Quick Overview
Sending money to Thailand has become increasingly streamlined in 2025, with several excellent options offering competitive rates and fast transfers. Whether you're supporting family, paying for services, or managing your own finances, choosing the right transfer method can save you hundreds or even thousands of baht.
Top Money Transfer Services
1. Wise (Formerly TransferWise)
Best for: Regular transfers, transparency, and mid-market rates
- •Uses real mid-market exchange rate
- •Transfer time: 1-2 business days
- •Fees: 0.5-1% of transfer amount
- •Supports transfers to all Thai banks
- •Available in 50+ countries
Wise consistently offers some of the best rates for transfers to Thailand. Their transparent fee structure means no hidden costs, and you can track your transfer in real-time through their app.
2. DeeMoney
Best for: Cash pickup and local convenience in Thailand
- •350+ locations across Thailand
- •Cash pickup available
- •Transfer time: Same day to 24 hours
- •Lower fees for larger amounts
- •Popular with expats already in Thailand
3. Western Union
Best for: Emergency transfers and cash pickup
- •Instant transfers available
- •Extensive agent network in Thailand
- •Higher fees but reliable
- •Good for recipients without bank accounts
Bank-to-Bank Transfers
SWIFT Transfers
Traditional bank transfers remain an option, though typically more expensive:
- •Transfer time: 2-5 business days
- •Fees: $25-50 plus exchange rate markup
- •Best for large, one-time transfers
- •Requires Thai bank account details and SWIFT code
Bangkok Bank New York Branch
US residents can use Bangkok Bank's New York branch for direct transfers:
- •ACH transfers from US banks
- •Lower fees than SWIFT
- •Transfer time: 2-3 business days
- •Requires Bangkok Bank account in Thailand
Digital and Crypto Options
PayPal to Thai Banks
While not the cheapest, PayPal offers convenience:
- •Direct withdrawal to Thai banks
- •Transfer time: 3-5 business days
- •Higher fees and poor exchange rates
- •Good for small, occasional transfers
Cryptocurrency
For tech-savvy users, crypto can be an option:
- •Use exchanges like Bitkub (Thailand's largest)
- •Transfer time: Minutes to hours
- •Variable fees depending on network
- •Requires recipient to have crypto knowledge
- •Subject to volatility risks
Important Considerations
Exchange Rates
Always compare the actual amount your recipient will receive, not just the advertised exchange rate. Many services add hidden margins to the exchange rate.
Transfer Limits
- •Thailand requires reporting for transfers over $50,000
- •Some services have daily or monthly limits
- •Large transfers may require additional documentation
Tax Implications
As of 2024, Thailand has updated tax regulations for foreign-sourced income. Transfers may be subject to tax if the recipient is a Thai tax resident. Consult a tax professional for large or regular transfers.
Step-by-Step: Using Wise
- 1.Create a Wise account and verify your identity
- 2.Enter the amount you want to send
- 3.Add recipient's Thai bank details:
- Full name (as on bank account)
- Bank name and branch
- Account number
- 4.Choose your payment method (bank transfer usually cheapest)
- 5.Review and confirm the transfer
- 6.Track progress via app or email updates
Tips for Best Rates
- •Avoid weekend transfers (worse rates)
- •Send larger amounts less frequently to minimize fees
- •Set up rate alerts for favorable exchange rates
- •Compare at least 3 services before sending
- •Factor in all fees, not just the advertised rate
Emergency Transfer Options
If you need money in Thailand immediately:
- 1.Western Union: Cash available in minutes
- 2.MoneyGram: Similar to Western Union
- 3.Wise "Fast Transfer": Card payment for quick processing
- 4.ATM withdrawal: If you have a fee-free debit card
Receiving Money in Thailand
To receive international transfers, you'll need:
- •Thai bank account (foreigners can open with work permit or retirement visa)
- •Bank SWIFT code
- •Your full name as registered with the bank
- •Branch address (for some services)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Not comparing total costs (fees + exchange rate)
- •Sending money on weekends or holidays
- •Using airport or hotel exchange services
- •Not keeping transfer receipts for tax purposes
- •Sending to wrong account details (always double-check)
Conclusion
For most people, Wise offers the best combination of low fees, good exchange rates, and reliability for sending money to Thailand. However, your specific needs—whether it's speed, convenience, or transfer amount—will determine the best service for you. Always compare your options and keep documentation for all international transfers.