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Do liquid assets need to be in a checking or savings account for visa applications in Thailand?

Jul 1, 2025
13 days ago
Michael ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I’m a bit confused as far as what type of accounts the “liquid” assets need to be in. Most of my money is an Individual brokerage account with Schwab which I can easily access and transfer from same day as long as it’s not a weekend. Do I need to make sure I have the 500k in a checking or savings account with my bank instead or should this be fine?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion clarifies that for visa applications in Thailand, the required liquid assets should be in a checking or savings account, not in a brokerage account. Community members emphasize that the funds must be easily accessible in Thailand, which is why traditional bank accounts are preferred. Additionally, it is suggested to transfer the funds into a savings or checking account as soon as possible and maintain the balance there for a sufficient duration to demonstrate stability.
Dave ********
They wanna see your bank balance, so checking or savings account. Depending on where you apply, it might also need to have been there for a while.
Bradley ********
Charles shawb offeres a checking account and all your international and domestic atm fees are reimbursed at the end of each month with a statement credit. Just a FYI.
Fitfac *****************
saving and checking account only, the brokerage account doesnt count.

We suggest you transfer the fund right away and let it sit still in saving or checking account as long as possible
Michael ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Fitfac ****************
so I’m planning on going to Thailand in the middle of September does that mean I should wait longer to apply?
Fitfac *****************
We think you can try applying in the U.S., but you should include a cover letter on the front page of your financial documents explaining your situation.

It should cover the following points:

1. Your total assets, worth approximately XXX USD, are held in a brokerage account.

2. The funds come from your previous jobs and investments.

3. You have decided to apply for the DTV visa and have transferred a portion of your funds to this account.

If you apply in the U.S., the embassy staff will likely be familiar with Schwab brokerage accounts, which may increase your chances of approval.

There is still a risk of rejection, but the most you would lose is the 10,000 THB visa fee. If you’re approved, you’ll save yourself a lot of hassle compared to applying in a neighboring country of Thailand.

If you plan to visit thailand in mid of september, you should apply for dtv around mid august.
Michael ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Fitfac ****************
wow great advise I appreciate the help! Thank you so much!
James ********
@Fitfac ****************
wise advice ✅
Neil *********
Someone made a comment on another thread. They just want to see that the balance is easily accessed in thailand - hence the savings / checking act essentially proves this.