Best Crypto Cards in Thailand (2026)

The SEC Thailand (Samnak-ngan Khanakammakan Kamkap Laktharap) and Bank of Thailand (BOT, Thanaakhaan Haeng Prathet Thai) jointly regulate crypto. The SEC oversees exchange licensing and token offerings under the Digital Asset Business Decree (2018, amended). The BOT handles payment-related crypto services.

Thailand allows crypto trading through SEC-licensed exchanges but banned direct crypto payments at merchants in 2022. Crypto cards operate in a different regulatory space: they convert crypto to THB via Visa/Mastercard, so the merchant receives fiat. This is distinct from the banned direct crypto payment.

Bybit, OKX, and Bitget serve Thai users through APAC entities. Crypto.com has served Thailand historically. Bitkub is the dominant domestic exchange (SEC-licensed) but does not offer a card product.

The BOT payment ban applies to direct crypto-to-merchant transactions, NOT to crypto cards settling via Visa/Mastercard in THB.

Thailand taxes crypto gains at 15% withholding tax on profits from digital asset trading. The Revenue Department has confirmed this applies to gains from selling or exchanging digital assets, which includes card spending.

Example: You bought 0.01 BTC at THB 10,000 and spend it when it is worth THB 15,000. The THB 5,000 gain is taxed at 15% = THB 750.

Enforcement has been limited compared to Western countries. Individual taxpayers must self-report crypto gains in annual PND returns. Capital losses can offset gains within the same year. No holding period exemption exists.

At 15%, Thailand's rate is among the lowest in APAC (lower than Japan's 15-55% and South Korea's 22%). Stablecoin spending still makes sense for compliance-minded users, but the tax impact of spending appreciated crypto is modest.

Thai crypto card applications require a bat prachachon (Thai national ID card) for Thai citizens, or passport plus bai anuyaat thamngan (work permit) or visa for foreign residents. Proof of Thai address via tabien baan (yellow house book) or utility bill is required.

Digital nomads on tourist visas may face challenges with some issuers that require a work permit. Globally available cards (KAST, RedotPay) are often the easiest option for nomads, as they may accept international documentation.

Physical cards ship to Thai addresses within 5-10 business days. Virtual cards are available immediately for Apple Pay and Google Pay use.

Low Cost of Living Amplifies Cashback

Thailand's low cost of living means crypto card cashback stretches further. At 8% cashback on THB 30,000/month ($850) spending, you earn THB 28,800/year ($820). In Bangkok or Chiang Mai, that covers 2 months of co-working space or 50+ meals at quality restaurants.

Card Selection by Use Case

• Bitget (8% cashback, free): Best all-around card, zero FX fee critical for THB users
• Bybit (up to 10% VIP): Best for high-volume Bybit traders
• Crypto.com (up to 5%): Best for lounge access at Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang
• KAST (2% cashback, free): Best no-fee starter for nomads

Spending Scenario: THB 30,000/month

At 15% tax, the difference between BTC and USDC spending is modest (THB 4,320/year). For simplicity, USDC is cleaner, but spending appreciated BTC is not punishingly expensive like in Japan.

Local Payment Infrastructure

Card acceptance varies widely. Bangkok malls (CentralWorld, Siam Paragon), 7-Eleven, modern restaurants, and hotels accept contactless Visa/Mastercard. However, street food vendors, tuk-tuks, som tam carts, and local markets are cash-only. PromptPay handles bank transfers (bank-only). Carry THB cash alongside your crypto card for full coverage. Apple Pay adoption is growing in Bangkok.

APAC exchange cards: Bybit (up to 10% VIP), OKX (5%), Bitget (8%), and Crypto.com (up to 5%) serve Thai residents through their APAC entities.

Globally available: KAST, xPlace, and RedotPay may be accessible under worldwide coverage. For digital nomads, these globally available cards are often the easiest route, avoiding the complexity of Thai SEC-registered exchange requirements.

Domestic exchanges: Bitkub (SEC-licensed, dominant by volume) and Satang Pro are the largest Thai platforms but do not offer card products. Zipmex (restructured) was another local option.

For nomads: Globally available cards like KAST avoid Thai exchange registration complexity while working at any Visa/Mastercard merchant. Fund with USDC from your existing exchange account.