The Complete Guide to Banks in Phuket: ATMs, Accounts & Money Tips (2025)
Why This Guide Matters for Travelers & Expats
Phuket’s banking system serves over 12 million annual visitors and a growing expat community. Whether you need ATM access, currency exchange, or long-term banking solutions, this guide covers everything with verified 2024 information.
Phuket Banks: Quick Reference Table
| Bank | ATMs in Phuket | Currency Exchange | English Support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bangkok Bank | 500+ | Yes (best rates) | All major branches |
| Kasikorn Bank | 450+ | Yes | Tourist branches |
| Siam Commercial | 400+ | Limited | Central branches |
| Krungsri Bank | 300+ | Yes | Airport branches |
| Government Savings Bank | 200+ | No | Minimal |
Using ATMs in Phuket: What You Need to Know
ATM Withdrawal Essentials
- Operating Hours: Most accessible 24/7 (bank lobbies close 3:30PM)
- Fees:
- 220 THB per foreign card withdrawal
- 3-5% currency conversion fee (varies by home bank)
- Max Withdrawal: 20,000-30,000 THB per transaction
Pro Tip: Use AEON ATMs for lower fees (150 THB/withdrawal)
Top ATM Locations
- Patong Beach (Bangla Road area)
- Phuket Town (Central Festival)
- Karon Circle
- Phuket International Airport
- Chalong Pier
Opening a Bank Account in Phuket
Requirements for Foreigners
| Visa Type | Documents Needed | Easiest Bank |
|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | ❌ Cannot open account | N/A |
| Retirement Visa | Passport, proof of address, Thai phone number | Bangkok Bank |
| Work Permit | WP, passport, company letter | SCB |
| Elite Visa | Passport, EV certificate, proof of address | Kasikorn |
| Marriage Visa | Passport, marriage cert, Thai spouse ID | Krungsri |
Key Notes:
- Non-immigrant visas (O, OA, B) have highest success rate
- Some banks require minimum deposit (5,000-50,000 THB)
- Digital banks like LINE BK offer limited accounts for tourists
Top 5 Banks in Phuket for Foreigners
1. Bangkok Bank
Best for: Expats, business owners
Account Types:
- Savings (2.5% interest)
- Foreign Currency Account (USD/EUR/GBP)
Branches: - Phuket Town (Main Branch)
- Patong, Chalong, Laguna
2. Kasikorn Bank
Best for: Digital banking
App Features:
- English interface
- Instant QR payments
Notable Branch: Central Festival Phuket
3. Siam Commercial Bank (SCB)
Best for: Wealth management
Services:
- International transfers
- Investment products
4. Krungsri Bank
Best for: Retirement visas
Special Offer: Free first year account for Elite Visa holders
5. Government Savings Bank
Best for: Basic Thai accounts
Limitation: Minimal English support
Money Exchange in Phuket: Best Options
Exchange Counters vs Banks
| Factor | Banks | Exchange Booths |
|---|---|---|
| Rates | Moderate | Best (SuperRich, TT) |
| Fees | 0-50 THB | None |
| Hours | Limited | 9AM-9PM |
| Locations | Few | Tourist areas |
Top 3 Exchange Spots:
- SuperRich Phuket (Jungceylon Patong)
- TT Exchange (Phuket Town)
- VASU Exchange (Bangla Road)
Phuket Banking FAQs
Q: Can I use my foreign debit card everywhere?
A: Most ATMs accept Visa/Mastercard. American Express works at 60% of locations.
Q: What’s the best travel card for Phuket?
A: Wise or Revolut for best exchange rates.
Q: Emergency lost card help?
A: Contact numbers:
- Bangkok Bank: 1333
- Tourist Police: 1155
Key Takeaways
- ATMs are plentiful but charge 220 THB/withdrawal
- Accounts require non-tourist visas (Retirement/Work/Elite)
- Bangkok Bank & Kasikorn are most foreigner-friendly
- SuperRich offers best exchange rates
- Always carry cash – 30% of businesses are cash-only
Phuket banks make money management easy once you know the system. Plan ahead to avoid unnecessary fees!