What is the process for withdrawing money at the counter of a Thai bank with a foreign ATM/debit/credit card?
It turns out that Thailand now has some of the highest international ATM fees in the world! ฿220 baht ($6.50 USD, €5.70 EUR, $8.30 AUD)
In searching the internet for info on how to avoid or minimize these costs, I have read that withdrawing inside a bank branch using the same card should incur no fee.
But is it straightforward? What is the process? Will I need my passport?
Will it depend on whether your card is an ATM card, debit card, credit card, Visa, Mastercard, etc?
Will it depend on the Thai bank? Do some do it and others not? Do some make it easier than others? Do some still charge a fee, even at the counter?
(I am fully aware that my home bank also charges various fees and that using credit cards incurs interest as well, etc. So no need to post comments along those lines.)
Best Answer
You can only get cash advances on branded cards, ie Visa credit card or debit card, Mastercard credit card or debit card, etc. You can not use an ATM only card, and you cannot use a card marked with "electronic use only".
I know Bangkok Bank does it without a fee, not sure about others.
Many banks want you to withdraw more than the ATM allows otherwise they will point you to the ATM.
You will need your passport.
One thing to keep in mind cash advances on credit cards start paying interest the momemt you get the advance, no grace period to pay it back.
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