Excuse me: I always read (or maybe I missed the other topics) about problems involving Bangkok Bank. But what about other banks? Has anyone had their account frozen? With which bank? Thanks.
1,933
views
4
likes
49
all likes
20
replies
1
images
11
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation revolves around the tightening banking regulations in Thailand affecting expats, especially regarding account freezes and the types of visas accepted for account openings. Participants discuss experiences with various banks like Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn, and SCB, noting that while account freezes have been mostly attributed to Bangkok Bank, other banks are also implementing transaction limits and rigorous KYC processes. The consensus indicates a shift away from accepting accounts for tourist or DTV visas, with recommendations for expats to have alternative plans.
I just opened a bank account 2 weeks ago with SCB with a student Visa ( language school) at least that’s still possible
Colin ********
Yes SCB is, also freezing accounts.
Andrew *********
Other banks you have had to go in and do facial recognition, update details and phone numbers. But not closed due to the type of visa you are on. Transactions limited to 50k per day.
The simple matter is other banks stopped opening accounts on tourist visas etc several years ago and only accepted work permits or retirement visas. Maybe marriage visas.
Bangkok Bank kept opening on tourist visas and doing banking money through agents for retirement etc visas. Unsurprisingly they attracted all the criminal element. Now they've got to do something about it.
No one is opening accounts for DTV. BKK Bank is the one closing accounts for now. But was also the main one opening for DTVs and tourists exemptions... Thailand is tightening banking rules fast (KYC, CRS, etc.), and people are betting on what they can’t control. Don’t rely on keeping a Thai account under DTV unless it was opened years ago under the right visa without an agent and even then, no guarantees. Play it safe and have a plan B instead of trusting random advice.
Benjamin *********
Same. Too many agents corrupted bank agents and now banks are cleaning.
Fact is no bank open any account for tourist ou dtv visa
Zakhar ***********
Other banks don’t freeze accounts yet, but do limit transactions to 50K per day. Multiple occasions with Kasikorn and SCB.
Pete *******
All Thai banks have been asked to tighten their KYC requirements for new account openings. It is not limited to Bangkok Bank.
any Thai bank will freeze an account if they cannot fulfill their KYC procedures. Most recently there has been a clampdown on the phone number associated with the account not matching the bank details.
Reply to
Pete *******
Reply
Sean *******
Only BB because 1000s have been opened illegally by agents paying bribes.