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

Why can't I get a TIN taxpayer number in Thailand until after the tax year ends?

Jul 1, 2025
13 days ago
Christopher **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I went to Thai Revenue department (Chalong) earlier with all the correct paperwork and they told me I couldn't get a TIN taxpayer number until after the tax year has ended. Is this normal? (doesn't sound like a smart way of doing things)

Edit: Sounds like it's just another case of ineptitude and I wont be able to sort this out at the office. Does anyone know an agent that will get me a TIN now for a decent price?

Edit 2: Went again armed with a wall of pre translated text from my accountant everything everything, and despite this I had to spend a whole hour repeatedly schooling them on the law, accounting and the revenue code, with them accepting my arguments each time and then changing the subject and perpetually and erroneously inventing new things I'd need to get the TIN, and after an hour of debunking and debating with 4 staff they just went right back to the start as if we hadn't spoken yet, and at that point I had to just throw in the towel because it was obvious that we weren't going to get anywhere. The principal lady that dealt with me was incredibly smug and rude and childish, and it was very obvious that she simply didn't want me to succeed.. the problem wasn't my paperwork, logic or position; it was her/what she represented. Politeness got me nowhere.
919
views
2
likes
23
all likes
11
replies
0
images
7
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user shares their frustrating experience trying to obtain a Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN) from the Thai Revenue Department, encountering various challenges and miscommunication. Despite presenting correct paperwork, the department stated that the TIN could only be issued after the end of the tax year, which the user finds illogical. They recount having to educate the staff about the legal requirements and facing rude behavior from an employee. Other commenters express their support and share similar encounters with the Thai bureaucracy.
Biff *******
It's not ineptitude, it's 'go away we don't want to do it'.
Andy ************
Are you working in Thailand? Perhaps your employer can assist?
Dnatjugweme ************
Typical. One is supposed to deposit funds in a Thai bank for non-imm extensions, yet they make it difficult for you to open a Thai bank account. One is supposed to file returns, yet the revenue service will give you various reasons for not issuing a TIN.
Anonymous ******************
@Dnatjugweme ***********
Non-immigrant visas CAN open a bank account. Why would anyone WANT a tax ID?
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous participant 608 I think brokerages want a tax residency and TIN to let you open account. Correct me if I’m wrong.
Dnatjugweme ************
Participant anonyme 608 Can, but believe me, it's not as easy as it sounds and one often has to visit several branches to be able to open one.

One usually wants a TIN when they have assessable income and are a Thai tax resident as per Thai tax law.
Pete *******
No this is incorrect. You are legally obligated to get a TIN within 60 days of receiving assessable income. Nothing to do with the tax year.
Christopher **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Pete ******
That's what I read too.... there's no getting through to the revenue department... I've been in a few times for a few reasons and they don't have a clue. What can I do though .... I'm restricted to my local department, and they say no. The only way around it is perhaps hire an accountant to get it sorted (which i know is about 350USD)
Kool *******
@Christopher *********
take the hint. You don't pay taxes on a tourist visa, no matter how long you are here.
Pete *******
@Kool ******
incorrect.
Andi ***********
Others have been told also they can not have a TIN.