Thailand is the perfect country to go for a short weekend trip as all we need to do is just cross the border, but did you know that there’s a minimum amount of cash you need to bring when entering the country?
Recently, a netizen who goes by Amy Yee shared her experienced of being denied entry into Thailand just because she didn’t bring enough money.
Source: Jaryono
According to China Press, Amy and her friend drove to Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint to enter Thailand. An immigration officer at Danok checkpoint then stopped them and asked to see how much cash they were carrying at that moment.
They took out 15,000 baht each, which they have exchanged with RM2,000 in Malaysia before travelling there. Sadly, the amount was unsatisfactory to the officer even though the minimum requirement was set at 10,000 baht (approx. RM1,270) for visitors without visa.
Source: China Press
Even after they displayed all their credit and debit cards, they were still denied entry.
A seasoned Chinese tour guide who was at the scene spoke to the officer in Thai but to no avail. The officer still wouldn’t let them through unless they have sufficient amount of cash with them.
Left with no choice, Amy and her friend turned back to Bukit Kayu Hitam to withdraw more money to top up the balance. They entered Thailand without a hitch after showing the officer their cash.
This news garnered a lot of attention on social media as many were dumbfounded by such a move from the officer. Some claimed that they’ve never encountered such situation before.
“I’ve been to Thailand so many times but I’ve never been asked to show my cash to the officer. I guess I just get lucky every time,” a netizen commented.
A quick check revealed that this law actually exists since a long time ago but it hasn’t been strictly enforced. The amount of money you need to carry per person depends on your type of visa.
- Transit Visa holder – minimum THB 10,000 per passenger or THB 20,000 per family
- Tourist Visa holder – minimum THB 20,000 per passenger or THB 40,000 per family
- Visa on Arrival – minimum THB 10,000 per passenger or THB 20,000 per family
- Non Immigrant Visa holder – minimum THB 20,000 per passenger or THB 40,000 per family
So guys, make sure you bring enough cash when you visit Thailand next time!
Also read: Malaysians Travelling to Thailand Should Brace Themselves for Winter Until Feb 2018!
