The Cheapest Ways to Send Money to Thailand

Banks want 1,500 THB per transfer. Fintech wants 0.5%. Here's every realistic option ranked by true cost — including hidden FX markup.

Ranking by total cost (fees + FX markup)

1. Wise / similar fintech — ~0.5–1.5% all-in. Best default for most amounts. Mid-market rate, transparent fee.
2. Remitly & peers — competitive on small transfers ($100–1,000), promo rates first transfer
3. Interactive brokers / FX specialists ($10k+) — sub-0.5% but minimums and setup friction
4. Bank wire — 600–1,500 THB fee + 1–3% FX markup. Only worth it for huge transfers where relationship banking matters
5. PayPal — 3–5% effective. Convenience premium; see our Wise vs PayPal breakdown
6. Cash exchange at airport — worst rate in the country. Emergency use only

The hidden number everyone misses: FX markup

The visible "fee" is often small. The killer is the exchange-rate spread — banks quietly take 1–3% inside the rate. Always compare the final THB amount received, never the quoted fee.

Tax note for 2024+ rules

Under Thailand's new remittance rules, how you send matters less than what and when: foreign income earned post-2024 that lands in a Thai account can be taxable income for tax residents. Keep records of the source and earning year of every transfer. See the new law explained.

Last updated: August 2026. Rates change daily — compare live quotes. Some services mentioned may have affiliate programs.