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What should I do to update my Thai banking app after getting a new phone and renewing my passport while on a DTV?
Thai BankingVisa RulesDTV VisaBanking AppAccount VerificationExpat Life in ThailandMobile Banking IssuesPassport RenewalBank Branch VisitBank Regulations
Jan 13, 2026
4 months ago
Jason *****
ORIGINAL POSTERBought a new phone and when I try to sigin in to Thai banking app, it says i need to go to branch to verify. (Opened my account in 2022 on tourist visa)
Now I'm on a DTV, and my passport also got renewed. (Have both old and new passport)
Do I take the risk and visit a branch? Has anyone went through something similar after purchasing a new phone?
I can still sign on my old phone... at least i can use it to trasfer money and use ATM when needed... wont be carrying around the old phone just to QR pay...
Now I'm on a DTV, and my passport also got renewed. (Have both old and new passport)
Do I take the risk and visit a branch? Has anyone went through something similar after purchasing a new phone?
I can still sign on my old phone... at least i can use it to trasfer money and use ATM when needed... wont be carrying around the old phone just to QR pay...
TLDR : Answer Summary
After purchasing a new phone and going through a passport renewal, many expats face challenges accessing their Thai banking apps. As outlined by community interactions, users often must visit their bank branches to verify identity and associate their accounts with new devices. Comments highlight varying experiences, with some banks requiring a branch visit while others might allow updates through ATM or customer service. Concerns about account stability for those on a Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) are also prevalent, as this visa may put bank accounts at risk of closure. Overall, prepare for a likely branch visit with both passports and account documents to resolve the app access issue.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the DTV 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.
Pelle Eriksson★★★★★
Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...recently on Facebook
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I used this agency for my DTV Visa...recently on Google
Trusted DTV Visa Agent
OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED
#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND
Jukka ***********
Just made today.
SCB: perfect service. Took less than 10 minutes.
Bangkok Bank: catastrophe. Two branches, still not completeted. Face recognition doesn't work. They suggested I should SHAVE my mustache. I have never in my life experienced something like this.
The story goes on tomorrow.
You need confirmation about the old passport, or if you have it, take with you.
Visa must be transferred to the new passport at immigration.
SCB: perfect service. Took less than 10 minutes.
Bangkok Bank: catastrophe. Two branches, still not completeted. Face recognition doesn't work. They suggested I should SHAVE my mustache. I have never in my life experienced something like this.
The story goes on tomorrow.
You need confirmation about the old passport, or if you have it, take with you.
Visa must be transferred to the new passport at immigration.
Heinz ***********
Yes, your account could be shut down because you don’t meet the requirements anymore. Also the app might be blocked at some point.
Mario *******
Just go to any branch and fill out the paperwork. I just did this and it's easy peezy.
Derek ********
Yes the wife had a similar issue with her banking app when I got her the new i phone 17 pro and transfered all the stuff over from her 13 pro the lady at the bank was wonderful in sorting it for her
Robert ********
Where the money comes out throw phone in there the ATM Will fix it 😂🤣
Pinky *****************
@Jason ****
-Go to ur network provider and get letter of verification for ur Thai number.-Your bank book
-old & new passport
-Your new phone
Take em docs to ur bank and it shall be fixed.
Nicole *************
Allways go to bank. Tke also old pasport with you
James ******
Yes. New phone. You need to go to your bank and set up.
Not a problem. Just a safe guard
Not a problem. Just a safe guard
Jang ********
Oh, and bring your old passport too. At least my BB requested that. Or let's say that specific clerk wanted it, but probably she didn't want to get bothered, while watching Soaps on her mobile.
John ***********
Bank 100 %
Michael ***********
Your app needs to be verified & linked to your account. Only the bank can do that. Not a big deal
Dave *******
The number the bank have must be registered as proof its your and mustbbe a Thai number, every bank the same.
You cannot get a bank account anymore on a tourist visa, this is to ensure that non residents of Thailand cannot access thai banks remotely.
If your new phone number is thai you phone or go into their shop, they will text you a official ceryificate that it is registered to you, print and take with passport to bank.was your account not frozen like most people? Mine was untill i proved i lived here on a long visa and the number is registered.
You cannot get a bank account anymore on a tourist visa, this is to ensure that non residents of Thailand cannot access thai banks remotely.
If your new phone number is thai you phone or go into their shop, they will text you a official ceryificate that it is registered to you, print and take with passport to bank.was your account not frozen like most people? Mine was untill i proved i lived here on a long visa and the number is registered.
Mark *******
Sign out of the app on old phone and then you can sign into the new phone.
Alex ************
U gotta setup new phone on the atm
Haga ******
SEE YOU THAILAND
Ah *****
Normal
Richard *****
If you go to branch on a DTV visa your account will be closed
Buy *********
Take out your money atm immediately
Just in ads the freeze your money
It happens to a lot
Just in ads the freeze your money
It happens to a lot
John *******
Can you not keep the old number ??
Thomas *********
John Moore yes, but a new phone is from the App recognized. It run only at one phone.
John *******
Thomas Weisser yes l realised that after posting, it questions a new phone and you must confirm it's yours 😉
Thomas *********
John Moore the old one after stop to work as well. Kasikorn works well, Krungthai take one day after register. Bangkok Bank made me busy with not well educated staff. But the contact center of them fixed it at the end.
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Thomas *********
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Greer ******
Well if and when you do go, be prepared to spend a couple of hours with them - Bangkok Bank is crap when it comes to paperwork.
Cliff *********
The safest thing to do is continue to use the old phone and banking app.
Why risk losing everything?
Why risk losing everything?
Rousel *****
You need to visit the branch, keep your detais upto date as the bank can close your account, especially if your old passport expires soon
สมองควาย ******
I did exactly this. Opened Bangkok Bank account on long term visa several years ago. Switched to DTV. Bought new phone and got the same message. I went to the Bangkok Bank office at Emporium and they looked at my passport and updated their system. Didn’t verify visa or ask any other questions. Account is working just fine now. All good.
Alan **********
Did you not smart transfer the apps
James ********
Alan Turnbull I did, it didn't make any difference, still had to go to the bank
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James ********
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James ********
I have lived in Thailand for 10 years now and had exactly the same situation. New safety measures have been introduced at all banks. You MUST go into a bank and set up facial recognition. Even on the old app your transfers and payments will be limited if you dont
Richard *****
I had to renew my banking app bangkok bank because of new passport and also had to go ais shop to verify phone number signed about 30 forms but all ok now
Anthony ******************
Yes i had similar issues. Just sorted it out today . They cpuld adopt a better on line verification syste. Which bank you with. Once i was ib the office my bank was very helpful. They use a much more secure otp verification system. It is linked to the phobe. Lose pbone connectivity it needs resetting. Change or update your passport same issue verifixation can only be actioned inside the branch.
Ajay ****
When you buy a new phone you must login to every Thai Banking App and check the conditions in settings for new phone or migration of device. Each of them have some settings to take care of and if thats done then the sync is smooth. Kbank doesnt have and issue but all others do. This is quite annoying coz there are a million ways to secure new login and new device. Imagine someone did that in between travels when esp they loose their phone
Paul ******
DTV cannot have Thai Banking now, lots of people having their accounts cancelled.
Anthony ******
I changed my sim took 2 years for the app to realise then had to go bangkok bank to reactivate took about 20 mins to sort out at the bank and phone was working within 2 hours.
Used my ais bill to activate the new sim at bank and my blue book.
Used my ais bill to activate the new sim at bank and my blue book.
Adam ********
I had the same issue just before xmas with BKK bank. Account was 12 years old. I couldnt transfer app from old phone as passport on account had expired. Also now on a DTV. No issue in bank. Just bank book and new passport, details updated on account and working straight away again.
Adrian *******
I had similar with Bangkok Bank. If you have a new passport you’ll have to register it with your Thai phone company and get a letter confirming your phone number, all doable on the phone company app.
Then take both passports the phone number conformation letter and your bank book to any branch.
Be aware that not all branches will do this! I got lucky with my second branch attempt, it had very helpful staff. I only took my new phone but may be helpful to take both.
Then take both passports the phone number conformation letter and your bank book to any branch.
Be aware that not all branches will do this! I got lucky with my second branch attempt, it had very helpful staff. I only took my new phone but may be helpful to take both.
David *******
Adrian Brown u need passport Id and visa, and three signed forms to take a pee !
David *******
Adrian Brown BKB the best for bending the rules. But the worst for everything else.
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David *******
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Kenneth *********
Done it recently with SCB. No issues. Switched devices. Went in, outside my home area, done.
Bjørn **********
Always have to be set up by your bank
Patrice *********
I received the same message from Kasikorn Bank; it was about installing facial recognition. I had to go to a branch with my passport and bank card. It takes a little while.
John-Paul ******
Your new phone has a new serial number that gets attached to bank account. You have to go into bank to get account registered with new phone. Pain? Yes. But there you go.
Robert *****
Yes put your sim back in your old phone and it will still work
John ********
I recently changed my phone. Went into branch with passport 10 minutes all done no problem.
Anonymous ******************
Welcome to Thailand. 2026
Jonah ************
Don’t risk they will close your account 
Wen ***************
Had this in November last year.
It happened to me because I opened the account on tourist visa and Bangkok has new regulations that force them to freeze all accounts which aren’t open on regular visa like non-o.
It happened to me because I opened the account on tourist visa and Bangkok has new regulations that force them to freeze all accounts which aren’t open on regular visa like non-o.
Anonymous ******************
Don't ask don't tell .. keep laundring 💪
Aake **********
I moved my Bangkok Bank app to a new phone 3 weeks ago. Easy to do in the app, just follow the instructions, take a photo of your face, passport and bankbook
Simon *********
I had same problem.Tried everything . Then I downloaded the app on another branded phone and it works . So maybe your phone is not compatible with their app. Likewise with many thai apps.
Shisko ***********
Yep did mine to
Misha *******
My gf had this exact same issue (new phone, new passport) and went in to her bank yesterday and was able to get it set up no problem. My guess is it depends a bit on the bank and who you deal with though
Wayne *******
@Misha ******
depends on the visa now if she’s on a tourist visa she’s very, very lucky, If you opened a Thai bank account with a qualifying visa (such as a work or retirement visa) and then switched to a Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), the bank account may still work for a time, but it is at significant risk of being frozen or closed. Banks have tightened policies and the DTV is generally classified as a tourist visa, which is now largely ineligible for banking services in Thailand.
Thai banks, under the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) and in an effort to combat fraud and money laundering, are scrutinizing accounts held by foreigners. They may eventually identify accounts where the associated visa status is no longer a long-term, bank-friendly one.
Official Policy: Most major banks, including Kasikorn, Krungthai, TMBThanachart (TTB), and SCB, have official policies against opening or maintaining accounts for holders of the DTV and other tourist visas.
Varied Enforcement: Enforcement can vary by branch and individual bank officer. Some people have their accounts remain open for months or longer, while others face immediate closure. However, relying on this is a risk.
Ivan *********
@Misha ******
what kind of visa did she have when went to bank?Misha *******
Ivan Samarin DTV. Had a work permit when she got the account. They didn’t ask her about her visa at all
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Misha *******
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Jazmine **************
That’s me! Just make sure you have the same phone number with your new phone. I was able to convert the physical sim to an eSIM with AIS at their branch in Central World. If you need to register a new phone number, they will ask for more documentation.
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Jazmine **************
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Bruce ********
Kasikorn does a facial recognition scan and set up the app for me
True also gave me a certificate to prove my name is connected to my phone number for the ultra paranoid.
True also gave me a certificate to prove my name is connected to my phone number for the ultra paranoid.
Ady *******
I did mine last year at k bank and while there updated my account details all ok
Hardy ******
Yes u must as it binds with IMEI of phone
Stirland **********
I had to go in to my KTB bank with passport and work permit . They said I can’t use my app or unlock it without showing both !!! Had it since 2006, they had me full out forms , read chip on my passport , photocopied work permit visa and scanned face . It was unbelievable.
Wayne *******
Stirland Bradburn thank you Stirland you are explaining the process and I agree especially with Bangkok bank who take forever I had to notify the banks of a passport number change.
Bangkok bank shocking process and time taken and my other banks around 30 minutes even that was too long.
But having someone explaining all the facts others just believe they know and get it in their mind all is okay are they in for a shock.
But well explained
Bangkok bank shocking process and time taken and my other banks around 30 minutes even that was too long.
But having someone explaining all the facts others just believe they know and get it in their mind all is okay are they in for a shock.
But well explained
Stirland **********
Wayne Lucas unfortunately I think owning a bank account is only going to get worse .
I did ask what happens if you lock my app and I no longer have a work permit , she replied “ then you can’t use it u less you have a valid visa to be here “ !!!
Also if it locks up when I’m abroad only way to unlock it will be on returning to the bank here can’t be done remotely .
I did ask what happens if you lock my app and I no longer have a work permit , she replied “ then you can’t use it u less you have a valid visa to be here “ !!!
Also if it locks up when I’m abroad only way to unlock it will be on returning to the bank here can’t be done remotely .
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Stirland **********
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Mick *******
Go into the Bank, the branch you opened the account in, if possible, that always makes it a bit easier. If you don’t speak Thai, I would strongly recommend that you bring a Thai speaker with you.
Your only possible snag would be if you are a US citizen due to America’s taxation policy regarding overseas citizens.
If you’re not from the US, it’s just a simple update of information.
I’m with Bangkok Bank and have an account for over 6 years. Never had an issue with them at all.
Your only possible snag would be if you are a US citizen due to America’s taxation policy regarding overseas citizens.
If you’re not from the US, it’s just a simple update of information.
I’m with Bangkok Bank and have an account for over 6 years. Never had an issue with them at all.
Daniel ******
The last time I got a new phone I had the same problem, with BKK Bank, and went to the branch but they quickly walked me outside to the ATM and showed me how to do it on my own (though I forget how). So you can probably do it at the ATM.
Colin *******
Its detecting a new device . Thats all
Keuliseutopeo *****************
Sk
Johnny *************
Use your old phone friend. That’s the one way they can get you. If you opened your account on a tourist visa (not a work permit) they can close your account at any time. No use risking it. I won’t be changing my phone as I opened on work permit and now have a dtv
Simon *******
Be carefull bangkokup bank are still closing bank account without notification don't leave too much money in it.
Good ********
I think the problem is that you have never scanned your face at the bank counters, that is norm now both for security reasons and new requirements. Usually you need to set it up at a branch when you change to a new phone.
Robert *****
Good Choice face scan is required for transactions over the 50K default daily limit, nothing to do with this guy's problem.
Good ********
Robert Ott I also had a new mobile and I needed to go to the bank to activate my account, in fact both banks that I have
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Good ********
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Jeffrey *****
It’s normal practice. Just visit your bank with the normal documents. They just want to ensure it’s really you logging in with a new device. Fraud prevention. Don’t frown, but appreciate their care for your money.
Cilene ******
Try to call your bank, they helped me few times when I needed to contact the Customer service 🙌🏻.
Louise *****************
Because you change mobilephone. Go to the bank with the phone and passport and they will make a new registration.
Steve ********
Louise Mikaela Berner they won't. Because he's not holding a proper Visa to have a Thai bank account. As soon as he is showing his passport to the bank employee they will freeze the account.
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Steve ********
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J*
Risk ?
Rob *********
Did it last week after switching to a new phone, Kasikorn and Bangkok Bank, no problem.
Rikki *********
Yes I’ve had to this with Khrungthai
David *****
You can update your new phone using your bank card at an ATM.
AJ ************
That's because you have to unregister the app on the old phone, and register it on the new one with the current updates on your status.
Maurizio *********
You’re really overthinking it 🙂
This has nothing to do with any visa, nor with the actuall crackdown.
You opened the account with your old passport, and now either the passport number changed or the expiry date passed (or both). When that happens, Thai banks automatically restrict app functions because the ID on file is no longer valid. The visa type is irrelevant. Once the bank account is opened, it’s opened. What matters for KYC is only that your ID details are valid.
It’s just a routine KYC update. Go to the branch with:
- your new passport
- the old passport if you still have it
- your bank book / card
They’ll update the passport number and new expiry date in their system, change your physical card (if expired), and everything goes back to normal. This happens all the time, nothing suspicious, nothing special 😄
BTW, a device change has nothing to do with KYC.
In most cases you can transfer the banking app from one phone to another. Sometimes the bank just asks you to confirm it at one of their ATMs with your card.
This has nothing to do with any visa, nor with the actuall crackdown.
You opened the account with your old passport, and now either the passport number changed or the expiry date passed (or both). When that happens, Thai banks automatically restrict app functions because the ID on file is no longer valid. The visa type is irrelevant. Once the bank account is opened, it’s opened. What matters for KYC is only that your ID details are valid.
It’s just a routine KYC update. Go to the branch with:
- your new passport
- the old passport if you still have it
- your bank book / card
They’ll update the passport number and new expiry date in their system, change your physical card (if expired), and everything goes back to normal. This happens all the time, nothing suspicious, nothing special 😄
BTW, a device change has nothing to do with KYC.
In most cases you can transfer the banking app from one phone to another. Sometimes the bank just asks you to confirm it at one of their ATMs with your card.
Bill *******
@Maurizio ********
I believe this info to be 100% correct. Based on my experience with Bangkok Bank in both circumstances described here: expired passport on file, and current ID but new phone.Reply to
Bill *******
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Daniel ***********
I dont think you are allowed a bank ac on dtv so the switch of visa type might be why the bank says no
Johnny *************
@Daniel **********
this is bkk bank app. They do this on any device switchReply to
Johnny *************
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Brian *******
You have to go to a bank to get the app added to a new phone, I've done it previously. Take your passport
Taka ********
GSB? Foreigners can't install and activate anymore (but can keep using old app).
Demet *********
A few days before leaving Switzerland, I started using my new phone and arrived in Thailand. E-banking and everything else didn't work. I contacted my bank directly, and it was a bit difficult via mail/online, but it worked out in the end. My country, Switzerland, is very careful and disciplined in this regard. It is particularly cautious about certain countries.
Should contact with your bank “ I guess “
Should contact with your bank “ I guess “
Jari *******
NO! You need a new code to enable app in your new phone!!! BKK bank ATM will give it to you. At least 2 years ago it was easiest choice.
Hans-Joerg ************
normal, you transferred your visa to new passport I guess?
Jari *******
An one possible way is to go BKK bank atm and use it to get a new code to enable new phone. It worked couple years ago, so you might to check it.
Chawb ********
Yeah, visiting the bank sounds risky.😐
Natt ***********
Cousin at said kthe bank app is specific to the SIM card/ phone number and name of the bank account owner and the name used to register the phoneee
Anonymous ******************
It appears you are signed into Bangkok Bank. My first advice would be to transfer all your money out of this bank into another Thai bank. However, if you don't have that option take your passport and do the face scan. They only cared about the phone number being the same at K Bank because call centre scams use different numbers.
Yorky ******
You need to update your bank account make sure you go to the same branch you opened the account with your passport both of them
Eric ***********
Does not surprise me. Be happy with this security check on the physical phone. Normally you should receive an sms to your registered phone number
Jason *******
You definitely have to go to the bank
Stu *******
Passport, bankbook, debit card. Simply say you need to register the bank app. The girl swiftly took my phone and did everything for me. Facial scan, signed my passport and visa copy, the bank document and on my way.
Steve ********
Stu McKay are you on a DTV? Fact is, that Bangkok Bank is freezing accounts opened on tourist visa or DTV. So they did with mine.
If he goes to the branch it is very likely that his account got immediately frozen since he's not holding the correct type of Visa.
If he goes to the branch it is very likely that his account got immediately frozen since he's not holding the correct type of Visa.
Maurizio *********
Steve Wigdel, that’s still an overgeneralization. There is no blanket policy at Bangkok Bank (or other Thai banks) to automatically freeze accounts simply because someone is on a tourist visa or DTV, nor are accounts frozen just by visiting a branch.
What has changed is much stricter KYC/AML enforcement. In the past year especially, banks have flagged and reviewed many accounts due to scam-related activity, mule-account crackdowns, crypto-related transactions, and unclear or suspicious overseas transfers.
When an account is flagged, it can be temporarily restricted while documentation is reviewed.
Visa type is only one factor among many. Account history, transaction patterns, source of funds, and the customer’s ability to clearly explain usage matter far more. Branch discretion and staff interpretation also vary widely, which is where most of the confusion comes from.
Long-term visas (marriage, retirement, work) are obviously lower risk, but there is no automatic “tourist/DTV = frozen accou
What has changed is much stricter KYC/AML enforcement. In the past year especially, banks have flagged and reviewed many accounts due to scam-related activity, mule-account crackdowns, crypto-related transactions, and unclear or suspicious overseas transfers.
When an account is flagged, it can be temporarily restricted while documentation is reviewed.
Visa type is only one factor among many. Account history, transaction patterns, source of funds, and the customer’s ability to clearly explain usage matter far more. Branch discretion and staff interpretation also vary widely, which is where most of the confusion comes from.
Long-term visas (marriage, retirement, work) are obviously lower risk, but there is no automatic “tourist/DTV = frozen accou
สมองควาย ******
Steve Wigdel not necessarily, went through this myself. They didn’t ask about current visa status.
Stu *******
Steve Wigdel Ooops! You are correct I have marriage and now retirement in my passport. Same bank and address for years. You are absolutely correct they most likely will push his passport back and say cannot, visa is not correct for bank requirements. I will delete my reply.
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Stu *******
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Andy ****
Yes
ILovekfc *********
I heard Reddit stories that if you have a DTV visa they gonna close your account it’s a new rule bc people Chinese and etc abusing the system and Student visa you need to university to open account
Greg *********
I also had this when changed phone. You will need to go in to Bangkok Bank to set up face verification. Also ensure the mobile number tied to your account is in your name.
Craig *********
why do people need new phones ?
Samm *****
My phone is 5 years old and is getting creaky. I am reading this thread with interest.
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Samm *****
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Marco *****************
How is going to the branch a risk?
Woodrow *******************
@Marco ****************
because now you cannot open or operate a Thai bank account on a tourist visa and the bank may very well freeze the bank account. The banks are going though their account holders but there are thousandsWayne *******
@Marco ****************
depends what visa you are on that’s the risk if the account was opened on a tourist type visa they may close the accountPhillip ******
@Marco ****************
because you aren't entitled to a bank account on a DTV.Marco *****************
Sheesh
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Marco *****************
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Thomas *********
I did the change with Bangkok Bank and new iPhone some time ago. I do not remember exactly how it worked but I did the change here in Germany so no bank involved. However I only changed the phone not the SIM/number. I had face recognition already activated.
I asked google and this is what was proposed. Maybe worth a try:
If you have the same phone number:
Download the app: Install the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app on your new phone.
Log in: Use your existing details (account number, citizen ID, or debit card number) and authenticate with your face scan and your current Mobile PIN.
If you have issues: If the face scan fails or you've never used facial recognition, you'll need to visit a branch.
I asked google and this is what was proposed. Maybe worth a try:
If you have the same phone number:
Download the app: Install the Bangkok Bank Mobile Banking app on your new phone.
Log in: Use your existing details (account number, citizen ID, or debit card number) and authenticate with your face scan and your current Mobile PIN.
If you have issues: If the face scan fails or you've never used facial recognition, you'll need to visit a branch.
Thomas *********
@Jason ****
did you use the old passport number that is registered with the bank?Jason *****
ORIGINAL POSTER@Thomas ********
i get the above screen straight after submitting account number and passport numberSteve *********
@Jason ****
you will need to put your old passport number in as that is what they have registered. Do not use new changed passport number.Reply to
Steve *********
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Hai *****
No need to ho down yo the branch..... my new phone could not login although I had downloaded the banking app.
A call to the customer service solved that..... apparently they only allow one device to be linked to the bank account. The CSO deleted my old phone (make, model, & number required) and replaced with it with my new phone. Bank app worked perfectly after that.
A call to the customer service solved that..... apparently they only allow one device to be linked to the bank account. The CSO deleted my old phone (make, model, & number required) and replaced with it with my new phone. Bank app worked perfectly after that.
Alistair **********
Had similar because I used incorrect PIN when in UK. Had to go to AIS (my SIM), get a text receipt, that, and passport to BB, form filling and selfie blinking, smiling and turning head. Job done. I used BB in Central Festival, they know what their doing.
As you already have an account, it should not matter.
As you already have an account, it should not matter.
John ******
I had a similar experience recently after buying a new phone (iPhone 17). It actually depends on the bank and the app.
For banks like UOB and KBank, you usually don’t need to visit the branch—logging out from the app on the old phone and logging in on the new phone works, as long as you remember your username and password.
But for Bangkok Bank, SCB, or Krungsri, you generally need to register the new device again. In most cases, that means visiting a branch to verify and activate the new phone.
So yes, some banks will require a branch visit, while others won’t—it really depends on the bank’s policy.
For banks like UOB and KBank, you usually don’t need to visit the branch—logging out from the app on the old phone and logging in on the new phone works, as long as you remember your username and password.
But for Bangkok Bank, SCB, or Krungsri, you generally need to register the new device again. In most cases, that means visiting a branch to verify and activate the new phone.
So yes, some banks will require a branch visit, while others won’t—it really depends on the bank’s policy.
@Jason ****
Ash***
@John *****
this is correct at least I can guarantee this for Krungsri. I've tried every which way and for a simple phone change you need to go in. Nothing you can do even though the app says you can change, you certainly cannot. Now I had to go in three times for me and others.J.P. *********
Sounds risky on a DTV to visit the branch. From what I have heard from many on this page, some banks if they see the visa status is DTV, they have instructions to close the account.
Wayne *******
@J.P. ********
JP you are correct. I went to update my passport number to a new number and they made a point about the visa type they even asked me and confirmed it in the passport.
All the banks are listed Even ICBC has the same policy.
There are some certain transactions that the bank asks for your passport and now theres an extra reason they know that you told them what visa you are on but they check the passport and photo copy it as well.
Official Policy: Most major banks, including Kasikorn, Krungthai, TMBThanachart (TTB), and SCB, have official policies against opening or maintaining accounts for holders of the DTV and other tourist visas.
Varied Enforcement: Enforcement can vary by branch and individual bank officer. Some people have their accounts remain open for months or longer, while others face immediate closure. However, relying on this is a risk.
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Wayne *******
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Yvor ***********
@John *****
je suis à la Bangkok bank, je n'ai pas eu besoin de me déplacer j'ai tout fait moi même.John ******
As I mentioned earlier, for some banking apps, changing to a new phone still allows you to log in as long as the phone number remains the same.
However, if it’s a new phone with a new number, you will need to visit the bank with your bank book and password to complete the verification.
However, if it’s a new phone with a new number, you will need to visit the bank with your bank book and password to complete the verification.
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John ******
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David *******
@John *****
is it new number also tbough?John ******
In my case, it was only a new phone, not a new number.
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John ******
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Ho ****
Don't go bank .. you can more in trouble.. my suggestion to you just use old mobile
Jason *****
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ho ***
yeah but i'm not going to be carrying around my old phone all the time for promptpay...Marc ***********
@Jason ****
Well i do for so for the same reason.Ho ****
@Marc **********
up you man. That's your choiceReply to
Ho ****
Reply
Kyaw *****
u can easily switch to new phone by SMS Code , i also changed to new ph by SMS, i'm also Bangkok Bank User
Jason *****
ORIGINAL POSTER@Kyaw ****
I think my issue is different. something to do with identity updateHamad ********
@Jason ****
yeah new rules they capture bio metrics and face. I think you dont have much of a choice but to risk it and go in for the update, if you want to use the app again.Reply to
Hamad ********
Reply
Charlie ***************
Wow you are on DTV and have a Thai bank account .. I salute you !
Anthony ******
@Charlie **************
why well done i opened mine on just a standard walk in tourist visa.Graham *******
@Charlie **************
It clearly says in his post he opened his account in 2022 before DTV visas even existed.Charlie ***************
Graham Lynch well done 👍
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Charlie ***************
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Anonymous ******************
Pretty sure you have to go to the bank if you get a new phone to set up your App
Thaï *****
Participant anonyme 172 100%
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Thaï *****
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Benjamin *********
Bye bye account
Graham *******
@Benjamin ********
Fear mongering.Reply to
Graham *******
Reply
John **********
I've changed phones a number of times and have always resolved the problem myself. But you do need your original Bangkok Bank customer number to do so, not your account number that won't work
Darren *********
I did the same last week. Went into Kasikorn with new phone, passport and bank book, no questions asked. Had my account about 15 years but now on a DTV.
David *******
@Darren ********
all i had to do was to logon via mobile network connection and not wirelessJason *****
ORIGINAL POSTER@Darren ********
nice! wow 15 years! i'm assuming your passport number change at some point too thenAnonymous ******************
@Ja***
- I was the same as Darren. Old kbank account setup on tourist visa about 2010 I went into branch and updated everything. I had even lost my old bank book as as I never used the account for years. I had no problems updating my account and getting everything active again on my new phone. They just took photocopies of my docs and even setup my app for me on my phone with face scan and everything. The one thing I didn't do was mention DTV visa. I just said I need to update everything as I haven't used the account for a long time and now I wanted to start using it again. No issues , they didn't even ask what visa I was on.
I even got to keep my expired Angry Birds debit card lol. They issued a new one.
Wayne *******
Anonymous participant 317 your statement is questionable no bank accounts will remain open on a DTV visa it’s classed as a tourist visa, and if your passport was produced and the type of visa you are on is a valid visa for a bank account they will not closed it.
What you are stating is exaggerating because even updating the account they ask for your passport and as soon as they see a DTV it’s a tourist visa bank account would be closed immediately this has happened over the last 12 months. Bear in mind the DTV visa used to open a bank account will eventually catch up with holders who opened their back account with it, people have in their mind it’s all good and it’s not.
Even updating your passport number with a new passport if on a DTV or any tourist visa they would close the account.
Just hope your luck holds out because if you think you will continue to get away with it just be prepared for a shock.
Had a friend on a DTV he had his account closed he went to the bank it was reinstated then exactly one month later the account was locked he went to the bank and they tell him no bank account can be held with any tourist visa and the DTV is classed as a tourist visa.closed permanently now.
Your time will come.
What you are stating is exaggerating because even updating the account they ask for your passport and as soon as they see a DTV it’s a tourist visa bank account would be closed immediately this has happened over the last 12 months. Bear in mind the DTV visa used to open a bank account will eventually catch up with holders who opened their back account with it, people have in their mind it’s all good and it’s not.
Even updating your passport number with a new passport if on a DTV or any tourist visa they would close the account.
Just hope your luck holds out because if you think you will continue to get away with it just be prepared for a shock.
Had a friend on a DTV he had his account closed he went to the bank it was reinstated then exactly one month later the account was locked he went to the bank and they tell him no bank account can be held with any tourist visa and the DTV is classed as a tourist visa.closed permanently now.
Your time will come.
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Wayne *******
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David ***********
I got a new phone just before I left Thailand last time, and had to register the new phone with the bank, they looked at my passport, but didn't change the status of my account, even though I had ended my business visa a couple of months earlier and was on exemption (vacation).
But as always, your results may vary.
But as always, your results may vary.
Paul ********
Indeed. You just need to hunt around on the pull down menus at the ATM to Change phone number. Not immediately apparent
Paul ********
Telephone numbers are easily changed thru a ATM. The bank sends a OTP to your new phone which you enter into the ATM. Easily done with Bangkok Bank.
Greg *********
@Paul *******
will try that next time, I submitted my new number 12 mths ago and they still haven’t changed itReply to
Greg *********
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Jason *****
ORIGINAL POSTERThanks for the info. The worry is that I now have a new passport number. So they'll have to update something for sure
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Jason *****
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