What is the best bank to use in Thailand as an expat from USA transferring funds from USA banks? Thank you
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TLDR : Answer Summary
Expatriates from the USA generally recommend Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, and SCB Bank for transferring funds from the U.S. Many users report good experiences with wire transfers using these banks, particularly for larger sums, while apps like Wise and Remitly are favored for smaller transactions. Mixed experiences exist, with some noting changes in Bangkok Bank's policies which have caused them to switch to Kasikorn Bank as a preferred option. Overall, most banks are deemed sufficient for fund transfers, but it's advised to check specific requirements like the frozen funds needed for visa purposes.
I’m happy with Krungthai. But most will work, it doesn’t really matter to be honest, bank is a bank and will accept funds.
Paul ********
Speaking on the basis of my personal experience as an expat here:
Bangkok Bank used to be among the best but a recent flurry of inexplicable policy changes has removed them from my favorites list.
I now recommend Kasikorn as the best choice.
Jay *******
You will get mixed reviews on all, but the big 3 mentioned are probably the best bet. If you are using it to keep the 800k baht for a visa, Bangkok bank requires freezing the 800k for 4 months now. Not sure if the others will follow their lead. I have been using Bangkok Bank without any problems. Don't have personal experience with the others
Robert *********
Western Union is best for transfers, $1.99 charge if using account debit card, $4.99 if transferring direct from account. Debit transfer is instant, from account takes a couple days. Their limit is $30,000usd. Not sure why any bank would put a limit on a deposit.
Gerg **********
I have Bangkok Bank and Kasikorn bank (KBank) accounts, and have no trouble transferring money from the U.S. I use a wire transfer from my U.S. bank using the Thai bank’s SWIFT code for large transfers, and the Wise or Remitly app for smaller transfers.
My credit union doesn’t do wire transfers. My BofA bank doesn’t charge for international wire transfers but I’m sure everyone gets their cut during the currency exchange.
torfx don't charge at all, I've downloaded their app and talked to them, I've asked them about hidden fees and was told they don't charge to transfer any amount, if I transfer from my bank to theirs then they transfer to Thai bank and said it should be in my Thai bank account within a few hours. As I say, I haven't used it yet, but they have great reviews and 91% 5* on trust pilot.
When sending large amounts the fee is actually lower compared to small amounts. It's not linear if you understand what I mean. Again,just compare fees.
well the credit union I am with charges $25 for a wire transfer. Everything else is an unknown. That’s why I asked? I have asked KBank but they won’t give me a definitive answer on a hypothetical $5k transfer. With Wise it’s $37.47 and you get ~161k THB
The fee at KBank when receiving money from abroad via swift is maxed out at 500 baht. The minimum is 200-250 baht, I honestly don't remember the exact amount. There's no receiving fee for transfers via Wise.
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Max *************
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Kool *******
Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, and SCB bank, are the best, as they allow personal transfers over bt50,000.