A Guide to Opening a Bank Account in Thailand: Recommended Banks for Foreigners and How to Open an Account at Bangkok Bank
When you move to Thailand, one of the first things you’ll need to do is open a local bank account. For foreigners, having a bank account in Thailand is essential for smooth financial transactions and making everyday life more convenient. In this article, we’ll introduce several banks where foreigners can easily open an account and provide a detailed guide on how to open an account at Bangkok Bank. We’ll also highlight the Japan Desk at Bangkok Bank, which offers specialized services for Japanese residents.
目次
1. Major Banks in Thailand
Thailand is home to numerous banks, each offering unique services. Below is a list of the major banks widely used across the country:
- Bangkok Bank
- Krungsri Bank
- Kasikorn Bank
- Krungthai Bank
- Government Savings Bank
- Siam Commercial Bank
- TMBThanachart Bank (ttb)
- United Overseas Bank (UOB)
These banks have branches in both urban and rural areas of Thailand, with each offering services tailored to the needs of foreigners.
2. Banks Frequently Used by Japanese Residents
Certain banks are particularly popular among Japanese expatriates and long-term residents in Thailand. These banks offer extensive support and services for Japanese customers, making them a preferred choice. The following banks are commonly used by Japanese residents:
- Bangkok Bank
- Krungsri Bank
- Kasikorn Bank
These banks often have branches with Japanese-speaking staff, making them especially convenient for those new to living in Thailand.
3. Recommended Banks for Foreigners
3.1 Bangkok Bank
Bangkok Bank is one of the largest commercial banks in Thailand and is highly accessible to foreigners. With numerous branches, particularly in Bangkok, the bank offers great convenience. The bank also provides specialized services for Japanese customers, including the Japan Desk, which will be discussed later.
3.2 Kasikorn Bank
Kasikorn Bank is well-known for its user-friendly online banking and mobile apps. The bank offers English-language support through its apps and has many English-speaking staff at its branches, making it a popular choice among foreigners. Additionally, the account opening process is relatively straightforward, requiring minimal documentation.
3.3 Siam Commercial Bank
Siam Commercial Bank is widely spread across Thailand, with many branches concentrated in Bangkok. The account opening process is smooth, and the bank provides extensive support for foreigners. The bank’s credit cards are also highly convenient for use within Thailand.
4. How to Open a Bank Account at Bangkok Bank
Bangkok Bank is a top choice for foreigners looking to open a bank account in Thailand. Below is a detailed guide on the steps required to open an account at Bangkok Bank.
4.1 Required Documents
To open an account at Bangkok Bank, you will need the following documents:
- Passport: Must be valid and not expired.
- Thai Visa: While a non-tourist visa is recommended, it’s possible to open an account with a tourist visa in some cases.
- Proof of Address in Thailand: This can include a rental contract, utility bill, or work permit.
- Phone Number: A local Thai contact number is required.
4.2 Steps to Open an Account
- Visit the Nearest Bangkok Bank Branch Start by visiting the nearest Bangkok Bank branch. Most branches have English-speaking staff, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.
- Request to Open an Account at the Counter Inform the staff at the counter that you wish to open an account and provide the necessary documents. The bank staff will review your documents and proceed with the account opening process on the spot.
- Issuance of Debit Card Once your account is opened, you’ll receive a debit card. In most cases, the card is issued immediately, allowing you to start using it right away.
- Set Up Online Banking You can set up Bangkok Bank’s online banking service at the time of account opening. This service allows you to check your account balance and make transfers 24/7.
5. Bangkok Bank’s Japan Desk and Branch Information
One of the standout services offered by Bangkok Bank is the Japan Desk, a dedicated counter for Japanese expatriates and residents.
5.1 Japan Desk at Silom Head Office
The Silom Head Office of Bangkok Bank is the only branch in Thailand that offers a Japanese-language counter. Conveniently located on Silom Road, just a 3-minute walk from BTS Sala Daeng station, the branch is easily accessible. The Japan Desk is situated on the first floor of the Silom Head Office, within the account opening counter area. To access the Japanese-language services, enter through the main entrance, proceed between the escalators on the left, and take a ticket from the number dispenser at the account opening counter at the end of the hallway.
Japanese-speaking Thai staff are available to assist with account opening and transactions. If you have any questions about the bank’s services, you can inquire in Japanese, ensuring a smooth and worry-free experience.
Silom Head Office Information:
- Address: 333 Silom Road, Bangkok 10500
- Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM (Closed on weekends and Bank of Thailand holidays)
5.2 Tokyo Branch
Bangkok Bank also has a branch in Tokyo. Although new account openings are not available, the Tokyo branch offers the following services:
- Various Deposits (no new account openings)
- Trade Finance
- Foreign Exchange
- Corporate Loans
- Overseas Remittances
Tokyo Branch Information:
- Address: Bangkok Bank Building, 2-8-10 Nishi-Shimbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0003
- Phone: 03-3503-3333
- FAX: 03-3502-6420, 03-3506-8503 (Remittance)
5.3 Osaka Branch
The Osaka Branch offers similar services to the Tokyo Branch. However, it’s important to note that both the Tokyo and Osaka branches cannot handle any transactions related to accounts opened in Thailand.
Osaka Branch Information:
- Address: Bangkok Bank Building, 1-9-16 Kyutaro-machi, Chuo-ku, Osaka 541-0056
- Phone: 06-6263-7100
- FAX: 06-6263-6286, 06-6263-6285 (Remittance)
6. Conclusion
Opening a bank account in Thailand is crucial for establishing a stable life as a foreign resident. By choosing banks like Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn Bank, or Siam Commercial Bank, you can ensure a smooth account opening process. For Japanese residents, the Japan Desk at Bangkok Bank’s Silom Head Office provides an additional layer of comfort, offering Japanese-language support for all your banking needs.
To start your financial journey in Thailand, visit your nearest branch and take advantage of the Japan Desk at Bangkok Bank for a hassle-free account opening experience. This will ensure that you can quickly and easily integrate into your new life in Thailand.
