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Answered4 months ago

Do I need a local SIM card or can I use an eSIM for my Non-O visa extension in Thailand?

KindNar********
asked Jun 16, 2026
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re phone sim prior to applying for non o visa extension (retirement); I understand I need a local SIM card purchased and recorded with my passport. Does this mean that people in my position don’t use esims? I would prefer an esim but I think I need a local SIM, or do people interchange the Thai SIM and just use it for the immigration visit. Thank you.
Answer summary
When applying for a Non-O visa extension in Thailand, it is essential to have a Thai phone number registered under your name and linked to your passport. Both traditional SIM cards and eSIMs from local providers like AIS and True are acceptable. The requirements also include obtaining documentation from the telecom provider for bank activities, highlighting the importance of using local services over third-party eSIM providers.
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Mick *****
Mick *****
I'm with true postpaid linked to my passport - esim or nano-sim is up to you.
Ian ********
Ian ********
Does immigration check your phone number?
John **********
John **********
The Thai SIM is not for immigration it's for access to the banking app so you can use your account, QR codes to pay, etc
Bob **********
Bob **********
You can get an eSIM from a cell provider here no problem it’s still registered to your passport you’ll need a letter from them to open a bank account
Donald **********
Donald **********
Thailand has indeed moved into the modern world and it is possible to obtain an e-sim when using a Thai phone company to provide you with the Thai phone number that the bank require. If you already have a physical sim card with a Thai phone company and require or want it to be an e-sim, they can convert it for you.
Charlie *********
Charlie *********
You can get an eSIM via the local phone companies, which is the best idea. The third party middle-man providers aren't really worth it, particularly if you're staying longer term, as they have higher prices. Not sure why you wouldn't go with the local companies such as AIS or DTAC/True, etc. They have kiosks at the airport, and stores in the shopping malls and such (Heck, AIS even has a customer lounge if you're Serenade level, with tons of little perks and benefits)
Mat *********
Mat *********
You can get an ESIM from any Thai provider. I use the one from DTac (now True)
Kevin *******
Kevin *******
You need a receipt from the network provider with your name on it as proof of payment and also Internet direct to the Thai phone to use the bank app , the bank app will not download via WiFi 👍😎✌
Phil ******
Phil ******
@ there is no difference between an eSim or a Sim. Go for a 90-day AIS unlimited data one.
Lynnette *******
Lynnette *******
If you're living in Thailand as a retiremee, just get a Thai sim.
Marianne ********
Marianne ********
eSIM is just a non-physical SIM-card.

You can get eSIMs from the local Thai providers like AIS and True.

But if you mean the eSIM providers like Airalo, Saily and all of those... as long as the number is Thai it probably shouldn't matter?
Brandon ************
Brandon ************
@Marianne *******
not sure they'd work for the bank since some want a piece of paper from the carrier showing your name is registered to that number, and I don't think the big online e-sim providers do that.
Charlie *********
Charlie *********
@Brandon ***********
Yeah, that's another reason why it's not really the best idea to go through the 3rd party esim providers. Just get one thru the local phone companies
Marianne ********
Marianne ********
@Brandon ***********
Really?

Never had to give that to Kasikorn when opening my bank accounts, 2 different branches.

Might be something new-ish after I opened my last accounts last year, I suppose.

Good to know, though!
Donald **********
Donald **********
Marianne Holmen I recently opened a savings account with SCB (April) and their requirement was that I provide proof from my phone company (True/DTAC) that my phone number was indeed registered against my passport. I had to go, mid appointment, to an adjacent True/DTAC shop and obtain this verification.

Incidentally I had obtained this phone number (contract) specifically to open this particular bank account and it was indeed an e-sim I requested and obtained!
Brandon ************
Brandon ************
@Marianne *******
Yes, it's new. Those were some of the things required when Bangkok Bank froze thousands of accounts earlier this year. You wouldn't get them unfrozen without this.
Brandon ************
Brandon ************
You need a Thai phone number registered in your name with your passport number. Regular sim or e-sim doesn't matter.

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