Try Bangkok Bank or Kasikorn. I have guides on renting and buying, please see here: https://www.thethailandlife.com/renting-apartment-thailand and here: https://www.thethailandlife.com/8-questions-buy-condo-thailandIf you want to search for a particular topic you can use the search box function at the top of the page.
      Reply

      Jul 10, 2022 at 3:21 am

  15. Andy Harrison says

    May 25, 2022 at 2:32 pm

    I’ve recently moved to Thailand on a 90 day non immigrant O visa hoping to get a marriage visa. I had problems with many banks who wanted a work permit. From my understanding, unless I have a job offered to me, I can’t get a work permit until I get my marriage visa……viscous circle.
    I eventually got accepted by the Bangkok bank in Central Rama 2 with a passport and a stamped copy of my passport verified at the British embassy. It’s important to mention that you need to book an appointment online for the embassy.
    I deposited 1000 baht to open it and then transferred the 400,000 needed to obtain a marriage visa. It’s also important to note that the amount has to be in the account for a minimum of two months before you apply for the visa so opening a bank account is the first thing anybody in a similar position to me should do.
    Many thanks for all your help and advice by the way Peter……..very useful.
    Reply

    May 25, 2022 at 2:32 pm

    • Michael says

      November 10, 2022 at 10:52 pm

      I am moving to Thailand in Jan 2023 with my Thai wife and will go through the same route as yours (Non-immigration O from the UK and then change to marriage visa in Thailand). How long did it take for the marriage visa to be granted?

      Does the THB400,000 need to be transferred from my UK bank account? Can I just use cash? Did you need to prove the source of funds?

      Any other tips you could give or any other documents I should bring from the UK?

      Did you use a lawyer to help with work permit? Any recommendation? I will be doing freelance work and it seems that I would need to set up a Thai company and hire myself to get a work permit.
      Many thanks!
      Reply

      Nov 10, 2022 at 10:52 pm

      • Max says

        November 10, 2022 at 11:42 pm

        I have a few answers if Andy doesn't answer immediately. You are not changing to a visa based on marriage, you apply for a 1 year extension based on marriage. You will get an under consideration stamp in your passport and it may take a month because the final decision is made at immigration in Bangkok. You must transfer the 400k from your UK bank account to a Thai bank account in your name only,and the money must be in the account 2 months prior to the day you apply for the 1 year extension.This is not negotiable at immigration. Open a Thai bank account fast is very important if you don't have one already. Where did you get married,in the UK or in Thailand? The marriage certificate is also very important. You don't need a lawyer to help with the work permit but there are loads of agencies that can help with this and that for a fee. It might be worth it.
        Reply

        Nov 10, 2022 at 11:42 pm

        • Michael Bird says

          November 13, 2022 at 3:28 am

          Thank you very much Max for your help. We got married in Thailand.

          Although my wife and I will be leaving the UK together to Thailand, I believe the visa that I need to apply from here is Non-Immigrant O - Visiting friends and family: Family of a Thai national including spouse.

          If you know any good agencies in Bangkok, please recommend. Thanks.
          Reply

          Nov 13, 2022 at 3:28 am

          • Max says

            November 13, 2022 at 3:28 pm

            Because you got married in Thailand, it makes it much easier at immigration if you're extending your stay 1 year based on marriage .You just need a copy of the marriage certificate,stamped and signed by the district office (amphoe) in the province where you got married. That and 400k in a Thai bank account in your name. Plus a shitload of copies of this and that. You also need to register your address in Thailand by submitting form TM30 at the local immigration office where you're staying.
            Reply

            Nov 13, 2022 at 3:28 pm

  16. N says

    May 23, 2022 at 10:46 am

    My girlfriend and I have separate bank accounts with Bangkok bank.

    We want to set up a joint account. Will we need all of the documents again?

    Or can we just walk in with our ATM card and passport?
    Reply

    May 23, 2022 at 10:46 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      May 23, 2022 at 4:04 pm

      You will most likely need documentation.
      Reply

      May 23, 2022 at 4:04 pm

    • Max says

      May 23, 2022 at 5:51 pm

      It's up to the branch,how long you've had your accounts and the mood of the day when it comes to customer service. At my Bangkok bank branch I have no problem opening another account just bringing my bank book and passport. (You can leave the ATM-card at home.) NEVER cancel your bank accounts even if you want a joint account. You can not use a joint bank account at immigration for extensions,just saying.
      Reply

      May 23, 2022 at 5:51 pm

  17. Chloe says

    May 15, 2022 at 2:04 pm

    Hi,it's a very nice post.Thanks for your post. Do you know?The government is eager to harvest the multi-billion-dollar potential of weed, investing in tech to extract, distill and market cannabis oils.
    Reply

    May 15, 2022 at 2:04 pm

    • Max says

      May 15, 2022 at 2:18 pm

      The kind of idiotic weed/cannabis idea is only for medical use. It's just another way for the Thai government to make money. It sounds like everyone can grow weed at home legally,but it's not entirely true, and smoking weed is still illegal.
      Reply

      May 15, 2022 at 2:18 pm

    • Martyn says

      May 15, 2022 at 2:42 pm

      What’s that got to do with opening a bank account Chloe ?
      Reply

      May 15, 2022 at 2:42 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      May 15, 2022 at 3:49 pm

      Hi all, you can post comments on this subject here: https://www.thethailandlife.com/marijuana-cannabis-thailand
      Reply

      May 15, 2022 at 3:49 pm

  18. riki says

    February 12, 2022 at 9:31 am

    the only one I couldn't get is the Government Savings Bank (Thailand) just because my house book is black and I have no Thai wife.I have KasiFCD- .Kasi.-BKBK. Krung.- SCB... persons from Lao have a lot more problems just to mention.
    Reply

    Feb 12, 2022 at 9:31 am

    • Max says

      February 14, 2022 at 8:38 am

      Did you paint your housebook black yourself? There are as far as I know only two different housebooks, blue for Thai people and foreigners with PR and the yellow book for foreigners. There are like 9-10 major Thai banks, and you mentioned 4?
      Reply

      Feb 14, 2022 at 8:38 am

    • Martin says

      February 14, 2022 at 11:34 pm

      Yeah, that is also my plan: open as much bank accounts as I could get.
      Having a work permit that is a no brainer. All of them want new customers, and saving accounts are for free.

      Once a work permit is expired the accounts stay open (unlike in countries like Malaysia where you are at some banks required to show both your work permit and visa every time it expires).
      Reply

      Feb 14, 2022 at 11:34 pm

      • Max says

        February 15, 2022 at 8:45 am

        What's the benefit of having many accounts in different banks? Don't forget you have to pay the annual fee for every bank account. One reason for having more than one bank is the type of debit card they offer. One bank (like Bangkok Bank) might only have a TPN-connected MasterCard, which is in many cases useless, while for example Kasikorn offers Visa (and it's not connected to the TPN network. Another reason is the total amount of money you keep in Thailand. The deposit guarantee is now just 1 million baht per customer, down from 5 million. It means if you have 3 million baht, you need accounts in 3 banks if the deposit guarantee is important. I guess this doesn't apply to you,though. Otherwise, opening accounts everywhere is totally useless.
        Reply

        Feb 15, 2022 at 8:45 am

        • Martin says

          February 15, 2022 at 11:17 pm

          Max,
          Thanks for your reply.
          Kindly, not everything is correct what you wrote.
          Firstly, I will explain you my situation: indeed I invest money at Thai banks. For risk diversion I use several. And for each of those asset management departments an account (e.g. savings' account) is required.
          Opening IS the difficult task! Closing I could do at any time.

          There is NO cost for any savings account! Neither for opening one nor for a yearly fee.
          Bangkok Bank offers MasterCard and UnionPay debit cards (credit cards, and I have one from Bangkok Bank, is different).
          But even BBK's debit card I could use at many places and also for ordering in the Internet.
          Where did you experience problems?

          I described my way. I do understand that is not a model for every one. :-)
          Reply

          Feb 15, 2022 at 11:17 pm

          • Max says

            March 16, 2022 at 6:07 pm

            I didn't mean a savings account cost money, my bad, I meant the cost for the debit card incl the annual fee that EVERYBODY apply for when opening a savings account. If you for some strange reason have 6 saving accounts in 6 different banks and a debit card connected to every account, that's a lot of fees every year. Normal people living in Thailand, and I'm not talking about people having any business in Thailand, they never need more than maybe 2 savings accounts from 2 different banks, because banks have different debit cards with different functions.

            Please don't mention Union Pay, I would never use a card connected to China. Do you know what a TPN-connected debit card is? I'll give you the short version:

            When using a TPN-connected debit card online (or in a store), the store, company or airline must have their servers physically in Thailand. If not, then you can't use that card. TPN stands for Thai Payment Network and the idea came from BoT = Bank of Thailand. Some banks didn't buy the TPN-crap, like for example Kasikorn Bank and refused to use TPN connected Visa debit cards. I was one of the first in Pattaya to get the TPN connected MasterCard in November 2019 at Bangkok Bank when they stopped issuing Visa debit cards. Bangkok Banks excuse was Visas fees were too high, that was just BS, they were just greedy and bought BoT's explanation.

            Suddenly the new MasterCard was totally useless if you wanted to buy stuff online from stores, companies or again, airlines with their servers outside Thailand which is normal for companies abroad. There were loads of posts and comments online from people living in Thailand with major problems when Bangkok Bank switched from Visa to the Be1st TPN MasterCard.

            I'm never wrong about bank accounts and debit/credit cards and how they work in Thailand.
            Reply

            Mar 16, 2022 at 6:07 pm

            • Martin says

              March 16, 2022 at 8:59 pm

              Max,

              Quite frankly: that was rude! :-(
              Does it make you feel better when you talk like this to other people?
              Reply

              Mar 16, 2022 at 8:59 pm

              • Max says

                May 25, 2022 at 5:17 pm

                When was I rude? Trying to make people understand isn't that easy when they sometimes are totally clueless.
                Reply

                May 25, 2022 at 5:17 pm

            • TheThailandLife says

              March 16, 2022 at 9:08 pm

              Max, please be polite and civil. I will edit the tone of your comment to reflect the rules of the blog. We are all here to help each other navigate what at times can be a difficult landscape.
              Reply

              Mar 16, 2022 at 9:08 pm

    • Marcus says

      May 25, 2022 at 1:58 pm

      did you get all of these with an ed visa??
      Reply

      May 25, 2022 at 1:58 pm

      • Max says

        May 25, 2022 at 5:27 pm

        Marcus: If you walk from bank branch to bank branch especially in Bangkok and in malls you'll be able to open a savings account at almost any bank on any type of Visa incl.a 60 days tourist visa. That's what many people do when they don't meet the requirements or don't have the documents needed.
        Reply

        May 25, 2022 at 5:27 pm

  19. Anthony Lavell says

    February 5, 2022 at 12:00 am

    Hi, i have a bangkok bank account ,opened it 15 years ago ,with my uk passport and my thai marriage certificate ,i live in the uk ,but still go to thailand twice a year ,i do not have a thai wife anymore but still have the bank account ,which i send funds to ,which i use when i visit .
    Reply

    Feb 05, 2022 at 12:00 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      February 5, 2022 at 1:09 am

      I've had one for 10+ years now. It's certainly handy!
      Reply

      Feb 05, 2022 at 1:09 am

      • Max says

        February 5, 2022 at 10:55 am

        I opened my first Bkk Bank account 27 years ago. 😄
        Reply

        Feb 05, 2022 at 10:55 am

        • TheThailandLife says

          February 6, 2022 at 4:17 am

          Wow. You are definitely a long-stayer!
          Reply

          Feb 06, 2022 at 4:17 am

          • Max says

            February 6, 2022 at 12:23 pm

            I didn't stay long term those years (from 1989) just about 8-10 maybe 12 weeks a year, until I moved here. You could walk into any bank in the country and open a savings account just showing your passport. No questions asked. I opened my first account at Thai Military Bank in Kanchanaburi 1990 (or if was1991).There were no ATM's anywhere,though.They came much later. That sucked a bit. Now we take them for granted.
            Reply

            Feb 06, 2022 at 12:23 pm

  20. Nishan says

    January 27, 2022 at 6:28 pm

    I'm here on a tourist visa. Went to UoB in Phuket (patong) and they turned us away. Went to Bangkok Bank and they said they need the passport and a letter from immigration. Went to immigration and they said they need a letter from the hotel and a photo.

    Got the hotel letter, went to immigration, paid 500 bhat, got the letter 1 hour later, and went back to the bank.

    Account was opened, ATM card issued, and mobile banking was configured too. Only pinch was that they sold me a mandatory life insurance. Spent 7900 including a 500 deposit
    Reply

    Jan 27, 2022 at 6:28 pm

    • Max says

      January 27, 2022 at 8:22 pm

      The "letter" as you call it from Immigration was a Resident Certificate. You could have said no to the health insurance. It's something Bangkok Bank (try to) push onto rookies when opening a savings account for the first time.
      Reply

      Jan 27, 2022 at 8:22 pm

      • Nishan says

        January 28, 2022 at 11:56 am

        I was actually happy to have the insurance as an add-on. Most important thing for me was getting the account opened. Happy Ending :) :) :)
        Reply

        Jan 28, 2022 at 11:56 am

        • Ana says

          November 15, 2022 at 5:44 pm

          Hi Nishan,

          Quick question. What was your reason to the bank and immigration as to why you and your partner want to open up a Thai Bank account?
          Reply

          Nov 15, 2022 at 5:44 pm

          • Max says

            November 15, 2022 at 11:20 pm

            I think it was Nishan who opened the account in his name and the reason was probably to stay in Thailand in the future. You can't do that without a Thai bank account.
            Reply

            Nov 15, 2022 at 11:20 pm

            • Ana says

              November 15, 2022 at 11:37 pm

              Hi Max.
              Thanks!

              I’m hoping to open up a bank account there when I arrived sometime December with just a tourist visa. I’ll try to use that reason then

              The Residence certificate seems a bit tricky to get since it can’t be a hotel address as written on Bangkok Bank website.
              Reply

              Nov 15, 2022 at 11:37 pm

              • Max says

                November 16, 2022 at 12:11 am

                Officially you're not supposed to be able to open a bank account on a tourist visa. And a hotel is not actually a "residence" per se. The easiest way to open an account on a tourist visa is to try bank after bank in big malls. You can find every thai bank there.
                Reply

                Nov 16, 2022 at 12:11 am

  21. Phil says

    November 23, 2021 at 3:25 pm

    I opened a bank account yesterday November 22 2021) and had to go back home to get my UK DRIVING LICENSE!!!
    Passport with visa and Thai driving license not good enough….
    They set me up with phone banking, downloading the app etc. all good so far
    However I want (need) computer-based internet banking (KCyber) so checked the website, returned to the branch with the required documents and guess what? REGISTRATION CLOSED UNTIL 8 JANUARY 2022. FFS!!!
    Allegedly they are upgrading their system and cannot seem to run the old one in parallel.
    Sometimes this country astounds me with its ineptitude and attitude to customers.
    Reply

    Nov 23, 2021 at 3:25 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      November 23, 2021 at 8:12 pm

      TIT. Did it not have a notice on the bank's website about that? If you need online access quickly perhaps open an account with Bangkok Bank.
      Reply

      Nov 23, 2021 at 8:12 pm

      • Phil says

        November 23, 2021 at 8:31 pm

        That was the point I made to the bank - it did not have ANY information regarding the cessation of new requests for online banking on its website. I was promised they would “look into that” but I won’t hold my breath.
        I already have Bangkok Bank account but given the ongoing shenanigans with Wise (formerly TransferWise) I thought it prudent to have a Kasikorn account also.
        Reply

        Nov 23, 2021 at 8:31 pm

      • Phil says

        November 23, 2021 at 8:31 pm

        That was the point I made to the bank - it did not have ANY information regarding the cessation of new requests for online banking on its website. I was promised they would “look into that” but I won’t hold my breath.
        I already have Bangkok Bank account but given they ongoing shenanigans with Wise (formerly TransferWise) I thought it prudent to have a Kasikorn account also.
        Reply

        Nov 23, 2021 at 8:31 pm

        • Martyn says

          December 20, 2021 at 10:16 pm

          Hey Phil what is the problem regarding Bangkok Bank and Wise ?
          Reply

          Dec 20, 2021 at 10:16 pm

          • JamesE says

            December 21, 2021 at 12:38 am

            Some people have been reporting that Wise transfers using "Long Term Stay" coding are showing up a domestic transfers and not foreign. This requires some extra work to verify the transaction as foreign for immigration purposes.
            Reply

            Dec 21, 2021 at 12:38 am

            • Max says

              December 21, 2021 at 11:18 am

              I recently made a transfer to my Bangkok Bank account and it showed up as international/foreign (as it always has).
              Reply

              Dec 21, 2021 at 11:18 am

              • Martyn says

                December 21, 2021 at 4:46 pm

                I know same for me every time that’s why I questioned it, very strange
                Reply

                Dec 21, 2021 at 4:46 pm

                • Max says

                  December 21, 2021 at 4:54 pm

                  Even if sh** does happen sometimes, I still think that most of the people complaining are using the wrong reason for the transfer, and they don't admit it.
                  Reply

                  Dec 21, 2021 at 4:54 pm

  22. Sebastian says

    October 28, 2021 at 11:20 pm

    I was able to open an account at Bangkok Bank (Central Embassy Branch) with the following documents:

    -Passport
    -ED Visa
    -Acceptance letter from Thammasat University (not sure if a language school would cut it)
    -Condo Rental Contract - I brought it but it wasn't needed
    -500 THB opening deposit

    I also opened an account with UOB Thailand to have an alternative. They were satisfied with the same documents but required a 50,000 THB opening deposit for foreigners though I would have been able to immediately withdraw that money after opening the account.

    Hope it helps!
    Reply

    Oct 28, 2021 at 11:20 pm

  23. Reetus says

    October 20, 2021 at 8:04 pm

    Opened today at Kasikorn Bank Central Festival Pattaya with passport (ED visa), but needed a letter from language school which I went and got and everything went smooth, card issued on the spot.
    Reply

    Oct 20, 2021 at 8:04 pm

  24. Justin Decker says

    October 6, 2021 at 9:18 am

    I was able to open an account with
    Kasikorn at the Thanon Sri Nakharin branch, across the street from Paradise Park in Bangkok, using our education visas (technically an education guardian visa). I also showed them our townhome lease but all in all it was an easy process. They spent a few minutes discussing together, looking through some packets on their side, and in less than 10 minutes they started making photocopies and having me fill out an application.

    Kasikorn Bank
    https://maps.app.goo.gl/jzaJiXB24PSQ3NCn8

    We had tried Bangkok Bank and they said the same about needing the notarized letter from the Embassy.
    Reply

    Oct 06, 2021 at 9:18 am

    • Max says

      October 6, 2021 at 8:38 pm

      Bangkok Bank is also ok with a Resident Certificate from the local immigration office. It will include some waiting in line,but it might be worth it if you want an account with them. The notarized letter from an embassy or consulate is ok,but some embassies won't issue them for some strange reason, and some embassies will charge you alot for a piece of paper with a stamp and signature while others will charge you about 400 Baht.
      Reply

      Oct 06, 2021 at 8:38 pm

  25. Chris says

    October 4, 2021 at 1:08 pm

    I am having major issues trying to open a Thai bank account.I already have an account but I need another account to deposit money to apply for a marriage visa or possible house purchase.I have rented the same house for 10 years and have a contract.I am married to a Thai national but I am currently in Phuket under the sandbox scheme.I don’t have a work visa or retirement visa or student visa.I have had an account at Kasikorn for 10 years but have been declined.I also have tried SCB and Krungsri but same results.
    I can’t get the marriage visa without deposit 400,000 but can’t open an account without marriage visa to deposit the money.I’m going round in circles and have been trying to open an account for 10 days now.
    Reply

    Oct 04, 2021 at 1:08 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 4, 2021 at 4:40 pm

      Have you tried Bangkok Bank? That's your best bet.
      Reply

      Oct 04, 2021 at 4:40 pm

    • Max says

      October 4, 2021 at 4:54 pm

      After the Sandbox,where will you stay, in Phuket? If not, where? Do you need an account in Phuket? Like TTL said, Bangkok Bank is normally quite easy when it comes to opening a savings account. Check out their website for official requirements. It's in English. You might need a Resident Certificate from the local immigration office, but you must use the current address.
      Reply

      Oct 04, 2021 at 4:54 pm

    • Sebastian says

      October 28, 2021 at 11:29 pm

      In your case the best bet is to get a residence certificate from Immigration, it's easy and cheap to obtain.

      Keep in mind that banks in Thailand are branch specific and certain transactions related to the core data of the account can only be handled at the branch where you opened the account. It's not surprising that a branch in Phuket wouldn't open an account for you if they know you live on the mainland, try to find a bank near your home once you get out of the Sandbox system. What happened to that KBank account?

      You might not even need a residence certificate but it all depends under what kind of visa you're currently in Thailand. Shop around different branches a little and make sure you take your wife with you including a copy of your marriage certificate.
      Reply

      Oct 28, 2021 at 11:29 pm

  26. Sean says

    August 7, 2021 at 5:01 pm

    I found something is very interesting. I found some people comments at Facebook group said, they able to open at certain Bank with just visa or passport + address in Thai and Thai relatives where able to prove your personality. Other than that, they need to buy insurance for around 3000 to 6000 THB +- per year. The insurance amount is difference, according to Bank Branch policy.
    Reply

    Aug 07, 2021 at 5:01 pm

    • JamesE says

      August 8, 2021 at 2:51 am

      That's what I did but did not get hit with the insurance scam. That's just an "I'll help you, if you help me" tactic to get the branch's revenue numbers up. My partner had to sign a form letter attesting to my fine, upstanding character and that was it.
      Reply

      Aug 08, 2021 at 2:51 am

      • Max says

        August 8, 2021 at 7:38 am

        The insurance proposal is actually not a scam. Almost every large bank have insurances for Thai people, but they also have an personal accident insurance which also covers foreigners. I recall Bangkok Banks accident insurance covers 100,000 THB at hospitals associated with Siriraj Hospital in BKK. The only thing I saw as a bit strange was the debit-card connected to Siriraj Hospital. The annual cost was about 600 THB a year when a standard debit card vas 200 THB. This card still exist. But if someone really needs an account at Bangkok Bank and to get it you need to sign up for the insurance, you can reject it after one year when it expires and change to a standard debit card. The thing with a local reference as some sort of guarantee is also one of Bangkok Banks standard requirements. It usually works mostly out in the sticks where a customer is well known at a bank.
        Reply

        Aug 08, 2021 at 7:38 am

        • Sean says

          August 9, 2021 at 8:45 am

          I like it very much. Thank you very much ❤️
          Reply

          Aug 09, 2021 at 8:45 am

        • JamesE says

          August 9, 2021 at 10:10 pm

          The insurance itself is not a scam. But the requirement to get it - which varies from branch to branch and is not part of the bank's requirements to open an account - is. The branch requiring it is nothing more than a quid pro quo to get their numbers up.
          Reply

          Aug 09, 2021 at 10:10 pm

      • Sean says

        August 8, 2021 at 2:13 pm

        I may try to call my relative to help me
        Reply

        Aug 08, 2021 at 2:13 pm

        • Max says

          August 9, 2021 at 9:34 am

          Where are you staying? If your relative isn't a Thai national, my guess is it won't work unless he/she is well known at that branch. If you have an official address in Thailand, why don't you just apply for a Resident Certificate at the local immigration office? With that certificate its no problem opening an account with Bangkok Bank. Some branches also accepts a reference from an embassy or consulate.
          Reply

          Aug 09, 2021 at 9:34 am

          • Sean says

            August 9, 2021 at 7:30 pm

            Actually my whole relatives family is Thai citizen and all born at Bangkok. Currently they at Nonthaburi. For Resident Certificate, this I need to ask Malaysia Thai Embassy first. Because I think every country has their own government policy.
            Reply

            Aug 09, 2021 at 7:30 pm

            • Max says

              August 10, 2021 at 6:16 pm

              The Resident Certificate comes from your local immigration office in Thailand. But to get it you need an official address. Your embassy in Thailand can give you a reference which includes personal data and your address in Thailand. This is the link to Bangkok Banks website: https://www.bangkokbank.com/
              Go to Personal Banking - Save and Invest - Accounts - Savings. You can see the official requirements for a foreigner to open a savings account. There are several combinations of documents.
              Reply

              Aug 10, 2021 at 6:16 pm

  27. John says

    July 19, 2021 at 4:48 pm

    Not totally related but a banking question. Can I have some advise on making a payment by Wise to a Thai friend. I haven't used it before, previously I have sent by Western Union, this was a few years ago. I have set the Wise app on my phone ready for when I move to Thailand but in the meantime would I like to transfer money to a Thai resident. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you
    Reply

    Jul 19, 2021 at 4:48 pm

    • JamesE says

      July 21, 2021 at 2:55 am

      It's pretty simple. Set your friend up as a recipient and you're ready to go. Just need their name, details like email and home address, bank name, and bank account number.
      Reply

      Jul 21, 2021 at 2:55 am

  28. Jon says

    July 10, 2021 at 3:17 pm

    Hi,

    I requested to open an account at Bangkok Bank in Phuket today and they said I can do it on a TR visa. I just need my passport and a letter from Phuket immigration with my photograph.

    Any experience with this? I have heard of a letter from home embassy but not this letter from immigration? Not sure what to ask them for to be honest!

    Thanks :)
    Reply

    Jul 10, 2021 at 3:17 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 10, 2021 at 6:13 pm

      It's probably because some embassies are offering a limited service at the moment due to restrictions, so getting one from immigration is the next best thing. That said, different banks and often branches have different requirements at different times. It's just the way it goes I'm afraid :)
      Reply

      Jul 10, 2021 at 6:13 pm

      • Jon says

        August 9, 2021 at 5:34 pm

        So just an update on this. I managed to open a Bangkok Bank account at Lotus's Branch Thalang (Phuket) with Tourist Visa, UK Passport and a letter from immigration (300 thb) that confirmed my identity and that I was staying in Thailand for 60 days. I was in the sandbox program so they just used my hotel address). No problems at all, very straightforward and the lady there was very helpful.
        Reply

        Aug 09, 2021 at 5:34 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          August 9, 2021 at 5:36 pm

          Nice one. Bangkok Bank still seems to be the go-to bank for foreign nationals.
          Reply

          Aug 09, 2021 at 5:36 pm

        • Max says

          August 9, 2021 at 6:19 pm

          What you got from immigration was a Resident Certificate. It's a proof of address nothing else. Bangkok Bank doesn't care about your visa status. You can be a condo-owner visiting Thailand on a 60 days tourist visa and wants to open a new savings account. Nothing strange with that. But it won't work at other banks. They don't have the Resident Certificate as a requirement. As far as I know Bangkok Bank is the only one.
          Reply

          Aug 09, 2021 at 6:19 pm

    • Max says

      July 10, 2021 at 7:07 pm

      The branch you went to wants a so called "Resident Certificate" from immigration. It's one of Bangkok Banks official requirements to open a savings account. It means you need an official address in Phuket with a contract/lease. Sometimes a short time lease is not enough,they might want a 6 months or a 12 months lease. On top of the contract/lease,you need the usual copies from your passport + 2 photos 4×6 cm. The cost is 0-~300 baht.
      Reply

      Jul 10, 2021 at 7:07 pm

  29. David says

    May 20, 2021 at 6:11 pm

    Hi
    I heard that in Thailand need make something like "passbook bank".
    How it works, do you use this?
    Do you have one or need make new one every some of period?
    Can it expire or need often update?

    Transfers in account are possible if your "passbook" expire or you have any other problems with this?

    For example, if you make account in Phuket in Kasikorn bank, need you make new one or update yours "passbook" in exactly same bank or in Phuket or can be in every Kasikorn bank in Thailand?

    Did you have any problems with "passbook" in your bank?


    Best regards
    David
    Reply

    May 20, 2021 at 6:11 pm

    • JamesE says

      May 20, 2021 at 10:24 pm

      Passbook Savings accounts are the norm for entry-level accounts in Thailand. (As they used to be everywhere.) They’re basically just an account that you don’t get statements for, all transactions are registered in the passbook when you present it at the counter or run it through an ATM-like machine. They don’t expire, but they do fill up so you have to get a new one from time to time. You can get a debit card, online, and mobile banking features tied to your account.
      Reply

      May 20, 2021 at 10:24 pm

    • Max says

      May 21, 2021 at 7:56 am

      You can update your passbook at any branch in Thailand. But if you run out of pages and need a new book you're supposed to do it at the branch where you opened the account. If using the money in the bank method for annual extensions at immigration, you must update your passbook on a regular basis . (I update mine once a month.) Otherwise you won't see every transaction,and that's something immigration don't like. A passbook is somewhat old-fashioned and banks in the western world don't use them anymore. I had one 40 years ago back home connected to my bank account. Now they're gone.
      Reply

      May 21, 2021 at 7:56 am

      • Andrew says

        May 21, 2021 at 3:54 pm

        > If using the money in the bank method for annual extensions at immigration, you must update your passbook on a regular basis . (I update mine once a month.) Otherwise you won't see every transaction,and that's something immigration don't like.

        My limited experience has been that even when I updated a passbook once per year, all activity was printed. Alternatively, how would immigration know that the passbook was missing transactions? Or if you just mean that you specifically need to go into any branch once per year in the morning before visiting immigration in order to have the day's balance printed (which the machines don't do), I agree.
        Reply

        May 21, 2021 at 3:54 pm

        • Max says

          May 22, 2021 at 11:48 am

          I don't know which bank you use. I'm banking with Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn. If I have several (let's say 15) transactions during let's say 1,5-2 months and don't update the passbook, instead of showing those 15 transactions, there will be only 2 or 3 lines written in the passbook. There will be a specific code in the passbook showing that, at Bangkok Bank CMB. Deposits and withdrawals will be combined, and there is no way to see the actual balance and how many transactions there were. You can see the balance before and after the CMB but you might have been below the required amount at immigration. In this case you need a bank statement from your branch. Copies of the pages in the passbook 12 months back won't work. Immigration officers knows what to look for. When using my Kasikorn Bank ATM-card, paying bills or buy stuff online I get loads of transactions,but I don't care about updating the passbook because I will need a new passbook every few months. It's better to have the transactions combined and I don't need to see them. I can see every transaction on my phone using mobile banking and I don't use the K-Bank account at immigration anyway. When doing the annual extension you need a transaction the same day or the day before. You can update the passbook using an update machine or in the bank when you get the bank letter you need for immigration.
          Reply

          May 22, 2021 at 11:48 am

          • Andrew says

            May 23, 2021 at 3:33 pm

            Wow I wish some site had a wiki or similar for all this kind of info.


            I just checked my passbooks.


            SCB: Page "1" says passbook updates >1 month apart will have deposits & withdrawals separately *summarized* on a monthly basis. Such line items show "CONDS" in the last column.


            Bangkok Bank: Although CMB is listed as a *possible* code, as you said, I do *not* see it used in my case. Based on the different print alignments, print blackness levels, and my memory, it appears the longest section updated for me were 21 lines over a period of 329 days. (However, I do see other codes used that aren't in the legend, such as BCF (a 1,015 THB apparent credit card opening fee), RCG (online banking calls it 'Payment Received'), and TPP (?).)


            Krungsri: Updating the passbook in ATMs fails & I've never updated the passbook in the branch in the 15 months since opening. :-)


            (I'm the Andrew who commented a number of times last year about visiting ~20 banks/branches trying to open a fixed deposit account and depositing 10 million THB. After subsequently getting my non-immigrant B visa (non work permit) I was able to open an account at the 3rd SCB branch I tried - but still no luck at multiple other bank companies, including KBank - no surprise.)


            Beyond what Max and I already described, if anyone has other guidance on when transactions are summarized & how to ID it in passbooks, please let me know. :-)


            I agree that keeping a separate account for immigration makes sense - if you want, can avoid getting an ATM card to have it be free.
            If there are no transactions other than interest 1x per year, I wonder if it's then 'safe' to only update the passbook 1x per year?


            As you said, the machines will only print updates showing transactions. At least at Bangkok Bank, a teller can have it print today's balance (code 'B/F' (balance forward?)).


            Last year immigration wanted another bank document, so I had to go to immigration again the next day. Although my passbook had an update from the day before, immigration wouldn't accept it and required me to go to the bank downstairs to get a current-day update (and of course then a copy as well). I guess it depends on the officer.


            Thanks!


            Ha I wish this commenting system didn't remove all line breaks. :-/

            Reply

            May 23, 2021 at 3:33 pm

            • TheThailandLife says

              May 23, 2021 at 4:27 pm

              This is the WIKI :).

              Added line breaks to your comment. Not sure why line breaks aren't being applied automatically. I'll add that to my to-do list.
              Reply

              May 23, 2021 at 4:27 pm

  30. Sean says

    April 30, 2021 at 12:02 pm

    I’m Malaysian citizen and I plan to open a Thai bank account. Which suggested bank can I open? I prefer to get online banking or banking app as well.

    Because Malaysian enter Thai just only need a normal passport, so can I open an account easily? In addition, I do have relatives live at Thai, or I can use their address or my relatives as introducer to open a Thai bank account?
    Reply

    Apr 30, 2021 at 12:02 pm

    • Max says

      May 1, 2021 at 6:54 pm

      Everybody enters Thailand using a passport. You won't have any privileges. Sometime you can use an account holder as a reference, but they normally have to be well known at that branch. Some banks wants you to be retired, having a permanent address or even have a work permit. Everything is up to the branch. Many people goes from bank to bank until they are lucky.
      Reply

      May 01, 2021 at 6:54 pm

    • JamesE says

      May 1, 2021 at 10:16 pm

      This is exactly what I did. I entered on a visa waiver with my US passport, my Thai partner signed a statement at the bank saying I was okay, and her sister let me use her address for the account. I opened it at Bangkok Bank, Siam Paragon Branch with no problem.
      Reply

      May 01, 2021 at 10:16 pm

    • Michael says

      May 23, 2021 at 11:53 pm

      If you are a Malaysian, then I would probably choose CIMB Thai.. that's the Thai subsidary of the parent CIMB group.. one of the perks of some CIMB Thai accounts and cards is that you can use them fee-free in MY.. So, just based on the fact that CIMB Thai is a part of the Malaysian parent company, I would suspect that there is a better cross-border service harmony with them than say a true Thai-based bank like Bangkok Bank or the like.
      Reply

      May 23, 2021 at 11:53 pm

      • Max says

        May 24, 2021 at 8:15 am

        The most common CIMB savings account is the "Chill D". But if using a passport when applying,you can't apply for a Debit card. That makes this account, in my opinion useless. Another account is the "Extra savings account", but one of the "official" requirements for a foreigner is a work permit. The rest of CIMB's accounts are "officially" for Thai nationals only. But, in Thailand it's always (unofficially) up to the branch. I don't think a Malaysian national has any advantages before others when applying for an account.
        Reply

        May 24, 2021 at 8:15 am

        • Sean says

          June 4, 2021 at 11:57 am

          I also think that no any advantage for MYS. I do also send enquiry to those banks in Thai and if not mistaken there’s one bank that can accept with passport and Thai guarantor and Thai permanent address. But, the requirements need to based on the branch and need to see how lucky am I to successfully open an account.
          Reply

          Jun 04, 2021 at 11:57 am

      • Sean says

        June 4, 2021 at 11:53 am

        Hmm I do have CIMB Bank but I not sure can be apply CIMB Thai or not. Because I plan to open Kasikorn Bank so I can easily reload my LINE Pay 🤣
        Reply

        Jun 04, 2021 at 11:53 am

        • JamesE says

          June 4, 2021 at 10:10 pm

          When you find out how to "easily" reload Line Pay let us know. As a foreigner Line Pay would not let me link my BKK Bank account. I could still do a top-up but it didn't qualify as "easily"...
          Reply

          Jun 04, 2021 at 10:10 pm

          • Sean says

            June 5, 2021 at 10:41 am

            I already verified my LINE Pay ID so I just need a bank account to reload it. If LINE Pay provide Debit Card reload, I think it will be most convenient. Now, at Malaysia my friend help me reload but it is quite expensive if call other people help reload. Next time when able to travel to Thai I may try my luck to open bank account, then try to reload LINE Pay. How about you leave your LINE ID then I add you?
            Reply

            Jun 05, 2021 at 10:41 am

          • Max says

            June 6, 2021 at 8:47 am

            Why not get a Be1st Smart Rabbit LINE Pay card at your BB branch? You just need your bank book and passport when applying for it.
            https://www.bangkokbank.com/en/Personal/Cards/Be1st-Smart-Card/Be1st-Smart-Rabbit-Line-Pay-Card
            Reply

            Jun 06, 2021 at 8:47 am

            • JamesE says

              June 6, 2021 at 11:31 pm

              A "card"... How previous millennium... :) My Be1st-Rabbit card handles my purchase/travel needs through the Rabbit system. The Line Pay version of the card doesn't really add anything to the functionality. Line Pay is designed more as an electronic wallet integrated into the Line App which makes it very easy to transfer funds to businesses and individuals one is connected to on Line. The problem I ran into was that, due to being a foreigner (at least according to the message I get when I try), Line and Bangkok Bank would not allow me to link my accounts. There may be a way around this but I haven't found it yet.
              Reply

              Jun 06, 2021 at 11:31 pm

              • Max says

                June 7, 2021 at 8:04 am

                The Be1st Rabbit Line
                Pay card is linked to Line Pay. And a foreigner can apply for it.
                Reply

                Jun 07, 2021 at 8:04 am

            • Sean says

              July 18, 2021 at 4:01 pm

              But, if I can’t get Bangkok Bank Bank Book, I don’t think I able to apply the Be1st Smart Rabbit Line Pay Card 🤦‍♂️ So now I need to find the way to get it first.
              Reply

              Jul 18, 2021 at 4:01 pm

              • Max says

                July 19, 2021 at 7:08 am

                There are other banks than Bangkok Bank connected to Rabbit Line Pay:

                • Siam Commercial Bank (SCB)
                • Kasikorn Bank (KBank)
                • Krungthai Bank (KTB)
                • TMBThanachart Bank (TTB)
                • Bank of Ayudhya (BAY)
                Reply

                Jul 19, 2021 at 7:08 am

                • Sean says

                  July 19, 2021 at 6:35 pm

                  I need to try my luck to get a back account/card first 😂
                  Reply

                  Jul 19, 2021 at 6:35 pm

        • Max says

          June 5, 2021 at 1:14 pm

          At Kasikorn Bank it's also up to the branch. Some branches don't allow foreigners to open an account and some asks for a work permit or a permission to stay based on retirement. Those requirements are what my K-Bank branch asks for.
          Reply

          Jun 05, 2021 at 1:14 pm

  31. John says

    April 19, 2021 at 8:33 pm

    I live in Thailand since 2012, I'm retired and I'm married to a Thai. In that year I opened a bank account at the Bangkok Bank. I have a year visa Non-Imm. O and I work with internet banking.
    Today I went to the bank and applied for a second account. I brought my passport, my yellow house book and the Be1st card and the bank book.
    Four people looked up and down all these books, had discussions in Thai, brought in the manager, called with head office in Bangkok, and at the and my request was denied. I needed a letter from Immigration of from the embassy.
    I told them these people don't know anything about me related to my financial records or history. That didn't matter; no letter, no 2nd bank account! 'I'm you customer for 9 years, you know all of me and you ask some one else'. And this is the Thai way, don't think for yourself, follow the instructions, how stupid they may be. Anyway, it makes consider an account at the Kasikorn Bank.
    Reply

    Apr 19, 2021 at 8:33 pm

    • Max says

      April 20, 2021 at 11:49 am

      Everything is up to the branch and that is sometimes very strange. I have an account at Bangkok Bank in Jomtien, Pattaya and I can open a second account if I want just bringing my passport and bankbook. Kasikorn Bank have also different requirements depending on which branch you go to. I have a savings account with them in Jomtien and when I opened the account they were just interested in my Visa status, nothing else.
      Reply

      Apr 20, 2021 at 11:49 am

      • Martin1 says

        April 21, 2021 at 11:58 am

        Yes, i second that! And I can't second John's experience.

        I recently have opened a second investment account with SCB, and a second savings' account with Bangkok Bank. No problam at all (except for a lot of paperwork, and time needed.)

        For some extra expenses I have just opened an account with Kasikorn bank.
        Maybe that could be a solution for John?
        Reply

        Apr 21, 2021 at 11:58 am

        • Max says

          April 21, 2021 at 7:19 pm

          John never mentioned where he is staying. What works in one branch or city doesn't work in next one and that's very frustrating. A so called Residence Certificate from the local immigration office together with the passport always works at Bangkok Bank.
          Reply

          Apr 21, 2021 at 7:19 pm

    • Barry says

      April 21, 2021 at 6:38 am

      It is easy. Go to immigration and ask for a letter from the to open a bank account for immigration purposes. Take letter to bank and they will open account. $500 deposit and they keep 300 and put 200 into your account.
      Reply

      Apr 21, 2021 at 6:38 am

      • Max says

        April 21, 2021 at 7:06 pm

        It doesn't work that way. It's only Bangkok Bank as far as I know that asks for a so called Residence Certificate from immigration to be able to open a savings account. Kasikorn Bank for example has no such requirement.Some branches prefer people to be officially retired and have "RETIREMENT" stamped in the passport. But "officially" since early 2019 no foreigners are allowed to open a savings account at Kasikorn Bank. It's still doable at many branches because they don't care or maybe don't have a clue about changes regarding requirements.
        Reply

        Apr 21, 2021 at 7:06 pm

        • Martin1 says

          April 22, 2021 at 11:25 am

          NOT TRUE! I have one, opened just three weeks ago with Kasikorn bank, (near BTS Ari).
          But I have a work permit.
          Reply

          Apr 22, 2021 at 11:25 am

          • Max says

            April 22, 2021 at 4:23 pm

            Everything I write here is true! I said the "official" requirements since early 2019. It doesn't matter if you have a work permit or are retired. If you know how to use internet go to Kasikorn Banks website and check for yourself.You will see that foreigners are not mentioned anymore in the requirements for opening a personal savings account. But they were until they changed the requirements. I also wrote that several branches don't have a clue about changes.
            Reply

            Apr 22, 2021 at 4:23 pm

            • Martin1 says

              April 22, 2021 at 5:19 pm

              No, I don't know how to use Internet.

              BTW: That branch I have opened my savings account is the main office of Kasikorn (Phahonyothin Road in Bangkok).
              Reply

              Apr 22, 2021 at 5:19 pm

    • Michael says

      June 6, 2021 at 8:14 pm

      Unfortunately it seems the idea of “relationship” banking isn’t all that prevalent here… Often it feels like each (non-corporate and non-elite customer) individual account you have is it’s own free-standing, and independent entity and not related to others.. so while you may have opened and currently maintain multiple accounts with the bank - be that at that specific branch or not, often the requirements are exactly the same to open a new account as if you were brand new and unknown to the bank.
      Reply

      Jun 06, 2021 at 8:14 pm

  32. Dee says

    February 25, 2021 at 1:53 am

    Any Aussies here manage to open an account on tourist visa? The Australian embassy will not issue any reference letter just fyi.
    Reply

    Feb 25, 2021 at 1:53 am

    • Max says

      February 25, 2021 at 8:41 am

      I don't think the nationality matters. Several banks branches don't allow opening accounts while on tourist visa but some do.
      If you have a registered address in Thailand you can get a Resident Certificate from the local immigration office. That certificate works at Bangkok Bank. You might have to do what many others have done in the past, go from branch to branch and try. It will take some time, but it might be the only way. Rumours says that branches in malls are easier.
      Reply

      Feb 25, 2021 at 8:41 am

    • Alan says

      April 21, 2021 at 4:44 pm

      I did in Ko Samui in 2016 because my Kiwi friend had a large bank account there. It was a case of who you know. But 5 years ago. It's tougher now supposedly to stop money laundering.
      Reply

      Apr 21, 2021 at 4:44 pm

      • Max says

        April 21, 2021 at 7:54 pm

        If people are staying long term in Thailand they must have a bank account. That can never be money laundering. Everybody doesn't come from China. There's only one country in the world that talks about money laundering all day long, and that is the US. I opened my first account in Thailand in 1990 and the second a few years later. In those days you just walked in to any branch anywhere in the country on a tourist visa or even a visa exempt and you had your savings account in 15 min. Those were the days.
        Reply

        Apr 21, 2021 at 7:54 pm

  33. Marc says

    February 18, 2021 at 5:14 pm

    Feb. 18 2021
    Thank you for the tips regarding "opening a banc account". You helped me.
    Here is my story:
    - first attempt yesterday at Bangkok Bank Branch Samrong Big C
    failed, the banc-lady told something about a "paper from embassy" and it is not possible with a tourist visa
    - second attempt today at Bangkok Bank, Head Office Silom Road 333, Bangkok
    very friendly, and again the lady wanted a "paper from embassy"
    good i took all papers with me, finally after asking "boss" and a lot of signatures i could open the account with the following documents:
    - Swiss passport with tourist visa
    - address in Thailand, proved by my friend and her "tabien baan"
    - Copy of Certificate Of Entry, issued by the Swiss Embassy, was necessary for tourist visa and ASQ quarantine
    - Swiss drivers license
    - Swiss ID Card
    I got:
    - Blue Savings Account Passbook
    - Mastercard, with "rabbit" chip for payments at the BTS

    Good luck and NEVER GIVE UP !!
    Reply

    Feb 18, 2021 at 5:14 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      February 18, 2021 at 9:03 pm

      Nice one! Thanks for reporting your experience. It's helpful for others.
      Reply

      Feb 18, 2021 at 9:03 pm

  34. John says

    February 13, 2021 at 6:24 pm

    Hi Peter

    Can either you or someone else advise keeping a UK address for things like banking etc.
    When I proposed moving to Thailand in 2016, I sold my house and used my parents address as my UK address. Five years on I am in a similar situation with selling another property but my mother is obviously that much older and things could change.
    Have people given up all financial links with their home country, if so how long did that decision take and any implications?
    Many thanks
    Reply

    Feb 13, 2021 at 6:24 pm

    • JamesE says

      February 14, 2021 at 8:10 am

      I've lived expat and traveling since 2001 and strongly suggest keeping as many legal ties - address, driver's license, financial, estate planning, etc - in your home country as possible. My biggest reason for this is familiarity of the system. I know how everything works so it's easier to put a new piece of the puzzle in place, like when I retired, than if I had to learn a whole new set of rules - like banking in Thailand - to make that happen. It's also very easy to add a "temporary" feature, like your residence in Thailand or Thai bank account, and then change it when you move from Chiang Rai to Phuket without disrupting anything else in your home country.
      Reply

      Feb 14, 2021 at 8:10 am

    • Martin1 says

      February 15, 2021 at 8:52 pm

      John,
      I alsways say: every bank account is a plus! So meanwhile I have several around the globe. One can easily close them, but opening is not so easy.
      Regard to addresses I guess the same applies. I also have several (post/virtual) adresses around the globe.
      One thing one might consider (but it's Germany thing): when you still have some keys to some property in Germany the German revenue service considers you to be a local resident, and you have to pay taxes! Even if you have been more than 183 days somewhere else and/or have already paid taxes somewhere else.
      I don't know if that applies to other countries (esp. UK), but better check this point in advance.
      Reply

      Feb 15, 2021 at 8:52 pm

    • Max says

      February 15, 2021 at 11:25 pm

      It doesn't work the same in every country when we're talking about migrating. In the UK you are not allowed to have a bank account if you don't have an official address, but in several other countries you always have the right to keep a bank account because you're still a citizen. I know people from the UK with fake addresses and they worry a lot about the government finding out that they are not living there. Your pension will be frozen if you officially migrate to Thailand,that's another thing you have to be aware of. You also get less money every month because of a crappy exchange rate. Your pension will be transferred straight to your thai bank account instead of your UK account. You have to take these things into consideration when moving to Thailand.
      Reply

      Feb 15, 2021 at 11:25 pm

  35. Si thu says

    January 4, 2021 at 12:16 am

    Why are you don't open Krungthai app account?
    Reply

    Jan 04, 2021 at 12:16 am

  36. Kevin says

    September 17, 2020 at 2:44 pm

    Hi Jon,

    Have anyone been able to make an appt w/ US embassy in Bangkok to obtain Passport certified letter with Bangkok-Bank? (new requirement rule). I am an Non-O Visa Holder.

    Thank you
    Reply

    Sep 17, 2020 at 2:44 pm

    • Max says

      September 17, 2020 at 9:09 pm

      There is no official requirement such as a certified passport copy when applying for a savings account at Bangkok Bank. One out of several documents is a reference letter issued by an embassy/consulate. Some countries embassies/consulates issues a letter just for the purpose of opening a bank account, but I don't know if the US embassy is one of them. What's best in my opinion is a Resident Certificate from the local immigration office,if staying in BKK at Chaeng Watthana Immigration in northern BKK. That together with the passport is what many Bangkok Bank branches want.
      Reply

      Sep 17, 2020 at 9:09 pm

      • James E says

        September 17, 2020 at 10:13 pm

        Kevin, It's not a "passport certified letter". It's the same old "reference letter" requirement which can be fulfilled in a number of ways. Check out https://www.bangkokbank.com/en/Personal/Save-And-Invest/Save/Savings-Account for all the options. If you have a Thai friend or relative BKK Bank has pre-printed reference letters that they can sign when you go to set up your account. You can also request a letter from your home bank. All the bank wants is a second opinion saying you are who you say you are.
        Reply

        Sep 17, 2020 at 10:13 pm

  37. Rodney says

    September 15, 2020 at 3:34 pm

    Cant open a bank account account with Visa on it with a non immigrant o visa based on marriage. Have a Bangkok bank account but they stopped Visa and changed to Mastercard which can't be used to buy online from overseas eg. Ebay. Other banks want a Retirement O. A visa to open an account
    Reply

    Sep 15, 2020 at 3:34 pm

    • Max says

      September 15, 2020 at 6:58 pm

      The reason you want a Visa is just for buying stuff online outside Thailand? The MC Bangkok Bank issues is connected to TPN = Thai Payment Network, and it means that for example, the store/company/airline server has to be located in Thailand. Otherwise the authentication will fail. I have accounts both at Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn Bank (Visa card), and at some K-Bank branches they want you to have a 1 year extension based on retirement, not necessarily based on an initial O-A Visa. Those visas are exactly same. The difference is how you obtain them, in your home country vs in Thailand. In my passport I have red "Retirement" stamps next to my initial Non-O Visa and next to every 1 year extension stamp since then. K-Banks customer service don't look for the initial Visa, O or O-A, they want to see the "Retirement" stamp. Where are you staying in Thailand?
      Reply

      Sep 15, 2020 at 6:58 pm

    • James E says

      September 15, 2020 at 10:20 pm

      Your best bet is to just maintain a bank account/CC in your home country for situations like this. If you need to use your home country CC for purchases to be shipped to Thailand just add your Thai address to your account and it won't be a problem.
      Reply

      Sep 15, 2020 at 10:20 pm

  38. Jon says

    July 31, 2020 at 2:39 pm

    I earlier posted results of my attempts at 16+ bank branches in BKK to open a fixed deposit account with 10 million THB (I ended up being able to open accounts at BBL and BAY) while on a short-term visa. However, those 2 banks don't have cash deposit machines very near me. With the 10 million in the bank and a long-term non-imm B visa in hand (investment type, not a work permit), I now also would like a cash deposit machine closer to me (SCB is closest). I visited SCB; without a work permit, they took signed copies of my documents to send to their HQ and they said they'll let me know if I can open an account. Anyway, just wanted to continue sharing my experiences in case it helps others.
    Reply

    Jul 31, 2020 at 2:39 pm

    • Jon says

      August 2, 2020 at 7:29 pm

      Results so far attempting to open an account on a Thai Business 'Investment' (not work permit) type visa (T21 branches):
      * LH Bank: Local branch called head office. Result: No.
      * SCB: Local branch sent my documents to head office. Result: No.
      * TMB: Local branch called head office. If I apply at the head office, "maybe".
      Reply

      Aug 02, 2020 at 7:29 pm

      • Max says

        August 3, 2020 at 12:34 pm

        Just out of curiosity, why do you need a Cash Deposit Machine?
        Reply

        Aug 03, 2020 at 12:34 pm

        • Jon says

          August 3, 2020 at 5:46 pm

          Sure - to pay bills such as rent and water (I get the cash from a US account using an ATM). Thanks...
          Reply

          Aug 03, 2020 at 5:46 pm

          • Max says

            August 3, 2020 at 8:38 pm

            I have never heard about anyone using a CDM for paying bills. You have 2 accounts now,right? Can't you pay using online/mobile banking or using an ATM's scan function if your water-bill have a barcode? Who do you pay your rent to? The owner/landlord must have given you the account-number? Pay the rent online instead. You can even set up a schedule = automatic monthly payments. It's free. I pay every bill using online banking except my water-bill. It has to be paid at the condo office in the lobby. If you pay water to MWA, that bill can also be paid at 7/11. Cost: 10 baht. But as I said, also through online banking for free.
            Reply

            Aug 03, 2020 at 8:38 pm

    • Martin1 says

      December 13, 2020 at 8:21 am

      Jon --

      In Thailand it is possible to CDM money from other bank's cash deposit machines into *any* bank account in the country!
      The only catch is (and I think you guessed already that there is a hook ;-) ) that there is a small fee charged when doing so, usually about 50 THB.

      Hope that helps...
      Reply

      Dec 13, 2020 at 8:21 am

      • Max says

        December 13, 2020 at 8:30 pm

        If you use online banking you can transfer money to every Thai bank free of charge. Why use a CDM? Those are normally for thai people who doesnt use online banking or for small businesses depositing money into their accounts.
        Reply

        Dec 13, 2020 at 8:30 pm

        • Martin1 says

          December 14, 2020 at 9:40 am

          Hello Max,
          that is true what you write, and I am aware about that, too.
          The OP wrote on Aug. 3rd, 2020 (see above) that he uses ATMs to get cash and he wants to deposit it using a CDM.
          Occasionally, in urgent cases, I do the same, because it is my experience that even the fastest FinTechs take one day up (especially when there is a weekend) to transfer the funds to Thai bank accounts.
          Reply

          Dec 14, 2020 at 9:40 am

  39. justin says

    July 30, 2020 at 11:35 am

    Which is the best bank to open in Bangkok and which branch should i use?
    Reply

    Jul 30, 2020 at 11:35 am

    • Max says

      July 31, 2020 at 11:31 pm

      It depends on how you're going to use the bank account. Will you transfer money using for example TransferWise and use transfers for immigration purposes? Different banks have different requirements to open an account for a foreigner. The branch should of course be close to where you're staying. In my opinion it's easiest to open an account at Bangkok Bank and it's a good choice when it comes to transfers using TransferWise and using deposits for annual extensions at immigration. They are very foreigner friendly. Kasikorn Bank is also a good choice. But like I said, it depends on how you'll use the account.
      Reply

      Jul 31, 2020 at 11:31 pm

      • Martin1 says

        December 13, 2020 at 8:26 am

        Currently I have bank accounts with Bangkok Bank and SCB.

        While I highly like both banks, I do dislike the fact that BBK charges me 200 THB for every incoming fund transfer from abroad.
        So for incoming transfers I usually use my SCB account, and thransfer it subsequently to the BBK account for free.
        I highly like BBK's UnionPay cards: they help me save money while shopping at e.g. Villa Market and at airports.
        Reply

        Dec 13, 2020 at 8:26 am

        • Max says

          December 13, 2020 at 8:23 pm

          I don't know why you think there's no receiving fee at SCB.
          This is from SCB's website:
          "Inward remittance at 0.25% of total transferred amount (300 baht minimum, 500 baht maximum)."
          They are actually more expensive than Bangkok Bank.
          This is the reason many expats uses TransferWise instead of swift transfers. I don't pay a sending fee/receiving fee and I get the mid-market rate instead of the lower TT buy rate you get when transfer money old school.
          Reply

          Dec 13, 2020 at 8:23 pm

          • Martin1 says

            December 14, 2020 at 9:34 am

            Hello Max,

            Actually I do not pay any fee when receiving funds with my SCB account, but I do when I let them be transferred to my account with Bangkok Bank.
            So it was accurate what I wrote.

            But it may be due the circumstances: I never do (SWIFT) transfers in other currencies then Thai Baht.
            I use FinTechs like TransferWise, PaySend, Xendpay, and InstaRem, and I always transfer round amounts (like 20,000 THB).
            So any deductions would easily be detected.
            Reply

            Dec 14, 2020 at 9:34 am

  40. justin says

    July 27, 2020 at 2:36 pm

    Hi
    What is the best and fastest way to get an account now? I have a retirement visa and wish to open an account immediately. Would it be best to go to a large bank or a local type and finally what papers do i need to open an account?
    Reply

    Jul 27, 2020 at 2:36 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 27, 2020 at 8:21 pm

      Bangkok Bank is usually the best way forward. Are you in Bangkok? If so, try the branch at the Exchange Tower at Asok. See the post for what is needed, but generally it is branch dependent. The official document list is here: https://www.bangkokbank.com/en/Personal/Save-And-Invest/Save/FCD-Account-for-Non-residents But as you will see from the experiences of others this varies and can be as simple as a passport and condo/apartment lease contract.
      Reply

      Jul 27, 2020 at 8:21 pm

      • James E says

        July 27, 2020 at 9:43 pm

        A couple of other things to consider. 1) Where you're going to finally settle. Thailand's banking system is regional so if you open an account in BKK you only get things like fee-free ATM use and account management in BKK. Elsewhere in the country you'll pay an ATM fee and have more difficulty managing your account. It's also difficult to transfer an account from one region to another. 2) ATM coverage can be spotty and your bank may not even have ATMs in all regions (BKK Bank - which I use - is particularly bad up north and down south). If you know where you're going to be living/spending time check for ATM coverage.
        Reply

        Jul 27, 2020 at 9:43 pm

        • Martin1 says

          December 13, 2020 at 8:31 am

          James E,
          I think you are contradicting yourself here, aren't you?
          If one has to pay ATM fees everywhere but within the same province the home branch is located anyway, then it does not make any difference if you withdraw money (say in Isaan) at an ATM of your bank or at other banks' ATMs, does it?
          Reply

          Dec 13, 2020 at 8:31 am

          • Max says

            December 13, 2020 at 8:10 pm

            You have to pay a fee of about 15 Baht when using a Thai banks ATM in another region, not province. There might be a very few banks which don't charge you. You can download the fees from every banks website.
            Reply

            Dec 13, 2020 at 8:10 pm

          • JamesE says

            December 14, 2020 at 12:11 am

            Yes. If I go to BKK Bank in Issan it will cost me 15 Baht (at least the last time I did this). If I use another bank's ATM it will cost more like 50 baht (not 100% sure on this as I've never done it) with the other bank pocketing much of that. And it's not so much the province as the bank's region that determines the fee. I've never seen a map of these regions so I just assume if I'm leaving Metro-Bangkok I'll be dinged. Making it even harder, the *only* ATM fee documentation I found on BKK Bank's website is a scanned copy of a document in Thai.
            Reply

            Dec 14, 2020 at 12:11 am

            • Max says

              December 14, 2020 at 6:26 pm

              The fee for using another banks ATM is same as when using your own banks ATM, but in another region = 10-15 Baht. BUT, during the covid-19 lockdown, several banks have stopped charging a fee when using another banks ATM-card. I have used other banks ATM's for different reasons, but no fee for months. I don't know how long it will last. Earlier there were only 4 regions in Thailand, Northern,Central, North Eastern and Southern. But now they talk about 6 administrative regions, they have added 2, East and South East.
              Reply

              Dec 14, 2020 at 6:26 pm

    • Max says

      July 31, 2020 at 11:39 pm

      FYI,there are no local banks in Thailand. There are about 8 large banks and they can be found in every major city in Thailand. Then there are a couple more banks like Government Housing Bank and Government Savings Bank. Those are not very common among foreigners.
      Reply

      Jul 31, 2020 at 11:39 pm

  41. Robin says

    July 14, 2020 at 2:29 pm

    My friend was trying to open an account in Thailand. He wants to deposit $400k. But the bank told him that he needs to have a certificate of insurance, pay anti money laundering fee which is $9k. Is there such thing as that in Thailand?
    Reply

    Jul 14, 2020 at 2:29 pm

    • Max says

      July 14, 2020 at 6:27 pm

      Is your friend from the US? Several Bank branches thinks it's a hassle when opening an account for a American citizens because of banking laws in the US. I have never heard about any fees,though. Some banks offers a Personal Accident insurance when opening an account (for a lie cost), but it's not mandatory. What Thai bank are we talking about? Try another bank/branch.
      Reply

      Jul 14, 2020 at 6:27 pm

    • Max says

      July 14, 2020 at 6:31 pm

      It should be (for a low cost) in my reply. 🙂
      Reply

      Jul 14, 2020 at 6:31 pm

    • James E says

      July 14, 2020 at 10:59 pm

      Max is correct: try another branch or bank. Read through the comments to see which ones are best right now. Bangkok Bank is usually one of the best - in Bangkok - but others might be easier in other parts of the country. Some branches, even sometimes depending on which manager is on duty, require insurance and some do not. There should be no fees - let alone $9k - for anti-money laundering but he will need to fill out an IRS Form W-9 which is the form used to report his SSN back to the US to help prevent the account for being used to launder money. As Max says, the US Government is paranoid and over-controlling so many banks don't want the hassle of dealing with US expats.
      Reply

      Jul 14, 2020 at 10:59 pm

  42. Stephen Westrip says

    July 6, 2020 at 3:00 am

    I plan to retire to Thailand and I understand the financial requirements and the need to have 800k in a Thai bank account before the retirement visa application. How can you do this if you are not in Thailand? What is the recommended way to open a Thai bank account so you can fulfil the "2 months before application" stipulation ?

    Thanks.
    Reply

    Jul 06, 2020 at 3:00 am

    • James E says

      July 6, 2020 at 9:40 am

      You can't. Your best bet is to come in on a METV and get everything lined up before you apply for the O-Retirement. You could do it on a single entry visa but if you read through the comments you'll see that it's not always completely straightforward. Basically - in either case - you get stamped in for 60 days then get a 30 day extension. The METV gives you a bit more breathing room for not a whole lot of money. Once you get the finances set you convert the TV to an O based on retirement. Look at some of Max's great posts on this subject as he, although strong of opinion, has this down to a science. Your other option is to get an O-A (if offered) from your home country where you're able to use your domestic funds to satisfy the financial part of things (with the additional onus of police checks, medical inspection, and health insurance) that will give you a full year to get your feet on the ground and everything set to get the regular O.
      Reply

      Jul 06, 2020 at 9:40 am

    • Max says

      July 6, 2020 at 2:30 pm

      The time you need to be able to open a bank account in time for the 1 year extension (a permission to stay) depends on the type of visa you arrive on. You can apply for a 60 days tourist visa in your home country, which is extendable 30 days at the local immigration office. This gives you time to open an account. But before that you need to have an address in Thailand. In my opinion you should go for a bank account at Bangkok Bank, and the easiest way is to get a Resident Certificate at the local immigration office. The cost is about ฿300. You also need your passport,of course. After 30 days in Thailand you can change your tourist visa for a 90 days Non-immigrant Visa based on retirement. Cost: ฿2000. Then your 800k has to be in a Thai bank account. You need a bank letter from your bank (also called bank guarantee) for immigration. Cost: ฿100. After 60 days into your 90 days Non-immigrant Visa, you can apply for a 1 year extension based on retirement. Cost: ฿1900. The 800k has to be in your account 2 months prior to the day you apply. (You can then apply for the extension annually.)
      The reason I suggest Bangkok Bank is because several banks changed the requirements for foreigners last year and "officially" don't allow them to open even a simple savings account. (Some banks asks for a work permit.) Bangkok Banks requirements did not change. When people says that they opened an account by visiting bank after bank until they were allowed to open an account, don't listen to them. A total waste of time in my opinion. Get the Resident Certificate and go to the nearest (from your condo/house) Bangkok Bank branch. Where are you going to stay in Thailand? You do know that because of Covid-19, you won't be able to come here for (most likely) several months because of closed borders and many restrictions for common tourists incl.an expensive mandatory 14 days quarantine?
      Reply

      Jul 06, 2020 at 2:30 pm

  43. Mel Burn says

    July 1, 2020 at 7:31 pm

    Question: why foreigners needs Thai bank accounts unless they have to withdraw large sums cash? If not for paying rent, I could live half a year on credit cards and one ATM withdrawal. TransferWise worked fine long time ago but now they want to know _everything_ about you and your money. The same for the US government - you have to fill out a tax form as you know. As well as your bank.
    Reply

    Jul 01, 2020 at 7:31 pm

    • James E says

      July 2, 2020 at 9:18 pm

      I'm only an occasional visitor (2X/yr) but I find having a Thai account makes it much more convenient. First, I get a better exchange rate than I would using my US ATM card and avoid (most) ATM fees. Second, I don't have to carry a lot of cash around. Third, I never have to worry if a place has a credit card surcharge or not. The IRS form is no big deal and (at least for me) Transferwise doesn't ask for any additional information than they did three years ago when I started using them. The big benefit I see is that I'm setting things up for when we eventually move to Thailand. Having a financial history in a place is never a bad idea.
      Reply

      Jul 02, 2020 at 9:18 pm

    • Max says

      July 3, 2020 at 12:22 am

      First: If you're a simple tourist spending a few weeks in Thailand, then keep using your credit cards and withdraw money from an ATM and get lower exchange rates and pay endless bank fees (when using credit cards or debit cards abroad). Second: When complaining about TW, and saying they want to know everything about you, that's ONLY for US citizens because of a paranoid banking system/government which thinks that everybody are laundering money. For people from normal countries they just ask for a photo of the photo/info page from the passport and proof that your bank account back home belongs to you, in my case one screenshot from my bank account online. Third and the most important reason for having a Thai bank account: You MUST have a Thai bank account when staying in Thailand long term. If not, you won't be able to extend the permission to stay based on retirement or marriage at the local immigration office. Same if you work in Thailand. No Thai bank account, no permission to stay. It's as simple as that. If retired or when working, the money has to be transferred to a Thai account. Do you think that the rent is all you pay when having a Thai bank account? What about other bills like electricity, mobile phone subscription, topping up the phone, internet and other bills like for example Spotify. What about online shopping or food home delivery? If using Thai PayPal for bills in Thailand it's not possible to connect it to a foreign account with foreign cards.
      Reply

      Jul 03, 2020 at 12:22 am

  44. Barry says

    June 29, 2020 at 8:05 pm

    I recently opened up a Bangkok Bank account with a non-immigrant O-A visa and a letter from immigration stating I wish to open an account, and $500 baht deposit. It was easy.
    Reply

    Jun 29, 2020 at 8:05 pm

    • Max says

      June 30, 2020 at 10:49 am

      I agree,it is easy to open an account att Bangkok Bank with correct documents. The downside is the MasterCard debit card they issue. It's connected to TPN = Thai Payment Network, which makes it useless for online shopping at several stores and even international airlines. Before 2019 Bangkok Bank issued a proper Visa debit card, but went for the MasterCard November 5 2018. I got mine November 12,and it took me just one week to discover that I couldn't use it at Tesco Lotus. The manager at my branch didn't have a clue why the MasterCard didn't work and blamed Tesco Lotus. I then opened an account at Kasikorn Bank because they issue a proper Visa card which is not connected to TPN,and it works everywhere. I transfer a sum from Bangkok Bank to Kasikorn Bank every month for online purchases when using my Visa card.
      Reply

      Jun 30, 2020 at 10:49 am

  45. erik says

    May 29, 2020 at 11:18 am

    i open account kasikorn branch phimai. high education managers can not speak english and force me to deposit first 10000 baht or no account. my wife open after another account and have to pay only 300 baht for atm card. this branch is very unfriendly and i never see the manager in his office.
    Reply

    May 29, 2020 at 11:18 am

    • Max says

      May 29, 2020 at 8:22 pm

      The 10,000 baht was an early requirement for foreigners at Kasikorn Bank,but you can withdraw the money if you want. The cost for a Visa/ATM-card is same for everyone,Thai or foreigner, but the requirements for opening an account for a Thai national are different,and that's same at every bank in Thailand.
      You should be glad you were able to open an account based on the old requirements, because the new requirements at K-Bank from 2019 don't allow a foreigner to open an account at all.
      Reply

      May 29, 2020 at 8:22 pm

  46. Koyo says

    April 22, 2020 at 7:40 pm

    marriage visa=two visit to the immigration
    retirement visa=one visit only (immigration officer recommend me to change a visa from marriage visa to this one, every time at my visa renewal, he says its convenient, but i don't agree)
    Reply

    Apr 22, 2020 at 7:40 pm

    • Max says

      April 23, 2020 at 5:59 pm

      It's because local immigration offices prefers extensions based on retirement. It's less work for them because they have to send the papers to the headquarter for the final decision. That's why they keep telling applicants they should change the reason for the extension.
      Reply

      Apr 23, 2020 at 5:59 pm

  47. J Cruickshank says

    April 19, 2020 at 1:15 am

    If you are married to a Thai and live in Thailand do you still need 800 thousand baht between your pension and cash in the bank.
    Reply

    Apr 19, 2020 at 1:15 am

    • Max says

      April 19, 2020 at 8:19 am

      If you are married to a Thai you can apply for an extension based. on marriage instead of retirement. You'll need 400k in the bank 2 months prior to the application or an average income of 40k per month. Depending on where in Thailand you're staying the paperwork might differ, and it's a lot more paperwork compared to a retirement extension. It includes original marriage certificates, photos of you and your wife at home and also a home visit from immigration where they also sometime talks to neighbours. I know about expats who actually prefered the retirement extension because of that. But if the money is important,then it's of course doable. You just need to be more patient.
      Reply

      Apr 19, 2020 at 8:19 am

      • J Cruickshank says

        April 20, 2020 at 4:15 am

        Thanks for your answer
        Reply

        Apr 20, 2020 at 4:15 am

        • Oracle says

          April 22, 2020 at 3:17 am

          You can apply also for work permit....and residency with a marriage visa...food for thought!
          Reply

          Apr 22, 2020 at 3:17 am

          • Max says

            April 22, 2020 at 6:07 pm

            This guy wants to travel,not work and he's not married to a Thai. He's not even in Thailand.
            Reply

            Apr 22, 2020 at 6:07 pm

  48. Alan says

    March 27, 2020 at 9:05 am

    I was an existing Bangkok Bank customer in Ko Samui and I moved to Isaan to build a house. I thought I'd open a local account with BB and went into the branch with my passport, original marriage certificate, Thai wife with her blue book, bank book from Ko Samui, drivers license (Thai and Austraian). They outright refused an existing customer. Go figure. I did not take that too well and went to the 2nd BB branch in town who happily opened an account for me with those documents. Thailand is so arbitrarily and pedantically bureaucratic. Just keep trying. And try to have more patience than I had.
    Reply

    Mar 27, 2020 at 9:05 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      March 27, 2020 at 6:49 pm

      Wow. It's crazy but we see these different results in different branches all the time. As you say, just go elsewhere.
      Reply

      Mar 27, 2020 at 6:49 pm

  49. Brad says

    February 18, 2020 at 10:40 pm

    That's very good information, and glad to hear about Americans having positive interactions with Thai Banks.

    I currently hold a retirement Visa and a resident card. Opening additional bank accounts with K bank became much easier and uneventful as I have 2 rental properties and recently bought a Condo in Phra Khanong. Prior to hav8ng the resident card or yellow book was always a pita.

    My current crisis is with TMB, which
    Up until a few weeks ago, did not charge a 5% fee on top of the 220 baht fee we all pay to withdraw funds from a US Bank, 6 bucks is ok, 56 bucks is not ok for a thousand dollar withdral.
    Reply

    Feb 18, 2020 at 10:40 pm

    • James E says

      February 18, 2020 at 11:37 pm

      If you haven't already, have a look at TTL's transfer post: https://www.thethailandlife.com/how-to-send-money-to-thailand-no-bank-fees There are a number of options available to (particularly) US citizens where your total transaction cost is between 1% - 2%. Have a look through the comments. Currently, for US$1,000, the Transferwise fee is 1.2% and the Western Union "fee" is right at 0.5%. TW is faster, WU is cheaper.
      Reply

      Feb 18, 2020 at 11:37 pm

    • Max says

      February 19, 2020 at 1:01 am

      If you're retired and having thai bank accounts why are you withdrawing money from an ATM like a tourist! Why not transfer money into one of your accounts? Paying unnecessary fees to thai banks is crazy.
      Reply

      Feb 19, 2020 at 1:01 am

  50. Jon says

    February 10, 2020 at 2:21 pm

    I've now visited 16+ branches of different banks, so providing a consolidated update as it may help others:
    * My situation: No Thai job. Trying to keep 10 million THB at the bank for a Thai investment visa that I can keep for years. Have a 1-year condo lease. I told each bank of my plan and showed them the investment visa page.
    * Bangkok Bank: Yes, but I need to get an embassy letter (no surprise). On the plus side, they claim I'll get the standard interest rate available to Thais - I thought I'd get the rate from the second-to-last- column (foreigner?) of their rate PDF http://www.bangkokbank.com/en/Personal/Other-Services/View-Rates/Deposit-Interest-Rates
    * Thanachart said no but said maybe if I came back tomorrow they could call their head office (it was a holiday)
    * Every other Thai-owned bank said no. (I opened an account at Krungsri but it appears they're <50% Thai owned, an issue for the visa requirements.) I didn't try other banks that aren't Thai owned.

    http://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xUTT2oE3ZuHpLXXWPHeU3FPpN1t109CUMYFnqvwboG4
    Reply

    Feb 10, 2020 at 2:21 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      February 10, 2020 at 5:05 pm

      Thanks for the update, Jon. Bangkok Bank tends to be the most foreigner friendly.
      Reply

      Feb 10, 2020 at 5:05 pm

      • Jon says

        February 10, 2020 at 5:40 pm

        Thank you. In my particular case, Krungsri was the easiest as I had a condo lease, as Krungsri doesn't require the embassy letter that Bangkok Bank does - which in my case will require a US Embassy appointment and $50 USD US Embassy fee. (But sadly Krungsri doesn't seem to meet the visa's requirement of Thai ownership.)
        Reply

        Feb 10, 2020 at 5:40 pm

        • Max says

          February 11, 2020 at 7:04 pm

          You're talking about a 10 mil investment and squabbling over $50 for an embassy letter? That doesn't make sense. Krungsri issues Visa debit cards which are not connected to TPN, and that's maybe the only plus with Krungsri. Bangkok Bank issues the TPN connected MasterCard which totally sucks,but as a bank might meet the requirements for your investment visa. So,2 different banks makes it work.
          Reply

          Feb 11, 2020 at 7:04 pm

    • Max says

      February 10, 2020 at 7:02 pm

      Why not go to the embassy and get the letter and open an account at Bangkok Bank as well?
      The letter isn't free but it's worth it. Having 2 accounts might be useful one day and if Krungsri doesn't meet the requirements for the visa, Bangkok Bank will.
      Reply

      Feb 10, 2020 at 7:02 pm

      • Jon says

        February 11, 2020 at 7:53 pm

        Yes, I resigned myself to it and the 1550 THB embassy letter fee/appointment.
        Reply

        Feb 11, 2020 at 7:53 pm

        • Max says

          February 15, 2020 at 8:26 am

          Good. It's worth the money even if the US embassy are a bit greedy when it comes to their certificates/documents.
          Reply

          Feb 15, 2020 at 8:26 am

  51. Jon says

    January 31, 2020 at 3:08 pm

    I'm working to obtain a Thai investment visa by depositing 10 million THB. Because I'll be keeping noticeable funds at the bank, the interest rate, and therefore the bank, matter.
    Although the government explicitly permits those without a work permit, etc. to apply for the visa, banks might not let you open the account. In BKK I've visited 6 GSB (Government Savings Bank) and 2 LH Bank branches. All started with "work permit?" and even after showing them the investment visa page, no luck.
    I'm currently trying to find an agent to see if they can assist.

    (In case it helps others I created a sheet with all the data but it looks like this site blocks Google Sheets links.)
    Reply

    Jan 31, 2020 at 3:08 pm

    • Max says

      January 31, 2020 at 8:01 pm

      Is there a special reason you went to 6 GSB-branches and 2 LH? Those are not the most common banks for foreigners,and that might be one of the reasons for asking about a wp. Why not try Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn Bank (in that order)? Krung Thai,SCB or Krungsri is also ok. Are you on a tourist visa now?
      Reply

      Jan 31, 2020 at 8:01 pm

      • Jon says

        January 31, 2020 at 9:25 pm

        Thanks Max. I agree they definitely aren't the easiest, but if I'm keeping 10 million THB there for years then the interest rate is important - and GSB/LH seem to have the highest rates. TMB is the next highest, although the previous reports here make TMB look unlikely. After that I guess I could try an easy bank and do Thai government bonds there. I listed the rates at https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xUTT2oE3ZuHpLXXWPHeU3FPpN1t109CUMYFnqvwboG4/
        Reply

        Jan 31, 2020 at 9:25 pm

        • Max says

          January 31, 2020 at 10:33 pm

          Like I said, GSB and LH are not very common banks for foreigners,and if they don't want you as a customer when waiving 10 mil in front of them, I would never open an account with them. I don't even know how good their internet/mobile banking is.
          Reply

          Jan 31, 2020 at 10:33 pm

          • Jon says

            February 1, 2020 at 12:26 pm

            Thank you.
            Reply

            Feb 01, 2020 at 12:26 pm

          • Jon says

            February 5, 2020 at 10:25 pm

            Update: Unsurprisingly, TMB was a no-go. Krungsri said I can once I fix a 1 yr condo lease. They also said holding government bonds through them would count towards Krunsri Exclusive, which would be even better. That seems to be the best option, based on https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1xUTT2oE3ZuHpLXXWPHeU3FPpN1t109CUMYFnqvwboG4/
            Reply

            Feb 05, 2020 at 10:25 pm

      • Jon says

        January 31, 2020 at 9:33 pm

        Oh, and I'm currently on visa exemption, but I've done SETVs previously. I do have a 1 year condo lease.

        Max, I see you've kindly helped many others here - are you able to receive notifications whenever any new comment is posted?
        Reply

        Jan 31, 2020 at 9:33 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          January 31, 2020 at 9:47 pm

          Hi Jon, if you tick the 'notify me' box on the comment submission form you will be notified of comments on that post. Max, I assume, is subscribed to this post so he will see your comments.
          Reply

          Jan 31, 2020 at 9:47 pm

    • James E says

      January 31, 2020 at 11:02 pm

      I don't want to rain on your parade, but 10 mega-Baht is not "noticeable funds" to a bank, even in Thailand. While it might get you some benefit in terms of having a single contact at a branch, nobody will be bending over backwards to make things happen for you. Max, as he is *fairly* frequently ;), is correct on this: deal with a bank that wants your business - BKK or K-bank are particularly easy for foreigners - and work up a relationship that might get you in on higher yield investment vehicles. In Thailand it's all about relationships and acting like money is the reason they should take you on as a customer is bad form.
      Reply

      Jan 31, 2020 at 11:02 pm

      • Jon says

        February 5, 2020 at 10:19 pm

        I don’t think I said 10M THB was noticeable to them; I’m usually dealing with US firms that have the equivalent of tens of trillions THB in assets. I also wouldn’t act like money is a reason they would want my business. I mentioned 'noticeably' in the context of, and because, once you're putting eight figures into an account, the rate of return and the bank can matter.
        Reply

        Feb 05, 2020 at 10:19 pm

        • Jon says

          February 5, 2020 at 10:27 pm

          Although sadly I don't think working up a relationship at Thai banks is something I'm good at.
          Reply

          Feb 05, 2020 at 10:27 pm

          • Max says

            February 6, 2020 at 8:19 am

            So, how many branches so far? Do you have a plan, or are you just walking up and down every major street in BKK visiting banks?
            When having a visa and staying long term, because of immigration, it's very practical if the bank is somewhat close to where you're living.
            Reply

            Feb 06, 2020 at 8:19 am

            • Jon says

              February 7, 2020 at 4:18 pm

              I did 6 GSB, 2 LH, and 1 TMB branch before getting an OK from Krungsri. I visited mostly along a 2km stretch of Sukhumvit near where I live. However, I just realized that Krunsri might not meet the Thai government's requirement that it be "a bank which is registered in Thailand and has Thai nationals holding more than 50 percent of its shares" - I'm trying to confirm that now.
              Reply

              Feb 07, 2020 at 4:18 pm

              • Max says

                February 7, 2020 at 9:21 pm

                I found this online:
                https://www.krungsri.com/bank/en/Other/AboutUs/Overview.html
                Reply

                Feb 07, 2020 at 9:21 pm

                • Jon says

                  February 7, 2020 at 11:27 pm

                  Thanks. Yeah, that both lists a bunch of owners (including 77% by MUFG, a Japanese bank), but also that they are also a publicly listed company on SET - wouldn't the latter mean that they have ownership by Stock Exchange of Thailand owners? So I don't understand it. I spoke with a phone rep who said yes but I am 95% sure she didn't understand what I was asking. I emailed them too and the rep replied they weren't sure and would have to get back to me.
                  Reply

                  Feb 07, 2020 at 11:27 pm

                  • Max says

                    February 8, 2020 at 7:43 am

                    This is about the shareholder structure:
                    https://www.krungsri.com/bank/en/InvestorRelations/GeneralInformation/ShareholderStructure.html
                    Reply

                    Feb 08, 2020 at 7:43 am

                    • Jon says

                      February 9, 2020 at 12:44 pm

                      Thank you.
                      Not good news for me - "In compliance with the permission from the Ministry of Finance, the shares held by foreign shareholders are totally 76.90%" (from that page)

                      Feb 09, 2020 at 12:44 pm

          • James E says

            February 6, 2020 at 11:59 pm

            Jeez. Not to put too fine a point on it but *everything* in Thailand is relationship based. Everything. This is from the tea cart on up to the top of society. To get by in Thailand you really need to rethink how things are done. My experience is that they'd rather be your friend and not get your business than get your business and not be your friend. This, of course, is tempered by a general interest in not dealing with farang as you've found so far.
            Reply

            Feb 06, 2020 at 11:59 pm

  52. Alex says

    January 26, 2020 at 11:15 am

    I managed to open a bankaccount in Khon Kaen. While the manager of the Bangkok bank in Bangkok required a statement from the embassee was the manager in Khon Kaen happy enough with a Dutch marriage statement (in Dutch language from my local government), identity papers from me and my Thai wife and a written gaurantee statement from my wife. Also a copy was made from the page in my passport where the Thai embassee put the visa for a 60 day stay.
    The procedure and acceptance was in fact the same as when my wife received a bankaccount in the Netherlands. The only difference is that I am officially a tourist in Thailand and my wife a citizen with marriage visa in the Netherlands.
    Reply

    Jan 26, 2020 at 11:15 am

    • Max says

      January 26, 2020 at 8:19 pm

      It's always easier to open an account in less touristy locations in Thailand. It's much harder in Pattaya,Phuket and Bangkok, especially since last year with changed requirements. Using a wifes guarantee and an untranslated marriage certificate wont work.
      Reply

      Jan 26, 2020 at 8:19 pm

  53. Steven Clarke says

    December 6, 2019 at 3:23 pm

    Just opened account today with Bangkok Bank. Sindhorn Building 130-132 Wireless Rd , Lumpini. Wanted current Passport and a certified declaration from my embassy. In this case lucky as many embassies on and around wireless rd. 500 Baht to open account and 400 to issue Debit/ATM card.
    Do have to fill out application form that stipulates an address in Thailand but did not need lease agreement or residence cert.
    Reply

    Dec 06, 2019 at 3:23 pm

    • Max says

      December 20, 2019 at 8:09 pm

      The 400 baht for the ATM/Debit card is a combination of card fee and the annual fee. If you lose the card you only have to pay the card fee for the replacement card. I hope you asked for internet and mobile banking at the same time. It's free of charge.
      Reply

      Dec 20, 2019 at 8:09 pm

  54. online says

    December 3, 2019 at 7:01 pm

    Usually banks in Thailand require too many documentation for a foreigner who wishes to open a bank account in Thailand.
    Reply

    Dec 03, 2019 at 7:01 pm

    • Max says

      December 4, 2019 at 12:20 pm

      The official requirements at Bangkok Bank are either passport + work permit or passport + one out of several documents, like a Certificate of Residence, a reference from an embassy/consulate or at some branches the yellow house book. I wouldn't call that many documents. SCB (and a few other banks) officially requires passport + work permit.
      Reply

      Dec 04, 2019 at 12:20 pm

  55. Arthur Ma says

    November 23, 2019 at 6:07 am

    Thank you for all the details.
    My wife and I just purchased an apartment in Bangkok and will go there on November 26, 2019, to open a bank account. Will Bangkok Bank require us to have a Thai mobile phone number when we open a bank account?
    Reply

    Nov 23, 2019 at 6:07 am

    • Max says

      November 23, 2019 at 8:14 pm

      Yes,and that's also because you can send and receive money using the phone number. You can buy a thai sim-card at for example 7/11. They offer sim-cards from dtac,True and AIS. You also need a thai phone number at Thai Immigration,so there's no way around it.
      Reply

      Nov 23, 2019 at 8:14 pm

      • Arthur King Ma says

        December 8, 2019 at 11:33 pm

        Max:
        The process was very smooth when I opened my Thai Baht account at the Exchange Center. The young man and the Branch manager were very helpful there. My two real estate agents were there to help me translating for me, so everything went so well. All I need to do was I need to wait for a week for Bangkok Bank to send me a text to my Thai's number for the user name and passcode for my Internet banking. However, when we went to Nana's branch to open our US dollar's account, the ugly, long hair Thai girl gave us a hard time. Not until I explained to the supervisor I got the required purchased contract from the developer (since I have read the blog from here, she told that ugly young long hair ugly-face bi*ch to open the account for us. I have been traveling to Thai for years and I always have great impressions with Thais except for this ugly-face bit*h. It likes we made her work too much since we dropped by to the branch. If we did not visit that day, she can just relax and sit there paying her phone for the whole day! During the entire process, she did not look at my wife and I did not explain to us the bank fees or how the account works. Until we deposit US$2000 then we found out there was 2% or a minimum 500 Bhat charge for every deposit. Anyway. The worst thing was, two days later, the supervisor called me back and asked me to go back since that ugly-face bit*h had forgotten to have us sign some disclosures. I told her no, I am not going back to sign, she has to send someone to my hotel for me to sign. So, after a long talk, they arranged to have someone waited for me and my wife at the hotel's lobby to sign the ONE piece of BANK's FEES. That's my experience with the Bangkok Bank at Nana's Branch the ugly-face long hair young bit*h.
        Reply

        Dec 08, 2019 at 11:33 pm

        • Max says

          December 9, 2019 at 8:32 am

          Normally when opening an account at Bangkok Bank, you get the username and password for internet banking straight away,no waiting period. What kind of account did you open? I don't understand the 2% fee for each deposit. Was it a cash deposit or a transfer? Cash deposits are free. If you transfer money into a savings account using swift,the fee is 0.25% or a minimum of 200 baht and maximum of 500 baht.
          Reply

          Dec 09, 2019 at 8:32 am

    • James E says

      November 23, 2019 at 10:54 pm

      It *may* not be required but you want one anyway. You can get a SIM and add some money as soon as you get to the airport. All the main carriers are present and it's very reasonable. Don't get a tourist SIM as the numbers have a built-in expiration date. All other SIMs are (roughly) equivalent and can be had for the equivalent of $US1.50. Check out TTL's post on mobile providers.
      Reply

      Nov 23, 2019 at 10:54 pm

      • TheThailandLife says

        November 23, 2019 at 10:57 pm

        You can find that post here: https://www.thethailandlife.com/thailand-sim-card-mobile-data-plan
        Reply

        Nov 23, 2019 at 10:57 pm

      • Arthur King Ma says

        December 8, 2019 at 11:39 pm

        Thanks, James. I got the AIS 299 8 GB for 7 days. The people from InterCon help me to extend it until Feb 2020 without costing me anything. I did not know how they do it but during my entire stay, I used my wife's cell phone as the hotspot and I used my cell phone as I was in the US (since I have T-Mobile, I can make and receive phone calls via Wi-Fi calling.) It was so convenient. We were in Bangkok for almost two weeks and were on the Internet all the time and did not even finish the 8 GB. I highly recommend the AIS for all the travelers!
        Reply

        Dec 08, 2019 at 11:39 pm

        • James E says

          December 9, 2019 at 3:31 am

          Yeah, the T-Mobile/Thai provider combo is unbeatable if you come from the US. Have you switched your T-Mobile plan to the over-55 bargain yet? (If you're over 55, that is). Costs us US$60/month for unlimited global data and texts (in addition to unlimited everything while in the states) for 2 lines.
          Reply

          Dec 09, 2019 at 3:31 am

  56. Leon kotze says

    November 11, 2019 at 1:44 am

    I have been in Thailand on numerous occasions, I was there in early October, leaving again on the 15th of November, already booked to leave again on the 10th February, 2020 and planning to go there at least another 5 times next year, I urgently need to open a Bank account and would appreciate it if someone could give me the latest data on how ti open a bank account, I also need guidance on which TEFL course to do on-line as I am planning to retire in Thailand in 2021, I am a South african citizen.
    Reply

    Nov 11, 2019 at 1:44 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      November 11, 2019 at 3:02 am

      Hi Leon, both Bangkok Bank and K Bank are available banking options for those on short term visas. See the latest comments below from other readers for recent experiences and requirements. For TEFL courses please see this post: https://www.thethailandlife.com/best-tefl-teaching-course You can post any questions you have there in the comments section.
      Reply

      Nov 11, 2019 at 3:02 am

    • Max says

      November 11, 2019 at 10:45 am

      Requirements are getting tougher regarding opening a savings accounts. 6 months ago Kasikorn Bank changed their "official" requirements. Now an individual foreigner isn't allowed to open an account at all. Several branches still allows it if you have a work permit or a retirement visa.
      At Bangkok Bank the "official" requirements are either a wp or passport + one out of several documents,like a Reference from your embassy,or a Certificate of Residence from a local immigration office in Thailand. Some branches requires a long term rental contract. Check the BB website. Some people walks from branch to branch and are sometimes lucky. If you will deposit a large sum it might make it easier.
      Reply

      Nov 11, 2019 at 10:45 am

  57. Frank says

    November 3, 2019 at 10:53 pm

    Hi there,

    As a Canadian, I've purchased a condo unit in Pattaya and will rent it out soon. I may need to open a bank account and let my tenant deposit the rents in and I may need to move the money back to my account in Canada a couple of times each year. Here are some questions:
    1. Documents required for opening an account as the foreigner owner of a property?
    2. Can I have online banking and App features which allow me to move the money back to Canada, exchange to different currency as needed and pay necessary bills in Pattaya?
    3. Can I apply for a credit card as I can use my property guaranty?

    Thanks for your attention and looking forward to hearing from you soon.

    Best regards,
    Frank
    Reply

    Nov 03, 2019 at 10:53 pm

    • James E says

      November 4, 2019 at 12:21 am

      1) The documents will vary by bank, branch, manager on duty and possibly how close to lunch time you visit the branch. Read through the comments for more details and complaints. At the very least (what I had to do) you will need your passport and proof of address in Thailand. It can get worse from there. 2) Yes to online, maybe to app. The BKK Bank app offers some transfer options but "international" is not among them (but Western Union is). International transfer is, however, a choice in the web interface. 3) Yes, but they might require something more liquid as surety, like a deposit account balance. Or, they may see your condo as proof of your creditworthiness. Again, banking is not as cut and dried in terms of "if you do this than you will get that" as elsewhere.
      Reply

      Nov 04, 2019 at 12:21 am

    • Max says

      November 4, 2019 at 9:05 am

      1)
      The best bank in my opinion is Bangkok Bank and there's no problem opening a savings account or/and a Fixed Deposit Account when you are the owner of a condo.
      "Document showing ownership of a fixed asset such as a condominium sale/purchase agreement (a condominium which is acceptable to Bangkok Bank." Plus passport of course.
      Internet and mobile banking is free. Which kind of bills you can pay online depends on who you are paying to. Electrical bills depends on company. MEA is ok but not PEA at the moment. You will get an ATM with MasterCard Debit Card for about 350 baht incl.the annual fee.
      2)
      International transfers out of Thailand is possible but the money has to come from a foreign source to start with. Plus,you might need to sign something at the bank to make it possible. Talk to the branch.
      3)
      Credit Cards are more of a problem for a foreigner but sometimes possible if having a deposited security. It might be possible if opening a Fixed Deposit Account as security.
      Bangkok Bank has a great website in english. Check it out.
      Are you staying inside Pattaya or in Jomtien? The branch in Jomtien is on Jomtien 2nd Road and is in my opinion quite relaxed and close to Immigration on Soi 5. In Pattaya there are several branches. Pick one close to where you staying.
      Reply

      Nov 04, 2019 at 9:05 am

  58. Tim says

    October 30, 2019 at 8:49 am

    Opened a savings account @ Krungsri (onnut branch) which is located in the tesco lotus store.
    Just presented a 1 year lease contract for my condo and passport.
    Reply

    Oct 30, 2019 at 8:49 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 30, 2019 at 4:44 pm

      Nice one. Krungsri Bank seems to be increasing as an option for "farang".
      Reply

      Oct 30, 2019 at 4:44 pm

      • Max says

        October 30, 2019 at 7:42 pm

        Not if they follow the official requirements for a foreigner:

        "Applicant qualifications:
        Individual foreigners who are permitted having permanent residency in Thailand."

        You can always find a branch where Customer Service doesn't have a clue about the requirements.
        Reply

        Oct 30, 2019 at 7:42 pm

    • kanashi says

      October 31, 2019 at 3:49 pm

      Krungsri (onnut branch) this is where onnut bts tesco?
      Reply

      Oct 31, 2019 at 3:49 pm

      • James E says

        October 31, 2019 at 11:42 pm

        Yup. There's one at Big-C on On Nut Rd, too.
        Reply

        Oct 31, 2019 at 11:42 pm

        • kanashi says

          November 1, 2019 at 11:00 pm

          i went today they do not accept proof TM30 for my residence in Thailand(rental contract not with me name),i will get from imigration residence proof which is have my passport and another information then i will try apply again
          Reply

          Nov 01, 2019 at 11:00 pm

          • Max says

            November 2, 2019 at 8:43 am

            Yes, you can apply for a Certificate of Residence at your local immigration office. That's maybe the best document when opening a bank account.
            Reply

            Nov 02, 2019 at 8:43 am

  59. Kevin says

    October 16, 2019 at 7:20 pm

    Thannachart Bank, no work permit, 500 baht deposit. ATM card, internet banking, no ATM fees, just a passport. Think I was lucky. Now I'm using their 10,000 baht a year medical insurance policy.
    Reply

    Oct 16, 2019 at 7:20 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 16, 2019 at 7:56 pm

      Was the health insurance compulsory to get the account?
      Reply

      Oct 16, 2019 at 7:56 pm

    • Max says

      October 17, 2019 at 5:02 pm

      Is it really a medical insurance, and not just an accident insurance? Almost every commercial bank has an accident insurance connected to an ATM/Debit card. I had one at Bangkok Bank earlier. It cost me 5900 baht/year. The coverage was only 100000 baht per accident. Enough for a crash with a motor bike.
      Reply

      Oct 17, 2019 at 5:02 pm

    • matthew says

      October 20, 2019 at 8:37 pm

      Which branch you go? Is it the same for other branch too?
      Reply

      Oct 20, 2019 at 8:37 pm

    • Andrew says

      October 24, 2019 at 4:24 pm

      Which branch did you go? Appreciate the help!
      Reply

      Oct 24, 2019 at 4:24 pm

  60. J says

    October 16, 2019 at 2:47 pm

    Went to Bangkok Bank at Kad Suan Kaew with my passport and residency certificate, and I'm on a 2 month single entry visa. According to their paper about opening accounts this is all you need (or a work permit instead of residency certificate etc). Got my internet banking, ATM card etc pretty quick.
    Reply

    Oct 16, 2019 at 2:47 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 16, 2019 at 7:57 pm

      Nice going. Bangkok Bank is still foreigner friendly.
      Reply

      Oct 16, 2019 at 7:57 pm

    • Max says

      October 17, 2019 at 4:46 pm

      I also used the Certificate of Residence when I opened my last account at Bangkok Bank.
      Reply

      Oct 17, 2019 at 4:46 pm

  61. Peter Pan says

    October 1, 2019 at 9:21 am

    I opened a bank account yesterday with Krungthai because my school wanted me to. I am never sure why it is they cannot just transfer the money to my other accounts. I have Kasikorn, SCB and Krunsri but No, I need yet another account. Firstly in Bangkok at the branch I went to they only opened at 10.30 am and then being the last day of the month was pretty much heaving the whole day long. When I finally got to the counter, they ummed and ahhed and said they could not do it because I did not have a work permit (original). I showed my Thai marriage certificate - No that was not good enough for them. Eventually showed them some documents from the school, and my Thai teachers license from Krusapa and they did the trick. Was miffed out the whole time for being forced top open yet another bank account. I am sure the school gets a cut or the accounts lady get a 100 baht omission or something like that for getting people to open an account which is why they have this ridiculous requirement for opening a bank account which the school uses, and nothing else will be unacceptable.
    Reply

    Oct 01, 2019 at 9:21 am

  62. Cindy says

    September 30, 2019 at 11:00 am

    First of all, I appreciate having come across this post and its up to date too.

    For the last week or so, I have been trying to get the procedure correct regarding opening a savings account in Thailand. What a chore!..LOL

    I have a Vietnamese friend who wishes to open a savings account with Siam Commercial Bank in Bangkok. I found out she will need her passport and the initial amount to open this account. I would appreciate if someone here can enlighten me, what should be the initial amount to open such an account.
    To date, no update from the bank regarding the said.

    She is doing a small business thus her business partner will deposit the earnings into her account in Thailand SCB.

    She does not work in Thailand and wish to transfer money from Thailand SCB account to Vietnam SCB account.

    I found out that if you open a SCB account in Hanoi, Vietnam, you can do internet transfer. However, if you open a SCB account in Ho Chih Min City, such banking feature is not available. Its so confusing!
    Reply

    Sep 30, 2019 at 11:00 am

    • Max says

      October 2, 2019 at 8:04 pm

      This is the link to SCB's different savings accounts:


      https://www.scb.co.th/en/personal-banking/deposits/savings-account.html
      Reply

      Oct 02, 2019 at 8:04 pm

  63. James E says

    September 18, 2019 at 10:52 pm

    Just a quick note. Bangkok Bank confirmed that their VISA branded ATM/Debit cards will all expire at the end of the year regardless of the expiration date on the card. You can get a replacement free of charge: "simply visit a Bangkok Bank branch in the same region." The same region as where you opened your account. I'm not sure about how digital wallet balances (I've got Rabbit on mine) will be affected.
    Reply

    Sep 18, 2019 at 10:52 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      September 19, 2019 at 7:38 pm

      Thanks for the heads up!
      Reply

      Sep 19, 2019 at 7:38 pm

    • Max says

      October 2, 2019 at 12:34 am

      FYI:
      Bangkok Bank replaces the current Visa branded ATM cards with the Be1st Smart TPN MasterCard. There will be only one card if you want a debit card.
      I have had the new MasterCard since November last year, and it's a total fiasco compared to the Visa branded cards. It doesn't work everywhere online as it should. There's been a lot of complaints on internet,but Bangkok Bank doesn't care. Luckily I have a Visa debit card from K-Bank, and it always work.
      Reply

      Oct 02, 2019 at 12:34 am

  64. Ren says

    August 31, 2019 at 1:55 am

    Hi. I would like to open a bank account on an ED Visa. If i am correct K bank and SCB are okay for me?

    My question is, might be silly but even if i manage to open one, can I still use it after my visa expires and i leave the country? Can I use the card in another country or only in Thailand?

    Thanks in advance
    Reply

    Aug 31, 2019 at 1:55 am

    • Max says

      September 1, 2019 at 9:15 am

      Opening an account on an ED visa can be a bit problematic. SCB requires a work permit and is quite strict about it.

      K-Bank also requires a work permit or at many branches a retirement visa.

      Bangkok Bank could actually be a better choice.
      You need to show passport + one additional document as proof of identity. For example:

      * Reference from your Embassy/Consulate in Thailand.
      * Reference from your bank in your home country.
      * Reference from a well-known customer at the bank.
      The easiest way (in my opinion) is
      to go to the local Immigration office and apply for a so called "Certificate of Residence".
      That together with a passport works almost all the time at BB.
      If that doesn't work:
      Go from branch to branch and ask for a savings account. There are so many BB-branches in every major city,even in malls.
      Many foreigners have been able to open an account this way.
      It includes a bit of legwork,but might be the only solution.

      If you are successful,you will get a bank book,an ATM-card with a debit card most likely MasterCard. It's valid all over the world. The bank account will be valid even if you're visa expires,
      but you need some money deposited, otherwise the bank will eventually close the account.
      Reply

      Sep 01, 2019 at 9:15 am

  65. Max says

    August 30, 2019 at 1:40 pm

    An update about opening a savings account at Kasikorn Bank and Bangkok Bank:
    The official requirements (at the moment) at Kasikorn Bank:

    * Passport
    * Work permit
    or
    *Passport
    *Retirement Visa (doesn't matter what type of retirement visa)
    *10000 baht deposit

    I don't know if option 1 when you
    have a work permit also requires a 10000 baht deposit.

    If you meet the requirements you have your savings account,bank book, K-Debit ATM-card incl. Visa debit (300 baht),internet and mobile banking in about 30-45 min.

    Kasikorn Bank has a good website in english where you can see their accounts and requirements.

    Bangkok Bank:

    Opening a bank account here is not that straight forward. But here you can open a savings account when having a 60 days tourist Visa TR.

    * Passport
    * Work permit
    or
    * Passport
    * One out of several documents:

    * A reference from your embassy/consulate certifying your ID and address in Thailand.
    * Reference from your bank in your home country.
    * A well known customer at the branch.
    * A "Certificate of Residence" from the local Immigration office (300 baht). This certificate together with the passport makes it real easy to open an account at some branches,but lately some immigration offices doesn't issue the certificate when the reason is opening a bank account. You can always apply for another reason,it might work.
    *500 baht deposit

    If you get the savings account, you'll have the bank book, a Be1st Smart ATM-card incl. MasterCard debit (300 baht), internet and mobile banking.

    Bangkok Bank has an optional Personal Accident Insurance when opening an account. The cost was 2018 5900 baht/year.

    They also have a great website in english showing their accounts,ATM-cards,fees and requirements.
    Reply

    Aug 30, 2019 at 1:40 pm

  66. Himakar says

    July 25, 2019 at 4:08 pm

    Thank-you for this blog, it helped me much.
    I have Non O Thai wife visa (marriage visa) and I am from India.

    After reading this blog I decided to open bank account in Bangkok Bank at Asoke in exchange tower. They asked to get letter from embassy with approval of passport details OR a residence certificate from embassy ( both has fee ) as I am looking to get rid of fee and make work done, I went to Kasikorn bank which is opposite to PS tower (near Indian embassy), Sukhumvit. They said account can be only open based on work permit or retirement visa.

    In the same building I went to krungthai bank, unluckily there is no staff who speak English at that time and asked me to come on the next day (staff is on holiday).

    Next to this bank there is Krungsri bank, so I thought to check my luck there and stepped in. I showed my visa page and asked them to open account. They had call with their other colleague and took the xerox copy of my passport and gave a document to fill which is for account opening. So they didn't questioned anything much, I just need to show an address proof on my wife name ( I showed driving licence copy) this is just to verify address and note in their computer. They didn't collect any other documents other than my passport and visa page. And my account is opened within 15mins.

    This bank also has good facilities like mobile banking, cardless withdrawal, if you opt premium service then many number of good features for online shopping and transactions with visa wave debit card. I found this quite simple process and very quick.
    Reply

    Jul 25, 2019 at 4:08 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 25, 2019 at 5:09 pm

      Hi Himakar, thank you for your update. this is really useful information. It was lucky you kept on trying and didn't give up at the first hurdle. It looks like Krungsri Bank might be the easiest option at the moment.
      Reply

      Jul 25, 2019 at 5:09 pm

      • Himakar says

        July 26, 2019 at 7:16 pm

        Yes it is the easiest option and if one get letter or passport attested document from embassy then it is also very easy at Bangkok Bank (any branch) and if one has their marriage certificate in Thai or translated to Thai then it is easy at krungthai bank as well (I found most of this bank branches staff in Bangkok don't speak english but they help their best using Google translate or any other means to convey the message).

        Currently I am trying to open another account, so checking the other options like UOB, CIMB, etc.,. will come with update soon.

        I found SCB is the one which won't allow to open without work permit.

        I suggest everyone not to go with agent to open a bank account instead try by yourself in the branches near Asoke, Sukhumvit areas and any big malls as they know rules better and support well.
        Reply

        Jul 26, 2019 at 7:16 pm

  67. Dennis says

    July 18, 2019 at 2:07 pm

    I once opened an account at Bangkok Bank on Beach Rd. a few years ago, all I needed was my passport.
    Reply

    Jul 18, 2019 at 2:07 pm

    • AB says

      August 22, 2019 at 1:32 am

      Hi - great to know this!

      Is this the branch you visited in case I want to give it a try here?

      290/51 Beach Rd, Muang Pattaya, Amphoe Bang Lamung, Chang Wat Chon Buri 20150, Thailand
      Reply

      Aug 22, 2019 at 1:32 am

  68. Tom Prendergast says

    July 15, 2019 at 12:56 pm

    I opened a Bangkok Bank account on Beach Road Pattaya two weeks ago. I showed them that I had a type O visa and told them I was staying at a hotel in soi 7. They didn't want anything else and apart from having to sign many bits of paper, they gave me an account and a debit card on the spot. It was the first bank I tried, they were very helpful and understanding.
    Reply

    Jul 15, 2019 at 12:56 pm

    • AB says

      August 22, 2019 at 1:34 am

      Was there a specific amount in THB required to open the account?
      Reply

      Aug 22, 2019 at 1:34 am

      • James E says

        August 22, 2019 at 5:29 am

        It's small. Like 500THB to start.
        Reply

        Aug 22, 2019 at 5:29 am

  69. babala says

    July 12, 2019 at 12:48 pm

    Question: how easy is it to WITHDRAW funds from a Thai Bank? We have had 800,000 baht in an account to satisfy immigration but now want to close the account. Is it easy to get the money? Move it out of Thailand to another bank?
    Reply

    Jul 12, 2019 at 12:48 pm

    • James E says

      July 12, 2019 at 11:52 pm

      It's pretty easy but could be costly. First - you can't take it out of the country as Baht, you'll have to do the FX inside of Thailand. The safest way to do it is a wire out of your account in Thailand. Problem is you'll get hit with a wire transfer fee and the buy/sell spread banks love. My guess is that all-up you'll be looking at about 4 - 5% in fees (hidden and stated) you might also need to prove the origin of the money to satisfy anti-laundering laws in your destination country. Your other choice is to withdraw the money as cash and then FX it at a bank or service to the currency of your destination. 800KBaht is about the limit two people could do this for and it still risks that the customs officer at your destination is having a bad day.
      Reply

      Jul 12, 2019 at 11:52 pm

      • Jim says

        August 13, 2019 at 1:08 pm

        If your going out of Thailand,then another way is to up your ATM Limit to the daily max withdrawal limit,and withdraw that max daily from a selected Overseas ATM that issues the largest single withdrawal amount.
        Bangkok Bank charge is 100bht per withdrawal.
        Reply

        Aug 13, 2019 at 1:08 pm

  70. Mike says

    June 11, 2019 at 9:14 pm

    I used to bank with Bangkok Bank at lower Sukhumwit, Bangkok, but have just moved to rural Ubon Ratchathani where the only bank is Krungsri. Did not fancy paying 20 baht fee for every trip to the ATM so went in to Krungsri to ask about opening an account, with my missus to do the talking. First thing they said was ...you need a work permit ! Persuaded the missus to politely ask them to check with Head Office which they did, I only needed a long stay visa (check !) and her tabien baan (nope, left it at home). I opened my passport at the current visa for them but they just flicked through the pages until they saw an old tourist visa ....no good, cannot do ! No, that’s old, this is my current visa. Mumble, mumble, ok, come back tomorrow with the tabien baan house registration.
    So, we come back the next day and that staff member is not there, repeat the whole process once more with staff #2 ! Please call head office and they will talk you through it ..... I don’t know what her house registration was good for as I am obviously not registered on it. So no proof of address ?
    Eventually I walk out with passbook and debit card after about 80 minutes total of official BS.
    So if a branch says no (because they don’t know) politely ask them to check with Head Office and you might get somewhere .....
    Reply

    Jun 11, 2019 at 9:14 pm

  71. Ivan Kang says

    May 17, 2019 at 12:36 pm

    I'm a Malaysian whom intent to open bank account with Thailand bank in Thailand. can I open with just my passport? without Thailand address as I'm not residing in Thailand!
    Reply

    May 17, 2019 at 12:36 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      May 17, 2019 at 5:09 pm

      You will need an address, even if it is just the hotel or condo you are staying at.
      Reply

      May 17, 2019 at 5:09 pm

  72. James says

    April 11, 2019 at 9:08 am

    I tried to open at an account at Bangkok Bank Emporium on a tourist VISA, was told I needed the letter from the Embassy. But the staff also informed me that the Australian Embassy no longer provides these letters?

    The Krungsri bank said I can apply for non-resident baht account once I have my ED VISA, they ponited me to the branch inside EmQuater to apply.
    Reply

    Apr 11, 2019 at 9:08 am

    • Ken Li says

      April 30, 2019 at 1:06 am

      I suggest anyone want to open a Thai bank account should do so through a specialist lawyer in this field. All the banks are skeptical of foreigners and the requirements are not standard as they varies from branches and the handlers of the day.
      The lawyers use their experience to make things easy.
      Reply

      Apr 30, 2019 at 1:06 am

      • TheThailandLife says

        April 30, 2019 at 6:05 pm

        There's no need to pay a lawyer. I opened my account easily. You may be required to get a letter from your embassy, and some banks only offer accounts if you have a work permit, but most people manage to find a branch that will open an account fairly quickly - see the comments here for reference, and the experiences listed in the post.
        Reply

        Apr 30, 2019 at 6:05 pm

      • Max says

        August 30, 2019 at 1:45 pm

        Every bank has a website in english showing their accounts and requirements. No need for an agent. You go to the bank with the required documents and dress well. Look like a beach bum and they will turn you down.
        Reply

        Aug 30, 2019 at 1:45 pm

    • Mike says

      May 6, 2019 at 10:06 am

      I had the same experience at the Nana branch office, they suggested getting a certificate of residence from Immigration instead of the embassy affirmation that our Aussie embassy now refuses to do. I decided that the trip out to Chaeng Wattana was not worth it.
      Reply

      May 06, 2019 at 10:06 am

  73. Mike says

    April 9, 2019 at 6:48 pm

    The last days I tried to open an account with only my tourist visa on Koh Samui at all bank branches in Lamai Beach. No success...only with work permit or non-tourist visa. Most of them where very unfriendly, except SCB inside Lotus Tesco. Nice staff which gave me the feeling they really wanted to help me.
    Reply

    Apr 09, 2019 at 6:48 pm

    • David says

      June 7, 2019 at 11:55 am

      I tried at Bangkok Bank at Tesco Chaweng, Koh Samui on a tourist visa with Embassy letter required.

      Rules have definitely changed as opened an account approximately 6 years ago.
      Reply

      Jun 07, 2019 at 11:55 am

  74. Wilson says

    April 3, 2019 at 9:53 pm

    I will be stay in Hatyai for one year. i want to open bank account,can any one know which bank allow me , if i just bring passport to apply?
    Reply

    Apr 03, 2019 at 9:53 pm

  75. Nate says

    March 29, 2019 at 9:49 pm

    When you get the certified letter from the embassy (e.g. for Bangkok Bank), what exactly do you tell the embassy? That you're trying to open a bank account? Specifically, the US embassy, and on a tourist visa.
    Reply

    Mar 29, 2019 at 9:49 pm

    • Nabimara. isaiah says

      April 27, 2019 at 3:10 am

      Yes, thank you very much for the services rendered please ! But with quickest services minus all processes a head . I would suggest that once a person put its passport / every thing could go though faster .
      Reply

      Apr 27, 2019 at 3:10 am

  76. Dean says

    March 11, 2019 at 11:57 pm

    I have a foreigner passport and I can get a bank statement from my country. I don't have a work permit. My Thai partner and I want to open an account but everyone we ask are saying I need a work permit. I'm in Bangkok. Any suggestions on which bank will help us out. Thanks
    Reply

    Mar 11, 2019 at 11:57 pm

    • James E says

      March 12, 2019 at 2:24 am

      I did mine at Bangkok Bank Siam Paragon branch. No problem. My partner provided her address (actually her sister's) using her Thai ID card. She had to sign a letter stating that I "lived" there with her. That was it. In and out in a half hour. No embassy letter, no work permit, no bank statement from home.

      As you'll see in the comments the rules are enforced differently at different branches so shop around within the same bank. You'll also see where people have successfully opened accounts and what was asked of them.
      Reply

      Mar 12, 2019 at 2:24 am

      • Vedant says

        March 20, 2019 at 5:25 pm

        Today I went to Bangkok Bank at Siam Paragon
        They can not do anything without letter from embassy
        Reply

        Mar 20, 2019 at 5:25 pm

    • Mark says

      July 14, 2019 at 12:22 pm

      Hi best way to get bank account in Thailand is go through ur local visa company, I did this through key visa in South pattaya they were very professional and from start to finish received my Thai bank account in 1 hour ok they charge a fee but no hassle 1 hour you will have ur own bank account in Thailand easy
      Reply

      Jul 14, 2019 at 12:22 pm

  77. Mick says

    February 24, 2019 at 10:41 pm

    So which bank has the best iOS app in English? Mobile banking is quite essential to me. Since arriving I observe many Thai apps are basically only in Thai - 7/11, True wallet etc. I’m looking to pay bills using the app and hopefully have some kind of mobile wallet for transactions

    How is it the Chinese can use their Alipay everywhere in Thailand but nobody else, including locals, seem to have some kind of mobile payment system in the country?
    Reply

    Feb 24, 2019 at 10:41 pm

    • Tom says

      April 8, 2019 at 12:38 pm

      I use k-bank and the app is fully in English.
      Reply

      Apr 08, 2019 at 12:38 pm

      • James E says

        April 8, 2019 at 10:46 pm

        BKK Bank, same thing. BKK Bank has their eBanking split into two forms. There's iBanking - which is a more traditional online banking, a mBanking - which is a mobile payments/digital cash system. All the banks should support PromptPay which is BOT's digital cash system with payments made by Thai ID# or phone number. There's also others like Rabbit and Line which will offer English language service. Rabbit is not available everywhere yet and Line requires a Line account (which might open you up to data collection you don't want...).
        Reply

        Apr 08, 2019 at 10:46 pm

  78. Tommy says

    February 20, 2019 at 11:30 am

    Has anyone opened a foreigner account with Bangkok Bank in Chiangmai or Lamphun, or is Bangkok the only place?
    Reply

    Feb 20, 2019 at 11:30 am

    • redpill says

      February 23, 2019 at 4:26 pm

      Yes, it's pretty straightforward at Kad Suan Kaew branch - assuming you're a tourist, you'll need a passport and Residence Certificate. If you don't want to pay 1000 baht for the latter, try UOB branch nearby (you can immediately withdraw initial deposit, just keep 5000+ baht account balance or they'll start charging maintenance fees) or Krungsri at Central Airport (Maya branch refused me). The benefit of using either of these two is they don't charge ATM fees throughout the country.
      All Thai banks will ask you for a local phone number (for online banking) and local address (though they don't verify it yet) and they may ask for address in your home country. Note that UOB will send monthly paper statements to your Thai address if you had any transactions (I couldn't opt-out of that).
      Other banks from the list refused me. I didn't try Citi because they don't have any branches in Chiang Mai.
      Reply

      Feb 23, 2019 at 4:26 pm

  79. kanashi says

    February 17, 2019 at 8:30 pm

    "Kasikorn Bank at pantip plaza pratunam branch"
    i went pantip plaza but can not find inside kasikorn bank,where is exacly that pratunam branch?
    Reply

    Feb 17, 2019 at 8:30 pm

    • Max says

      August 30, 2019 at 1:49 pm

      Search using Google or Google Maps. So easy.
      Reply

      Aug 30, 2019 at 1:49 pm

  80. Robert says

    February 12, 2019 at 8:25 pm

    I will be moving to Thailand in a year. I want to open a bank acct there now. What bank will allow me to open an acct without having a work visa or current residence in Thailand?
    Reply

    Feb 12, 2019 at 8:25 pm

    • James E says

      February 13, 2019 at 7:25 am

      I and others use Bangkok Bank. You'll find both success and horror stories for most of the banks. Best thing to do is search through the comments for information about the area you are planning to live in. Banking is regional so there are fees for opening or using your account outside the area it was opened in. Also, the rules vary bank to bank and between branches of the same bank. So, to your question: Yes, but it depends on a lot of things. I opened mine with a visa waiver entry stamp and a letter from a friend that I was staying with her family.
      Reply

      Feb 13, 2019 at 7:25 am

  81. Uwe Scharfe says

    February 9, 2019 at 11:18 am

    I have been with Kasikorn bank for over 30 years when I first worked in Thailand and then had a work permit, I have lived hereon and off over that period have Thai wife and my children. Eery year I have been to bank and sent money back home to Australia to pay for my Credit card as they will NOT issue me one here in Thailand.
    So over 30 years I have brought into my Thai account over 30 million baht. Now I want to send money back home to pay for my daughters University and blatantly after 2 months of trying everything CANNOT.!
    I will get my money out of this bank and out of this communist country and never another penny shall i bring to Thailand.
    Reply

    Feb 09, 2019 at 11:18 am

  82. adam says

    February 4, 2019 at 8:51 pm

    Hello. I read this post in the morning before I go to search for bank. so I can open a bank account with a tourist visa. I went to about 10 banks they required work permits or residence. i went to bangakpi mall in Bangkok . it is in bangakapi district . i found bank called krungsri , they accepted to make bank account with letter from embassy and marriage papers. they were very nice and i paid 800 baht . 300 for the account and 500 in the saving account . the bank branch is in the third floor of the mall.i think they do not need even marriage paper . just go and try there. thank you for the post.
    just go do not send emails.
    Reply

    Feb 04, 2019 at 8:51 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      February 5, 2019 at 7:22 pm

      Nice one! Thanks for reporting back.
      Reply

      Feb 05, 2019 at 7:22 pm

      • adam says

        February 8, 2019 at 7:31 pm

        it is my pleasure. when you help, you will find help . this is one law of life. thank you for your useful blog.
        Reply

        Feb 08, 2019 at 7:31 pm

  83. Anthonin Levelu says

    January 30, 2019 at 4:32 pm

    30/01/19

    Just opened an account at Kasikorn Bank at pantip plaza pratunam branch. All I needed was passport, address in Thailand (you can give pretty much any address) and confirmation letter of internship (work agreement should be fine too) but no work permit needed!!! I spend approx 1hour, great customer service
    Reply

    Jan 30, 2019 at 4:32 pm

  84. Ian says

    January 29, 2019 at 7:22 pm

    Bangkok bank pattaya wants you to buy insurance 200 dlrs worth depending on age before openening bank acc
    Reply

    Jan 29, 2019 at 7:22 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 30, 2019 at 7:20 pm

      I've heard of similar rules in other branches where they want you to take out an insurance policy. Try elsewhere.
      Reply

      Jan 30, 2019 at 7:20 pm

      • Max says

        August 30, 2019 at 1:53 pm

        The personal accident insurance at Bangkok Bank is optional. You can just say that you already have one. The cost is 5900 baht/year. Not expensive if you need one.
        Reply

        Aug 30, 2019 at 1:53 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          August 30, 2019 at 7:54 pm

          Readers have previously complained that the bank would only issue and account on the basis that the insurance was taken out, as if it were mandatory. This is probably dependent on the branch. As can be seen through the history of the comments, requirements differ from branch to branch due to the staff and management's interpretation of the rules.
          Reply

          Aug 30, 2019 at 7:54 pm

          • Max says

            August 30, 2019 at 9:42 pm

            The insurance is not mandatory,but I guess they want you to accept it,and the ATM-card fee is higher. The requirements are available online at BB website.
            Reply

            Aug 30, 2019 at 9:42 pm

            • TheThailandLife says

              September 1, 2019 at 3:29 am

              It isn't mandatory but people have been presented with it as a requirement for opening an account. It's deceitful.
              Reply

              Sep 01, 2019 at 3:29 am

              • Max says

                September 1, 2019 at 9:30 am

                Well, Bangkok Bank is the biggest bank in Thailand and together with K-Bank still the most foreigner friendly bank. If you meet the official requirements for a savings account, then stand your ground regarding the insurance. It's just optional.
                BUT, for a foreigner living in Thailand without any kind of accident insurance, it's not that bad.
                As an expat in Thailand,you need a bank account, and at other banks it's not that easy today to open an account.
                Reply

                Sep 01, 2019 at 9:30 am

    • Mohd Hanafi Ngah says

      February 2, 2019 at 3:35 pm

      Yes i need a open account
      Reply

      Feb 02, 2019 at 3:35 pm

  85. asdf says

    January 25, 2019 at 11:50 pm

    Krungsri (bank of Ayudhya) branch in Phuket, Central Festival: work permit required.
    Reply

    Jan 25, 2019 at 11:50 pm

  86. Leonard Levine says

    January 25, 2019 at 9:49 am

    I have an account with Bangkok Bank which I opened in 2010 and have lots of baht in that checking account with no past problems. I want to open a joint bank account with my soon-to-be wife at Bangkok Bank. What documents will we need to accomplish this?
    Reply

    Jan 25, 2019 at 9:49 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 25, 2019 at 8:17 pm

      I assume the same for opening a current (checking) account. For your wife (if Thai) it will be her Thai ID card and proof of address such as a Tabien Baan (house document). I'm not 100% sure as I haven't done this.
      Reply

      Jan 25, 2019 at 8:17 pm

      • Max says

        August 30, 2019 at 1:58 pm

        I don't think you need anything when you already have an existing account. Just bring the bank book and passport.
        Reply

        Aug 30, 2019 at 1:58 pm

  87. Ben says

    January 18, 2019 at 11:20 am

    My wife and I yesterday 17.1.2019 opened bank accounts at Bangkok branch in shopping mall Patong, Phuket. They first sent us to immigration to fill out a form requesting a bank account. Two passport pictures and 1000 Baht later we went back to the bank with the forms. Paid 400 Baht for debit card end made 500 Baht deposit in each account.
    Reply

    Jan 18, 2019 at 11:20 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 18, 2019 at 6:28 pm

      Nothing required from your embassy?
      Reply

      Jan 18, 2019 at 6:28 pm

  88. ric tat says

    January 9, 2019 at 1:48 pm

    I will be opening an account at a Thai bank shortly.. Which Thai banks have direct deposit? I would like to have CPP income deposited directly
    Reply

    Jan 09, 2019 at 1:48 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 9, 2019 at 8:02 pm

      All of them, I would imagine. You mean the electronic transfer of money from one bank account to another? I do this with Bangkok Bank.
      Reply

      Jan 09, 2019 at 8:02 pm

      • Ric Tat says

        January 10, 2019 at 5:09 am

        I transfer electronically myself at the moment from foreign acct to a Thai acct.. but Direct Deposit would be Gov't of Canada or my employer doing the deposit directly without me being involved.. I will look into further. regards
        Reply

        Jan 10, 2019 at 5:09 am

        • James E says

          January 11, 2019 at 10:03 pm

          Ric,

          Check for Thai banks with branches in Canada (I don't think there are any but have a look). In the US and UK Bangkok Bank has an investment bank branch which will accept deposits into a Thai-based BKK Bank account. Failing that look at TTL's posting on the Transferwise service and borderless account. TW has much lower costs (even than a direct deposit held hostage to a buy/sell spread). Good luck.
          Reply

          Jan 11, 2019 at 10:03 pm

    • sheryl says

      January 11, 2019 at 2:36 pm

      My fiancee who is a British national opened an account at UOB
      Thailand but he was not allowed to withdraw due to lack of documents from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs in Thailand. We are very sad because we already run out of cash and the amount of the lacking document from the Corporate Affairs would cost him 5000 USD. I dont understand. How are we going to pay it if we are not allowed to withdraw from UOB?
      Reply

      Jan 11, 2019 at 2:36 pm

  89. P says

    January 7, 2019 at 1:24 pm

    I need to open an account under a one month tourist visa. I'll be bringing approximately $5000 so really hoping I find a bank - don't want to go bank into China carrying that amount. Surely not every bank would turn away $5000??

    What's the best one? What are Thai bank fees in general, also? Thank you.
    Reply

    Jan 07, 2019 at 1:24 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 7, 2019 at 6:19 pm

      You'll need proof of address in Thailand and a copy of your passport and visa stamp. You may also need a letter from your embassy verifying your status; it depends on the bank. Have a read through the comments and the experiences of other readers. Thai bank fees vary: some charge a yearly account fee, some don't, some charge for an ATM card, others only for replacement. Generally, the interest rates are non-existent; certainly on current accounts (standard withdrawal) accounts.
      Reply

      Jan 07, 2019 at 6:19 pm

  90. Haseeb Akhtar says

    December 18, 2018 at 8:21 pm

    Hi all,
    i will be traveling to Thailand in January, and travel a lot to Bangkok, need to open a bank account on tourist visa. Please advise, guide which bank is better and easy to open Bank account.
    I do not have any property or rental agreement in Thailand.
    Please guide in which bank to open account.
    thanks
    Reply

    Dec 18, 2018 at 8:21 pm

  91. Animesh Dutta says

    December 3, 2018 at 3:09 pm

    Looks Good
    Reply

    Dec 03, 2018 at 3:09 pm

  92. Mike says

    November 28, 2018 at 7:35 am

    Two branches of Bangkok Bank in Pattaya (Central Festival & Beach Road) both wanted letters from my embassy (US) verifying my address. Didn't seem to matter that I was a tourist and staying in a hotel. No other requirement where mentioned.
    Reply

    Nov 28, 2018 at 7:35 am

    • Marco says

      January 2, 2019 at 10:21 pm

      Hello Mike, did they requested letters from US Embassy to verify your US Address? Or Thai address?
      Thanks
      Reply

      Jan 02, 2019 at 10:21 pm

  93. Kim says

    November 26, 2018 at 3:18 pm

    I have a Kasikorn account in Patong, a condo and a fractional ownership. I have a Thai drivers license and a 12 month rental agreement in Ubon. Kasikorn and Siam banks would not let me open an account in Ubon unless I was married or had a work permit. I am 71 and retired. What to do?
    Reply

    Nov 26, 2018 at 3:18 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      November 26, 2018 at 6:07 pm

      If you have a Kasikorn account in Patong, why do you need another in Ubon? You can still bank there. There are some things you would be required to go back to the original branch for, such as getting bank letters or closing the account, but you can still do regular banking elsewhere. If you need to, talk to the manager about having the account officially transferred there; the rules may have changed. In terms of opening an account with another bank, try Bangkok Bank - take all your documentation with you.
      Reply

      Nov 26, 2018 at 6:07 pm

      • Kim says

        November 26, 2018 at 6:59 pm

        Thanks. I want to open an account in Ubon as live there now . If I need to withdraw money or deposit money to my Patong account living in Ubon there are significant charges.
        I will pursue with Kasikorn, Bangkok and try other banks.
        Reply

        Nov 26, 2018 at 6:59 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          November 26, 2018 at 7:06 pm

          I see. Yes, I'd talk to them about closing the Patong account and opening one there, though unfortunately I'm pretty sure they will say you have to go to Patong to close it. That certainly used to be the case.
          Reply

          Nov 26, 2018 at 7:06 pm

  94. Christian says

    November 20, 2018 at 1:58 pm

    Ho aperto un conto corrente di risparmio alla kasikorn bank a patong in nanai Road con passaporto e un indirizzo dove risiedo più spesso a patong, mi hanno consegnato carta di debito e libretto di risparmio...
    Reply

    Nov 20, 2018 at 1:58 pm

    • Marco says

      January 2, 2019 at 10:23 pm

      Ciao Christian, ti posso contattare in privato per una consulenza?
      Grazie, Marco
      Reply

      Jan 02, 2019 at 10:23 pm

  95. Robert says

    November 13, 2018 at 5:30 pm

    Easily opened an account at Kuung Thai in Sattahip. Most importantly they seemed the be aware from the onset that Immigration is now requiring foreigners to have bank accounts, and were very helpful.
    Is it possible Immigration could have actually done something right and advised banks that embassy letters will be a thing of the past and that all foreigners will need Thai bank accounts to prove their income?
    Reply

    Nov 13, 2018 at 5:30 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      November 15, 2018 at 6:11 pm

      Cheers for the update. Good to hear you got an account very easily.
      Reply

      Nov 15, 2018 at 6:11 pm

  96. Ed says

    November 13, 2018 at 3:30 pm

    Thanks for all the great info here!

    Today (Nov. 13, 2018) I was able to open an account at Krungsri Bank in Hua Hin (BluPort Mall branch) with just a tourist visa and rental agreement.
    They issued an ATM Card on the spot for a 400baht fee.
    The monthly maintenance fee is waived if you maintain 2000baht balance, and there are no ATM fees for withdrawal at any bank in Thailand.

    Hope this helps others!

    Ed
    Reply

    Nov 13, 2018 at 3:30 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      November 15, 2018 at 6:12 pm

      Nice one. Two easy-open stories in one week from banks other that K-Bank and Bangkok Bank. Things seem to be getting easier all round.
      Reply

      Nov 15, 2018 at 6:12 pm

    • Dave says

      December 17, 2018 at 6:03 pm

      Hi Ed was this for a savings account or cheque account. I’ve tried countless banks now trying to open any account for my retirement visa but all have wanted a work permit. I’m actually in Hua Hin this week so this sounds perfect. Dave
      Reply

      Dec 17, 2018 at 6:03 pm

  97. Rod says

    November 13, 2018 at 12:11 pm

    I’ve tried 2 BangkokBank branches. In the 1st (Central Chidlom) they said I would need manager approval but they had no manager. At 2nd (Central World Siam) they said bank manager would not approve so no account. I’m going to try the Silom HQ and see what they say before moving on.
    Reply

    Nov 13, 2018 at 12:11 pm

  98. James E says

    November 5, 2018 at 3:18 pm

    I was at Bangkok Bank Em branch this morning and found out some more info about their plans for the VISA branded ATM cards. First, the website says the cards will be valid "until" 2019. That should read "through" 2019. So no rush on swapping out your debit cards. Second, next year BKK Bank will be adding a MasterCard branded debit card so no need to switch to Union Pay. Of course, this is probably all subject to change without notice and policies may vary by branch :)
    Reply

    Nov 05, 2018 at 3:18 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      November 5, 2018 at 5:53 pm

      That's good news. So I have at least another year then, and after that hopefully I can get a Mastercard!
      Reply

      Nov 05, 2018 at 5:53 pm

  99. louis says

    October 16, 2018 at 4:43 pm

    LOL. I went to Krung Thai bank. They wanted my girlfriend's dad to verify that I have been with my girlfriend for a long time. Kiss my ass, I thought.I moved on to Kasikorn; same there. So went to Bangkok Bank. All I had was a tourist visa and my passport. I put 1000 Baht in an account and woohoo! I got a bank account. This is in Isaan though. Good luck!
    Reply

    Oct 16, 2018 at 4:43 pm

  100. Thomas says

    October 13, 2018 at 8:14 pm

    Has anyone found a bank in Thailand that will allow you to open an account without a O-A Visa. I find it a Catch 22. To get the retirement visa you need a bank account with $800,000 Baht but so far I have not found a bank that will open account unless you already have an O-A Retirement Visa
    Reply

    Oct 13, 2018 at 8:14 pm

    • James E says

      October 14, 2018 at 5:30 am

      Hi Thomas,
      Have a read through the comments. Many people were able to open a bank account with just a tourist visa or visa waiver entry. Bangkok Bank seems to be the most farang friendly but other banks have opened accounts on tourist entries too.
      Reply

      Oct 14, 2018 at 5:30 am

    • Glenn Roe says

      November 3, 2018 at 12:14 am

      If you have 800000 Baht you most likely could prove a 65,000 Baht monthly income then open the bank account.
      Reply

      Nov 03, 2018 at 12:14 am

  101. Stephan Clifford says

    October 11, 2018 at 12:56 pm

    Living in the UK but will be regular holidaying in Thailand. Need a bank account. Any ideas?
    Reply

    Oct 11, 2018 at 12:56 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 11, 2018 at 6:58 pm

      You can probably get an account on a tourist visa next time you visit. Read through the experiences of other readers; plenty of people have done this. Bangkok Bank is a good bet.
      Reply

      Oct 11, 2018 at 6:58 pm

    • James E says

      October 11, 2018 at 10:39 pm

      This was my situation when I opened my account at Bangkok Bank. You'll need 3 things - your passport, an address, and somebody who lives at that address (Thai I.D. Card or house book) to vouch for you. When you read through the comments note which branches are favorable as the branches are run as little fiefdoms where manager have the ability to apply or ignore rules as they see fit. I opened mine at Siam Paragon branch and had zero issues.
      Reply

      Oct 11, 2018 at 10:39 pm

      • Stephan Clifford says

        October 11, 2018 at 11:51 pm

        I would like to open an account in the UK. Can't seem to find a branch in Birmingham tho
        Reply

        Oct 11, 2018 at 11:51 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          October 12, 2018 at 3:43 am

          Bangkok Bank has a branch in London. It has limited connection with the Banks in Thailand though. I tried to enquire about my account there once and they couldn't help me!
          Reply

          Oct 12, 2018 at 3:43 am

        • James E says

          October 12, 2018 at 6:06 am

          That won't work. The foreign branches are basically Bangkok Bank's foreign investment branches. You can route deposits through them with and existing account (not that you'd want to) but they don't have a separate account structure. You have to open your account in Thailand and then you can access the few retail services they provide.
          Reply

          Oct 12, 2018 at 6:06 am

  102. Mazyp says

    October 2, 2018 at 9:35 pm

    I've had a Bangkok Bank account for over 10 years. And all was good until they stopped the Visa ATM card. And replaced it with the B1st union pay card. Works ok in Thailand but very difficult to use in other countrie to access you your money via ATM.
    Reply

    Oct 02, 2018 at 9:35 pm

  103. DAVID DELASALLE says

    September 23, 2018 at 2:30 pm

    BANK TO BANGKOK BANK LONDON TO BANGKOK BANK PATTAYA CAN I DO IT
    Reply

    Sep 23, 2018 at 2:30 pm

    • James E says

      September 24, 2018 at 11:14 pm

      Yes. You can deposit directly to your account through any BKK overseas branch. But, you'll be screwed on the fees and exchange rate. Check out the Transferwise post TTL has.
      Reply

      Sep 24, 2018 at 11:14 pm

      • TheThailandLife says

        September 25, 2018 at 5:22 pm

        More info on that here: https://www.thethailandlife.com/how-to-send-money-to-thailand-no-bank-fees
        Reply

        Sep 25, 2018 at 5:22 pm

  104. James E says

    September 11, 2018 at 11:14 pm

    This might be (moderately) off-topic but has anyone used or experimented with any of the mobile payments systems in Thailand? I'm with BKK Bank so would be using their mBanking product. If so what kind of benefits or downsides did you find? Are there vendors that are accepting this yet?

    I've used my Rabbit card but that's somewhat of a pain as it still requires a manual top-up (even though it's part of my BKK Bank ATM card) and, so far anyway, doesn't link your Rabbit account to your phone.

    Thanks.
    Reply

    Sep 11, 2018 at 11:14 pm

  105. Fresh coconut says

    September 6, 2018 at 12:32 pm

    I work for the UN and just opened an SCB account but would like a Citibank account, however I was told I need a minimum $1 million baht deposit and it has to be in there for 6 months. My manager just told me that he didnt need to show any such thing. Can anyone give any advice on how to avoid giving the deposit?
    Reply

    Sep 06, 2018 at 12:32 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      September 6, 2018 at 5:37 pm

      Citibank can be a pain. I tried to open an account there in Asok many years back. I was told something along the lines of needing a work permit because a job/salary in Thailand was a condition of getting the account. I can't see why you would need a 1M TB deposit. That's huge. Sounds like a fob off to me. Call their head office and ask for the requirements over the phone. Don't mention that you were told you'd need a deposit. Take the name of the person you speak to and log the time, date, etc.
      Reply

      Sep 06, 2018 at 5:37 pm

    • Serge says

      September 8, 2018 at 3:09 pm

      Hi all, following the advice of someone else I did the following:
      Status: simple tourist in thailand for 2 weeks
      Day 1: Went to a BBL branch and opened a bank account. They ask for a Thai friend. Had to insist a bit. No online banking
      Day 2: Went back to the same branch and asked for online banking again, they made me fill forms and said they were going to send me some info in 2-4 days. Still waiting.
      Day 2: At the same branch, I asked for a statement, they said no. They said I need to have the account for 6 month to get a statement
      Day 3: I deposited 2000 bath and went to another branch and got a statement
      Day 4: I went to citibank, told them a nice story, proved my address with my BBL statement and insisted they open me a CITI priority account (1m bath deposit). Now note the following:
      - the minimum balance is 200k, so you dont have to keep the 1m there (but you need to have it in the first place)
      - they will open you foreign currency account as well. The 1m Bath DOES NOT NEED to be in bath. So you just transfer 35k usd from your citi account oversees (no fee, no money lost in FX convertion).
      - Note: they also took copy of my national ID card, and my Citigold ATM card in my home country. Yes, of course, if you are citigold already, it will be easier.
      -Note 2: the amount of money you deposit on opening the account if part of the performance assessment of the personal banker. So the more you deposit, the more likely they will open the account.

      Done! With ATM cards, online banking, and all the benefits of CITIBANK including free transfer between CITI account worldwide!
      Reply

      Sep 08, 2018 at 3:09 pm

  106. Vita says

    September 5, 2018 at 4:27 pm

    I was try to open bank today in koh chang, krungthai and bangkok bank, with tourist visa, but they refused, i need letter from my embassy, any advise for me? Thank you
    Reply

    Sep 05, 2018 at 4:27 pm

    • Mike says

      September 5, 2018 at 5:02 pm

      Hi Vita. Same here...I’ve tried same one year ago. Only Krungsri branch in white sand beach offered me an account. But it’s not possible to send money from that account to other ones. Doesn’t make sense for me...
      Reply

      Sep 05, 2018 at 5:02 pm

      • Vita says

        September 5, 2018 at 9:32 pm

        Heem, let me try to go there tomorrow, i hope i can open there in krungsri, if not i can go to bangkok req some letter from my Embassy
        Reply

        Sep 05, 2018 at 9:32 pm

  107. Erin says

    September 3, 2018 at 11:12 am

    WOW. Thanks for this!!! Saved me some time and hassle.
    Have been given so many different versions.
    Great help.
    Reply

    Sep 03, 2018 at 11:12 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      September 4, 2018 at 5:37 pm

      No worries. Glad you found the information useful. Best of luck getting a Thai bank account.
      Reply

      Sep 04, 2018 at 5:37 pm

  108. Russell says

    August 21, 2018 at 12:04 pm

    Today I went with my wife to open a General Savings Account linked with a General Visa Debit Card at the SCB at Big C Khon Kaen and was told as I do not have a work permit I need a copy of my Passport, Visa page, Marriage Certificate, wife's ID and wife's Blue book and they will send the information to Bangkok for approval for me to open the account.
    Reply

    Aug 21, 2018 at 12:04 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      August 21, 2018 at 3:55 pm

      Sounds like a bit of a performance. Maybe try a K-Bank or a Bangkok Bank.
      Reply

      Aug 21, 2018 at 3:55 pm

    • Daren Lee says

      August 21, 2018 at 9:35 pm

      Forget SCB, they are what's supposed to be a business orientated bank as the name suggests Siam Commercial Bank.!
      All I can say is HA! What a joke.
      I am married to a thai. Have a Ltd company in Thailand with my wife, am on a category B, business visa and even though I am presently with Bangkok bank, I thought it any benefit me to get an account to use for my Business with SCB...... how wrong can I be..... it doesn't seem to matter what I have they asked have I got a work permit, my answer No, oh, sorry, cannot give you an account, so I ask but why is that? Because the bank say you must have a work permit... so again I say, I have a business visa and I don't want to work so why do I need a work permit...? And she walked away with no answer?
      Reply

      Aug 21, 2018 at 9:35 pm

  109. lawm says

    August 18, 2018 at 6:58 pm

    I have SCB bank savings account with Master cards and i use till now. But Last 2 months i have lost my passport and renewed once. And Do i need to notify the SCB bank for my new passport or just i leave it along. What is the best ways please help for this bank account is my main use here.
    Reply

    Aug 18, 2018 at 6:58 pm

  110. Mark says

    August 10, 2018 at 3:21 pm

    I was able to open a savings account with Kasikorn Bank in Patong with passport and retirement visa.
    This included a visa card which I have since used to purchase goods on the internet.Also Internet banking. Only thing was I had to purchase 1 year world wide accident insurance at 2700 baht. Farang tax.
    Reply

    Aug 10, 2018 at 3:21 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      August 10, 2018 at 4:12 pm

      Indeed. I'd be interested to see what the coverage is like on that insurance policy.
      Reply

      Aug 10, 2018 at 4:12 pm

  111. James E says

    July 31, 2018 at 10:15 pm

    Just an FYI from the Bangkok Post this morning: "Online data breaches have been detected at two large banks last week, says the Bank of Thailand. Second-largest lender Krungthai Bank (KTB) and fourth-ranked Kasikornbank (KBank) told the central bank..." While the story goes on to say that it appears no client data has been breached, it might be something to keep in mind if you're looking for a bank.

    https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/news/1513310/ktb-kbank-report-cyberattacks.
    Reply

    Jul 31, 2018 at 10:15 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 31, 2018 at 11:34 pm

      Thanks for the update. Luckily that's not Bangkok Bank, but for those with K-Bank and KTB accounts it would be wise to change internet banking passwords.
      Reply

      Jul 31, 2018 at 11:34 pm

      • jUNE says

        August 1, 2018 at 10:10 pm

        Hi, if i want transfer money from thailand than government can stop it the money say want me pay than amount 1% tax fee 1st just can go throw after pay than say want pay lawyer fee & stamp duty to make sure the money is correct.

        ISN'T CORRECT ???

        Thanks
        Reply

        Aug 01, 2018 at 10:10 pm

        • James E says

          August 2, 2018 at 9:07 pm

          Hi June,
          I've never seen any requirement for a lawyer or stamp fee. You will have to pay various transfer fees to the sending and receiving banks. However, The Bank of Thailand does require a reason for the money to be leaving Thailand and supporting documentation. You should check with your bank about sending money out of the country and what their policies and fees are.
          Reply

          Aug 02, 2018 at 9:07 pm

  112. jackpan says

    July 28, 2018 at 3:37 am

    My 2 cents:
    I was in Pattaya in April as a tourist on a visa exempt stay.
    So I decided to try my luck with opening a bank account :)
    I dressed up (a bit) and visited the local Bangkok Bank branch.
    I showed my passport and to my big surprise was not asked about anything else. The lady opening my account asked where I was staying and gave the name of my hotel. I was asked to deposit a minimum amount which was 1000 Baht. Internet and mobile banking were set up at the same time and work perfectly. I was given a booklet which bring back fond memories and a Union Pay card. The whole procedure lasted 30 minutes.
    The main reason I wanted to open the account was to transfer money from abroad to use when I'm in Thailand as a tourist so I don't really care about having a visa or a mastercard.
    I have transfered money to this account and look forward to using it when I'm back again :)
    Reply

    Jul 28, 2018 at 3:37 am

    • P says

      January 7, 2019 at 5:02 pm

      What bank did you open your account? I'll be on a tourist visa too. Need to find a bank.
      Reply

      Jan 07, 2019 at 5:02 pm

  113. Peter says

    July 18, 2018 at 12:29 pm

    I live in Chiang Mai and I am on a study visa. I just tried to open an account with both Kasikorn and SCB.

    Both will allow me to open an account on a study visa, but both require a certificate from my school to prove that I am studying with them (apparently a govt issued visa is not proof enough).

    Both also require proof of address.
    Reply

    Jul 18, 2018 at 12:29 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 18, 2018 at 5:21 pm

      Seems silly, but hey, it's not so bad. At least you know you'll be able to get one with the letter/certificate from the school. You might choose to try a different branch of the same bank; often the rules differ.
      Reply

      Jul 18, 2018 at 5:21 pm

      • Peter says

        July 19, 2018 at 12:06 pm

        Success! I got the certificate emailed and Kasikorn got me all set up.

        They also required 10k baht to open the account.
        Reply

        Jul 19, 2018 at 12:06 pm

  114. krisD says

    July 18, 2018 at 3:04 am

    On June 13, 2018, I decided to open a Bank Account at Thailand.

    After ready this post, first I though I will try local branch (banks) at Onnuch (BTS), before I proceed to Bangkok Bank, HQ.

    I walked into:

    1) UOB Bank. - NO LUCK
    Manager stated without a work permit, I cannot open a bank account. I explained I have a non-immigrant B multiple entry visa and Thai government permits opening of a bank account as per the new regulations. She refused to hear me, since I do not have a work permit.

    2) Kasikorn Bank (K-Bank). - NO LUCK
    Same story .They refused without a work permit.

    3) Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri).- GOOD
    Officer stated without a work permit it not possible to open a bank account. I requested to see the manger. Showed the manager my Non-immigrant B multiple entry visa in my USA passport and said I am entitled to open a bank account based on my non-immigrant B-Visa and work permit is not required.

    Manager asked where I live. I stated I live in an apartment. She wanted to see proof off my residence at Thailand. I show a copy of my apartment lease contract for 6 month period. She wanted to see the ORIGINAL and not a photo copy. I indicted, I will be back in 30 min with the original lease.

    Returned to the bank with the original lease contract from the apartment.
    Filled all form required for opening a bank account, including IRS forms since I am US citizen (IRS form required my social security number and my tax filing address in USA).

    After I filled everything, they indicted minimum initial deposit is 500 THB And debit card is 300 THB, since I selected "Jad Hai"account (from various account type) With this account type, I can use the VISA debit card in any country, since I travel.

    They asked if I wanted an on-line and mobile banking facilities too. I gave them my telephone number and they download the mobile app and my mobile app was set up. They took my email and set up my on-line banking. All this process took about 25-30 min.

    After I gave an initial cash deposit of 1000 THB, I received my account book, Visa Debit card and mobile app and online banking system. The mobile app work great with all features. (Currently I am in Phillipine, I changed to a temporary local tel number and my OTP was sent to this SIM number). Mobile app and Visa card works great here.

    Bottom Line:
    You don't need a work permit to open a Thai bank account in Thailand, if you have any non-immigrant visa and a valid passport. However you need to convince the Bank Manager or Bank office, since they don't seem to know the rules and its to their sole discretion on allowing you to open and account or not.

    You don't need a Thai Girl Friend or wife to co-sign to open a Bank account in Thailand. (cosign is not good in the long-term if you fall apart with your Girlfriend or wife)

    Please dress well and approach politely. Image goes a long way in ASIA..

    Next trip to BKK, I plan to open an account at Bangkok Bank.
    Cheers.
    Reply

    Jul 18, 2018 at 3:04 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 18, 2018 at 5:24 pm

      Nice one for the report. Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri) looks like a good additional option to Bangkok Bank. Can you use your Visa card as a debit card in other countries?
      Reply

      Jul 18, 2018 at 5:24 pm

  115. Anatoli says

    July 16, 2018 at 11:21 am

    Hi guys,

    Just thought I would leave my two cents, since I managed to open an account without any hassle after reading this guide. I decided for Bangkok Bank since it seemed the easiest after reading comments. I come to Bangkok every month for work trips so I am on a tourist visa always. So today 16th July 2018 I had appointment with Australian Embassy in BKK. Got my Statutory Declaration signed and stamped. Went to Bangkok Bank in Emquartier shopping mall with only my passport and statutory declaration. The staff there spoke fairly decent English so I was out with my newly opened savings account and Be1st Rabbit debit card in around 30 minutes. No hassle at all. Hope this helps.
    Reply

    Jul 16, 2018 at 11:21 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 16, 2018 at 6:02 pm

      Nice one. Thanks for reporting your experience. I have the same debit card. You can also use online banking. The staff at the same branch can set this up for you.
      Reply

      Jul 16, 2018 at 6:02 pm

      • Anatoli says

        July 16, 2018 at 9:07 pm

        I didn't even need the staff. Online setup was also surprisingly easy. Had my online banking and sms notifications setup in about 10 mins in the taxi on the way to the office. All in all a good experience, considering some of the hectic stories I read on other forums.
        Reply

        Jul 16, 2018 at 9:07 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          July 16, 2018 at 10:05 pm

          Good to hear. The lady who issued my account walked me to the ATM and set it up for me.
          Reply

          Jul 16, 2018 at 10:05 pm

      • James E says

        July 16, 2018 at 10:02 pm

        You don't even need the staff. If you go into the account management options on a BKK Bank ATM you can set up online access from there.
        Reply

        Jul 16, 2018 at 10:02 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          July 16, 2018 at 10:06 pm

          True, but I was walked through it and shown all the functions, etc.
          Reply

          Jul 16, 2018 at 10:06 pm

          • James E says

            July 16, 2018 at 10:50 pm

            Ha! After I got my initial deposit completed the only thing they showed me was the door! :)

            In full disclosure they did take the time to set up my ATM user info. They just neglected to mention (and I to ask) anything about online access.
            Reply

            Jul 16, 2018 at 10:50 pm

    • Daren & Tai says

      July 16, 2018 at 10:17 pm

      1 thing you all have to remember when opening a thai bank account, the debit cards you get are mostly useless other than use at an atm. They don't have your name on them and you cant use them to pay for anything online and cant book a flight ticket because they normally say the name is i.e. Bangkok bank
      Be 1st valued customer.......... what is that all about??
      And at the moment it is impossible to get a debit card of any use at all from the likes of Bangkok bank as they have no Visa or Mastercard provider, the only card you can get is a Union pay which virtually nobody takes in any part of the world including Thailand and that also has your name on it as Be 1st valued customer so unless your name happens to be Be 1st Valued customer and your Flight provider takes Union Pay???
      Try your best to get an account at another bank, it maybe a little harder but in the long run, you'll be better off!
      Reply

      Jul 16, 2018 at 10:17 pm

      • James E says

        July 16, 2018 at 10:57 pm

        Hmmm... My Be1st Rabbit card is Visa and has my name on it. Expires in a bit less than 4 years. I know there are several versions of the card out there but I also know people who have been given the UnionPay card and went back in and got a Visa with no problem.
        Reply

        Jul 16, 2018 at 10:57 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          July 17, 2018 at 6:08 pm

          This contradicts what Darren said. I'd be interested to know if the Visa cards are still available. Can anyone fully confirm, or I will have to pop in and ask.
          Reply

          Jul 17, 2018 at 6:08 pm

          • Halona says

            August 10, 2018 at 2:48 pm

            Sadly I left my B1st debit visa in an atm and had to get it replaced. I can confirm that Bangkok bank no longer issues debit Visa cards only union pay which is useless. Have only been able to use it a handful of times in Bangkok
            Reply

            Aug 10, 2018 at 2:48 pm

            • TheThailandLife says

              August 10, 2018 at 4:13 pm

              Ah, shucks. That sucks. Determined NOT to lose mine.
              Reply

              Aug 10, 2018 at 4:13 pm

      • TheThailandLife says

        July 17, 2018 at 2:40 am

        Mine has my name on it, but I don't use it for much other than the ATM. It's a proper debit card, not Union Pay.
        Reply

        Jul 17, 2018 at 2:40 am

        • Daren says

          July 17, 2018 at 2:45 pm

          With Bangkok bank, at 1 time you were able to order a debit/atm card with your name on but as they now no longer have a provider for visa or MasterCard, that's why they only supply Union pay cards with no name on.
          If you are lucky enough to still have a visa or MasterCard before they lost it.... don't loose it... it will still be honered until it's expiry date but will not be renewed.
          And Bangkok bank have no information if or when they are going to get another provider.
          That also is a reason for it being quite easy to open an account with them at the moment.... simply because it's like being 6yrs old again in the UK with a passbook and a useless bank account.
          Omg... that is such a long time ago for me 😎
          Reply

          Jul 17, 2018 at 2:45 pm

          • TheThailandLife says

            July 17, 2018 at 6:06 pm

            Wow, I better not lose mine. That sucks about renewal though. How ridiculous that they no longer have a provider. I assume Thais are in the same boat?
            Reply

            Jul 17, 2018 at 6:06 pm

            • James E says

              July 17, 2018 at 11:06 pm

              Ditto. This is weird, though. BKK Bank is still offering Visa credit cards.
              Reply

              Jul 17, 2018 at 11:06 pm

      • Anatoli says

        July 17, 2018 at 11:26 am

        That is true. The card they gave me is nameless and is Union Pay. So far it serves my purpose though as I only require it to withdraw money and pay for some shopping locally (no one rejected the Union Pay so far...), as all my main banking is happening from overseas. I just got tired of paying a hefty amount everytime I withdraw baht from my other accounts -_- If I ever move on work permit status, or there will be other stories here of successful opening of a bank account on better terms I will definitely get on it. Staying tuned in to this topic.
        Reply

        Jul 17, 2018 at 11:26 am

      • Mazyp says

        October 2, 2018 at 9:52 pm

        Yep. I have the same problem. I have been with them for 14 years. I had the B1st debit card with the visa sign on it. And it worked ok in Thailand and overseas. But since they changed to Union Pay I have had nothing but trouble with it. I asked them if they could issue me the old visa card and was told no. I even threatened to close the account. They said ok. No problem. Didn't care. I'm looking for another bank that I can open on atourist visa with my wife as guarantee.
        Reply

        Oct 02, 2018 at 9:52 pm

        • James E says

          October 2, 2018 at 11:53 pm

          More bad news. From the BBK website: "If you have a Be1st Smart VISA, Be1st Smart Rabbit VISA, Be1st Smart Rabbit Siriraj VISA or Be1st VISA debit card, you can still use your card until 2019. You can also change your existing card to a more secure 6-digit PIN CHIP card – simply visit a Bangkok Bank branch to receive your new card free of charge."

          My card shows a 2022 expiry date but clearly that doesn't hold water anymore. Looks like it's back to the bank for a new card.
          Reply

          Oct 02, 2018 at 11:53 pm

          • TheThailandLife says

            October 3, 2018 at 11:52 pm

            Looks like its curtains for me sometime in 2019 then. Thanks for the heads up.
            Reply

            Oct 03, 2018 at 11:52 pm

  116. Maggie Choi says

    July 11, 2018 at 1:37 pm

    Hi,

    I will be purchasing a condo in Thailand in the coming months but the condo is not yet built. Does anyone know if the contract for purchase will be helpful in opening a Thai bank account? I'm not sure if that counts as address proof but since I'll have to transfer money to the developer every month, it just make sense to have a Thai bank account.

    Grateful for any comments / tips.

    Many thanks.
    Reply

    Jul 11, 2018 at 1:37 pm

    • Daren says

      July 11, 2018 at 4:46 pm

      Owning a condo makes absolutely no difference in opening a Thai bank account.
      Proof of address has to be from the Thai immigration office and can be purely a letter from the hotel you are staying at.
      I found Bangkok bank is good for opening an account, find a main branch, ask to open an account and also a FCD (foreign currency deposit account) then you can transfer money in your own country currency and do a simple exchange when the rates are favourable and they can both be linked via online banking.
      And if when you ask that question you get the reply, No cannot, just go to another branch or the same branch the next day and ask the same person and they will probably be in a different mood and say,,, Yes, can!
      Reply

      Jul 11, 2018 at 4:46 pm

      • Maggie Choi says

        July 12, 2018 at 1:47 pm

        Thanks for the info.

        I've taken to emailing random banks and got a reply from Krungthai bank saying that I can just open an account with my passport and the sales and purchase agreement of the condo. At first the bank still indicated I needed a visa, when I stated I didn't have one and needed an account to pay for monthly expenses of the condo, they replied correcting their earlier advice by saying that all I need is my passport and evidence of purchase / sales and purchase contract. Since I have gotten this in email, I'll be sure to take a printed copy of the email with me when I open the account come Q4 of this year. Will keep you all posted.
        Reply

        Jul 12, 2018 at 1:47 pm

  117. Peter Chapman says

    July 10, 2018 at 12:29 pm

    I have tried various banks to open up a bank account. They have all said no can not do. Please help.
    Reply

    Jul 10, 2018 at 12:29 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      July 10, 2018 at 4:23 pm

      Where are you based? Perhaps someone in that area knows of a good branch.
      Reply

      Jul 10, 2018 at 4:23 pm

  118. Keez says

    July 10, 2018 at 9:41 am

    Hi all,
    I just succeeded opening a bank account at Bangkok Bank in Chiang Mai on a Single Entry Tourist Visa.

    I needed to show:

    -My passport
    -Proof of Residency (easy to request at immigration at Promenada, pickup after 5 days). You need to show a statement from the owner of the place where you stay to get this Proof of Residency.

    Costs were 300 THB for the account and a Be1st UnionPay Debit Card.
    Reply

    Jul 10, 2018 at 9:41 am

  119. Alan Pavey says

    June 22, 2018 at 2:58 pm

    I found absolutely NO problems opening up a new Debit Card Account with the Bangkok Bank. They required my Passport and my Australian Drivers Licence and I gave them my International Drivers Licence as well although it wasn't asked for.
    I received my Bank Passbook almost immediately accompanied by a Debit Card that I could use that instant.
    Absolutely NO problems or hassles
    Reply

    Jun 22, 2018 at 2:58 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      June 22, 2018 at 4:57 pm

      Which branch?
      Reply

      Jun 22, 2018 at 4:57 pm

    • Marco says

      June 28, 2018 at 8:31 am

      Can you tell the Bank adress, I’ll open one as soon it possible as well.
      Reply

      Jun 28, 2018 at 8:31 am

  120. charly says

    June 8, 2018 at 11:13 pm

    I remember seeing a webpage where a lady offered a service for openig bank accounts without any issues...she gets the paper ready for you and you go with her to your bank (in Bangkok) and she takes care of everything...anybody remember her webpage? Was highly recommended in various forums but I can't find it anymore ;(
    Reply

    Jun 08, 2018 at 11:13 pm

    • Daren says

      June 20, 2018 at 12:06 pm

      It seems to be a rule in Thailand with thai banks that even though they are of the same name and in the same banking group that there is 1 rule at 1 branch and 1 rule at another.
      I have been in 1 branch of Bangkok bank in pattaya that 1 day I asked for a specific service and was told Mai mi (No have) cannot and then you can go ask the same person 2 days later and they say yes... no problem.
      I think it depends on there mood or if they can be bothered.
      I have opened 2 accounts with Bangkok bank, 1 in Bangkok and then after a problem with an atm card, a further account in pattaya.
      Simply because, the thai banking system is not like the rest of the world, if your branch you registered with is in Bangkok and your in another part of the country and let's say the atm eats your card, you have to travel all the way back to your original branch and pay for a replacement card and that's providing you have your passport with you ECT... which can be a very big problem if you have no money because the atm eat your card.
      I just don't get it!!!!!
      Reply

      Jun 20, 2018 at 12:06 pm

  121. Robin says

    June 7, 2018 at 8:26 pm

    I was able to open an account with Kasikorn Bank at Central World in Bangkok with an ED visa and a letter from the language school, along with my passport. Minimum deposit 500 Baht, plus a charge of 300 for a debit card.

    With the debit card details, I was able to register for their online banking app, from which you can e.g. top up your mobile phone balance with the main service providers.

    I tried 2 other branches before this. I was turned away at the door at Silom Complex by Sala Daeng (no work permit). At the Siam Paragon branch, after much discussion among the staff, they said I could open an account with an ED visa, but only if my visa had three months left before it expired ("special rule for language school, would be one month for university") and a 10k deposit. Clearly just making it up on the spot!

    It's worth noting that the first lady I spoke to at the Central World branch looked confused and I think she was going to say "no", but the teller next to her butted in to the conversation and after some discussion, agreed that it was OK if I had a letter from the school. I came back two days later, and fortunately was served by that same lady. Filled in my details, and left about 20 mins later with an account and debit card :)
    Reply

    Jun 07, 2018 at 8:26 pm

  122. Colin says

    June 3, 2018 at 9:28 pm

    Hi

    Opened an account with Bangkok Bank in Nakhon Sawan no problem. Only a 30 day tourist visa as well but did get a lot of help from girlfriend and her house as my address in Thailand.
    No visa debit though, union pay.
    Reply

    Jun 03, 2018 at 9:28 pm

    • Maggie Choi says

      July 11, 2018 at 11:51 am

      Hi, how does your girlfriend convince the bank that her address = your address? I have family in Bangkok on retirement visa, wondering if I can run the same argument.
      Reply

      Jul 11, 2018 at 11:51 am

      • James E says

        July 12, 2018 at 2:06 am

        If you can get on the House Book for your family that should constitute proof of address. If you have a Thai friend, Bangkok Bank has a standard form letter that they can sign saying you live at their address. They'll just need to have their ID with them to prove the address. Might work the same with your family, too.
        Reply

        Jul 12, 2018 at 2:06 am

  123. Kenneth Lee says

    June 3, 2018 at 4:32 am

    I hold dual nationalities both in Hong Kong and UK. It looks like that I can retire in Phuket as long as I stay no more than 30 days every time with my Hong Kong passport.
    Can I just come to Thailand to open bank account, debit card and internet banking? It look like that Hong Kong passport holders do not need to apply for retirement visa in Thailand. Am I correct?
    Please help!
    Reply

    Jun 03, 2018 at 4:32 am

    • Kenneth Lee says

      June 4, 2018 at 3:34 am

      Hi Colin,
      If there is no debit card or Union Pay, how can I pay for living expenses in Thailand like super markets and shopping, etc?
      Reply

      Jun 04, 2018 at 3:34 am

  124. Hobz says

    May 3, 2018 at 6:07 pm

    I opened savings account at Bangkok bank today.
    Got also ATM debit card and internet banking.

    All I needed was my passport and my work permit.

    No letter from embassy or certificate of residence was required.
    Reply

    May 03, 2018 at 6:07 pm

  125. Jeremy says

    April 20, 2018 at 5:19 pm

    So, I successfully opened a bank account (savings) with a chipped ATM/Debit VISA Card and online banking access in Krungsri Bank.

    In the beginning, when I asked the customer service officer, she told me that she’s unable to issue me an ATM/Debit Card because I don’t have the necessary documents (work permit and apartment lease for at least a year) BUT I’m able to open a savings account instead.

    After opening the account, the other bank officer asked me if I wanted ATM/Debit Card. So, I straightaway said yes. Then, I asked him if I’m able to get online banking access as well, he said yes. When the other woman came back, she was amazed by the fact I’m able to get that.

    It seems that Malaysians have the option to get it while other foreigners need to present their work permit and apartment lease.
    Reply

    Apr 20, 2018 at 5:19 pm

    • Jeremy says

      April 20, 2018 at 5:23 pm

      Oh. I’m in Thailand with a normal 30 days stamp without any tourist visa or anything.
      Reply

      Apr 20, 2018 at 5:23 pm

    • Jason says

      May 7, 2018 at 11:24 pm

      Ho Jeremy,

      May I know your Krungsri Bank's Branch or location? Thanks in advance
      Reply

      May 07, 2018 at 11:24 pm

    • CS Lee says

      June 3, 2018 at 1:30 pm

      Hi Jeremy, can I know which branch you visit in Thailand?
      Reply

      Jun 03, 2018 at 1:30 pm

  126. Sergey says

    April 14, 2018 at 11:24 pm

    Hi, I’ve opened savings at KrungThai with Passport and TR visa for 2+1 month in Koh Phangan. 0% fee at ATM. 1500 THB yearly fee. Works not in all countries...
    Reply

    Apr 14, 2018 at 11:24 pm

  127. Daren lee says

    April 4, 2018 at 11:57 am

    Bangkok bank is an easy bank to open an account and it depends on the branch if they supply a visa debit card or union card so beware and ask first BUT, Thai bank are not like banks through out the world, if you open an account at Bangkok bank in Bangkok and you have a problem in another town i.e. need a new atm card or those ridiculous passbook like I had when I was a child 40 years ago.... you will have to trek all the way back to the branch you opened the account at, you cannot use another branch with the same name. Also, beware of joint bank accounts, the rules around them are even more ridiculous, I have a joint bank account with my fiance at Bangkok bank Pattaya klang that we use for business and the atm machine ate her card, she went to the bank to get a replacement card and they said I have to trek to Thailand and be with her for them to issue a new card... needless to say, I'll be moving banks as soon as humanly possible
    Reply

    Apr 04, 2018 at 11:57 am

  128. Glenn says

    April 2, 2018 at 12:21 pm

    I too was very happy with BKK Bank until they dropped the visa debit card and started issuing Union Pay cards. While the UP card is fine in 'most' Thai ATM'S my card is regularly rejected in Malaysia, Vietnam & Indonesia.
    Many Thai stores & hotels refuse Union Pay too..even Tesco Lotus will not take it?
    So for me it's bye bye Bangkok Bank and I now use one with a Visa Debit card.

    Cheers Glenn
    Reply

    Apr 02, 2018 at 12:21 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      April 3, 2018 at 4:42 pm

      Is it the case that they don't do the Visa debit card any more, or is it that they give out the union pay card to some people depending on their Visa status, work status, or other? I have a Visa debit card but I am wondering weather when it expires they will try to give me a union pay card instead.
      Reply

      Apr 03, 2018 at 4:42 pm

  129. Scarlett says

    March 27, 2018 at 9:46 pm

    Thank you for great informations!
    I want to open an account in Thailand. Is it possible if:
    - I am a Vietnamese.
    - I will use the bank account to receive money from my oversea brokerage.
    - I will send all or most of my money to my parents in USA or find some way like issuing secondary cards for them to use my money.
    - Any taxes applied (if you may know)?
    Thank you very much!
    Reply

    Mar 27, 2018 at 9:46 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      March 29, 2018 at 4:44 pm

      1. pretty much anyone can open a bank account in Thailand as long as they are in the country to do so and you have the required documents – please read the post and the comments of others to determine what you will need for which bank.2. you can paying any money you want, as long as it is from a legitimate source.3. you can do money transfers to the US. however, your parents will not be able to access your bank account in the US. they will not issue cards for them to use in the US.4. please see this post here - https://www.thethailandlife.com/income-tax-thailand - if you go to the comments section there are a number of comments that refer to the issue of paying tax on money brought into Thailand.
      Reply

      Mar 29, 2018 at 4:44 pm

  130. Thomas Clavio says

    March 23, 2018 at 10:48 pm

    A lot of great information. Thanks for sharing. However I have a question that maybe you or one of your followers can answer. I am finally going to make the Retirement move to Thailand this Sept (after visiting monthly for the past few years.) I do not really want to open a Thai Bank Account. During my monthly visits I always used a ATM when I needed extra spending money. If I raise the daily withdrawal amount allowed on my ATM. So that it covers my monthly rent. Do I really need to open a Thai Bank Account? Second, I don't want to bring a lot of cash with me when I make the move. I've been looking on-line for apartments around One Nut in Bangkok at the $600-650 a month range. I've contacted a few of the property owners and they indicated they normally have apartments available for long term rent during the time frame I plan to move. So, if I bring $5000 with me for the move. Do you think that would be enough. It should cover the 1st month rent plus 2 month deposit. Any info that you or your followers can provide would be greatly appreciated.
    Reply

    Mar 23, 2018 at 10:48 pm

    • Pat says

      March 25, 2018 at 3:04 am

      How much is your rental budget?A Thai bank account is useful for avoiding fees that foreign banks charge to use cards abroad. You can just transfer from your bank to the Thai account via Transferwise, the cheapest way to transfer online, surely you should save a few bucks that way.Or you could just get a Caxton FX Card which is a pre-paid mastercard. It costs nothing to top up and you only pay the Thai Atm fee. Getting a Thai banking app is also useful as many condos prefer online transfers to paying rent in cash.Easiest bank to get Thai account is Krungsri, but you will need to get your rental contract first as they want to show you reside in Thailand.
      Reply

      Mar 25, 2018 at 3:04 am

    • James E says

      March 25, 2018 at 5:10 am

      Pat's right. The ATM kills you on the fees and they also kill you on the exchange rate. Doing any kind of business in Thailand is going to require an account too. As Pat says the rental will be one.

      What's your reason for not wanting a Thai bank account? I'm not sure if the $s you are talking about are US or otherwise but there's a common misconception in the US that ANY foreign bank account needs to be reported to the IRS under FBAR. The reality is it only needs to get reported if it goes over US$10,000 at any point during the year. Which is an awful lot of wiggle room.

      The other issue is what visa you are planning on entering with. If an O- visa issued in the US you can use assets in the US to qualify (I think the same is true for other G-8 countries as well. If you're coming in under a non-immigration with the plan to convert it into a O-A, O-X, or Elite then you're required to have the money in a Thai account anyway. Again, staying well within the law it's still possible to avoid some of the requirements by choosing where and how you deal with immigration.

      If you're entering under another visa type then you'd just have to figure out how those requirements match with how you run your finances at home and how you want to handle things in Thailand.

      Any of the banks will work but be aware that requirements will vary by branch. Read through all the other comments on this post and you'll get a feel for how things work.
      Reply

      Mar 25, 2018 at 5:10 am

      • Thomas says

        March 25, 2018 at 6:11 pm

        Thanks James for the information. Very informative. I greatly appreciate it. My reasons are nothing complicated really (for not wanting to open a Thai Bank Account.) Or, having to do with money (U.S. Dollars.) I simply didn't want to have multiple Bank Accounts. While living in Germany it was easy. I simply paid the rent to my German Landlord by transferring the rent from my U.S. Account to the Landlords personal Account. No additional Bank Accounts needed. If push comes to shove I guess I'll have no choice but to open an account in Thailand. I wasn't really worried about the ATM Charge. As I was going to make one withdrawal a month to cover my monthly expenses. This is what I did when I visited Thailand on my vacations (I use to visit once a year for a month prior to my Retirement.) I'll be coming back on a Retirement Visa. Again, I greatly appreciate your time and all the useful information you've provided. Thank you.
        Reply

        Mar 25, 2018 at 6:11 pm

        • James E says

          March 26, 2018 at 11:59 pm

          Hey Thomas,
          You could probably do the same thing for your rent using Transferwise. Then you wouldn't need a local account or pay the extorionate ATM fees. I just hate paying bank fees and having a lot of cash lying about so went the local bank route. Using my US ATM card in Thailand ends up costing about four times more than the Transferwise fee plus getting screwed another percent or so on the conversion fee. Once I started going more than once a year on vacation it hit the free-dinner-at-a-fairly-nice-restaurant level so I opened the local account.
          Reply

          Mar 26, 2018 at 11:59 pm

  131. Bruce Boivin says

    March 9, 2018 at 4:51 pm

    Hi!

    I used the suggestions on this website to open a Bank Account in Thailand. I found information is not consistent between branches so go to multiple branches. I ended up opening a Bank Account at Bangkok Bank in Chiang Mai at the branch in the Promenade Mall. They accepted my passport and a “True Copy” of my passport that I got from the Canadian Embassy. The certified copy was double the price and I figured it wouldn’t matter and it didn’t. I received a bank book and debit card.

    Bruce
    Reply

    Mar 09, 2018 at 4:51 pm

    • Pat says

      March 27, 2018 at 3:35 am

      ^It also depends what mood the staff are in.

      Sounds odd, but it's true!
      Reply

      Mar 27, 2018 at 3:35 am

  132. Lawrence says

    March 9, 2018 at 3:18 pm

    I have managed to open a Bangkok Bank account in Don Muang Airport Branch many years ago and still using it. Those days about 15 years ago they only need a local address and the my Thai girlfriend who is my wife now to ensured the local address is correct. Subsequently, I also make a Fixed Deposit Account and Online banking without much problems and was very satisfied with the services. The only thing I don't like recently is that they issue me with a Union Pay Debit card and void my previous VISA Debit care. I have recently got a Non-Immigrant O Visa - Thai Spouse and looking to open another account. How someone can advise me which bank I can go to in Bangkok which have good services and interest rates especially for Fixed Deposit.
    Reply

    Mar 09, 2018 at 3:18 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      March 9, 2018 at 4:14 pm

      Try the Exchange Tower branch in Asoke. I've always had a good experience there.
      Reply

      Mar 09, 2018 at 4:14 pm

  133. Jeremy says

    March 8, 2018 at 11:17 am

    Hopefully I’m able to opening it with my 30 days entry chop. I’m from Malaysia and stumbled upon your website to seek clarification upon opening a bank account. It seems that there are a lot of mixed feelings about opening a bank account there. Some said that it was easy while others said that it was hard. I’m going down to Thailand again next month and I’ll try to open an account with Bangkok Bank and K-Bank.

    Since I’ll be in Nakhon Si Thammarat, I’ll see if I have any luck opening an account there by myself with K-Bank with only my passport. Haha! I’ll be visiting Thailand quite frequent now to do some family tracking. So, it’d be easier for me to have an account here to store my Thai Bahts.

    And, I have made a call to the Malaysian Embassy to inquire about the Letter of Reference. It costs ฿200 for any Malaysians who need them to issue such letter.
    Reply

    Mar 08, 2018 at 11:17 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      March 9, 2018 at 4:30 pm

      Great. Let us know how you get on.
      Reply

      Mar 09, 2018 at 4:30 pm

  134. Justin Venus says

    February 21, 2018 at 9:39 pm

    I able to open a saving account at Kasikornbank in Wichian Buri, Phetchabun Branch. My Thai girlfriend just need to be my guarantor with her home contract as proven where I’m staying. And I applied with my 60 Days Tourist Visa, deposited 500Baht for account opening and another 300Baht for Debit Card issuance fees. Bank teller was friendly without asking me so much question and provide me foreign currency exchange service & internet banking registration service. (Currency Exchange Rate is a bit expensive though) *For your info, I served by a Branch Manager when the day I opening my saving account over that Branch.
    Reply

    Feb 21, 2018 at 9:39 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      February 23, 2018 at 6:03 pm

      Thanks for the update. That was super easy then. It does seem like people have an easier ride when opening accounts in rural areas.
      Reply

      Feb 23, 2018 at 6:03 pm

  135. Andrew says

    February 15, 2018 at 7:58 am

    My under the counter visa agent needed to make my Kasikorn Saving, Visa, Debit card, 1,000,000 Baht withdrawal, so they could deposit and withdraw for Retirement visa. This was new to me, so went to Kasikorn bank, they spoke with visa agent, (on mobile) few clicks on bank computer, it was done. On picking up the visa, my account have not been touched this year. It depends on who is the contact at immigration office, and if no soldiers visiting.
    I have had the account on and of since 1987 In the days when it was the Thai Farmers Bank. In those days all you needed was a tourist visa and passport, name of Hotel, plus some cash.
    Reply

    Feb 15, 2018 at 7:58 am

  136. Evan says

    February 7, 2018 at 9:09 am

    I opened an account with Bangkok Bank in Pattaya with the following three documents:

    1. Passport
    2. Certificate of Residency
    3. Language school letter

    Read many useful information on this site, greatly appreciated.

    Cheers,
    Reply

    Feb 07, 2018 at 9:09 am

  137. Charles says

    January 27, 2018 at 1:17 pm

    Bangkok bank now only issues UnionPay debit cards. No more Visa debit cards. I have found only big department stores like Central and The Mall accept the UnionPay cards without problem. Tops Super Market didn’t and then did, and now don’t accept the Bangkok Bank UnionPay Card.
    I’m going to try opening an account with TMB since their ATMs allow 30000 THBaht withdrawals. Anyone know if TMB will give foreigner Savings account and debit card?
    Reply

    Jan 27, 2018 at 1:17 pm

    • Al bayne says

      March 2, 2018 at 9:20 pm

      I recently got a new ATM card from Bangkok Bank in KhonKaen, and when I was unhappy at the UnionPay card they found a Visa card, I have been a customer for ten yrs plus
      Reply

      Mar 02, 2018 at 9:20 pm

  138. Vivian says

    January 25, 2018 at 4:00 pm

    Sawadee-ka,
    I just opened a regular savings account with Bangkok Bank at the branch in Chai Prakan, in the province of Chiang Mai about 3 hours from the city. I happen to be here, not sure if info on this branch would be helpful to anyone else.

    It was easy. I had my passport and id card from home. They also made a copy of my latest entry which was without visa for 30 days as a tourist. I told them I am going to take a one year Thai language course which in fact I am, but they didn't ask for any prove. They did ask for a locally registered address which I got from my friend who I stay with, so his id with address was needed. One of the staff spoke English and talked me through the whole process, including setting up the ibanking and meaning app which I downloaded on the spot. The fee is 599baht per year for the account and 100baht for opening the count. I was issued a passbook and Be1st Atm card on the spot, that comes with some kind of accident insurance, not a lot of coverage, but a little perk I hope will not be used.

    For withdrawal in Chiang Mai from BKK Bank atm is free, outside of Chiang Mai is 20 baht even if it is BKK Bank.

    Cheers
    Reply

    Jan 25, 2018 at 4:00 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 26, 2018 at 3:25 pm

      Thanks for the feedback Vivian, that's really helpful. Sounds like a helpful branch. I didn't know they charged a fee though. Still, you got it sorted quickly.
      Reply

      Jan 26, 2018 at 3:25 pm

  139. EvoInvestor says

    January 21, 2018 at 12:26 pm

    does owning a condo qualify for account opening?
    Reply

    Jan 21, 2018 at 12:26 pm

  140. April says

    January 18, 2018 at 10:16 am

    My husband and I both got a Krungthai and Krungsri savings account. We just presented our passports and work permits. For krungthai we got the pearl visa debit card which has some sort of insurance inscluded in the card at a rate of around 500+baht per annum. Krungsri on the other hand just let us have the Debit Card with just 300baht deposit but there is no insurance for this and we got deducted like 19baht monthly, I will still talk with the bank one of these days regarding this deduction.
    Reply

    Jan 18, 2018 at 10:16 am

  141. alex says

    January 13, 2018 at 2:44 pm

    Hi. I found this webpage useful so I thought I give back and share my experience.

    I was refused at KrungThai (lady said I needed either a work permit or retirement visa) and SCB (needed a work permit). Both Chiang Mai branches at Kad Suan Kaew.

    I have a Thailand Elite visa.

    However, Bangkok Bank (Chiang Mai, Kad Suan Kaew) approved me straight away. Debit card and online banking.

    I showed them my passport and resident certificate (provided for 20 baht from my condo).

    Hope this helps others.

    Bank
    Reply

    Jan 13, 2018 at 2:44 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 15, 2018 at 11:08 am

      Thanks for reporting back Alex. I would have thought the Elite Visa would have opened banking doors immediately. Do the Elite company not recommend a "friendly bank" for Elite clients?For those wondering what the Elite Visa is, please see here: https://www.thethailandlife.com/thailand-elite-visa
      Reply

      Jan 15, 2018 at 11:08 am

      • alex says

        January 15, 2018 at 11:40 am

        Hi there,

        Yes Thailand Elite does offer a program with Bangkok Bank actually. It is called 'Bualaung Exclusive'.

        http://www.thai-elite.com/banking.html

        http://www.bangkokbank.com/BangkokBank/PersonalBanking/SpecialServices/BualuangExclusive/Pages/Default.aspx

        It is a Foreign Currency Deposit account. You get a whole bunch of perks no fees etc. but the catch is a minimum deposit of 3 million Baht.

        I'm happy with the normal account I opened with Bangkok Bank and have used the Transferwise method as outlined in one of your other articles.

        Thanks for all your work.

        alex
        Reply

        Jan 15, 2018 at 11:40 am

        • TheThailandLife says

          January 16, 2018 at 11:10 am

          Ah, I see - thanks for the information. 3 million is a fair old wad!
          Reply

          Jan 16, 2018 at 11:10 am

    • Steven says

      February 26, 2018 at 3:50 pm

      I already have a BKK account with Union Pay debit card which is useless as cannot use to purchase online.
      So, I went to Kad Suan Kaew SCB minutes ago with passport having a one year education visa, BKK debit card and passbook, Residency Certificate and Thai drivers licences but still got rejected as I didn't have a work permit!
      Crazy to reject my business!
      I just need a Visa or Mastercard debit not credit card.
      Reply

      Feb 26, 2018 at 3:50 pm

  142. Mike Baker says

    January 12, 2018 at 5:59 pm

    Opening a bank account is a joke. All the banks and even the branches apply different rules!

    I visit on a tourist visa for 2 months at a time. After 18 months and with a relationship to boot and being in a non tourist part of the country it is time for me to open an account and using TRANSFERWISE (as suggested on this blog) get a reasonable rate on lump sum transfers that will keep me going for the 2 months+.

    Bangkok bank in Pattaya wanted a 12 month rental agreement and official confirmation from the police that I have this. So the same document confirmed by the police but also confirmed by the bank.

    Another bank in Central Festival wanted an employment visa. And another wanted evidence of property ownership.

    So off to Kalasin I went, noting that a tourist on this blog had opened an account with SCB with only a passport. I tried in the branch in Big C supermarket....NO! Need a teacher or government employee to guarantee me (maybe introduce me rather than guarantee me, as I cannot borrow).

    Finally Krungsri bank wanted my partner to guarantee me but she had to have a house deed. Luckily for me she does have one so now I am a Farang with a bank.

    Krungsri also do internet banking in English so thats a bonus.

    A common comment from the banks is "the rules have just changed". Rubbish...so many don't know the rules and being Thai they don't want conflict so just blame a rule change and don't bother to check or ask.

    Happy days!
    Reply

    Jan 12, 2018 at 5:59 pm

  143. Veronica Taylor says

    January 11, 2018 at 1:38 pm

    I just spent a very frustrating morning trying to open up an account at Krungsri Bank. The problems began when they started listing the cost to open an account - 1) 10,000 thb required for the initial deposit. OK, although I know for a fact that Thais only need a 1,000 thb initial deposit. 2) 800 thb for a debit card. No problem. 3) 199 thb if I want to receive SMS messages when my account is accessed. Really? I'm starting to get nickled and dimed to death. 4) 2,700 thb, non-refundable, to "guarantee" I'll stay in Thailand for one year. Seriously? I have a retirement visa, renewed 5 times. I showed my house lease for the last 4 years. They refused to waive the 2,700 fee. Total rip-off!

    I've banked with Bangkok Bank for 5 years and LOVE them. I will never bank at K Bank.
    Reply

    Jan 11, 2018 at 1:38 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 11, 2018 at 9:02 pm

      Ridiculous! It starts to feel like they are doing you a favour banking with them. Stick with BKK Bank.
      Reply

      Jan 11, 2018 at 9:02 pm

    • Mike Baker says

      January 12, 2018 at 6:06 pm

      Wow what a rip off and of course different feom my experience.

      I put in 30k so dont know what the minimum deposit was as it was never mentioned.

      Debit card fee 400 baht pa.

      No other fees.
      Reply

      Jan 12, 2018 at 6:06 pm

    • Mike Baker says

      January 12, 2018 at 6:09 pm

      Just to clarify...My experience was with Krungsri bank
      Reply

      Jan 12, 2018 at 6:09 pm

  144. Caroline Camons says

    January 10, 2018 at 7:45 pm

    Wow! Thank you for doing this!!! We bank with Bangkok Bank and due to them refusing to issue a visa debit card, we are wanting to change to another bank. Your information has helped us to make a decision.
    Reply

    Jan 10, 2018 at 7:45 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 10, 2018 at 9:42 pm

      No worries. I hope you get it sorted. Drop back in and let me know which bank you use.
      Reply

      Jan 10, 2018 at 9:42 pm

  145. Yvette Guadalupe says

    January 10, 2018 at 3:03 am

    I hope you. got my other email. My question was how to go about getting
    a $500.00 secured bank card. Do I have to wait long to receive one?

    Thank you.

    Sincerely,

    Yvette Guadalupe
    Reply

    Jan 10, 2018 at 3:03 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      January 10, 2018 at 9:41 pm

      What do you mean by "$500" secured bank card?
      Reply

      Jan 10, 2018 at 9:41 pm

      • James E says

        January 10, 2018 at 11:16 pm

        They're bank cards issued against a security - usually a savings account - that the depositor agrees not to touch while they have the card. They're used in the US usually by young people with no credit history as a way to build that history up. Yvette may be better served by a pre-paid card that allows additional funds to be added.
        Reply

        Jan 10, 2018 at 11:16 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          January 11, 2018 at 9:13 am

          Ah, I see, thank you. Are pre-paid cards available to foreign nationals and if so from where?
          Reply

          Jan 11, 2018 at 9:13 am

          • James E says

            January 11, 2018 at 10:43 am

            It might be something Yvette can arrange with her bank at home and then recharge as needed from her home account. I've never needed to get one in Thailand but here in the States they're available at 7-11 (or through many banks and other retailers). Since Thai 7's sell everything short of an oil change that would be the first place I'd try.I stand corrected... https://www.facebook.com/pages/711-%E0%B8%AA%E0%B8%B2%E0%B8%82%E0%B8%B2-Maxx345-Car-Care/1075115202510829
            Reply

            Jan 11, 2018 at 10:43 am

            • TheThailandLife says

              January 11, 2018 at 11:09 am

              Oh lord. It never ceases to amaze me...!
              Reply

              Jan 11, 2018 at 11:09 am

  146. Thor says

    January 7, 2018 at 5:15 am

    I will be opening an account in Bangkok when I visit next month! This page provides very useful info! Some additional, questions:

    1. What should a letter of recommendation from my bank (or consulate) say?

    2. What's the best way to bring my money into Thailand? Can I simply write myself a bank draft (cashier's cheque) for the (large) sum of money and deposit into my new account?
    Reply

    Jan 07, 2018 at 5:15 am

    • James E says

      January 10, 2018 at 11:35 pm

      Your two questions open up a number of others. Like which bank are you interested in? What kind of Visa will you be travelling under? Where will you be staying? The bank will ask all of that and more. But to your questions:1 - The letter of recommendation is basically just a statement by your current financial institution or consulate that you are known to them as a customer/citizen. If you get the letter from a financial institution get them to include how long you've been a customer.2 - Read TTL's post on The Best Way To Transfer Money...https://www.thethailandlife.com/how-to-send-money-to-thailand-no-bank-feesI use Transferwise all the time and it works great. My most recent transfer went through at a better-than-posted rate. Checks (or cheques for that part of the world which like to use more letters than necessary) will be tough. First - there is no simple international clearinghouse for checks. Some kind of third-party gets involved so you will be 1) screwed by service fees, 2) screwed by the exchange rate and 3) screwed by the wait for your funds (even a cashier's check from a foreign country is nothing more than a piece of paper; albeit, one that must be declared at customs upon arrival if it's more than the equivalent of US$10,000). At the very least do a wire transfer after you open the account with a small amount (usually 500THB). If you're in the UK some Thai banks have a London branch that will accept deposits on behalf of their Bangkok branches. Before you go that route check your desired bank's rate spreads, whether they're different for note vs. electronic transfers, and any transfer fees involved.Then use Transferwise.
      Reply

      Jan 10, 2018 at 11:35 pm

  147. Tim says

    January 1, 2018 at 11:41 pm

    Hello, do the banks run credit checks? Do they run reports on your history with home accounts in the U.S.?
    Reply

    Jan 01, 2018 at 11:41 pm

    • James E says

      January 4, 2018 at 12:15 am

      They will if you try to open a credit account (which would require a large enough deposit for you to be of interest to them anyway) but not with a deposit account. However, you will have to fill out IRS Form W-9 which reports the account ownership back to the Feds. Thailand is a FATCA signatory so all banks are required to do so.
      Reply

      Jan 04, 2018 at 12:15 am

  148. farah says

    December 28, 2017 at 12:29 pm

    With our contract for a condo we opened our Kbank account at Pattaya. But each bank as you mentioned so rightly has different rules. And also "things have changed"mantra. Trying to get a Fx letter saying the funds came from outside it was a nightmare dealing with three different branches. The main branch has a very unpleasant person you want to avoid dealing with . (on the second floor)
    We finally gave up and hoping the land office will see the papers from the fund originating country and give us the Thor Tor 3. Keeping fingers crossed. We are looking for a bank with a slightly good customer service manners. Sick of hearing "CANNOT" for everything.
    They want to charge for everything and offer the worst exchange rate.
    Reply

    Dec 28, 2017 at 12:29 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      December 28, 2017 at 7:04 pm

      Can the company or developer you are buying the condo through suggest a bank and branch that their clients have dealt with in the past? A referral usually goes a long way in making things easier in these cases.
      Reply

      Dec 28, 2017 at 7:04 pm

  149. JWNYsg says

    December 18, 2017 at 4:07 pm

    Hi TTL,Nice blog you have.I moved to Bangkok earlier this year. I tried to open 2 savings account with SCB and Bangkok Bank.In the initial process, i only had my WP3 letter and non-B immigrant visa. Along with a company letter stating my salary and position, and my annual condo lease contract - Bangkok Bank was nice to issue me a passbook and ATM card. The only promise on my part was to deliver a copy of my work permit once i had it (which i did)SCB was a little cumbersome as you mentioned as they specifically needed the work permit document. Without it, they wouldn't even consider. A little odd since my company uses SCB to pay salaries also.Anyhow i got both in the end. And SCB also issued me a unsecured credit card although i had not been working here for 6 months at that time. For both accounts, i did not need to put in a lot of money to open the savings account
    Reply

    Dec 18, 2017 at 4:07 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      December 18, 2017 at 4:35 pm

      Wow, a credit card too! What branches in Bangkok did you use? Thanks for the update.
      Reply

      Dec 18, 2017 at 4:35 pm

  150. Robert says

    December 17, 2017 at 3:39 pm

    Opened a Thai bank account with a 30 days tourist visa at the Krungsri bank in Pattaya at the CentralFestival Pattaya Beach shopping mall. In order to open the bankaccount i needed to get a 20.000 Baht/jr Life Insurance for 5 year, with a 2,5% interest rate, which i think is a good deal.
    Reply

    Dec 17, 2017 at 3:39 pm

  151. Pete Hage says

    December 15, 2017 at 11:39 am

    This may have been covered before, but I have found it to be very helpful:
    As a US expat I have my Social Security retirement checks directly/automatically deposited in to Bangkok Bank's New York branch. The money is then transferred without fee in to my Bangkok Bank Savings Account. At first it would take a few days for the deposit to show here in Thailand, but now it arrives the same day the SSA makes the deposit in the States.
    I don't like the fact that Bangkok Bank charges fees for almost any transaction outside your "home bank" area. I travel the country quite a bit, so the fees (mostly to withdraw money at an ATM) irk me.
    Reply

    Dec 15, 2017 at 11:39 am

    • James E says

      December 15, 2017 at 11:20 pm

      Peter,

      I looked into the direct deposit route as well but found the buy-sell spread on conversion to be worse than that available through Transferwise. What has your experience been for what BKK Bank is using as an exchange rate and what is the published rate?
      Reply

      Dec 15, 2017 at 11:20 pm

  152. Andrew Ely says

    December 9, 2017 at 7:46 am

    I’ve been with Bangkok Bank for a while now with foreign currency accounts plus a savings account with Be1st debit card with Visa. But just needed to replace the card and now Bangkok Bank don’t offer Visa on their Debit cards. Only Union Pay, which is next to useless for online purchases. So I’m peeved.
    Reply

    Dec 09, 2017 at 7:46 am

    • James E says

      December 10, 2017 at 6:44 am

      Ahhhh. Welcome to the New World Order. As the center of gravity for the modern world shifts to Asia you're gonna be seeing stuff like this more and more. Best bet is to keep an FTF card from your land of origin until the tremors settle down.
      Reply

      Dec 10, 2017 at 6:44 am

      • James E says

        December 10, 2017 at 6:45 am

        Ooops... That should be "FTF free"
        Reply

        Dec 10, 2017 at 6:45 am

    • moobot says

      December 11, 2017 at 10:09 pm

      They still have the Visa cards. You just need to tell them you need a Visa, and they will post one to you. (you may also need to threaten to take your custom elsewhere)
      Reply

      Dec 11, 2017 at 10:09 pm

  153. Mike says

    December 7, 2017 at 1:17 pm

    I just came back from Bangkok Bank branch on Koh Chang. With a 30-day tourist visa I could open an account only together with an insurance for 5000 Baht or a work permit. I showed the staff the requirements on their homepage. They didn’t accept it :-/
    Next stop was KrungSri Bank. No problem with my tourist visa but I’m not able to transfer money to other Thai bank accounts?? Doesn’t make sense to me...
    Reply

    Dec 07, 2017 at 1:17 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      December 7, 2017 at 6:38 pm

      That's the way it goes sometimes. Many readers have had the same experience. Try different branches. If not, you may just have to swallow the insurance for 5k. Or wait until you visit Bangkok; with more branches you'll have more options
      Reply

      Dec 07, 2017 at 6:38 pm

  154. Pia Conradsen says

    December 6, 2017 at 8:45 am

    I'm moving to Bangkok next month (for 7 months) and going to be transferring money from an Australian account. What bank has the lowest set up cost, and do they have monthly fees? Are there costs involved in closing the account?
    Reply

    Dec 06, 2017 at 8:45 am

  155. Khun Greg says

    December 4, 2017 at 7:31 am

    I opened a bank account at Bangkok Bank with just a 30 day entry stamp, and a Thai girlfriends address. The bank made a copy of my passport and drivers license from home, and then opened the account for me. It was quick, and easy.
    Reply

    Dec 04, 2017 at 7:31 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      December 4, 2017 at 5:28 pm

      Hi Greg, what branch was this, and how long ago? No letter from your Embassy required?
      Reply

      Dec 04, 2017 at 5:28 pm

    • nat says

      December 26, 2017 at 4:21 am

      what branch was that?
      Reply

      Dec 26, 2017 at 4:21 am

  156. Joe says

    October 31, 2017 at 1:30 pm

    Hi guys - I just opened a bank account with just my passport at the Krungsri Bank (yellow one) on Sukhomvit Road (near Robinsons between Nana and Asoke BTS stations). I have a non-immigrant O-A visa or 'retirement' visa. It took 15 minutes and I walked out with my debit card. They didn't even need evidence of my Thai address - they just accepted the address I gave (my girlfriend's address). The girl even filled out the very simple form from my Passport. I have never seen such efficiency in Thailand before.

    I had been to Bangkok Bank at the Exchange Bldg (recommended somewhere), but they wanted a certified letter from my embassy (which was going to cost 1750 baht). The only cost at Krungsri is 350 baht for the visa card.
    Reply

    Oct 31, 2017 at 1:30 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 31, 2017 at 4:38 pm

      Wow! What a turn around. Looks like Krungsri are competing to be "farang friendly" now. Thanks for the update. I'll add it to the post.
      Reply

      Oct 31, 2017 at 4:38 pm

      • Pat says

        November 24, 2017 at 9:40 pm

        If you're setting up online to use it outside Thailand make sure you set up your thai phone number for roaming, otherwise it's impossible to do anything. Each action on the site requires an OTP (one time password) which is sent to your thai phone.

        So if you're planning to use it online outside the country its important to keep this in mind.
        Reply

        Nov 24, 2017 at 9:40 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          November 24, 2017 at 10:37 pm

          Good point. When back home I have to swap my sim over to retrieve the code. You don't need roaming if on WIFI though, right?
          Reply

          Nov 24, 2017 at 10:37 pm

    • Paolor Faidangbriayao says

      November 8, 2017 at 1:29 pm

      Thanks for your feedback here. I am from Laos, and searching a cost-less bank to open an account with soon. This your message totally give some very useful idea.
      Reply

      Nov 08, 2017 at 1:29 pm

  157. Pat says

    October 19, 2017 at 9:09 pm

    I am assuming all these accounts mentioned above include online banking as standard?

    I'm opening with Krungsri (Bank of Ayudaya) and just want to set this up smoothly.
    Reply

    Oct 19, 2017 at 9:09 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 20, 2017 at 9:32 pm

      Not necessarily. Bangkok Bang B1ST account can have online banking but you will need to ask them to set it up.
      Reply

      Oct 20, 2017 at 9:32 pm

      • Pat says

        October 21, 2017 at 1:37 pm

        Account was easily being set up as I sat at desk with young lady who was very helpful.
        Then a middle aged female manager comes over and scrutinises everything she's done and demands (makes up) that I need a work permit.

        I show the website that states that I only need rental contract and she reluctantly says ok. I almost made her lose face by proving I was right, and this could have cost me the bank account opening. Pathetic eh.

        Middle aged manager then thinks I am American and makes me fill out two more forms atating I won't do this and this blah blah.

        So I only just managed to open the account thanks to her. Even though I am legally able to with just a rent contract.

        Careful of moody bank employees. You are in their hands.
        Reply

        Oct 21, 2017 at 1:37 pm

        • Hugh says

          October 21, 2017 at 6:38 pm

          I thought it was just the banking employees that were muppets.
          My g.f last week gave birth to our son in a Government hospital in BKK.
          Having been instructed by my G.F's Professor Gynecologist the day before to report to the hospital for admission for a caesarean section the following day, we were denied admission from our arrival time at 8.15 am until almost 4 pm.
          They said they had lost her papers / medical records. This happened twice, for over 6 hours.
          The second time we couldn't get an ultra sound because they had "lost the papers" again.
          After several attempts by my g.f we got nowhere. As a farang male/ father I was literally ignored. Even when I was face to face with the f@@@'k@@' sh***t head of a nurse.
          After 2 &1/2 hours of further waiting in the same department, my g.f agreed we should find a private hospital.
          She had a quick conversation with the ignorant nurse who was able to then look on the shelf below, and was surprised that the g.f's notes were there all along.
          They never were lost.
          They all just lied rather than try to find the notes. Or be professional.
          Once admitted, I had to leave in the evening.
          As this is procedure in U.K (visiting hours etc) that's not a problem.
          On my return to the hospital in the morning of my son had been born, I was told that I could not see my son. He was on a baby ward while his mother rested. I visited the baby ward and was told in the same conversation by the same nurse that it wasn't possible for me "to see him", "come back in 3 hours", "come back in 10 minutes", & "I'll talk to the doctor".
          In a few minutes I was able to stand at a door way and see my son for the first time. I was not allowed to touch or hold him. As He was asleep I was O.K about that, and I satisfied myself that he appeared healthy.
          However, I was denied being able to take photo's of him. "Because it is a Government Building".
          When I asked what Thai secrets would I be revealing to the world they just wheeled my son away.
          Having booked a private room for my g.f and son, they were mainly kept apart.
          Wife and her sister in the private room, son in a baby monitoring ward opposite.
          My son and g.f were woken up at regulated times throughout the day and night time for feeds and checks. No one knocked, just walked in, all through the night, way past midnight.
          When my son was finally discharged, he slept for 2 days solid at home, only to wake for feeds and nappy change. I could never slag the NHS again.

          It's not just the banking staff who are inept in the roles they play at. That's being unfair.
          Nurses, Police, almost all professions here are probably guilty.
          But hat's what they're told or brought up to do.
          And the lie's should never questioned. That would be unheard of.
          That's the Thai culture.
          Only by the rude Farang. Who are encouraged to challenge such slack practice from their rude farang cultures.
          It's the Thai culture.
          Where lieing is easier than trying. And rudeness, and ignorance etc etc
          If I never taste another chillie it will be a day too soon.
          Reply

          Oct 21, 2017 at 6:38 pm

          • Pat says

            October 21, 2017 at 11:19 pm

            Congrats on the baby but in this country it helps to carry around a huge sack of salt, as you need to add it to almost everything you're told by anyone whose hands you are in, from annoying shop assistants at the mall when you want a new tv to the miserable sour faced women at immigration.
            Reply

            Oct 21, 2017 at 11:19 pm

            • Hugh says

              October 22, 2017 at 10:38 am

              Thanks for that Pat.
              I've seen the big board at BKK airport arrivals saying "Welcome to the Land of Smiles".
              Is there another board in Departures saying "Ha Ha 5 5 . We were only joking"?
              Reply

              Oct 22, 2017 at 10:38 am

              • Pat says

                October 24, 2017 at 12:29 pm

                ''Welcome to the Airport of Smile....sorry, we mean smartphones. We're not really trying to provide a service of international standards because we'd rather just play on our phones. If you require any assistance, wait a few minutes while we chat on Messenger, Line or update our facebook''
                Reply

                Oct 24, 2017 at 12:29 pm

          • Chris Charles says

            November 6, 2017 at 1:13 pm

            I had more or less the same experience with my Wife and Child in a Hospital in Thailand recently, no information or updates given to me and even her family all appeared to not know whats going on except to wait untill nurses say something..where as i wanted to ask wheres my son and is he healthy? why cant i see him? etc.
            That being said you are too harsh as this is Thailand and some respect needs to be given to them as that is their way, when my wife comes to UK she too will be shocked at the way some things are done here.
            How you handle these things in a foreign country defines you, keep calm and see it through, its how its done there.
            If we have a second child in a NHS hospital in UK then the wife can compare and tell me what she thinks, try not to
            Anyway... back to the Bank opening subject as why i came to this thread.
            Reply

            Nov 06, 2017 at 1:13 pm

            • Hugh says

              November 8, 2017 at 11:50 pm

              Well done you Chris.
              If you are genuinely from the U.K then you will be aware of the expression "you need to earn the respect of.....etc...etc...."
              These "nurses" are clearly not trained in matters medical.
              They readily lie rather than answer any question. Its well beyond them.
              If they were trained in origami then they could answer better perhaps.
              They showed NO respect to the child's father. Sexist bigots.
              The doctors seem ok, but definitely NOT NHS quality.
              Thai culture you say?
              Hmmmm????
              Tha'ts a bit insulting to the good Thai's I know.
              It's just rudeness. Nothing more complicated than that.
              And well done you, guaranteeing your next child will be born in a U.K hospital at British tax payers expense.
              My Thai G.F can't get a visa to U.K
              My son is denied (as things stand) his right to be a U.K citizen by 1st decent, due to "your" U.K Home Office policy, despite International law saying it's his right, and despite the U.K government stating it's his right on it's own website.
              So well done you Chris.
              Where did you learn your English grammar?
              Reply

              Nov 08, 2017 at 11:50 pm

      • Dr. C says

        October 23, 2017 at 6:40 pm

        I have A LARGE AMOUNT Transferred into Kasikorn Bank Pcl by an offshore bank from whom the company my contract was with made the transfer. I emailed the director of Kasikorn bank and he informed me I must pay a large fee to release the fund for access and transfer....I requested that I would appreciate a personal meeting with him in his office....he stated after I pay the fee he will allow a visit from me.

        Although the money has been in his bank I have yet to pay the fee due to the fact that he hasn't presented a copy of my account and he refuses to meet me face to face. The downside of this is my money has been sitting in his bank and I have not been able to access and use the funds for another project I have contracted with.

        I am disappointed with this situation as it impedes my progress with the new contract......the amount is significant enough to warrant a personal visit with this banker.

        I have no question just letting off some air.
        Reply

        Oct 23, 2017 at 6:40 pm

        • Hugh says

          October 23, 2017 at 11:03 pm

          Welcome to Thailand.
          The Land of Smiles.

          Surprise f******************g surprise.


          It's not your money now.
          Reply

          Oct 23, 2017 at 11:03 pm

          • Scarlett says

            March 27, 2018 at 9:51 pm

            Any update on this?
            I'm following as I may encounter this case.
            Reply

            Mar 27, 2018 at 9:51 pm

    • James E says

      October 20, 2017 at 10:40 pm

      Banking in Thailand is a lot like pre-paid mobile service in Thailand. I've found it easier to think of these things as a buffet rather than an actual meal. Basically, you start with something - an account, a phone, a plate - and start adding individual items, like an ATM card, cheques (checks), online access, etc. Some of these things cost - like an ATM card and access - some of them might be free - like online banking - but might be a PITA to access (particularly if you're overseas) and you'll find "online banking" to be less than what you'd expect in the west. Fees are also buried or glossed over (My ATM card allows two free transactions a month then it's 15THB per). Thailand is also moving to an e-money model but they're one of the first so it's a bumpy road. My ATM card (BKK Bank) is also a digital wallet through the Rabbit system, but they're not linked. That may be possible one day or it may be possible now and I just haven't figured out how it's done. There's a lot of that.
      Reply

      Oct 20, 2017 at 10:40 pm

  158. Rio says

    October 9, 2017 at 10:29 am

    Next month, I want to open a bank account in Pattaya/Jomtien in order to transfer money there from Taiwan to buy a condo.
    However, I am just a tourist, no residency, no Thai wife, no retirement, no work permit or Thai drivers license.
    Will I really be allowed to open an account anywhere?
    I see Robert in comments on Bangkok Bank write that he only had a tourist visa but went to Immigration to get a residency document. How do you do that if you're staying at a hotel?
    Reply

    Oct 09, 2017 at 10:29 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 9, 2017 at 4:35 pm

      You can open a bank account for this purpose. You need the following: (note that you could get the condo company to write a letter for you saying that you need the account to deposit the money)For Long-stay or Tourist Visa- Passport A Letter of Reference issued by: (One of the following) - Embassy or international organization - Customer’s home bank to Bangkok Bank via the SWIFT messaging network - Person acceptable to Bangkok Bank e.g. branch officer, customer, government officer or company executive - Educational institution located in Thailand and acceptable to the bank - Company that is acceptable to the bank, confirming the customer is in the process of getting a work permit
      Reply

      Oct 09, 2017 at 4:35 pm

  159. Matthew DP says

    October 2, 2017 at 12:41 pm

    You site is very helpful! Thank you. Off to bank of bangkok I go and thank you for saving me time and energy. Real, straight forward info!
    Reply

    Oct 02, 2017 at 12:41 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      October 2, 2017 at 3:20 pm

      Cheers Matthew. Let me know how you get on.
      Reply

      Oct 02, 2017 at 3:20 pm

      • Dr,C says

        October 23, 2017 at 6:46 pm

        Your site is insightful and sagacious.
        Reply

        Oct 23, 2017 at 6:46 pm

        • TheThailandLife says

          October 24, 2017 at 5:38 pm

          Thank you. I too have learnt a new word.
          Reply

          Oct 24, 2017 at 5:38 pm

    • Hugh says

      October 23, 2017 at 10:55 pm

      Sagacious.
      Do you mind?
      As an Englishman that's the 3rd English word I've had to Google this month.
      Dotards, Conjones and now Sagacious.
      Life is soooo much easier in U.K.
      Reply

      Oct 23, 2017 at 10:55 pm

      • Dr. C says

        October 24, 2017 at 10:46 am

        DID YOU find the meaning of "cojones" it is used and mainly in north eastern US from the Italian sector and used as a description of someone who has the "balls" to do something well out of the ordinary. It has been in use for many years and goes back to the time when the New York hoods owned the streets of New York.
        Reply

        Oct 24, 2017 at 10:46 am

        • Hugh says

          October 24, 2017 at 3:31 pm

          Hi Dr C,

          Cojones (or having a lack of) was used by a lesser known Premiership footballer to describe the Arsenal footballers on U.K T.V last weekend.

          He's not allowed to say bollocks which is the U.K equivalent.

          So it's nice to see a quality sounding insult with some breeding becoming an addition overnight to the English Language, with a defined & specific meaning.

          The best part is because the word comes from an established accepted foreign culture, those in the U.K who would choose to be "offended" by the term, can finally be seen as egotistical meddling racist bigots, who's views no-one wants to hear.

          A true double whammy really all round.

          Long Live the COJONES.
          Reply

          Oct 24, 2017 at 3:31 pm

  160. Ian says

    September 27, 2017 at 5:32 pm

    After supplying passport, copy of sale and purchase agreement and deposit receipts for my condo, visa extension I still wasn't issued a bank a/c.
    Reply

    Sep 27, 2017 at 5:32 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      September 28, 2017 at 11:44 pm

      What bank? What branch? What else did they want?
      Reply

      Sep 28, 2017 at 11:44 pm

      • Ian says

        October 22, 2017 at 10:47 am

        That was the Siam Commercial Bank. I was told that the deposit receipts for the condo were not officially signed properly. I had another form signed and was told I would be contacted the following day. I gave up after two days and went next door to the Bangkok bank in Jungcylon Patong shopping centre and no problem.
        Reply

        Oct 22, 2017 at 10:47 am

        • TheThailandLife says

          October 23, 2017 at 5:26 pm

          The banking system is awash with 'red tape' here. Bangkok Bank and K-Bank seem to be the least painful of the lot.
          Reply

          Oct 23, 2017 at 5:26 pm

  161. Tal says

    September 14, 2017 at 10:21 pm

    Has anyone tried opening a bank acct in the Yala province?
    Reply

    Sep 14, 2017 at 10:21 pm

  162. Hugh says

    September 12, 2017 at 5:20 pm

    I have just returned from trying to set up an account with the "friendly" Bkk Bank.
    I started at the Big C branch in Bang Pakok and was told to go to the big branch in nearby Ratburana.
    The Ratburana branch appeared to find a Farang in the branch a great amusement. Very off putting and did not fill me with confidence.
    When I explained I was in Thailand on a 12 month "rolling" non-immigration, over 50 retirement visa, they appeared to start making rules up as we went along.
    Needless to say I wasn't allowed to open an account.
    My Pension provider in U.K just needs a legitimate Account number etc with a Thai bank and will pay my pension into it each month.
    Can any one suggest the most helpful, and somewhat more professional branch in Bkk to get this account set up as easy as possible?
    Thanks.
    Reply

    Sep 12, 2017 at 5:20 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      September 14, 2017 at 11:16 pm

      The Exchange Tower at Asok, in Bangkok, seems to be where people have the most luck. That's where I opened my Thai bank account.
      Reply

      Sep 14, 2017 at 11:16 pm

      • Ayala says

        October 3, 2017 at 6:05 pm

        what was the requirements and docs needed?
        Thanks
        Reply

        Oct 03, 2017 at 6:05 pm

        • James E says

          October 4, 2017 at 3:00 pm

          Check bangkokbank .com. The current list of required documents will be posted under the Personal Banking tab under Foreign Customers.
          Reply

          Oct 04, 2017 at 3:00 pm

    • James E says

      September 15, 2017 at 12:52 am

      I opened mine at the BKK Bank branch at Paragon. No problems. You'll see elsewhere in the discussion that bank branches in Thailand are very independent and the rules vary from place to place depending on the manager and her or his mood that day. In general, it helps to go to a branch in the more foreigner-frequented areas. Even there, though, you might have an issue at any given branch. I first tried SCB at Central Chitlom - armed with what the SCB website said I needed and a copy of the web page - and they still said I couldn't do it.
      Reply

      Sep 15, 2017 at 12:52 am

    • Hugh says

      September 19, 2017 at 3:19 pm

      Hi.
      Just to update my frustrating experience of trying to open a Thai bank account recently, I can now say that as of yesterday (18-09-18) I do now have such an account.
      Thanks to your earlier advice on this forum, I attended the Bangkok Bank branch at the Exchange Tower, Asok.
      However, I had to also attend the U.K Embassy in Bkk to request a certified letter to say that I had presented my passport to the Embassy, and that it was indeed a U.K passport.
      And this they did. My request being well within the competency of our upstanding servants.
      For a fee. This ironic piece of official paperwork cost me 1150 bht (cash) or a credit card payment of £25 is acceptable.
      If I'd presented a work permit to the bank, this certificate would not have been required. This demand is due to changes attempting to disrupt money laundering into Thailand.
      I have a 12 month, non- immigration, over 50 visa.
      I also have a visa ATM card (300bht) and internet banking with my account.
      I have to add that I feel I would not have been successful in my application had it not been for my Thai g.f being present. The staff member did not seem to know the criteria of the day, but I noticed her last name was Kockasuk. I make no comment.
      But thanks again for your sound advice.
      All's well that ends well.
      Reply

      Sep 19, 2017 at 3:19 pm

      • TheThailandLife says

        September 19, 2017 at 8:40 pm

        Thanks for the update. It seems the letter is a mandatory requirement now. Good to know The Exchange Tower BKK Bank is still "foreigner friendly". Interesting name that; must get a few smiles :)If you want to transfer money from the US to your account in Thailand and avoid fees, check out this post: https://www.thethailandlife.com/how-to-send-money-to-thailand-no-bank-fees
        Reply

        Sep 19, 2017 at 8:40 pm

  163. Paula says

    August 31, 2017 at 11:46 am

    I have question to Bangkok Bank account owner! Did you get visa debit card??
    Yesterday I tried open current account in Bangkok Bank in Imperial World in Samrong and they told me, that they DON'T have visa! Only unionpay card.
    I disagree, because I want to have normal visa or mastercard. She called to manager and told again that in any branches in Bangkok I will not get a visa.
    Do you think, is it true?
    On this Saturday I will try in BKK bank on Asok or Siam.
    Reply

    Aug 31, 2017 at 11:46 am

    • James E says

      September 15, 2017 at 12:54 am

      I've heard about this from some other friends too. I was able to get a Be1st Rabbit card with a Visa logo when I opened my account at BKK Bank at Paragon.
      Reply

      Sep 15, 2017 at 12:54 am

  164. Steini Pe says

    August 9, 2017 at 2:10 pm

    I couldn't open a bank account with SCB, they changed their rules this year. Head office made Work-Permit be mandatory to open a bank account with Passport. TR is no good.

    I however got in with Bangkok Bank, Chalong Branch in Phuket. After about 50 minutes of sit down, sign my signature on bunch of paperwork the TR is eligible for Bank account and debit card, not Internet banking. For that you need 1 Year Visa ED/Business or similar like Work Permit.

    What they had me however do was since I had 6 month visa they had me buy Insurance, which is fine since I had none, so 5900 for the Insurance, for the whole package, "Insurance, Debit Card, Bank account, Initial deposit" 6700 baht.

    Totally worth it, banks here are really grim on helping foreigners get account with them, but Bankgkok bank was nice and helped me out :)
    Reply

    Aug 09, 2017 at 2:10 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      August 9, 2017 at 4:23 pm

      No internet banking? Harsh. I'd go back and push for that. The guidelines on their website don't require you to buy insurance; but hey, at least you an account sorted out.
      Reply

      Aug 09, 2017 at 4:23 pm

    • Zero says

      September 9, 2017 at 11:22 am

      I managed to open a Be1st bank account at the Bangkok Bank central branch in Silom with my passport and letter from my embassy with only 60-day tourist visa.

      They told me the same thing about the internet banking, that I needed to have a working permit or something like that. But since the Bangkok Bank website states that Be1st account account holders can use Bualuang iBanking/mBanking and can apply for it through the ATM, I tried to go via that route instead. It worked! I now have internet + mobile banking on my account, even though the staff said I wasn't allowed to have it ;)
      Reply

      Sep 09, 2017 at 11:22 am

      • James E says

        September 15, 2017 at 12:56 am

        That's great to know! I've been trying to get it set up (I'm in the US now) and they tell me I have to visit a branch. I'll try the ATM route when I'm back in BKK in a couple of weeks. Thanks!
        Reply

        Sep 15, 2017 at 12:56 am

        • James E says

          October 7, 2017 at 4:10 pm

          YES! Zero's advice was perfect. I went to a BKK Branch, put in my ATM card and followed the on-screen prompts; none of which asked for any visa or work permit information. Two minutes later I was on my way with receipt in hand (don't lose the receipt, it's got your user name on it) to log on and finish the registration procedure. Really easy.
          Reply

          Oct 07, 2017 at 4:10 pm

  165. James says

    July 28, 2017 at 1:33 am

    I found a Good Thing. If you, like I am, are trying to move money into your Thai account you might have found that checking on that money is not as easy as it is elsewhere. I always stress that my Transferwise deposits end up in Bolivia or someplace, so I've been looking for a way to check on things when I'm not in Thailand. I have an account with Bangkok Bank and they are pretty restrictive with whom they share the secret handshake that allows you to get online banking. But, they have an interactive phone system that is usable and can be accessed FREE via Skype (with the proper account) or almost free US$0.023/minute) if you just have a pay-as-you-go account. Plus, it's 24/7 so being on the other side of the planet is not an issue.

    I'm guessing that other banks have the same thing but to access the BKK Bank system the number is +66 0-2645-5555 from outside Thailand or 1333 inside. You can even speak to a live person if needed. (Though I'm not sire that is a 24hr service.)

    It's a very Thai system so when you check your balance you use your ATM card and PIN but when you look up activity - on the same account - you'll need your passbook handy to enter completely different information.
    Reply

    Jul 28, 2017 at 1:33 am

  166. JP says

    July 21, 2017 at 12:33 pm

    I opened a savings account at Krung Thai on my non-o marriage visa without problems and also one at the SCB branch in Kalasin, they only required my passport and a deposit.
    Reply

    Jul 21, 2017 at 12:33 pm

  167. Stephen Morris says

    July 3, 2017 at 4:26 am

    Hello I am from the UK and visit Thailand on a regular basis on a 30 day tourist visa fed up with the rip off charges at ATM machines and after trying numerous different banks & branches most of the story was no if you don't have a work permit with the exception in fairness to Bangkok Bank who will open a savings account with an ATM card on a tourist visa with a passport, address in Thailand and a number of other validations that they list on the website....now I sadly had to use the validation of my passport route at the UK embassy because the other acceptable validation is a reference from your (in my case) UK bank via the SWIFT Messaging service, a very helpful lady at Bangkok Bank Head Office gave me the form, to get to this stage was no easy matter. Now my UK bank being a building society could not offer this service (not sure why) so I had to use the embassy option. With the paperwork the account was opened and I have an ATM card. However they will not give me internet account access not without a work permit. But I know have a way of getting Thai Baht to Thailand without extra fees using XE Rates or Transferwise.
    I hope this helps someone out there...
    Reply

    Jul 03, 2017 at 4:26 am

    • James says

      July 3, 2017 at 9:58 pm

      That's great! I really enjoyed dealing with BKK Bank; very helpful and walked me through everything. I, too, open my account on a 30 day Visa on Entry stamp and was told almost the same thing about internet access. The difference being that they will provide internet access if you go to a branch with a work permit or a non-tourist visa (I'm assuming the ED, O-series). I'm going to give a try my next trip. I'm sending in money to get to the requirement for a retirement visa and it would really be nice to confirm that the money is where I think it is.
      Reply

      Jul 03, 2017 at 9:58 pm

  168. Nigel says

    July 2, 2017 at 12:44 am

    Hi, I notice the majority of these feeds are from US citizens, as I am English, living in Spain and retired with no interest in ever working again, how easy would it be for me to open a bank account in Thailand and what requirement would I need.?
    Thank you for any help
    Reply

    Jul 02, 2017 at 12:44 am

  169. James says

    June 25, 2017 at 1:35 am

    I've got a procedural question. Has anybody ever been able to arrange online banking at BKK Bank with just a tourist visa or 30-day entry stamp? I contacted BKK Bank in New York and they said I have to go to a branch to set it up but didn't think it would matter what kind of entry permit I had in my passport. I'm going for a Non-Immigrant O so I can get some more official stuff (driver's license, mostly) done and am hoping that'll be enough to get BKK Bank to let me move into the 2000s. Thanks!
    Reply

    Jun 25, 2017 at 1:35 am

  170. Matt Darpli says

    June 23, 2017 at 12:27 pm

    Went to Bangkok Bank Soi 11 - Told I need a work permit. Same story Bangkok Bank on Sukhumvit Road - Went to the Asoke Montri Branch on Soi 21 and was given a form to take to the US Embassy to have notarized - You must make an appointment online for the Embassy and PRINT the confirmation or you will be turned away - No pictures at the embassy - even from the sidewalk - they take your phone when checking in - Pay 1,800 Baht !! ($50 US) to our ridiculously corrupt US government to put a stamp on the papers and then motorcycle taxi back to Asoke Bangkok Bank Branch - Took about 30 minutes including transferring US notes - 900 Baht for debit card ;( and I was out the door with a free rugby shirt as a gift and a fresh ATM card - They told me they could NOT open a Internet banking account without a work permit but that I would still be able to transfer money from overseas into this account via Transferwise. All in all a little epic just to start a bank account but glad I got it done - As many are aware perhaps the most frustrating part can be schlepping around the city at 90 degrees and 80% humidity trying to find a bank that will actually do what they are supposed to... Gets hot! LOL - Just for point of reference I will be going back to the 2 branches that denied me to give them a piece of my mind for the benefit (hopefully) of everyone that comes behind me - Other comments seem spot on - depends of the laziness or mood of bank staff which is crazy... Enjoy Thailand!
    Reply

    Jun 23, 2017 at 12:27 pm

    • James says

      June 23, 2017 at 9:38 pm

      Yeah, well it's Thailand and that whole "give them a piece of my mind" thing will do you about as much good as a parka in April. I would be more concerned about paying 900THB for a card that should only cost 200THB (according to BKK Bank's website). Unless, of course, you really paid 200 for the card and 700 for the free shirt.

      But you're right about the different branches. Each one is its own fiefdom and operates as the manager dictates. I walked into an SCB office with a letter from the company's HQ as to what I would need to show in terms of documentation, all that documentation, and a friend who is a long-standing SCB customer. They just said "Nope, we don't do farang accounts. Have a nice day." I went over to BKK Bank at Paragon and 30 minutes later had everything sorted no embassy visit required. It really is a crap shoot about getting the right person at the right branch at the right time.
      Reply

      Jun 23, 2017 at 9:38 pm

  171. Anmol says

    June 23, 2017 at 11:37 am

    Hello, I trying to open account in Bangkok bank, I have three months tourist visa.. but my embassy ( indian ) aren't giving me a reference latter.. so what I do plzzz help me.. thanks
    Reply

    Jun 23, 2017 at 11:37 am

  172. Kevin says

    June 22, 2017 at 10:42 am

    Anyone know what is the limit for interbank transfer for Thai Bank ?
    Reply

    Jun 22, 2017 at 10:42 am

  173. Dan GALLAGHER says

    June 12, 2017 at 8:35 pm

    Can anyone tell me, how KRUNGSRI Bank are in relation to us of there card in Australia.
    Is there a Krungsri, GURU out there who is up to date with how they work, what to do.

    Know exactly what to do to set up using card in Australia, please.
    Reply

    Jun 12, 2017 at 8:35 pm

  174. Brian says

    June 12, 2017 at 10:30 am

    Ok so i have read though this and i am thinking of opening up an account at bangkok bank.Now ill only have a passport and drivers lience would be enough to get internet banking or do i need more.
    Reply

    Jun 12, 2017 at 10:30 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      June 12, 2017 at 4:02 pm

      On a basic B1ST BKK Bank account, yes. You can read the requirements for Bangkok Bank in the post above:- Passport and one other official identification document – for example, a reference letter from your embassy, your home bank or a person acceptable to the bank. - You will also need to provide evidence of your address in Thailand as well as your regular address in your home country.
      Reply

      Jun 12, 2017 at 4:02 pm

  175. Steve says

    June 11, 2017 at 3:37 pm

    I opened a joint saver account with my Thai wife in Bangkok bank Pattaya a few years ago, from memory we only showed my passport and my wife's Thai ID card. We were issued an ATM card but told we could only have one.
    The biggest problem I have faced since is trying to get online banking, every year we go to Thailand for a holiday and try to sort this but the bank always want to post our password to my wife's registered address in Thailand, we agree but the letter never arrives so we end up going home to England without it again.
    If anyone can shed any light on ways around this please do.
    Reply

    Jun 11, 2017 at 3:37 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      June 12, 2017 at 4:00 am

      Go into a branch and request the online banking. You can set it up via the ATM if you already have an account. A member of staff helped me do mine there and then.
      Reply

      Jun 12, 2017 at 4:00 am

  176. Dr. C says

    June 10, 2017 at 12:33 pm

    I have a Bangkok Bank account but I would like to know much (%) how tax is levied on large amounts being transferred into my account....or should I just open an offshore account in Hong Kong or Macau and move bit by bit enough to live on.....
    Reply

    Jun 10, 2017 at 12:33 pm

    • James says

      June 10, 2017 at 10:57 pm

      Dr. C.
      I looked into this as well and from what I could find the tax is only required if 1) the money being transferred is earned in the same year it was transferred and 2) has not been taxed in the country of origin. All the details are at: http://www.rd.go.th/publish/index_eng.html
      Reply

      Jun 10, 2017 at 10:57 pm

  177. Riazullah safi says

    June 6, 2017 at 6:45 am

    i am Afghani and Afghanistan Embassy is not in Bangkok Thailand and i want Open Bank account so what i do please help me
    Thank you
    Reply

    Jun 06, 2017 at 6:45 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      June 6, 2017 at 3:55 pm

      No idea. I would assume you have to go the nearest country that has an Embassy and get your letter done there.
      Reply

      Jun 06, 2017 at 3:55 pm

    • Ran says

      June 11, 2017 at 2:18 pm

      Very difficult for foreigners to open a bank acct in the kingdom now. Much concern with "money laundering" activities and such. I am from the U.S. and thought it would be super easy....wrong! The only way is through a work permit as I was told by every bank I went to.
      Reply

      Jun 11, 2017 at 2:18 pm

      • TheThailandLife says

        June 12, 2017 at 4:01 am

        Not true. Read through the comments and post. Currently Bangkok Bank and K Bank seem to tbe the most foreigner friendly.
        Reply

        Jun 12, 2017 at 4:01 am

      • John says

        June 20, 2017 at 3:50 pm

        Not true. A US national is the biggest pain in the ass for banks here. I am not from the US and when I got a bank account at SCB (I had a work permit at the time), the entire form all had questions that basically did not relate to anyone unless you were American. That being said it is harder now but my American friend on a tourist visa opened an account at Kasikorn about 6 months ago.
        Reply

        Jun 20, 2017 at 3:50 pm

  178. JayKishen says

    May 30, 2017 at 1:15 pm

    I'm from India. and thinking of applying for a six month non-immigrant Thai tourist visa. So, technically, I should be able to open a bank account with Bangkok Bank, right?

    I think the chances depend a lot on the central bank policies of your home country. If you're a UK citizen, probably the British government doesn't care if you open a small savings bank account overseas. But, in India, there's a lot of hue and cry about money laundering. There was a demonetization drive recently and Indian banking authorities are known to monitor every single forex transaction. They have become a bit relaxed in recent years but the government bureaucrats of India are a pain in the wrong place.

    I am not allowed to transfer money from my PayPal account anywhere but only Indian banks as per RBI rules. I cannot even make purchases usingmy PayPal balance as the amount gets auto-withdrawn in 7 days.

    I need to open a foreign bank account very urgently. I'm considering Thailand as a likely option based on the information provided on this blog :) and the fact that it's such an easy country to live and thrive. But if things don't work out, maybe I should look elsewhere.

    How about Europe? Any country over there that helps you open a bank account based on a temporary C-Visa?

    Thanks in advance -- my travel plans in coming 1 month depends on your advice :)
    Reply

    May 30, 2017 at 1:15 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      May 30, 2017 at 4:25 pm

      The requirements for opening a Bangkok Bank on a tourist visa can be found here.
      Reply

      May 30, 2017 at 4:25 pm

  179. Dr. C says

    May 30, 2017 at 9:23 am

    I would like to know if Taih children under the age of 18 get taxed on inheritance deposits and if so how much or percentage?
    Reply

    May 30, 2017 at 9:23 am

    • TheThailandLife says

      May 30, 2017 at 4:27 pm

      It's 5% for ascendants or descendants and 10% for others, and levied on assets worth above Bt100 million.
      Reply

      May 30, 2017 at 4:27 pm

      • Dr. C says

        June 10, 2017 at 12:44 pm

        thanks that's alot of money before the tax,,,,,,what about adults not thai and Thai...ie the child's mother who's thai
        Reply

        Jun 10, 2017 at 12:44 pm

  180. Simon Poulsen says

    May 27, 2017 at 5:44 pm

    Update from May 2017:
    Thanks for your information, which came in very useful.
    I'm in Chiang Mai, on an ED-visa and wanted to open a bank account, so did the rounds exactly as you suggested.
    1. Bangkok Bank had no problem with an ED-visa, but wanted the passport to be certified by my embassy in Bangkok. Since we had no plans on being in BKK in the next few weeks, we put this on the back burner.
    2. Krungsri in Maya shopping mail. Krungsri advertises on their website, that they offer accounts to foreigners on ED-visas, so full of optimism, I walked in with all my documents and was told that they only offer this to Thai nationals. Quite why a Thai national would want an education visa or use the English language pages of their website, I simply don't know, but it didn't end there. The next day, suspecting that it might all change again, I sent in my (non-Thai) girlfriend, who explained the need for an account and was told that they'd be fine, but would need a copy of the Certificate of Residency, and proof that we were actually enrolled in a long term school programme. This was a good option, but since we didn't actually have the COR yet, and it was a weekend where the immigration office was closed, we decided to push on.
    3. Kasikorn Bank was right across the mall, so we thought we'd try it out to see how this worked. After a bit of discussion about only taking type B visas, the bank cashier admitted that they also accepted education visas (type O), and all they required were copies of passports and proof of enrolment. Since that was the easiest option, and we had all the documents with us, we got our accounts opened at Kasikorn and were given debit cards on the spot to use with our Thai accounts. The whole process to open an account took around 1 hour in the end.
    Reply

    May 27, 2017 at 5:44 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      May 30, 2017 at 4:34 pm

      Good news. Thanks for the feedback!
      Reply

      May 30, 2017 at 4:34 pm

  181. Robert Heatley says

    May 10, 2017 at 9:49 am

    We opened accounts with the Thanachart Bank in Phuket Town last week, the service was fantastic the product was explained well and we walked out with our passbooks and Mastercard (debit) with-in an hour.

    All that was required was;
    Passport
    Proof of residence/address.

    Remember, a smile and happy demeanour will get you a long way in Thailand.

    Arrogance, grumpiness and the "I'm better than you" western traits, will do you no favours here!
    Reply

    May 10, 2017 at 9:49 am

  182. Martin1 says

    May 2, 2017 at 3:40 am

    I just would like to add: besides of the Bangkok Bank, which seems to be the most falang-friendly bank in Thailand, I got the information from another forum that Kasikorn bank was also very easy going in opening bank accounts for non-Thai people.
    Reply

    May 02, 2017 at 3:40 am

  183. sander says

    April 14, 2017 at 12:00 pm

    I would like to open an Account with BangkokBank with my Tourist Visa, they say they require a Letter from the Embassy.
    However when visiting my Embassy they are not aware of what kind of Letter they need to issue.

    Can someone advise, or even better, does someone has a sample Letter?

    Thanks.
    Reply

    Apr 14, 2017 at 12:00 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      April 14, 2017 at 3:56 pm

      It's a letter of reference, so probably confirming you are who you say you are: your passport number, your status in Thailand, address back home and in Thailand, etc.
      Reply

      Apr 14, 2017 at 3:56 pm

    • James says

      April 14, 2017 at 10:17 pm

      When I opened my account at Bankok Bank 3 weeks ago I was able to have my partner sign a letter at the bank saying I was who I said I was. They photocopied her ID card onto the letter and that was it. No embassy visit, no cost. I think BKK Bank branches have the letter you need to sign if you go with the embassy route.
      Reply

      Apr 14, 2017 at 10:17 pm

    • Martin1 says

      May 2, 2017 at 3:12 am

      Haha... "Letter from embassy". :-)
      Keep in mind, that we ware talking about Thailand, and Thailand has "thainess"! :-D

      I tried to open a saving's account at many banks and was declined with that working permit thing.

      Then I found one bank which told me that with the embassy.
      So I drove to the embassy of my country and asked them for a stamped copy of my passport.
      They did it, and the cost was less then 10 €.

      Back with it to the bank on the same day they opened me a savings account with two debit cards (Visa + UnionPay). Because everything was fine now: Me, my passport, and some stamp from some alien embassy. :-D
      That is Thainess.

      One hint to all of you here, guys: After it I got a one year's N.I. visa, type O.
      In such cases I advise you to go to the bank again, tell them and let them update your customer status! That will enable certain things!
      In my case it was Internet banking.
      Cheers!
      Reply

      May 02, 2017 at 3:12 am

  184. Milan says

    April 8, 2017 at 5:21 pm

    Hi
    I have problem with opening bank account in Thailand. Im in Bangkok and just now in BLK Bank and they refused to open me. They said I need some confirmation of my passport from my embassy but I don't have my embassy in Thailand. Can somebody help how to do it and where they dont require that proof just passport?
    Thanks
    Reply

    Apr 08, 2017 at 5:21 pm

  185. jazeel says

    March 29, 2017 at 7:37 pm

    Hi,

    I am from a country which does not allow withdrawals from bank accounts for the money in my pay pal account. Can i visit Thailand in a Tourist Visa and open a account, link it to my pay pal account and transfer from that account to my bank account in my country? If this is allowed what are the documents which i should submit?
    Reply

    Mar 29, 2017 at 7:37 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      March 30, 2017 at 2:49 pm

      If you have USD in your PayPal account you can open an account with Bangkok Bank and route the Dollars through the US branch and they will send the money onto your account in Thailand. Another option is applying for the PayPal debit card, which allows you to make withdrawals from any ATM. Foreign transactions will incur the Mastercard currency conversion fee though, which is 1% I think.
      Reply

      Mar 30, 2017 at 2:49 pm

  186. James says

    March 29, 2017 at 5:53 pm

    Hi TTL,I opened an account with BKK Bank three days ago at the Paragon branch. I took a copy of their requirements web page, my passport, and a letter from my pension showing what I might be earning. They told me that the requirements had changed but the website hadn't been updated to reflect the changes. They then went on to not tell me what the changes were and opened the account. The only other thing I needed was my Thai friend (and her ID card) which showed the address we stay at when in BKK. It took a bit more time than in the US (and significantly more front-end paper) but otherwise very smooth.I'm trying TransferWise.com now. That does take a few days and my transfer has yet to complete. BKK Bank is in possession of a US branch and will do same-day transfers for a fairly modest fee using ACH direct deposit and convert the US$ to THB at their closing rate (which I have to look into more). The modest fee is US$15.00 + .025x(the amount of the transfer). If you are doing larger transfers (depending on the spread between TransferWise's FX and BKK Bank's) there is a point at which BKK bank's is faster and cheaper. I'm assuming the same could be done in other countries in which BKK bank has a presence.
    Reply

    Mar 29, 2017 at 5:53 pm

    • TheThailandLife says

      March 30, 2017 at 3:52 am

      Sure, this is possible but the catch is their closing rate + the charge. You are at the mercy of their rate, not the market rate. I sometimes do a similar thing with PayPal. I route the money to the US Bangkok Bank and they send it my BKK bank in Thailand. The issue is the rate on conversion generally isn't competitive. It is better than most, but not better than Transferwise.
      Reply

      Mar 30, 2017 at 3:52 am

    • James says

      March 30, 2017 at 3:50 pm

      Just a follow-up. The US$15 I quoted for the BKK Bank transfer through its US branch is actually a sliding scale of US$0 ($50 or less) to US$20 (>$50,000). Also the 0.25% fee charged at the BKK end has a min (200THB) and a max (500THB).

      My TransferWise transfer took 2 days which was 2 days faster than the original estimate. Good stuff.
      Reply