Banking & Payments in Thailand

Your complete guide to managing, transferring, and spending money in Thailand as an expatriate. From opening your first Thai bank account to understanding PromptPay, we'll help you navigate the Thai financial system with confidence.

Quick Navigation

Opening an Account

Learn how to open a Thai bank account as a foreigner, required documents, and bank-specific requirements.

Fees & Price Benchmarks

Compare banking fees in Thailand vs USA, EU, and Switzerland with detailed cost breakdowns.

Sending Money to Thailand

Complete guide to international transfers including SWIFT, Wise, Western Union, and compliance requirements.

ATMs & Cash

Navigate Thailand's ATM system, avoid fees, and handle cash safely as a foreign visitor.

Paying in Thailand

Master payment methods including cards, PromptPay QR codes, mobile wallets, and digital payments.

Risks & Compliance

Understand deposit insurance, fraud prevention, AML requirements, and cash carrying rules.

Major Thai Banks Directory

Thailand's banking system is dominated by several major commercial banks that offer services to foreigners. Here's your quick reference guide:

Bangkok Bank

  • SWIFT Code: BKKBTHBK
  • English Hotline: +66 2 626 4000
  • Foreigner Services: Strong expat support, FCD accounts available
  • Branches: Find locations

Kasikornbank (KBank)

  • SWIFT Code: KASITHBK
  • English Hotline: +66 2 470 1976
  • Foreigner Services: English mobile app, international banking
  • Branches: Find locations

Krung Thai Bank

  • SWIFT Code: KRTHTHBK
  • English Hotline: +66 2 255 2222
  • Foreigner Services: Government-linked bank, wide ATM network
  • Branches: Find locations

Siam Commercial Bank (SCB)

  • SWIFT Code: SICOTHBK
  • English Hotline: +66 2 777 7777
  • Foreigner Services: Digital banking focus, mobile app
  • Branches: Find locations

Bank of Ayudhya (Krungsri)

  • SWIFT Code: AYUDTHBK
  • English Hotline: +66 2 296 4000
  • Foreigner Services: Good English support, modern banking
  • Branches: Find locations

TMBThanachart Bank (ttb)

  • SWIFT Code: TMBKTHBK
  • English Hotline: +66 2 299 2000
  • Foreigner Services: Merged bank, expanding services
  • Branches: Find locations

Essential Banking Information

Thai Banking Basics

  • Central Bank: Bank of Thailand (BOT) regulates all financial institutions
  • Deposit Insurance: Maximum 1,000,000 THB per depositor per bank (DPA coverage)
  • Business Hours: Typically 8:30 AM - 3:30 PM, Monday-Friday
  • Branch Culture: Personal service still preferred for complex transactions

Key Services for Expats

  • Foreign Currency Deposit (FCD) Accounts: Hold USD, EUR, GBP, and other currencies
  • PromptPay Registration: Thai national payment system using phone numbers or ID
  • International Transfers: SWIFT network plus modern alternatives like Wise
  • Mobile Banking: Most banks offer English-language mobile apps

Current Regulations (2025)

  • FET Certificates: Required for property purchases using foreign funds ≥ USD 50,000 equivalent
  • Anti-Money Laundering (AML): Enhanced due diligence for large transactions
  • Know Your Customer (KYC): Regular verification for account maintenance
  • Cross-Border Payments: PromptPay linkage with neighboring countries expanding

Getting Started

  1. Assess Your Needs: Determine what type of account and services you need based on your visa status and financial requirements.

  2. Gather Documentation: Prepare passport, visa, work permit (if applicable), and proof of address in Thailand.

  3. Choose Your Bank: Consider factors like English support, branch locations, and specific services for foreigners.

  4. Understand the Costs: Review fee structures and compare with your home country banking costs.

  5. Set Up Digital Services: Register for mobile banking and PromptPay for convenient transactions.

Talk to Us About Banking Setup

Need personalized assistance with Thai banking? Our experienced team can help you navigate account opening, compliance requirements, and optimize your banking setup for your specific situation.

Get Banking Assistance

Last reviewed: January 20, 2025 (Europe/Zurich)

Information for general guidance only. Always confirm current requirements and fees with your chosen bank or branch.