Send money to Thailand

Wise and OFX offer the best exchange rates for large transfers to Thailand. Remitly is competitive for smaller amounts. For USD-to-THB, the rate spread between best and worst providers is typically 1–3%. Bangkok Bank operates its own New York branch for direct USD wires at competitive rates, often preferred by expats.

Wise and Remitly typically deliver to Thai accounts within 1–2 business days. Bangkok Bank's direct USD channel can settle same day for US wire transfers received before a cut-off time. PromptPay-enabled accounts receive interbank transfers in seconds once the SWIFT leg completes. Cash pickup via Western Union is available within minutes.

You need the recipient's account number (10-digit for most Thai banks), the bank name, branch name, and SWIFT code. Key SWIFT codes: Bangkok Bank (BKKBTHBK), KBank (KASITHBK), SCB (SICOTHBK), Krungsri (AYUDTHBK), Krungthai Bank (KRTHTHBK). Thailand does not use IBAN.

PromptPay is Thailand's national instant payment system launched in 2017. Users link their bank account to their mobile number (beginning 06/08/09) or national ID number. Once linked, anyone can send money to that mobile number or ID — no need to share the full account number. For remittances, several providers deliver directly to a PromptPay ID, with settlement in seconds.

Money remitted to Thailand in the same tax year it was earned is potentially assessable income under Thai tax law for Thai tax residents. However, money sent in a subsequent year to the year it was earned was historically exempt — this interpretation is evolving after a 2023 Revenue Department announcement. Expatriates should seek Thai tax advice for large ongoing transfers. Personal gifts and maintenance transfers between family members have generally not been subject to income tax.