Foreigner's Thailand

Task

Open a bank account

Open a Thai baht account; rules vary by bank and by visa type.

· checked against official sources below

Who this is for

Residents who need salary, rent, or retirement-extension evidence in a Thai bank book.

Overview

There is no single national checklist. Thai banks set their own KYC. Many still want a long-stay visa (Non-Immigrant or equivalent), a work permit or letter, and an address. Tourist stamps are often refused. Retirement extensions that require a Thai bank deposit only count at banks and branches the local immigration office recognises — ask that office which banks they accept before you move a large balance. Digital-only banks and fintech apps may not satisfy immigration’s deposit evidence rules even if they work for daily spending.

How to do it

  1. 1

    Ask Immigration which banks they accept for your purpose

    Retirement deposit evidence is the usual reason this matters. Do not assume a digital-only bank will do.
  2. 2

    Take originals to a staffed branch

    Passport, visa page, work permit or company letter, and a mobile number registered in Thailand are commonly requested.

Documents

  • Passport and visa page
  • Work permit or employer letter (for salary accounts)
  • Proof of address (lease or utility bill)
  • Thai mobile number registered to your passport (for OTP)

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