As travel between Singapore and Thailand picks up, many Singaporeans are looking for convenient ways to manage their finances while abroad. Whether you're shopping in Bangkok, dining in Chiang Mai, or exploring the beautiful sights of Krabi, having a reliable and cost-effective payment method is essential. With the recent integration between Singapore’s PayNow and Thailand’s PromptPay systems, it’s now easier than ever for Singaporeans to use their local bank accounts in Thailand. This blog will guide you on how to seamlessly use PromptPay in Thailand by connecting it directly to your Singaporean bank account.

What is PromptPay?

PromptPay is Thailand’s national payment system that facilitates instant money transfers and payments using just a mobile number or National ID. It’s widely used for everything from paying for street food to settling utility bills, making it an essential tool for both locals and visitors.

Why Use PromptPay as a Singaporean?

Using PromptPay in Thailand offers several advantages:

• Convenience: Direct transfers and payments without needing cash.
• Cost-Efficiency: Lower transaction fees and favorable exchange rates.
• Security: Secure and fast transactions, minimizing the risk of carrying cash.

How to Connect Your Singaporean Bank Account to PromptPay

Thanks to the partnership between Singapore's PayNow and Thailand's PromptPay, Singaporeans can now use their PayNow-linked bank accounts to send money directly to a PromptPay account in Thailand. Here’s how you can set it up:

1. Ensure Your Bank Supports PayNow-PromptPay Integration

As of now, major Singaporean banks, such as DBS, OCBC, and UOB, support the PayNow-PromptPay integration. Check with your bank to confirm that your account is eligible for this service.

2. Access Your Bank’s Mobile App or Online Banking

To initiate a transfer from Singapore to a PromptPay account in Thailand, you need to log in to your bank’s mobile app or online banking platform.

3. Initiate an Overseas Transfer

• Select PayNow/PromptPay: Choose the option for international transfers or PayNow, and look for the option to send money to a PromptPay account.
• Enter the Recipient’s Details: You will need the recipient’s mobile number or PromptPay ID linked to their Thai bank account.
• Input the Amount: Enter the amount you wish to transfer in Singapore Dollars (SGD) or Thai Baht (THB). The exchange rate will be displayed before you confirm the transaction.
• Review and Confirm: Check the details carefully, including the transfer fees and the exchange rate, then confirm the transaction.

4. Receive Confirmation

Once the transfer is complete, both you and the recipient in Thailand will receive a confirmation notification. The funds should arrive almost instantly, making it perfect for urgent payments.

Using PromptPay for Payments in Thailand

While the PayNow-PromptPay link is primarily for person-to-person transfers, you can also use PromptPay for payments in Thailand:

• QR Code Payments: Many merchants in Thailand accept payments via PromptPay QR codes. Simply scan the QR code with your mobile banking app, confirm the amount, and the payment will be processed instantly.
• Paying Friends or Family: If you’re traveling with others, you can easily split bills by transferring money directly to their PromptPay-linked account from your Singapore bank account.

Benefits of Using PromptPay as a Singaporean in Thailand

• No Need for Cash: Enjoy the convenience of cashless transactions, minimizing the risk of theft or loss.
• Lower Fees: The integration between PayNow and PromptPay typically offers lower fees compared to traditional international transfers.
• Instant Transfers: Transfers are processed in real-time, making it easy to manage your finances on the go.

Conclusion

With the PayNow-PromptPay integration, managing your finances while traveling in Thailand has never been easier for Singaporeans. Whether you're paying for goods and services or sending money to friends and family, PromptPay offers a secure, convenient, and cost-effective solution. Ensure your Singaporean bank account is set up for PayNow, and you're all set for a hassle-free experience in Thailand.