What issues can expats face with Thai bank accounts, especially regarding large money transfers?

May 29, 2023
2 years ago
Stanley *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Has anyone had any trouble with their Thai bank account locking them out of their account or freezing their account? The reason why I ask is I might need to do a big money transfer from China/Canada.
944
views
1
likes
18
all likes
11
replies
0
images
9
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
This discussion addresses the concerns about Thai bank accounts being locked or frozen, especially with large money transfers from China or Canada. Many users report having no problems with their Thai banks, including those who have been expats for years. However, some mention that significant transfers may prompt questions from the bank regarding the source of funds, particularly if one holds a Smart S Visa. Additionally, it is highlighted that while foreigners can purchase condos in Thailand, they cannot own land, which is relevant for any financial transactions connected to property. The conversation also touches upon challenges faced when transferring money out of China.
Evelyne **********************
Does owning a condo facilitate opening a bank account? Tia
Paul *******
@Cassandra *****
any foreigner can purchase a condo in Thailand. No visa allows you to purchase land in Thailand. Not a SMART visa, not a retirement or work visa. None. Under BOI rules, a foreign company can technically own the land your investment sits on, but it doesn't belong to you as an individual. Only ever to a company.
Cassandra ******
@Paul ******
condo every body knew it that anybody can buy condo. Land property for business purposes is different.
Terry ********
It’s notoriously difficult for a foreigner to send money out of China. I speak from experience. But since I lived in Guangzhou, I used to make regular trips down to Hong Kong where you can send or receive money extremely easily and the transaction is usually completed within 1-2 hours
Todd *********
It appears that the need for a photograph to be on file at your bank is becoming a requirement for certain transactions.
Cassandra ******
They will never question you if you have Smart S Visa, as smart s visa allowed to buy property here and if the bank saw that you are Smart S visa holder they will not question your incoming money transaction because they knew that you are Start up entrepreneur here, I had smart visa that's why I knew it.
Todd *********
@Cassandra *****
there is no allowance to purchase property as a foreigner with Smart Visa
A*
she's a he and quite smart at promoting smart visa 'services'
Mark ********
Just send it via my Thai account....
Brown ********
Nope. I spend 3-4 months a year outside Thailand and never had an issue
Michael ********
Never had problems like that and had bank account since 1988. My friend was questioned once when doing a big transfer in and they just phoned asked what money is for (building house) and that was it.
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