Vira Care, the Thai Femtech Brand Advancing Holistic Women's Health

Applying for a credit card feels like taking a big financial step, especially for young professionals and fresh graduates. Having a card not only helps build your credit history but also provides a convenient payment method while giving you financial flexibility.

Aside from these benefits, credit cardholders can also enjoy various rewards, cashback perks, and other advantages when shopping or traveling. While having a card is a big plus, it also requires responsible use, such as paying on time and monitoring your spending — especially if it’s your first time having one.

If you’re thinking of applying for a credit card in Thailand, we’ve listed five cards first-timers can consider. From cashback to waived fees, benefits await! Check them out below:

Krungsri First Choice Visa Platinum

For your first credit card, why not go for First Choice? This credit card waives initial and annual fees for the first year, then for the succeeding years, the annual fee will be waived if you have a cumulative spending of THB50,000 per year. With this card, you also get the 0% Pay Later option, which allows you to purchase products and services and then start paying installments after two months so you can manage your spending conveniently.

Speaking of managing your expenses, you can also check your financial health status through the UCHOOSE app. Other benefits First Choice Visa Platinum cardholders can avail of include online shopping insurance and exchanging credit card reward points for cashback. Apply for your credit card here.

Bangkok Bank Visa Platinum Credit Card

Choosing Bangkok Bank’s Visa Platinum Credit Card means you get customized privileges that match your lifestyle. By spending up to THB5,000 per year, your entrance and annual fees will be waived. If you’ll be flying out regularly, you can also avail of the Reward Points offered, which means for every THB25 you spend, you get one point for both domestic and overseas spending.

Other benefits that Platinum offers include roadside assistance, travel accident insurance, and mileage redemption from leading airlines, among others. Apply for your credit card here.

UOB YOLO Platinum Card

Since you only live once, you shouldn’t miss out and you need to live large. With UOB’s YOLO Platinum Card, you can do just that because of the enticing cashback and lifestyle privileges it offers. If you frequent 7-11 and Burger King, or you ride the MRT and use Grab most of the time, you’re assured of cashback.

To qualify, you must make five transactions of at least THB300 each within a billing cycle to receive 1% cashback, with a maximum limit of THB200 per billing cycle. The cashback will be automatically credited to your next statement. Other advantages include flexible installment plans and payment convenience with Visa payWave. Apply for your credit card here.

TMBThanachart (ttb) So Smart Credit Card

A cashback type of credit card, ttb’s So Smart Credit Card lets you get one percent cash on every spending while offering 0% installment payments for up to three months on purchases of at least THB1,000 per sales slip. The good news? There are no entrance and annual fees. By also using your card responsibly and paying off your balance in full on time, you can avoid a 16% interest charge. Apply for your credit card here.

AEON NextGen Digital Credit Card

With the NextGen Digital Credit Card, cardholders can get 5% cashback when spending at online shopping stores with a minimum of THB500 per sales slip (excluding airline tickets and related expenses). The maximum cashback you can get is THB1,000 per primary card billing cycle.

You also get to enjoy exclusive access to the AEON Lounge, which you can avail four times per month. Another big benefit is you get privileges from Shopee, Lazada, Foodpanda, and Grab Food. Apply for your credit card here.

Despite the ostentatious celebrations we hold for Pride Month, it’s obvious that true equality has a long way to go. In Thailand, one of the most difficult aspects of life that members of the LGBTQIA+ community have to navigate is their careers. Those seeking to better themselves may find difficulties in climbing their desired ladder as the path to success comes riddled with prejudice and discrimination.

Coming from the firsthand experiences of three successful trans women in Thailand is the birth of Trans for Career, an organization dedicated to helping trans men and women find better job opportunities during such difficult times.

Founded by Risa “Mai” Siriwat, Khemmanath “Kob” Naradech, and Nishanaaj “Sarina” Sudlarphaar, Trans for Career Thailand has done an exemplary job of using social media to reach their desired audience.

Today, we speak to Risa Siriwat on the true climate of how Thailand views trans men and women, specifically, and how she and her team can help.

How did your personal journey inspire you to establish Trans for Career?

Risa: My personal journey has been marked by significant challenges and discrimination in the workplace due to my identity as a transwoman. One pivotal moment was when I applied for a position as a stock and investment analyst and was dismissed despite my qualifications, simply because of my gender identity. This and other similar experiences inspired me to co-found Trans for Career Thailand (TFCT) to support transgender individuals in their professional pursuits and to advocate for their rights and inclusion in the workforce.

How are trans people viewed in Thailand?

Risa: Transgender people still encounter significant discrimination and stereotypes, especially in professional settings. The media often perpetuates negative stereotypes, portraying transgender people as comedic or solely belonging in entertainment or beauty industries, which affects their employment opportunities and societal acceptance.

For example, when I applied for an equity analyst position at a major securities firm, the interviewer suggested I work as a makeup artist despite my finance background and lack of makeup skills. Many talented trans women are pushed out of the professional market and forced into jobs they dislike simply to make ends meet. This kind of tragedy always breaks my heart.

Thailand has few laws to support the rights and freedoms of the LGBTQIA+ community yet it also touts itself as a very LGBT+ friendly country. Why do you think that is?

Risa: The disconnect arises from Thailand's desire to present itself as a progressive and inclusive society to attract tourism and international attention, while the actual legal framework and societal attitudes lag behind.

Although Thailand is marketed as LGBTQIA+ friendly, the country lacks comprehensive legal protections for the LGBTQIA+ community, including laws against discrimination based on gender identity and sexual orientation. This discrepancy highlights the difference between external perceptions and internal realities.

What are the laws in place right now that protect and empower those in the LGBTQIA+ community?

Risa: Currently, the Equality Act of 2015 is one of the few laws that offers some protection against gender-based discrimination in Thailand. However, it is not specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community. The community advocates for more comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, legal recognition of gender identity, and equal marriage rights. Strengthening these legal frameworks would significantly improve the rights and protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Are there certain sectors that are less welcoming of trans and or LGBTQIA+ members than others?

Risa: Yes, certain sectors are less welcoming to transgender and LGBTQIA+ individuals, particularly those that are seen as requiring "high credibility," such as finance, law, and corporate sectors. These industries often hold conservative views and are less accepting of gender diversity compared to more progressive sectors like entertainment and beauty, where LGBT+ individuals are more visible and accepted.

What are the unique problems that trans people face in the work environment that people may not be aware of?

Risa: Transgender individuals face unique challenges in the workplace, including discrimination during hiring, lack of legal recognition for their gender identity, and workplace harassment. Trans women often face issues related to credibility and appearance due to negative societal perceptions influenced by media portrayals.

In contrast, trans men face the problem of lack of recognition; many people are unaware of their existence, leading to their issues being overlooked and unresolved. This results in different types of discrimination and lack of support for their community. Both groups struggle with the lack of policies and practices that accommodate their needs and ensure their safety and inclusion in the workplace.

Why are Thai transgender candidates rejected for career opportunities more than other people in the LGBTQIA+ community (i.e., lesbians, gays, bisexuals)?

Risa: Trans women are disproportionately affected in the job market compared to other LGBTQIA+ individuals due to media portrayals that depict them as comedic figures, which undermines their credibility. This creates unconscious biases, making it difficult for society to envision trans women in professional roles. According to a World Bank paper, about 77% of trans women are immediately rejected during the pre-screening process in recruitment. These biases result in higher rejection rates and less acceptance in professional environments.

What does Trans for Career aim to do for the community?

Risa: I want to clarify that advocating for the hiring of LGBTQIA+ individuals does not mean pushing for their employment regardless of qualifications. What we seek is fair consideration based on our qualifications. I never advocate for preference, only for the opportunity to be judged on an equal footing. Trans for Career Thailand is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for transgender individuals in the workforce.

We believe that diversity and inclusion are crucial for the success of any organization and that every individual, regardless of their gender identity, should have the opportunity to pursue their career goals without facing discrimination. We continue to work towards raising awareness, changing perceptions, and advocating for the rights and inclusion of transgender people in all sectors of society.

Budgeting may seem like an easy task, but the truth of the matter is, it takes a lot out of you. Not only do you need to think ahead about your expenses for the next few weeks or months, but you’re also dealing with numbers, which can be confusing. The good thing is that expense-tracking apps are available to make the process of budgeting smooth and straightforward. Often, these applications have calendars, in-app calculators, and budget planning sheets that can be beneficial for your money-saving strategy.

Here are some of the best budgeting apps if you’re struggling to manage your hard-earned money.

Spending Tracker

As straightforward as its name, Spending Tracker is a user-friendly application that showcases an intuitive interface, making it an ideal choice for beginners. Some of its best features include the Log Expense and Income function, which allows for easy logging of budget entries; the Flexible Time Periods feature, which lets you choose to track your budget weekly, monthly, or yearly; and the Reports tab, which gives you an overview of where your money goes.

Spending Tracker is available for free download on Google Play and App Store.

Expensify

Whether you’re a business owner who needs an app to keep track of expenses or someone saving up for a big purchase, Expensify might be the app you’re looking for. Dubbed the “ultimate expense management solution,” this tracker boasts efficient features to help you budget your money seamlessly. It has a receipt scanner and organizer, which helps streamline expense management and offers better financial insights for the user. Moreover, it also features a budget tracker that supports multiple currencies.

Expensify is available for free download on Google Play and App Store.

Honeydue

Whether you’re newlyweds or a couple living in one home, Honeydue is the perfect budget-tracking app for you. Tailor-made specifically for couples, this application helps you manage your budget, expenses, and bills together. This app promotes transparency between partners, allowing both of you to see all of your bank account balances in one place. However, if you want to maintain a sense of privacy while also having a joint tracker, there’s an option that lets you choose how much of your financial information you share with your partner.

Honeydue is available for free download on Google Play and App Store.

Goodbudget

If you’re building a family or planning to move out of your home, Goodbudget can help you manage your expenses throughout the whole moving process. It features a myriad of helpful functions, including the ability to list your expenses and upcoming bills and notify you when the due date is near, so you don’t miss any payments. The best part is that transactions are backed up to the cloud and accessible from other devices, including Goodbudget’s web app.

Goodbudget is available for free download on Google Play and App Store.

Krungthai NEXT

Do you need an application that will help you keep track of your finances at your fingertips? Krungthai NEXT is your best bet. This Thailand-born app is easy to use, allowing you to transfer money, top up accounts, pay bills, withdraw funds, and apply for loans with no hassle. It also features a function called Smart Banner, which gives you reminders about your upcoming payments so you can avoid late fees. Moreover, it also allows users to schedule transactions up to 24 months in advance, giving you the ease of knowing that your bills will be paid on time. For queries and more details about the app, reach out to Krungthai NEXT via 02-111-1111.

Krungthai NEXT is available for free download on Google Play and App Store.

There is a certain thrill in opening your first bank account, but choosing the right bank can be a hassle. Fortunately, with everything going digital in recent years, now you can make payments with the tap of your smartphone. 

Although we are still waiting for our first all-digital bank to launch in Thailand, our traditional banks have adapted to our digital lifestyle by providing online banking apps that offer convenience, speed, and security. 

No more physical passbooks! If you're interested in opening a savings or deposit account in Bangkok in 2024, here are the top banks you can consider.

Kasikorn Bank

Kasikorn Bank, also known as K Bank, was initially established as Thai Farmers Bank in 1945. Today, it is considered one of the largest and most popular banks in Thailand, catering to both locals and foreigners. Today, it comes with a reputation for offering top-notch financial services and digital banking solutions.

To open a basic savings account with K Bank, you don't have to make any minimum deposit. You will receive a K-Debit Card (for THB150) with an annual fee of THB250 per card. This account is eligible for credits twice a year, in June and December. If you have an account with K Bank, you can quickly apply for a K-Bank PLATINUM credit card and a personal loan of up to THB1.5 million. 

Download the K-Bank app to enjoy various digital banking services, including money transfers, QR code payments, cardless withdrawals, and bill payments for your credit card and utility bills.

How/where to sign up:  Simply walk into any K-Bank branch with your Thai ID or Passport. 

Interest Rate for Credit Card: 16% per annum with an annual fee of THB1,050  

Other features: No additional fees, No minimum deposits 

Bangkok Bank

Bangkok Bank is the go-to bank for anyone looking for international banking services. Established in 1999, it is one of the top providers of corporate finance with the biggest retail customer base in the country.

You can easily sign up for an e-savings account from the comfort of your home without any account opening fees. Alternatively, you can simply head to any of their branches and open a savings account that comes with a Be1st Smart Card. With this card, you can conveniently make cash deposits and withdrawals, and your account will receive interest every six months.

How/where to sign up:  Download the Bangkok Bank app on Apple Store or Google Play or simply head to any branch to open an account.

Interest rate for Credit Card: 16% per annum, minimum THB1,500 annual fees for credit card

*Contact bank for an interest rate of 0%* per month for a 6-month installment plan 

Other features: THB500 to open a savings account

Siam Commercial Bank

Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) is the first bank ever established in Thailand, through a royal charter in 1907. With over 110 years of experience, SCB is a leading universal bank that offers exceptional financial services with a wide range of products and services.

You can easily visit any branch and open a general savings account that includes a debit card for THB100, with annual fees of THB200 that comes with an old-school passbook. Additionally, you can apply for a personal loan up to THB3 million with no need for personal guarantors. 

How/where to sign up: Find the nearest branch and open your savings account at the bank. Download the SCB Easy App (Apple Store or Google Play) for mobile banking services. 

Interest Rate of Credit Card: 16% per annum

Other features: Minimum deposit of THB500

United Overseas Bank (Thai) Public Company Limited

United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) was established in 1935 with a commitment to providing quality products and exceptional customer service. With a global presence of 500 offices across the world, UOB is user-friendly for both locals and expats. UOB Thailand is a regional bank that strives to bring connectivity to its customers.

Recently, UOB acquired Citibank in 2022, and all Citi-branded products have been migrated to UOB products. If you're a newbie, you can easily open a TMRW Savings account by downloading the app and enjoy an attractive interest rate of 1.3% per annum with no minimum initial amount. UOB is popular for its diverse range of credit cards, catering to different interests. From its UOB Royal Orchid Plus Credit Card, popular amongst travelers, to the UOB Premier Card for Shopping, you can choose the one that best suits your needs.

How/where to sign up: Find the nearest UOB branch and open your savings account at the bank or download the app via Apple Store or Google Play.

Interest Rate of Credit Card: Depends on the type of card

Other features: No Minimum amount required 

KrungThai Bank 

Krungthai Bank Public Company Limited is a state-owned bank that was founded in 1966 under a license issued by the Ministry of Finance. Over the years, the bank has evolved from being just a convenience bank to embracing the concept of “Growing Together for Sustainability.”

Opening a savings account with Krungthai Bank is a hassle-free process. You can simply download the bank's app, follow the steps, and verify your identity via NDID or the nearest KrungThai ATM. Alternatively, you can visit one of their branches and make a required deposit of THB500 if you prefer the traditional way of doing things.

How/where to sign up:  Download the app via Apple Store or Google Play or visit the nearest branch. 

Interested Rate of Credit Card: Depends on the type of card

Other features: KTB Visa Debit Card requires THB200 annual fees with a deposit interest rate of 1.5% per annum 

According to statistics published by Statista.com, Thailand saw a surge in credit card payment transactions in 2022. The number rose from approximately 686 million transactions in 2021 to 850.4 million transactions in 2022. Owning a credit card not only offers convenience and serves as a backup fund, but it also helps individuals build their credit history.

Are you contemplating whether to apply for a credit card or not? These cards come in handy during shopping trips if you prefer to not carry large amounts of cash, while also providing reward programs such as discounts and cashback. Aside from being convenient for online purchases, some credit cards also have travel benefits for frequent flyers. From providing travel insurance to giving airport lounge access, there are enticing perks awaiting cardholders.

If you’re considering applying for a credit card soon, we’ve curated a list of cards that offer unbeatable rewards, including travel deals that enhance your flying experience. Check them out below:

Bangkok Bank Visa Platinum Travel Credit Card

One of the oldest and biggest banks in Thailand, Bangkok Bank offers a range of cards that suit different lifestyles. Jetsetters will lean toward the Bangkok Bank Visa Platinum Travel Credit Card that lets you enjoy traveling with four key benefits: special deals on tour packages and access to activities organized by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, mileage redemption, personal assistant services, and travel insurance.

For mileage redemption, spending at least 25THB earns you points that can be redeemed for flights with Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, or AirAsia. Going on a trip soon? You’ll also receive advice on arranging international visas. As for travel insurance, get up to US$200,000 protection for you, your spouse, and children under 23 years old. If you’re traveling together domestically or overseas, you can use your credit card when paying for public transport tickets or tour packages.

You can apply for the Bangkok Visa Platinum Travel Credit Card today and conveniently track your application online.

Krungsri Exclusive Signature Credit Card

Officially known as Bank of Ayudhya Public Company Limited, Krungsri Bank is recognized as the fifth-largest bank in Thailand. The Krungsri Exclusive Signature Credit Card offers enticing deals, including travel privileges for primary credit cardholders who have accumulated spending within a specified period.

For 2024, they are offering a BKK-America round-trip direct airfare ticket, private limousine, and airport services when the target spending is reached by December 31. This privilege can be claimed within the year until January 31, 2025. Got a long flight? Those who can maintain a certain total investment balance will also be granted access to the Thai Airways International Royal Silk Lounge at Suvarnabhumi Airport or Royal Silk at domestic airports twice a year; as well as to worldwide airport lounges via DragonPass Card up to four times a year.

You can review the terms and conditions of this travel privilege online as well as how you can upgrade your ticket when flying.

Kasikornbank (KBank) Debit Card

KBank invites you to make the most of the ultimate lifestyle experience with the KBank Debit Card, a card that lets you dine, travel, and shop with unmatched benefits and privileges. While not a credit card, you can still get discounts from participating merchants of VISA. Traveling overseas? You can avail of travel insurance coverage of up to THB100,000 when you use your KBank Debit Card when purchasing your air ticket.

Travel insurance covers accidents, loss or damage of baggage, baggage delay, trip delay, and trip postponement or cancellation.

You can view the application details and process online and be on your way to becoming a KBank Debit Cardholder.

KTC Visa Signature Credit Card

Krungthai Card Public Company Limited or KTC wants you to make the most out of life with the KTC Visa Signature Credit Card, a card with no annual fee and a bevy of privileges for cardholders. Aside from letting cardholders earn twice the KTC FOREVER points when spending in foreign currency, primary cardholders are also granted access to Suvarnabhumi Airport’s MIRACLE LOUNGE twice a year. To avail of this perk, you need to have a normal account status and should have made at least one transaction after activating your card.

To access the MIRACLE LOUNGE, present your KTC Visa Signature Credit Card with a Thai Airways boarding pass for international flights.

You can easily apply for your KTC Visa Signature Credit Card online.

UOB Zenith Credit Card

A subsidiary of the United Overseas Bank Limited, UOB Thailand wants you to “discover the pinnacle of privilege” with the UOB Zenith Credit Card, a card that lets you earn rewards for spending in Thai Baht or foreign currency.

Aside from earning twice or thrice the reward points, frequent travelers can avail of complimentary airport limousine transfers at participating airports in Bangkok and within the Asia Pacific region twice a year. Through a Priority Pass card, you can also get unlimited complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges in Thailand and around the world. Staying in a hotel? Get a complimentary fourth night at participating hotels when booking through UOB Zenith’s Personal Assistant and paying with your Zenith Credit Card.

You can apply for UOB’s Zenith Credit Card online.

ICBC Horoscope UnionPay Credit Card (Platinum)

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) Thai Bank offers a variety of credit cards tailored to different needs, but for frequent flyers, the Horoscope UnionPay Credit Card (Platinum) stands out as the best choice.

Some key benefits of owning this card include enjoying a “no foreign exchange risk” perk, meaning all transactions conducted in Thailand and abroad are settled in Thai Baht. When dining out during your travels, you can receive a four percent cash rebate when spending THB1,000 or more at restaurants worldwide. Going on a long flight? The Horoscope UnionPay Credit Card (Platinum) allows you to purchase DragonPass Lounge VIP access at a discounted rate, providing access six times a year.

Each credit card privilege comes with terms and conditions. You can apply for an ICBC credit by visiting any of their branches nationwide. You can review the required documents for each application online.