Is it advisable for expats to open a joint or separate bank account in Thailand when moving with a partner?

Question

Joint bank account, looking to move to Thailand this summer with my partner, can't we get a joint account and move the 1.6m thb in or is it better to have 2 separate accounts?

Ask Thailand · Answer

When considering banking options for moving to Thailand, it's generally recommended for expats to open separate bank accounts instead of a joint account. This is because joint accounts can complicate visa processes, as applications often require you to show twice the required amount since funds are split. Moreover, joint accounts are not common in Thai banking culture, making transactions and banking processes more complex, especially if the partners are not married. Having separate accounts allows for easier access in emergencies and streamlines handling financial matters. Additionally, in some cases, banks may not easily accommodate joint account arrangements, especially for non-married couples.

Michael ******* · Answer

Pain in the butt we made that mistake and we both had to be at the bank to do anything and online banking was impossible - we switched away from Bkk Bank and opened individual accounts at SCB which also pay 2,5% interest and we can bank on line - never looked back 👍

John ********* · Answer

Joint accounts are not part of Thai culture. Easier to understand and conform to Thai culture rather than attempting to make Thailand conform to you.

Taz ********** · Answer

If your concern is either partner accessing the money in case of emergency

I suggest seperate accounts but organise for each partner to be a signature in each other’s account

This is possible but will depend on the banks decision to do it

Mel ****** · Answer

Also more than likely, you will need to have separate accounts. Also if you are not married, it might be difficult to be beneficiaries on each other’s account is my guess. At my bank, I tried to list a cousin as my beneficiary and they were very confused so I am not sure how they will handle a partner.

Xr *** · Answer

Although marijuana is legal in Thailand now, I'm pretty sure the banks only hold cash in their accounts,  not joints....

Paul ******** · Answer

Aside from what's required by the specific letter of the law, joint bank accounts just aren't a thing here like some places in the west.

IMHO, that's a very good thing.

Danny ******* · Answer

Two accounts is what my immigration office wants.

Stuart ********* · Answer

Some offices will accept a joint bank account for whatever reason you are getting an extension. However if they do you have to have double the amount needed as 50% is yours and 50% is theirs.

Probably way easier to have separate accounts and just avoid the hassle.

Is it advisable for expats to open a joint or separate bank account in Thailand when moving with a partner?

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