Moving to Thailand or planning your retirement?
Contact Thai Visa Express for help with Thai visa applications and the financial evidence needed for your circumstances.
Chat with us on WhatsAppTransferring money to Thailand is a regular part of life for many expats, retirees and families. Whether you are sending money for living expenses, supporting your partner or moving savings into a Thai bank account, comparing the full cost can help you get more baht for your money.
The main things to check are the exchange rate, transfer fees, expected arrival time and the records you will receive. If the money is needed for a visa application or property purchase, check the documentary requirements before sending it.
What Are the Main Ways to Transfer Money to Thailand?
Online money transfer services
Online transfer services can let you send money from an overseas account directly to a Thai bank account. Wise is one example that supports transfers to Thailand. Before confirming a payment, check the current quote, supported receiving bank, transfer limit and estimated delivery time.
Do not assume one provider will always offer the best deal. Compare quotes for the same amount at roughly the same time, and look at how much Thai baht the recipient will receive.
International bank transfers
You can also send money through your bank using an international transfer, often called a SWIFT transfer. Ask the receiving Thai bank for its official inward-transfer instructions before setting up the payment.
Check the sending bank’s fee, the exchange rate and whether intermediary or receiving-bank charges may apply. Also ask whether the money will be converted before it leaves your overseas account or after it reaches Thailand.
Cash collection services
A cash collection service may be useful when the recipient does not have a bank account. Check whether collection is available in their area, what identification they need and the total cost before paying.
Compare the Amount Received, Not Just the Transfer Fee
A low transfer fee does not necessarily mean a cheap transfer. An unfavourable exchange rate can cost more than the advertised fee saves.
For example, if you exchange £1,000, a difference of one baht per pound changes the amount received by 1,000 baht before fees. This is an illustration, not a live exchange-rate quote.
When comparing providers, check:
- The total amount leaving your account.
- The exchange rate applied to the transfer.
- Any transfer, payment-method or receiving charges.
- The final amount the recipient is expected to receive.
- How long the quoted rate remains available.
What Details Do You Need?
The required details depend on the provider and transfer method. You will usually need the recipient’s full account name, Thai bank name and account number. A bank transfer may also require a SWIFT code, bank address and recipient address.
Use the details supplied by the receiving bank. Check the account number carefully and make sure the recipient’s name matches their bank account.
For a new recipient, consider sending a small test payment before transferring a larger amount. Confirm that it has arrived in the correct account.
How Long Does a Transfer Take?
Use the delivery estimate shown for your specific transfer. Timing can depend on the payment method, receiving bank, transfer amount, weekends, public holidays and verification checks.
A previous payment arriving quickly does not guarantee the next one will arrive at the same speed. Allow extra time when the money is needed for a deadline.
Transferring Money for a Thai Visa or Retirement Extension
If you need the money as financial evidence for a Thai visa or extension of stay, confirm what records are required before choosing a transfer method.
Ask your bank and adviser:
- Whether you need evidence that the funds came from overseas.
- How the payment will appear on your Thai bank statement.
- Whether the bank can issue the required supporting documents.
- When the funds need to reach your account.
Keep the transfer confirmation, overseas payment record and Thai bank statement. Do not assume an app receipt alone will satisfy the requirements for your application.
Sending Money for a Property Purchase
Before transferring a property deposit or purchase funds, obtain instructions from your Thai bank and an independent property lawyer. Ask them to confirm the payment currency, transfer reference and evidence you will need.
Bangkok Bank provides specific guidance on overseas transfers for condominium purchases. Follow the instructions relevant to your own bank and transaction before sending the money.
Sending Money to a Partner or Family Member
For regular family support, agree on the amount and timing so both sides know what to expect. Keep a record of payments, particularly where they may later help explain your financial arrangements in a visa application.
Verify unexpected requests for money directly with the person concerned. If someone sends new bank details by message, confirm the change through a phone call or another trusted contact method before paying.
Keep Clear Transfer Records
Save the transfer receipt, transaction reference, exchange rate, fees and confirmation that the money arrived. For larger payments, keep documents explaining the source and purpose of the funds.
These records can help if a transfer is delayed, the bank requests more information or you need to demonstrate the payment later.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Comparing the advertised fee without checking the exchange rate.
- Using incorrect or unverified recipient details.
- Assuming every transfer will arrive immediately.
- Leaving a payment until just before a visa or property deadline.
- Sending money before checking what bank evidence you need.
- Sharing banking passwords or one-time security codes.
Check Before You Confirm the Payment
For everyday transfers, compare the total cost and final amount received. For money connected with immigration or a property purchase, confirm the paperwork requirements first.
Fees, exchange rates, limits and delivery estimates can change. Always check the provider’s current quote and the receiving bank’s instructions before making a transfer.