Money · Thai Banking

Banking in Thailand as a foreigner.

Which Thai bank to choose, how to open an account on a tourist or long-stay visa, the documents you'll need, and how the major banks compare on foreigner-friendliness, apps, English support and SWIFT — laid out plainly, no sponsored picks.

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01

The major banks, compared

BankForeigner-friendlyMobile appEnglishSWIFTBest for
Bangkok BankHighBualuangGoodBKKBTHBKForeigners & expats; widest branch/ATM network
Kasikornbank (KBank)HighK PLUSVery goodKASITHBKBest mobile app; digital-first users
Siam Commercial Bank (SCB)HighSCB EasyVery goodSICOTHBKSlick app; broad services
Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya)Medium-HighKMAGoodAYUDTHBKOften flexible on tourist accounts
Krung Thai BankMediumKrungthai NEXTFairKRTHTHBKGovernment links; PromptPay/utility
TMBThanachart (ttb)Mediumttb touchGoodTMBKTHBKNo-fee accounts; salary earners
UOB ThailandMedium-HighUOB TMRWVery goodUOVBTHBKRegional expats (Singapore link)

Indicative comparison on measurable criteria — not a paid ranking. Foreigner-friendliness varies branch to branch; confirm current requirements with the specific branch. Per-bank deep pages (history, fees, cards, mortgages) are in build.

02

How to open an account

Bring your passport and go in person to a branch (a larger city branch is more used to foreigners). On a long-stay visa (Non-O, retirement, DTV, LTR, work) with a Thai address proof, it's usually straightforward. As a tourist it's harder — you may need an agent letter, a proof of address, or to try a few branches; Bangkok Bank and Krungsri are often the most flexible. Once open, activate PromptPay and the mobile app for instant transfers and QR payments.

03

Frequently asked

Can a tourist open a Thai bank account?Sometimes, but it's increasingly hard. Many branches now require a long-stay visa, work permit, or a proof-of-address/agent letter. Bangkok Bank and Krungsri are often the most flexible. Bring your passport and be ready to try a few branches.
What documents do I need?Always your passport. Then, depending on the branch and visa: a long-stay visa (Non-O, retirement, DTV, LTR, work), a work permit, a Thai address proof (rental contract / yellow book / embassy or immigration letter), and sometimes a reference. Requirements vary branch to branch.
Which bank is best for foreigners?Bangkok Bank for branch/ATM reach and foreigner-friendliness; KBank or SCB if you want the best mobile app. There's no single 'best' — it depends on your visa, where you live, and whether you value branches or the app.
What is PromptPay and do I need it?PromptPay links your account to your phone number or Thai ID, enabling instant, free transfers and QR payments — the backbone of daily spending in Thailand. Activate it in your bank's app once your account is open.
What's a SWIFT code and when do I use it?The SWIFT/BIC code identifies your Thai bank for incoming international transfers (e.g. funds for a condo purchase). You give the sender your bank's SWIFT code (above), your account number and name. Keep the credit advice / FET for property and tax records.
Can foreigners get a mortgage or credit card?Difficult as a non-resident. Some banks offer credit cards or loans to foreigners with a work permit, Thai income, or a fixed deposit as security. Most foreign condo purchases are cash; mortgages usually come via international branches of Thai banks abroad.

Moving money in too?

See how to send funds to Thailand without losing money to the rate.

Sending money guideRelocation hub

General information, not financial advice. Bank requirements, fees and SWIFT details change — confirm with the bank directly before acting.