The main reason why it has become more difficult to open a new bank account. https://www.facebook.com/100064875510284/posts/1231849388987567/?

Answereda year ago

Why has it become more difficult to open a new bank account in Thailand recently?

Banking Regulations Thailand Royal Decree Financial Fraud Prevention Expat Banking Visa and Immigration Issues

Chris *****

asked Aug 8, 2025

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The main reason why it has become more difficult to open a new bank account.

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Answer summary

Opening a new bank account in Thailand has become more challenging due to a recent Royal Decree aimed at preventing financial fraud. The decree, enacted in 2025, holds banks accountable for failing to prevent fraudulent transactions, leading them to take fewer risks. This regulatory shift has made banks more stringent in their account opening processes, particularly for expats, who may face additional hurdles due to their status.

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Nancy ******

Thanks for this. Always someone to stuff things up for others.

a year ago

Stephen ********

@Nancy *****

a year ago

Andrew ********

Makes sense, they made these changes just after I arrived would be helpful to have a bank account makes moving money alot easier that way less fees associated with it

a year ago

Max *************

@Andrew *******

The requirements when opening a bank account haven't actually changed that much It's just about the correct visa and proof of residence via for example the certificate of residence from immigration. There are always minor differences in requirements between banks.When I renewed my Fixed Deposit Account at Bangkok Bank in March, customer service at my branch asked if I had an ID-card. Yes,a digital one, I answered and lo and behold, she said,yes that works. I opened the ID-app and showed her how I logged in via fingerprint and she took a photo of the ID. Done. Sometimes you get surprised in a positive way. I wonder what they will come up with next time I go there. 😎

a year ago

Andrew ********

@Max ************

yes I have all that i did qualify in my student visa but its not a university school the ed visa is 1 year up to 3. They did open accounts with that till may.

I have resident certificate with thai license ( 2yr ) and letter from school as well

a year ago

Bobby *********

Yup

a year ago

Brandon ************

It might be a contributing factor, but THIS is the reason it has become more difficult.

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"In April 2025, Thailand made a bold regulatory move by passing the Royal Decree on Measures for the Prevention and Suppression of Technology Crimes (No. 2) B.E. 2568 (2025). Supported by the Bank of Thailand (BOT), this legislation holds financial institutions accountable for failing to prevent fraud—even in cases where the victim seemingly authorized the transaction under false pretenses."

Thai banks are no longer willing to take ANY risk at all, as they are now liable for any fraud. It all comes down to them not wanting to lose a single cent.

a year ago

Maxim ***********

@Brandon ***********

The reality is that some rich Chinese got scammed. They were with Bangkok Bank. It made waves and the pressure got to Bangkok Bank to crackdown. It's been repackaged to save face, so the article is correct about what happened. That's why it's only a new Bangkok Bank policy, and not the other Banks. Bangkok Bank cave in. Such scams are going on with every bank, and for many many years, but this time rich Chinese got scammed so finally one bank felt the pressure to do something about it.

a year ago

Marty *********

@Maxim **********

Bangkok Bank still in the dark ages. Having to get a 12 month statement (in CM for visa renewal) that takes a week and can only come from Bangkok is just one of many gripes I have with them.

a year ago