How to Register a SIM Card in Thailand

Need a Thai SIM card? This 2025 guide explains how to register a SIM card in Thailand, including what documents are required and where to buy one as a foreigner.

📲 Why You Must Register Your SIM in Thailand

Thailand legally requires all SIM cards — both prepaid and postpaid — to be registered under the buyer’s real name. This rule applies to both locals and foreigners. You cannot use a Thai SIM without proper ID registration, and activation usually happens on the spot. The process is simple but has a few important details that expats should know.

🛒 Where Can You Buy a Thai SIM Card?

You can buy and register a SIM card at the following places:

• Mobile operator stores like AIS, TrueMove H, Dtac

• Convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart (note: may redirect you to a partner counter)

• Kiosks at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Chiang Mai, and Phuket airports

• Shopping malls (especially MBK, Terminal 21, Central)

• Online platforms with courier registration (some delivery services offer doorstep verification)

Most stores will insert and activate the SIM card for you on the spot — making it usable within minutes.

📑 Documents You Need as a Foreigner

To register your Thai SIM, you must present:

• Passport (original, not a copy)

• If applicable, valid Thai visa stamp

• Occasionally, a photo or fingerprint is required (at mobile operator stores)

If you're applying for a postpaid plan (monthly billing), you may also need:

• Proof of address in Thailand (e.g., rental contract, hotel booking)

• Thai bank account or credit card (for automatic payment)

You do not need a Thai national ID or work permit to buy a prepaid SIM.

🧾 How the Registration Process Works

1. Choose your preferred provider and plan (e.g. AIS, True, or Dtac)

2. Present your passport to the store staff

3. They will scan or photograph your passport

4. You sign a registration form (sometimes digital, sometimes printed)

5. Your SIM is activated within 1–5 minutes

6. Test the number by calling or using mobile data

Once completed, your number is legally linked to your name and passport.

💡 Useful Tips for Expats

• If you're staying long-term, register with your real address (if possible) to avoid future verification issues.

• Some kiosks at tourist hotspots may offer tourist SIMs only — make sure to ask if you can convert it to a long-term plan later.

• If you lose your SIM or phone, you can visit the same provider’s store and retrieve your number — but only if it’s registered properly.

🧭 What Happens If You Don’t Register?

Unregistered SIM cards will:

• Be inactive (no signal)

• Be blocked from calls, data, and SMS

• Possibly trigger verification checks at airports if pre-registered but unactivated

In short, you must register to use mobile services in Thailand.

In short, you must register to use mobile services in Thailand.

📲 Bonus Tip: eSIMs Also Require Registration

If you're using an eSIM (digital SIM), you still need to verify your identity:

• In-person at a store

• Or online via eKYC (photo + passport scan via app)

Some international eSIM providers (like Airalo) bypass this, but Thai providers require it.

Registering a SIM card in Thailand is quick, easy, and absolutely necessary. As long as you bring your passport and choose a trusted provider, you'll be connected in no time.

For long-term expats, it’s worth visiting a main operator store for better customer support and plan options.

👉 Ready to get started?
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