This could happen to you.
How to Get Around Thailand’s New Banking Restrictions in 2025
If you’ve been following the news from Thailand recently, you’ll know that banking has suddenly become a major headache—especially for foreigners. New restrictions from the Bank of Thailand are starting to bite, and they’re affecting everyday people who just want to move money around, pay bills, or live normally. I’ve been digging into this topic, and I want to break it down in simple terms so you can understand what’s happening and what you can do to work around the mess.
What’s Happening With Thai Banks Right Now
The Bank of Thailand has introduced new rules on mobile banking transfers. Officially, these changes are meant to crack down on fraud, but the side effects are sweeping:
Transfer limits: Customers are now being split into categories. Some people will only be able to transfer 50,000 baht a day (about £1,100), while others may get 200,000 or slightly more. Anything over 200,000 baht is flagged as “high risk.”
Customer profiling: Every bank customer will be assessed and placed into a risk group—general users, vulnerable customers (under 15 or over 65), or suspected fraudsters. Banks then decide what limits you get.
Face-to-face checks: Some visa holders, especially those on the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), are being told they must show up at banks with passports and immigration documents. In some cases, DTV holders are being denied new accounts entirely.
Why This Is a Big Problem
For everyday life in Thailand, this is disruptive. If you’re retired or living on savings, it suddenly feels like you need permission to use your own money. Business owners and freelancers who need to move larger sums will also feel the squeeze. Foreigners in particular are caught in a bind—especially those on visas not fully recognised by immigration or the banking sector. The net result is:
Less flexibility for normal transactions.
Delays and complications when sending or receiving money.
A chilling effect on tourism and foreign residents who may simply avoid Thai banks altogether.
Workarounds and Practical Tips
While the rules are frustrating, there are ways to adapt:
Use multiple accounts – If your main account is capped, consider opening secondary accounts with different banks (if your visa allows). Splitting funds can help you stay within daily limits.
Plan transfers in advance – Instead of large one-time transfers, break them into smaller amounts across several days to avoid hitting the caps.
Consider international fintech services – Tools like Wise, Revolut, or Western Union can sometimes bypass local restrictions, though fees may vary. Always compare rates.
ATM and card usage – Sometimes using your foreign debit/credit card is simpler than moving large sums into Thai accounts. Yes, the fees sting, but it can be a lifeline.
Keep good records – Banks are profiling customers based on “financial behaviour.” Showing steady, normal transactions (rather than sudden large transfers) may help you avoid being flagged.
Seek local advice – Expats who’ve been in Thailand for years often know the quirks of each bank. Some branches are stricter than others, so talking to people on the ground can save you time.
The Bigger Picture
These banking changes are supposed to stop scams, but in practice, they’re making it harder for people to use their own money. Expats, retirees, and even local Thais are all feeling the impact. If nothing changes, this could end up hurting Thailand’s image as a friendly place to live, work, or invest.
The best way forward right now is to stay flexible. Plan your transfers in advance, know the different options available, and share tips with others in the same boat. Things are still shifting, so it’s worth checking reliable news sources like the Bangkok Post and keeping in touch with local expat groups for the latest advice.
In my opinion, the best workaround for any expat or tourist in Thailand is to use Wise, formerly known as TransferWise.
They offer a free account that offers you a virtual debit card that you can put on your mobile phone wallet, either Google Pay or iPhone wallet, and your money is secure. They do offer a physical debit card if you prefer it.
You can use your virtual or physical debit card to pay anybody, any bills, anywhere in the world with no limits.
Wise will charge for currency transfers, but I believe they are one of the cheapest around.
You can even get a Borderless account, giving you free bank accounts in many countries.
It is a lifeline if the Thai banks freeze your accounts.
Whether you're a tourist or an expat, go to their website and have a good look.
Scroll down their page to the section that says
The card that's always got the right currency.
Either click the image below or this link and go see for yourself. https://wise.prf.hn/l/55DjbMj/
I have used Wise for many years now and until recently never had a problem. Over the past two months, I have sent money as normal to my Bangkok Bank in Thailand, only to have it sent back. I then sent the money to my Krung Sri bank with no problems.
With Wise, you can now set up Direct Debit payments to foreign countries, direct to companies, i.e. paying utility bills, rent, etc. This is a lifeline, as mentioned before.
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