thailand
Ask question

What are the best options for opening a Thai bank account in Bangkok as an expat?

Thai bank accountBangkokexpatsvisa rulesNON-O visaagentsPattaya
Oct 1, 2024
2 months ago
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello all... I've had a quote from the Bangkok agent UnionSpace to open a Thai bank account, they've said about 28,000 baht lol. I can get this for a fraction of the cost in Pattaya, can anyone recommend a Bangkok based agent to setup an account?

I need my main account setup in Bangkok so Pattaya isn't an option for me...

Many thanks
5,247
views
11
likes
159
all likes
88
replies
1
images
33
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
An expat in Bangkok is seeking recommendations for an agent to help open a Thai bank account, as they have received a high quote from UnionSpace. Several comments highlight the challenges of opening a bank account in Bangkok, particularly with a visa exemption status. Participants in the discussion share various experiences and alternatives, including the possibility of opening accounts through agents in other locations like Pattaya and the costs involved. Some recommend specific agents and point out that while the price for assistance in Bangkok can be exorbitant, there may be more affordable options outside the city.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Khun ******
currently it's nearly impossible to open a bank account. you are lucky if agent can do it for only 28k
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Khun *****
 there are agents in Pattaya that can do it for 5000 baht
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Andy ********
Reply
Don *****
I’m willing to drive to Pattaya to open an account. Any recommendations on how to do it?
a month ago
Like
Reply
Brian ********
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brian *******
 thanks, but that appears to be a Pattaya address
a month ago
Like
Reply
Brian ********
@Andy *******
 my friend used them and it was him who gave me this post
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brian *******
 ah OK thanks, I'll give them a try...
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Andy ********
Reply
Christopher *************
The Thai visa centre
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Christopher ************
 thanks, but still in the 18k baht bracket
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andi ***********
@Andy *******
 You can try going into a Bangkok bank and offering to pay for their insurance to open an account which will be around 5-8KTHB. Agents in Bangkok charge 10K plus. Perfect visa Bangkok may be able to help, i don't know their cost though,
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Andi **********
 thanks for this info....
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Andy ********
Reply
Christopher *************
@Andy *******
 really wow sorry
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Christopher *************
Reply
Tore *********
I just opened one myself in Bangkok based on DTV and medical certificate stating 3-6 months medical treatment.

Actually first branch I tried. I knew in advance the medical route was a possibility though. And its based real treatment

No insurance, 500 to open account, 700 for atm card
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Don *****
@Tore ********
 where
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Don *****
Reply
Vinay ********
Can do it Hua hin for 2,000 on any visa using an agent
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Don *****
@Vinay *******
 do you have any recommendations?
a month ago
Like
Reply
Vinay ********
@Don ****
 yes. This lady has a hotel in Hua hin. Only pay after your account is opened
@https://www.faceboo*******************
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Vinay ********
Reply
Michael *********
I have 2 accounts, 1 in Bangkok, 1 in Samut Prakan, and now I live in Krabi. Never have a problem with cash withdrawals (free), renewing cards, updating personal information, etc
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Kenneth *******
I have 3 accounts with Bangkok Bank, which is paying me to use my money. No fees ever.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Mick ********
I have read many similar posts to this and was wondering if my experience was a one off I recently moved here from UK and needed a bank account Before I traveled I transfered money from UK to my wife's bank account

We went to openan account for me atKBank (that phanom) They looked at my passport, my non o immigration (90day) visa Transfered the money from her account over and that was it 45mins approx I had a bank account with ATM card I would say my wife did all the talking but it was very much a pain free process
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Tony ********
@Mick *******
 non immigration visa's dont have the problem. Tourist and visa exemptions dont fulfil the banking requirements.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Tony ********
Reply
Ian ********
Hi I was quoted 4990 baht to open a bank account in Bangkok, DM me and I will give you the contact details of the agent.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@Ian *******
 hi Ian. I am wanting to open up a bank account too. I’m on a non O that expires in two weeks and hoping to get it done before I leave so I can have the money transferred in when I come back for the retirement extension. Can I get the agents contact info? Thank you.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Ian ********
@Eric *****
 Georg Haeussler

Managing Director

Ubisco Co., Ltd. - My Thai 24

122 Song Prapha Road 1 Yaek 2

Don Muang, Don Muang

Bangkok
*****


Thailand

***********
*****
60, +66-
*****
7164

whatsapp: +66-86-
*****
60

line: @ubisco, georg_ha
***********************
a month ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@Ian *******
 Thank you.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Eric ******
Reply
Ian ********
@Eric *****
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Ian ********
Reply
Tai **********
I’m sure you’re able to change branch once you have a bank, just tell them you moved to Bangkok once you made an account in Pattaya.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Jerald ********
Yes Mr Sing but u get what you pay for think more like 35,000 bhat dont be cheap and regret it ????
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Josh ****
@Jerald *******
 lol.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Josh ****
Reply
Stuart ***********
Why must your account be in Bangkok?

I realise it would be ideal, but 28,000 is ridiculous.

If you open an account in Pattaya, the bank in Bkk can still provide the banking letters for immigration. Also, if you use the cardless withdrawal option on your phone to get cash from the ATM anywhere in Thailand without being charged a fee.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Fasih *******
@Andy *******
 can you suggest a reliable pattaya agent you had experience with?
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Hans-Georg ******
28.000 Baht is a joke!
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Anthony ******************
Just got a letter from Immigration walked I to the Krungsri bank and ope Ed account 200thb
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Michael **********
Cost me 16thousand bht with agent fee and insurance but it was in khon kaen
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Mark ********
I walked into a Krungsri bank and opened one on a T/V. Told them I was buying a condo here and I needed a bank a/c. All done in around 40 minutes. You may have to buy some insurance. I didnt but I have heard of bank staff "suggesting" you buy some...if you know what I mean.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Mark ********
the insurance was only 4 or 5 thousand baht.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Mark ********
Reply
Neale *********
I spoke to a visa agent when I was in Pattaya last time and was quoted 4500 to open a bank account
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Vijay *****
Can a person open a Thai Bank acct on DTV visa?
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Brandon ************
@Vijay ****
 DTV is a tourist visa. It doesn't give you any special ability to open a bank account
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Vijay *****
@Brandon ***********
 ..thanks
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Vijay *****
Reply
Evan *******
@Nova *************************
 they can do it for a fraction of the cost but you need a few docs
2 months ago
Like
Reply
John ********
Go out of the country and get a Non 0 visa
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@John *******
 I'm on a non O now and will leave before it expires in 3 weeks. If im I'm Singapore or the Philippines I can get another Non O visa for my return, or it has to be done in my home country?
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Eric ******
Reply
Chris *******
If you are not in exemption i can recomment a trust agent in BKK
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@Chris ******
 hi Chris. I’m in the same boat as Andy can you recommend an agent? I have a couple weeks left on my Non O. I’d like to go ahead and get it now so I can have the money transferred when I come back and look at getting the retirement extension. and any idea of how much the fee is? Thanks.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Eric *****
 is it possible to come back and get the extension?
a month ago
Like
Reply
Chris *******
@Andy *******
 i have sent dm on messenger, check your message request
a month ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@Chris ******
 I got it. Thanks.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Chris *******
@Andy *******
 please talk to him ..

If you come back before your visa exipre.. yes.. of course

Don't forget to buy a re-entry before to leave..

Without re-entry you lose your visa when come back
a month ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@Chris ******
 I just the Non O, only single entry, so I have to bounce in 2 weeks. I’m hoping to find a way to get a Non O before I return.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Eric ******
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Chris ******
 thanks, unfortunately I will be on exemption, at least until I start getting my non O ready Q1 next year
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Chris *******
@Andy *******
 almost impossible to open a bank account in exemption 😞😞
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Chris ******
 thanks Chris, is it possible with exemption through an agent though?
a month ago
Like
Reply
Chris *******
@Andy *******
 unfortunaltly.. very hard..

I have a friend agent, he tried few weeks ago for a customer but has been rejected by the bank
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Chris *******
Reply
Henrik *****
***********************************************************************************************************************************
*****
9-thailand-to-implement-stringent-compliance-regulations-for-new-bank-accounts?
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Us *****
Why do you need it in Bkk?
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Us ****
 I understand there are charges when withdrawing. Also if I ever need to visit my main branch it's much easier in Bangkok for me
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Us *****
@Andy *******
 use your mobile phone at an atm to withdraw your money and it is free. If you deposit cash into a different branch then they will charge you a small fee. But I use wise to deposit money so it is okay. Worst case scenario, tell the misses you "have to" go to Pattaya to deposit money. You'll have to stay the night too since it is dangerous to go back.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Us ****
 lol great advise thanks... I think my only option is to visit Pattaya... 🙂
a month ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@Andy *******
 hey Andy. what did you ever do about a bank account? I’m in the same boat now and I’m looking at traveling to Pattaya to open one up. Were you able to get it done? Thanks.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Eric *****
 hi, I plan to fly over in November, and it looks like I'll need to go to Pattaya. The team here at one stop visa, quoted 5k baht. They respond quick the first time, but then they don't answer.. Give them a go... Please let me know how you get on.. 🙂
******************************
a month ago
Like
Reply
Eric ******
@Andy *******
 that is the owners of the site? I thought I read someone on here say $2600 or $2900 baht if you already have a Non O, much harder with a TV or exemption. I am confident I could do it with more time. I drug my feet on the retirement extension when the USD nosedived over the past few months. But even getting an account will save on ATM fees. Thanks. I’ll check them out. Someone else on here said the same about them not responding after being good to start. Hmmm.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Eric *****
 yeah the guy at that agent is called Mark Chevalier. Good luck getting it, I'm sure you'll be fine
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Andy ********
Reply
Andy **********
@Andy *******
 cardless out of province ATM withdrawals are free, it's usually around ฿15 if you use the physical card out of province, most people just open an account wherever they can get one, when you get settled somewhere permanently, and your on a long-term visa, you can open another account anywhere yourself.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Frank **********
@Andy *******
 my bank charges ,15 baht for an out of province withdrawal. Not a significant fee.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Andy **********
@Frank *********
 use the cardless withdrawal function in the banking application, for out of province withdrawals it's free, you only get that ฿15 charge if using the physical card.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Frank **********
@Andy *********
 okay thanks for the info.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Frank **********
Reply
Marty *********
@Andy *******
 There are no charges if you use cardless withdrawal at an ATM
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Marty *********
Reply
Gayeeva ******
It’s almost impossible to open a thai bank in Bangkok, that’s why the price is 28k 😃
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Samuel ********
@Gayeeva *****
 March 2023 I opened one in Bangkok pretty much within an hour walk in. Second day being on the ground
a month ago
Like
Reply
Tore *********
@Gayeeva *****
 not really, did it myself on first branch i tried. DTV and medical certificate
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Gayeeva ******
@Tore ********
 send the location then
a month ago
Like
Reply
Tore *********
@Gayeeva *****
 the one closest to Vimut hospital. But according to my thai friend that called around for me, most branches will open account if:

- visa longer than 3 months AND

- medical treatment plan longer than 3 months

Other than that you need work permit/visa, retirement visa, condo ownership etc.

Normal tourist visa isn’t possible.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Gayeeva ******
@Tore ********
 called that branch and they said it’s not possible
a month ago
Like
Reply
Tore *********
@Gayeeva *****
 I don’t know what to tell you then. 🤷🏻‍♂️

I just walked out of there 2 hours ago with account and ATM card i hand.

My thai friend had called another branch few days ago which told her the 3 months + visa requirement and medical 3 months + treatment requirement. But you do need an actual medical treatment plan from a hospital.

Unless you speak fluent thai, calling around wouldn’t be very effective though.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Gayeeva ******
@Tore ********
 🤷‍♀️
a month ago
Like
Reply
Tore *********
@Gayeeva *****
 Unless you speak fluent thai, calling around wouldn’t be very effective though.

Thais do like to get rid of the phone call if their English isn’t great.
a month ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Tore *********
Reply
Michael ********
Not many people can do it in Bangkok, hence the price tag
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Michael Dawson thanks, I'm starting to get the impression this is going to be a challenge... But would be good to get a comparison.. Maybe I'll just try some random agents
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Phil *******
@Andy *******
 may be worth a trip to Pattaya, cost me 5000, back in April, I would guess, that once you have an account, you get it changed to another branch, or area.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Tony *********
@Phil ******
 in Thailand if you open a bank account in a particular branch it will always remain in that branch even if you move to a completely different area. You can change your address with the bank but the account will always stay with the home branch.

In practical terms that means if you move to a different province you will pay a small commission for ATM transactions because your account is still at the home branch and always will be unless you close it and open another account in the different province.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Jon *****
@Tony ********
 I have a Kasikorn Bank account opened in Pattaya and I wasn't charged anything for using Kasikorn's ATMs in Bangkok 🤔
a month ago
Like
Reply
Rene ********
@Tony ********
 right
a month ago
Like
Reply
Andy **********
@Tony ********
 Phil Lewis cardless ATM withdrawals are free for out of Provence withdrawals, you only get the small ATM fee, if you use the physical card, which I personally would rather not do, just in case the ATM swallows the card, and for some reason you can't get it returned.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Tony *********
@Andy *********
 I always use cardless ATM withdrawals now. If you're with Kasikorn you can also use Bangkok Bank ATMs. But it's best to also carry the plastic card as well because you never know, your phone could blow up.
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Phil *******
@Tony ********
 thank you
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Phil *******
Reply
Michael ********
@Andy *******
 siam legal, thai visa centre only two i know that maybe able to assist
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Andy ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Michael *******
 ok cheers, siam legal have said only available in Pattaya, I will try Thai visa centre.. Appreciate your help
2 months ago
Like
Reply
Reply to
Andy ********
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
What are the best banks for expats to open an account in Thailand?
189 comments
a month ago
What are some Bangkok-based agents that can help open a bank account without requiring a trip to Pattaya?
5 comments
2 months ago
What are the best agents to help open a bank account in Phuket, Pattaya, and Hua Hin?
39 comments
2 months ago
What are some recommendations for agents to help open a Thai bank account for expats in Bangkok or Nothaburi?
31 comments
2 months ago
How can I find a reliable agent to help open a bank account in Pattaya?
28 comments
2 months ago
What are the requirements and recommendations for opening a bank account in Thailand as an expat?
28 comments
4 months ago
What agents can help open a bank account in Thailand?
36 comments
5 months ago
How can I open a bank account in Bangkok on a tourist visa?
42 comments
8 months ago
What are the challenges of opening a bank account in Thailand for expats?
36 comments
9 months ago
How can I get a bank account in Pattaya at a reasonable price?
51 comments
9 months ago
How can I open a bank account in Bangkok without a long-term visa?
12 comments
a year ago
How can I open a Thai bank account in Bangkok with a Tourist visa?
15 comments
a year ago
What are some recommended agencies for opening a bank account in Bangkok?
4 comments
a year ago
What are the best options for financial agents to help with banking in Thailand for a 60/90 day TR visa holder?
15 comments
a year ago
How can I open a bank account in Bangkok on a visa exempt entry?
3 comments
a year ago
What are the best agents in Pattaya for opening a bank account on a tourist visa?
10 comments
a year ago
What are trusted agents for bank account setup and visa assistance in central Bangkok?
8 comments
a year ago
What are some options for opening a bank account in Thailand outside of Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn, and Krungsri?
7 comments
a year ago
How can I successfully open a Thai bank account while on a tourist visa?
128 comments
a year ago
Which agents in Pattaya can help open a bank account for someone on a 30-day visa exempt?
9 comments
2 years ago
What are the best options for opening a bank account in Thailand with a non-immigrant B visa?
2 comments
2 years ago
How can I open a bank account in Bangkok without a work permit?
39 comments
2 years ago
Which city is easier for expats to open a bank account on a visa exempt status, Bangkok or Pattaya?
18 comments
3 years ago
What agents or banks can help expats open a bank account in Thailand?
33 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.