thailand
Ask question

Do you need to buy a new phone when moving to Thailand, or can you use a local SIM card?

SIM cards in ThailandMoving to ThailandPhone options for expatsUnlocked phonesInternational SIM useCommunication in Thailand5G network Thailand
May 23, 2024
8 months ago
Steven *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
When moving to Thialand. Do we have buy a new phone or do they have sim cards to use there????
8,528
views
79
likes
207
all likes
19
replies
0
images
15
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
When moving to Thailand, you can use local SIM cards if your phone is unlocked. If your phone is locked to a network, you may need to unlock it or buy a new phone. Most modern phones are compatible with Thai networks, including 5G.
Josh ****
If your phone was provided as part of a plan with a carrier for a fixed term it will be locked and unable to use local SIM cards. If the contract is finished you can call to ask them if it's unlocked. It's a simple process. Thailand uses the same SIM cards and esims as most of the world.
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Lyndon ************
American?
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Andre *********
They sim’s AIS best
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Rod *******
N!&&@ please
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Steven *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Rod ******
 always one dumb azzz blocked
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Steven *******
Reply
Joseph *********
Thailand has no communication infrastructure.
8 months ago
Like
Reply
David ***************
It’s been a while since I brought a phone from the US, but here’s two thing to consider, is your phone unlocked from your US carrier (ATT, Sprint, T Mobile) and is it CDMA or GSM?
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Sel *****
Where is this country located?
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Wayne ******
They only use 2 cans and a string
8 months ago
Like
Reply
ธารา ********
Why would you consider moving to a country before you know if they have SIM cards there?
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Chris ******
@Chana *******
 thats why hes asking 🤮
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Steven *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Chana *******
 that is reasons for the questions duhhjh
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Steven *******
Reply
Roman **********
Yea probably, they don't use tin cans and string like in US. Only a world class 5G network
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Steven *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Roman *********
 blocked
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Steven *******
Reply
Paul ********
This is a troll account they have been posting nonsense all week
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Steven *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Paul *******
 no sir if you see I have been asking questions to know before we move. If you look at our account we travel alot ND have never been to thialand. So if you don't like us block us as I will you
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Steven *******
Reply
Declan **********
If your phone isn't internationally unlocked, you will need to get it internationally unlocked (what I did, was about 20$, online, took 2 mins just had to plug my phone into a computer) or you can buy a new phone
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Declan **********
**************************
(the site I used 3 years ago, maybe cost more now)
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Declan **********
Reply
Khun ***************
Thailand has sim cards. If your phone is locked to a network you may need to get it unlocked or get a new phone.
8 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Khun ***************
Reply
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
Do I need a Thai ID number to get a SIM card as a DTV visa holder in Thailand?
20 comments
4 months ago
What are the best phone service options for expats in Thailand?
61 comments
5 months ago
Will a local SIM card work for tourists in Thailand instead of a tourist SIM card?
34 comments
6 months ago
What is the best SIM configuration for expats in Thailand: e-SIM, physical SIM, or both?
36 comments
8 months ago
Can I buy a SIM card online for my phone in Thailand?
23 comments
9 months ago
What are the best phone service options for expats visiting Thailand for two weeks?
18 comments
10 months ago
What do I need to know about getting a SIM card for my iPhone 13 in Thailand?
7 comments
10 months ago
Can I use an eSIM with a phone that has only one SIM card slot in Thailand?
22 comments
a year ago
Is it cheaper to buy a second-hand iPhone in the UK or in Thailand?
108 comments
a year ago
What are the best options for unlimited high-speed 5G SIM cards in Thailand for expats?
29 comments
a year ago
Should I buy a new phone in Jomtien or unlock my current phone for a Thai SIM card?
19 comments
2 years ago
Can I use a SIM card in a locked iPhone 13 while living in Chiang Mai?
33 comments
2 years ago
Is it possible to port an Indian SIM card to a Thai network?
11 comments
2 years ago
What are the best SIM card options for a two-month stay in Thailand?
15 comments
2 years ago
What is the best cellular plan for staying in Thailand for 1-2 months?
11 comments
2 years ago
What Should I Do About Cell Service When Moving to Thailand From the US?
27 comments
2 years ago
What is the best SIM card for phone use in Phuket?
10 comments
3 years ago
Can I use my company phone for a local SIM card in Thailand, or does it have to be unlocked?
47 comments
3 years ago
What are the best mobile options and SIM card plans for short-term stays in Thailand?
10 comments
3 years ago
What is the cheapest phone service in Thailand and where can I obtain it?
10 comments
3 years ago
What are the options for internet access in Thailand if my iPhone is not paid off?
50 comments
3 years ago
What is the best SIM card for four weeks in Thailand with Internet included?
6 comments
3 years ago
What is the best Thai SIM card for expats on holiday that offers good data for apps like WhatsApp?
25 comments
4 years ago
What is the easiest and cheapest way to get a phone working in Thailand for a month?
40 comments
4 years ago
How can I get a local Thai cell phone number while living in the US to receive international calls and texts?
20 comments
4 years ago
Data protection policyTerms and conditionsDisclaimerPrivacy policyRefund policy
The asq:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.