Asked by someone moving next month
“Can I open a Thai bank account as a foreigner?”
My answerShane Ruddle, 20+ years in PattayaYes, but it's much harder than it used to be. You basically have to prove you live here, not that you're a tourist.
Since the crackdown on scam centres, banks want something like a long lease with a certificate of residence, or a work permit. Even then it's at the bank's discretion and the rules differ from bank to bank.
Bangkok Bank used to be the most foreigner-friendly, but it's now one of the strictest in my experience. I'd try Kasikorn (KBank) first.
Once you have an account, almost everywhere takes QR payments through PromptPay, with no fees.
Up to date as of November 2026. Rules in Thailand change often, so check the current position before you act.
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