This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

What is the current status of Bangkok Bank accounts for expats on tourist visas?

Jun 5, 2025
2 days ago
Cliff *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Bangkok Bank update:

I have had this account for several years, initially opened on a tourist visa.

Because of all the confusion about accounts getting closed I visited the local branch today for peace of mind.

They said no problem with older accounts.

For these they look at cash flow to prevent money laundering…Large amount of money in and then out again.

Regular monthly deposits and bills paid online are normal and proper use of the account.

They are contacting people by email if there account issues.

USA passport on DTV visa. Account in Chiang Mai. 5 June 2025.

I hope this helps…..I was really freaked out with all the news of BB accounts getting closed.
5,031
views
71
likes
131
all likes
28
replies
1
images
24
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion revolves around the status of Bangkok Bank accounts, particularly for expats who opened accounts on tourist visas. Many users have reported that older accounts are still safe and functioning, with no issues as long as account holders maintain regular cash flow and comply with bank requirements. However, new accounts for individuals on tourist visas are not being opened due to stricter regulations. Concerns about account closures have been raised but users share experiences of positive interactions with the bank, including recent confirmations that no problems were encountered after updating their personal information.
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.
Cris ******
Yep. Was told almost the same thing
Ling *****
Same here, one of my accounts is 13 years old and the Bangkok bank one is 20+ years old. No issues, no messages regarding this, nothing blocked and all good.
Alan *****
Thanks for this post it’s very helpful

Do you know how old the account has to be 🤔
Cliff *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Alan ****
no…..
Fish **********
I open my Bangkok bank account on a tourist visa about 2 years ago in Pattaya. Have also updated my registered sim number to my account. No issue with the bank account so far.
Greg *********
I was just in a branch a few weeks ago. Other than my signature not matching perfectly, there were no issues.
Matt ********
Matt ********
Thanks can confirm that
David **********
Thanks for the info.

That was my sense.
Robert *********
Same here. Went to Bangkok Bank in Chiang Mai yesterday (4 June) to update my passport info and ask about whether there is a risk of the account being closed, as I had opened the account on a tourist visa exemption in 2023. I was told I don't need to worry and everything is fine. However, new accounts would not be opened due to new rules.
Dave *******
Thank you for this update, just about all the other reports are YouTubers stirring up paranoia in the pursuit of content.
Jim ***********
Opened years ago on TR visa. Sent a big chunk over recently and will be buying gold with funds. See how goes
Jude ****************
@Jim **********
buy bitcoin
Jim ***********
@Jude ***************
prefer physically holding what I own .
Marcel ***********
Well I open my account in January in pattaya on tourist exempt and Monday I deposit money went home and it was frozen went back to bank brought all my stuff within hours my account was good again
Douglas *********
I had the same experience at Bangkok Bank with a 7 year old account. Went in just to check, they said not to worry. I opened the account on a tourist visa, but am now on a Non-O marriage extension.
Adam *********
Definitely not contacting by email they closed mine without warning and had to go to original branch. All fixed now tho
Cliff *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Adam ********
this is what I was told Thursday at the bank.

I went there because most of my time is spent outside of Thailand.
Brandon ************
@Adam ********
Then they didn't close your account. They just froze it pending further information.
Jordan *****
@Adam ********
They completely dropped the ball with the accounts used by criminals and in their panic they blocked honest clients accounts invoking some imaginary rules like people whose visa expired and now are seeking new status are not allowed bank accounts.
Nathan *******
Finally some honest feedback about the issue

I opened my account on a tourist visa and have regularly used the account for the past 6 years

They just updated my details and no issues no problems at all

Too many keyboard warriors spreading fear
Benny ********
@Nathan ******
If you didn't open the account at Bangkok Bank in Pattaya recently of course it have nothing to do with you, why would you think other wise, pretty clearly stated what branch & why police where targeting it & who would have their accounts closed
Nathan *******
@Benny *******
my account was opened in buriram 6 years ago before covid

If you update your information when the bank asks you and you actually use your account they have no problems

It’s a shame there is so much false information on facebook

All Bangkok bank wants is stricter security for account holders to prevent fraud and they are just doing what they are legally required to do
Ant ******
Don't panic
Steven *********
Good post 🙏🏻
Rodrigo *********
Old account with this case has no issues, but anyone can’t open new account with the same case and normal use , right?
Benjamin *********
Pete *******
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