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Can I open a Thai bank account with a work visa from teaching?

Jun 10, 2025
2 days ago
Lisa ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
If I get a teaching job there and a work visa will that qualify me for a Thai bank account?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
While there are no strict qualifications requiring a specific visa type to open a bank account in Thailand, having a work visa (such as a Non-B visa) and a work permit may significantly ease the process. It is often beneficial if your employer assists you in opening an account, especially if they have a preferred banking partner. Some banks may facilitate account opening for foreigners with teaching positions.
Cary ******
If you have a Bachelors degree (legal requirement in Thailand) and you fall within their preferred age range you may get a teaching position and a Non B visa and the school usually has a bank they prefer to do business with. They will usually assist you in opening the account. Having the Non B visa and work permit will usually make it easier to open a bank account at whatever bank you choose as well as getting a post paid SIM card with the phone provider of your choice.
Lisa ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Cary *****
brilliant thank you ๐Ÿ˜Š
Derek *******
You will most likely qualify for a bank account especially if your school sponsors your visa. In my personal experience, my wife and I taught in Bangkok and we had our bank accounts opened at Bangkok Bank. We were lucky enough to get them opened before our permits. But Iโ€™ve found it does depend on the relationship between the school and the bank.
Lisa ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Derek ******
thanks ๐Ÿ™
Brandon ************
There's nothing that "qualifies" you for a Thai bank account. There is no visa or visa type that does or does not legally allow a bank account. You will need to find a bank willing to open an account for you.
Lisa ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
thanks ๐Ÿ™
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