Answered4 years ago
What are the requirements for opening a bank account in Thailand as an expat?
Went in bank of bkk said I need something off embassy and have have years visa before I can open an account she look like she make this crap up as we went . Any ideas thanks
Answer summary
The process of opening a bank account in Thailand can vary significantly between branches and depends largely on individual bank policies. A common requirement is a residency certificate from immigration or your embassy. Some branches, like Bangkok Bank, may accept a 12-month lease agreement. However, experiences differ, with many expats suggesting that outcomes depend on the specific branch, the day, and even the attitude of the bank staff. It's recommended to try various branches and consider joining local expat groups for specific advice on where to successfully open an account.
26 repliesnewest first
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Darren *********
Go to a different branch.
Peter *******
Try another branch, I opened an account in March in Pattaya all I needed was my passport
George *********
OP@Peter ******
whitch bank was it PeterPeter *******
@George ********
Bangkok bank opposite Hungry Hippo Soi Buakhao although had to buy their insurance 🤷♂️🤷♂️George *********
OP@Peter ******
I never new their 1 their I not notice it beforeJohn-Paul ******
As for a "certified letter from your embassy".... never heard that one before. As per their requirements is your passport, your visa, residency slip from Thai Immigration.
Stuart *********
@John-Paul *****
They do exist. Some will charge for the service. In some places like Bangkok it may be your only option because the immigration office there won’t issue a residency certificate if you’ve not done a 90 day report - which you can’t do if you’re not on a long term visa.George *********
OP@Stuart ********
try another bank today I did not get in the door as not ware maskStuart *********
@George ********
join a local Facebook group in the area where you are and ask there what branch others have had any joy at.John-Paul ******
@Stuart ********
well I do my 90 day report and been here 12 years. Also i am. US Consulate Consulate Liaison and when i asked them.... they had no udea why they should be asked to certify my residence here in Kingdom. But hay.... who knows. Never had a problem with what i have always had getting driver's license.... tax folks.... etc.John-Paul ******
Funny that... Bangkok Bank is typically easy to open an account with. Remember that this is Thailand and as with everything else like this it depends on who, when, where, what day of the week it is and whether or not they had a bad breakfast. Try again... just wait a day
Brad **********
Yes she was 😉
Neil *********
People are right they do tend to make it up in each branch. Go to the Bangkok bank in Silom complex
Yes you will need your passport certified by your embassy.
Then you’ll be fine
Yes you will need your passport certified by your embassy.
Then you’ll be fine
Chris *********************
A lot must have changed 12 year ago I went into green bank with the wife showed passport job done in half hour
Jonas *************
Bangkok bank is the only secure card, butt you need to follow their rules. It's on their website
You might get lucky one other places, but it didn't work for many.
You might get lucky one other places, but it didn't work for many.
Bobby ********
Bangkok Bank are ok with a 12-month lease depending on the branch. Try a couple
Stuart *********
They’re asking for a residency certificate from immigration or your embassy. Not uncommon. Where are you located?
Shane *****
@Stuart ********
you need an affidavit notarized at the embassy. you fill it out. it just has to say your name, passport number, and you Thai address.
Dave *********
@Shane ****
As Stuart says residency certificate. Get it from immigration. Don't get it at the UK Embassy they charge about £50! Immigration in Korat issue residency certificates for free with a 7 day turn around, fee and turnaround may vary from office to office. The paperwork at Korat was a bit of a faff, but if you want a bank account that's how it is...George *********
OP@Shane ****
I don't have any of that sounds lot hard work to open a bank account
Thai ******
@George ********
maybe but its possible to do yourself if you have the time and patience and save yourself some cashGeorge *********
OP@Thai *****
mite be worth paying agent first time then do it myself after thatThai ******
@George ********
unfortunately if that's what they want then that's what your need. Maybe a load of crap to you, but if you want to open a bank account U will need the crap. Every bank or branch will have different requirements, keep trying other banks or branches until U are happy with the crap you need to open a bank account here in Thailand. Other option is to pay a agent to help you, but that will cost you.
Duncan *******
@Shane ****
or a residency certificate as Stuart states.Shane *****
@Duncan ******
probably. I didn’t need that. I just integrated the address I’m at into the affidavit. Worked fine for Bangkok bankActivity
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