- Thailand will allow tourists to convert crypto into baht for digital payments under a new regulatory pilot.
- Tourists must pass ID checks and use approved wallets to spend crypto converted into Thai baht.
- Spending limits and no direct crypto payments are part of Thailand’s plan to control financial risks.
Thailand has launched a regulated payment scheme that allows tourists to convert cryptocurrency into Thai baht for local use. The initiative, TouristDigiPay, began on August 18. The project will operate under a regulatory sandbox managed by key government agencies. The aim of the project is to simplify digital payments while strengthening oversight.
Foreign visitors must complete identity checks before opening accounts with licensed digital asset firms and e-money providers. Only approved entities under the Bank of Thailand and the Securities and Exchange Commission can operate in the scheme. Tourists can use baht to pay through electronic platforms like QR codes, which are widely accepted in the country.
Spending Limits and Anti-Fraud Controls
TouristDigiPay does not allow direct use of crypto for purchases. Instead, crypto is converted into baht before spending. The system enforces monthly spending caps. Foreign tourists can spend up to 500,000 baht using terminals. For smaller vendors, the cap is 50,000 baht. High-risk businesses identified by the Anti-Money Laundering Office are barred from participation.
Cash withdrawals are also restricted. Tourists are only allowed to make withdrawals after they have closed their digital wallet accounts. The safeguards ensure reduced fraud, consumer protection, and enhance compliance with financial laws.
Tourism Sector Seeks Recovery Through Digital Tools
The new scheme came when the tourism industry in Thailand had slowed. The country recorded 16.8 million arrivals in the first half of 2025 compared to last year where they had 17.7 million entries. Visitors from East Asia dropped by 24%. Chinese tourist numbers declined by 34%.
TouristDigiPay is part of a broader strategy to attract crypto-friendly travelers. It follows earlier trials in Phuket and consultations by the Thai SEC on digital payments. Officials expect digital tools to drive tourist spending and modernize the payment ecosystem.
Thailand Expands Crypto Policy Beyond Tourism
The crypto initiative reflects Thailand’s wider policy shift toward digital finance. In June, the government approved a five-year tax break for crypto gains. Profits from crypto and investment tokens traded on licensed platforms will be tax-free until 2029.
Thailand is also developing a “Tourist Wallet” to assist visitors without cross-border payment tools. The wallet could later link to foreign debit and credit cards. These efforts combine regulatory control with user-friendly access, aiming to improve the visitor experience while boosting spending in the local economy.
