ask
Search
Ask
Answereda year ago

What are the current banking options for expats in Thailand without a valid ATM card?

Anonymous *************
asked Oct 14, 2025
2.7k
views
15
replies
11
likes
Maybe everyone already knows this but I’m currently in the “bank situation” with a bangkok bank account I’ve had for ages. But now I Dtv I’m paranoid so today I went in with my drivers license. That was a no go. They needed passport to “check visa”. I then discovered you can withdrawal on the banking app at the ATMs. Again you guys may know this, but you just use the cardless withdrawal and then go to the atm and scan the code from the atm screen onto the app. Idk how long I’ll get by like this but I’ll take it however long it is.
Answer summary
The discussion revolves around the banking challenges faced by expats in Thailand, particularly with Bangkok Bank. Users share their experiences with cardless ATM withdrawals, which allow them to access funds without a physical card. Many indicate the necessity of a passport for banking transactions and express concerns about account freezing. Some suggest that digital banking can be a convenient alternative but highlight limitations on additional banking services. Overall, the conversation sheds light on the reliance on technology for banking amid visa uncertainties.
15 repliesnewest first
14

Click comment and we will ask for your email, then OTP, then name.

Wannikea *********
Wannikea *********
It's no surprise that you can't do anything without a passport at the bank
Marc ********
Marc ********
They would probably not have closed the account if you are on "wrong" visa. They will just not unfreeze it if it will get frozen I guess
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
The issue I have is changing my number, my BKk app is on my old phone and needs an update.. it’s hanging on by a thread, luckily I lost my card right before all this bs started happening and so it’s got like longer left than my DTV, but even so, massively sucks! Why don’t they bring the atm fee down or make it easier for non-Thai to bank in country.
DTV ******
DTV ******
That may work for withdrawing money, sure, but you probably won’t be able to add more money, or do any kind of transfers / scans to others. 
Greg *********
Greg *********
Good if your in Bangkok for the ATM that is card less
Pui *****
Pui *****
I think most people routinely use cardless ATM nowadays and don't carry their ATM cards if they even still have one. If the account is frozen, the cardless ATM also won't work.
Derek *****
Derek *****
My card expired a year ago, so I’ve just been using cardless ATM ever since. If your banking app is working but ur ATM is gone, just live without a card and go digital.
Paul *******
Paul *******
@Derek ****
Eventually, cards will be eliminated altogether anyway (not that I agree with that) but still, that's the trend. Same as passports...hence why they're beginning with things like e-visas, no longer stamping passports, e-gates and QR codes instead of passports (for Malaysian/Singapore citizens at their shared land border for instance).
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
I have scb and they dont give me any issues I opened it on a student visa by myself without an agent. Maybe thats why
Robin *********
Robin *********
Anonymer Teilnehmer 578 it's only BKK up until now, might change in the future though
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
@Robin ********
seems anyone who used an agent has a problem i did it alone and my number is verified as well as facial recognition
David *****
David *****
are you saying we can still withdraw funds from an ATM even after our account has been frozen by bangkok bank? that’ll save me a trip to pattaya if i can just withdraw the funds from an ATM in BKK.
Brandon ************
Brandon ************
@David ****
No. He's saying he doesn't want to do anything at the bank that has them check his passport so his account isn't closed. The account has not been frozen.
Paul *******
Paul *******
@David ****
No, he's saying there is no need for the ATM/debit card....you can let it expire if you wish.

In other words...stay under the radar, ignore any requests to get your ATM/debit card renewed (or if you're on another visa, do it BEFORE moving onto the DTV) that way you have 5 years to worry about it!
J **************
J **************
Not long

Activity

14 joined
Anonymous *************
Anonymous *************
Anonymous *************
Anonymous *************
Anonymous *************
Anonymous *************
14
people
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
...members
Member 1
Member 2
Member 3
Member 4
Member 5
Member 6
Member 7
Member 8

Related

25
What are the experiences of expats in Thailand with different banks for visa-related financial services?
3.8k22693mo
How long does it take to regain access to a frozen Bangkok Bank account after providing required documents?
2.6k27163mo
How to get proof of International Money Transfer for Visa Extensions in Thailand?
1.4k1386mo
Which bank should I choose to open an account in Bangkok with a NON-O Visa?
2.1k13299mo
What are the current requirements for Face Scan updates at SCB Bank for DTV Visa holders?
2.2k15231y
What are the issues with transferring money from Wise to Bangkok Bank and other Thai banks?
9.3k65761y
What should I do if my Bangkok Bank account is being closed due to my DTV visa status?
8.2k65481y
Will Bangkok Bank be closing all foreign accounts linked to tourist visas?
8.2k52871y
Why is my Bangkok Bank account locked and how long will it take to unlock it?
9.5k461761y
Why is my Bangkok Bank account locked and when will it be unlocked?
5.4k38631y
What should I do about the secondary savings account that Bangkok Bank wants me to open?
8.5k551251y
What happens if I cannot present my documents to Bangkok Bank within the 30-day notification period?
7.5k65631y
Why did Bangkok Bank lock my account without notice?
15.2k1411091y
Have recent DTV holders experienced bank account closures at Bangkok Bank?
2.2k15201y
What is the experience of transferring funds to Thailand for long-term stay purposes and how does it relate to immigration requirements?
6.3k43891y
How can I restore access to my Bangkok Bank account without a long-term visa?
3.2k23191y
Why was my Bangkok Bank account frozen, and how can I unfreeze it as a DTV visa holder?
11.3k731311y
Is Bangkok Bank freezing foreign accounts affecting Retirement Visa holders?
8.1k62831y
Where can I successfully open a bank account with a DTV visa in Thailand?
5.9k58351y
What should I do if Bangkok Bank requests a passport certification letter from the US Embassy to open my account with a Non-O visa?
16.5k1261942y
Which is better for transferring money in Thailand, Revolut or Wise?
7.1k48372y
What are the best options for opening a bank account in Chiang Rai as a Non-B visa holder?
6.3k61262y
Can you open a Thai bank account on a visa exemption and what documents are needed?
2.9k27133y
What are the advantages of Bangkok Bank over Krungsri for non-residents and long-term visa holders?
2.2k1584y
Why do some Bangkok Bank branches refuse to provide account statements while others do?
8.8k601214y

Resources

Need help with your Thai visa?