Do I Need to Have 20,000 Baht in Cash Upon Arriving in Thailand on a Tourist Visa?

Question

Hi
I keep reading on here about having 20,000 baht or equivalent on arrival in cash.  I've never been asked in four visits.  Have I just been lucky?
I'm coming back on a tourist visa soon.  It's not a problem for me to have the cash but I don't usually carry that much around for obvious security reasons.  Would immigration accept a balance on my phone app, along with a couple of credit cards, or do they really want cash?
I have my return ticket on my phone, and my hotel booking in Bangkok.  Should I print those out?
The UK. Gov site gives the proof of funds requirement as 10,000 baht??
Thanks for your help.
Olly Curtis

Ask Thailand · Answer

The conversation revolves around the requirement for travelers to have a minimum of 20,000 baht in cash when entering Thailand. Many participants agree that, despite personal experiences of not being asked for cash, it is better to be prepared as immigration can request proof of funds upon arrival. The consensus is that cash is necessary, as presenting funds on a banking app or credit cards may not be accepted. Additionally, while different sources may state varying amounts (like 10,000 baht according to the UK government site), most users emphasize that the real requirement is 20,000 baht in cash.

Tod ********* · Answer

okay, we're done. Thanx all

Tony ******** · Answer

It must be cash! Period!

Tod ********* · Answer

[mention redacted], There is no "consensus" :O

The fact is IF you are asked for proof of funds when stamping into the country you show CASH.

There is no option to show a bank account, AND you have the cash on you, because there are no ATM's air side <- (before you to thru passport control) at the airports.

Olly ******** · Answer

Thanks every body.  It seems like the consensus is cash then.

Frederick ********* · Answer

I have a one year extension of stay, but always spend a few weeks every year back home in England. Does this 20k rule apply to me when I return to Thailand, or is it just people traveling on a tourist visa.

Greg ****** · Answer

20,000 baht isn't much money for us Westerners.  I wouldn't worry about "Obvious Security reasons" as nobody will know how much cash you are carrying.

If you are that worried about it carry multiple wallets or a money belt to hold your money.

Paul ********* · Answer

But it’s always better to have and not need.....

Paul ********* · Answer

If you do not have an extensive history of back to back visa exempt and tourist visas then you’ll probably not be asked.

Tomas ******** · Answer

In general no problem for normal people, it's just a tool to targeting border jumpers on visa exemptions....whit correct visa for long stayers or expats, and real turists arrives on visa exemptions no worries.

Álvaro ********** · Answer

If the law says "money in cash" it doesn't mean "cash, well, or any other thing you want".

It's only cash. Period.

James ******** · Answer

20,000 Thai baht in CASH or equivalent. FORGET THE 10,000 Thb ...When Immigration asks its 20,000.

Do I Need to Have 20,000 Baht in Cash Upon Arriving in Thailand on a Tourist Visa?

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