Finding the best crypto exchange in Koh Chang means you need to know about Thailand’s special rules and how things work on the island. It’s also important to find out which platforms are allowed to help people trade in this far-off place. This guide will help you learn about top SEC-approved exchanges. It also looks at payment methods you can use, simple steps for trading, and important money rules that matter for visitors and people who live here full-time on Thailand’s second-biggest island.
Why Crypto Exchange Selection Matters for Koh Chang
Koh Chang is in Trat Province, on the eastern coast of Thailand. A lot of digital nomads, expats, and crypto traders come here to enjoy a sunny work-life. But this island is a bit far from the mainland. You will need to take a 30-minute ferry from Trat. This place is great, but there are some things that make crypto trading hard. There are not many ATMs here. People can find that the internet does not always work well, especially if you are in a remote part of the island. It is very important that you use only exchanges that the law approves.
Thailand sees cryptocurrency as a “digital asset”. Anyone who wants to trade must do this only on platforms that have a license from the SEC. Starting in April 2025, rules will get stricter. Even exchanges from outside Thailand must have the right license to work with Thai users. These new rules mean you must pick the right exchange when trading from Koh Chang. It is a must if you want to trade by the law.
This guide brings together research about Thailand’s best exchanges. It also covers how people can use local payment systems. Plus, there are easy trading strategies that are made for the Koh Chang area.
Thailand’s Cryptocurrency Regulatory Framework in 2025
Legal Status: What You Need to Know
Cryptocurrency is legal in Thailand. Still, the country has a special set of rules for it.
Classification: Digital items under the 2018 Digital Asset Business Emergency Decree (updated through Royal Decrees in April 2025)
Key Regulations:
- All trades have to go through SEC-licensed operators.
- Platforms from outside Thailand that serve Thai users need Thai SEC licenses. If they do not get these licenses, they can be blocked and face legal action.
- Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know-Your-Customer (KYC) checks are a must.
- You need to pay tax on gains. But, there is a tax break until 2029 if you use regulated platforms.
- It is not taken as legal money for payment.
Regulatory Authorities:
- Thai Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) – gives out licenses and checks exchanges
- Bank of Thailand (BOT) – checks how banks get involved
- Ministry of Finance – takes care of all digital asset rules
Tax Implications for Koh Chang Residents and Tourists
For Residents: If you make money from trading crypto, you have to pay income tax on the profits. The tax rate changes based on how much you earn. There is one good thing. The Thai government gives a capital gains tax break for trades on local platforms. This break will last until the end of 2029.
For Tourists: If you visit for a short time, check if your own country wants you to pay tax on crypto profits. In Thailand, the rules for local people and visitors are the same. The country does not give different rules to you if you are there just to visit.
The Top 5 SEC-Licensed Crypto Exchanges for Koh Chang Traders
1. Bitkub: Thailand’s Market Leader
Overview: Bitkub has the biggest share in the market when you look at Thai exchanges. It handles around $28 billion in trading volume each year, according to SEC data from June 2023.
Key Specifications:
- Available Cryptocurrencies: You can trade over 150 types, like Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, XRP, Dogecoin, and Polkadot.
- Supported Currencies: Use Thai Baht (THB) with smooth support for local payments.
- Trading Volume: It has the biggest trading numbers in Thailand.
- User Base: The app has had more than 5 million downloads on iOS, Android, and Huawei devices.
- Custody Partners: Bitgo and Coinbase Custody help with safety for your crypto.
- Minimum Deposit: There is no set minimum deposit, so you can start with even a small amount.
- Fees: Fees are in levels. You can see the details on the website.
Why It’s Best for Koh Chang:
- Full THB integration takes away problems with changing money for payments.
- You can get help anytime, day or night, in many languages, using online chat, phone, or email.
- The company is fully registered and has a registered capital of 450 million THB.
- There is an educational blog and knowledge hub where you can learn more.
Getting Started: Sign up on your desktop or mobile. Use e-KYC to confirm who you are. Put in THB by QR payment or from your bank account. Start trading.
2. Bitazza: Innovative Payment Flexibility
Overview: Running since 2018, Bitazza stands out by offering many payment options and advanced wallet features.
Key Specifications:
- Available Cryptocurrencies: There are more than 90 coins you can buy and sell. Some of these are Bitcoin, Avalanche, Shiba Inu, and Ethereum.
- Supported Currencies: You can use USD, USDT, or THB with this.
- Minimum Deposit: You need to put in at least 0.001 BTC or $10 USD to start.
- Custody: Your money is kept in cold storage. Two-factor authentication (2FA) helps keep it safe.
- Special Feature: Bitazza Global Wallet lets you manage your money on many platforms.
Why It’s Best for Koh Chang:
- You can put money in using many ways. These include bank transfers, Visa cards, and crypto-to-crypto.
- They have a strong place in the local market and they help people with THB.
- They make sure to follow rules and are monitored by the SEC.
- There are new trading ways you can try. It is not just basic spot trading.
Payment Methods Available:
- Bank payment
- Credit/Debit cards (3-5% fee on local cards)
- Cryptocurrency payment
- Peer-to-peer options
3. Orbix (formerly Satang Pro): Best for Beginners
Overview: Orbix was bought and got a new name. Now it is the most easy-to-use exchange for beginners in Thailand.
Key Specifications:
- Available Cryptocurrencies: There are over 30 to choose from. These include some popular coins and new tokens that people want.
- Regulatory Status: It is fully licensed by the SEC and also watched by officials in Thai.
- Security: There is two-factor sign-in and cold storage for safety.
- Focus: It lets you pick both Layer 1 and Layer 2 tokens, so you can spread out your choices in what you own.
Why It’s Best for Koh Chang Beginners:
- The easy-to-use interface makes trading less hard
- A smaller list of choices helps to keep people from getting stuck
- SEC rules help people feel sure about the law
- This is good if you want to try crypto trading before putting in more money
4. MEXC: Maximum Cryptocurrency Selection
Overview: MEXC is the top exchange around the world for people in Thailand. It gives you the best help and the biggest choice in cryptocurrency.
Key Specifications:
- Available Cryptocurrencies: 1,600+ (largest selection in the world)
- Trading Options: Spot trading, futures trading, margin trading
- Leverage: Up to 200x (for those who have more experience)
- Fees: Good at 0% maker, 0.02% taker
- Advanced Features: Copy trading, staking, lending, always adding new tokens
Why It’s Best for Koh Chang Advanced Traders:
- Thailand-tailored services, even on a global scale
- Great liquidity for all trading pairs
- Fast transaction times with a platform made for mobile
- Regular new token listings (get early to new crypto)
- Full charting and technical analysis tools
5. Gulf Binance: International Standard with Thai Compliance
Overview: Gulf Binance is the only officially approved way in Thailand to get into the Binance world. It brings both strong worldwide systems and follows local rules.
Key Specifications:
- Available Cryptocurrencies: There are over 100 coins, and this list has many big names and some new coins.
- Regulatory Status: It has a license in Thailand to work as a broker and exchange.
- Trading Fees: The fee is set at 0.25%.
- Features: You get P2P trading, staking, and savings options.
- Payment Integration: You can put in and take out THB right from your bank.
- Mobile Apps: There are mobile apps for iOS and Android.
Why this is great for people living in Koh Chang who want to reach the whole world:
- Brings together Binance’s liquidity and local Thai rules.
- You do not have to use bank accounts in other countries.
- Direct THB pairs take away conversion problems.
- You can trade at any time with very strong security like what big players use.
Crypto Payment Infrastructure on Koh Chang Island
Current State of ATMs and Banking
Koh Chang has a big problem with its infrastructure. Mainland Thailand has good fintech tools, but the island’s focus on tourism brings some limits.
Bank Locations (West Coast Main Beaches):
- White Sand Beach: There are many banks and ATMs.
- Lonely Beach: You will find few places for banking.
- Kai Bae Beach: You can use a basic ATM here.
- Chang Buri: This is the center for government banking.
ATM Reality Check:
- Availability: ATMs are on the island but you will not find them in places that are far out.
- Fees: Thai banks ask for 150-220 THB each time you take out money.
- Reliability: They may not work all the time during busy season or when weather is bad.
- Foreign Card Fees: Most home banks add extra charges when you use your card here.
Bitcoin ATM Availability:
- Thailand does not have many Bitcoin ATMs. There is only one known place in Phuket.
- Koh Chang does not have any Bitcoin ATMs.
- Because of this, people mostly use crypto exchanges as the main way to trade.
Currency Exchange Options on Koh Chang
Physical Currency Booths:
- The shop is in the main tourist spots like White Sand and Lonely Beach.
- It is open 7 days a week in the high season.
- The exchange rates can change a little depending on where you go.
- It usually takes 5-10 minutes to change your money.
Resort Services:
- Most resorts will have places to exchange money.
- The rates you get are usually lower than what you can get at a bank.
- You do pay about 2-3% more because it’s easier to do it at the resort.
Recommendation: If you trade crypto, it is good to use exchanges that are regulated like Bitkub and Bitazza. You can put THB right in. This is better than doing money changes with cash. It helps you avoid extra fees and does not make things hard when you need to change money.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Buy and Trade Crypto on Koh Chang
Preparation Phase (Before Arrival or Initial Setup)
Step 1: Select Your Exchange
- Pick Bitkub, Bitazza, or Gulf Binance if you want something easy to use with Thai Baht.
- Think about what level of experience you have. If you are just starting out, go for Orbix or Bitkub. If you have done this before, MEXC can be a good fit.
- Make sure the exchange has an SEC license.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
- A passport that is still good (needed for all KYC checks)
- A paper that shows where you live (might be needed; if you are a tourist, you can use the hotel address)
- How to reach you (your phone number and email)
- Your bank details (to put money in or take it out)
Registration Phase
Step 3: Create Your Exchange Account
- Go to the exchange’s official website (check the URL carefully)
- Click on “Sign Up” or “Register”
- Type in your email and make a strong password (at least 12 characters, use big and small letters, numbers, and symbols)
- Check your email and click the confirmation link
Step 4: Finish KYC (Know-Your-Customer) Process
- Upload passport photo
- Prove who you are (some exchanges use e-KYC tech)
- Give your address
- Checks are usually done in 24 to 48 hours
- You must do this step for all rule-following Thai exchanges
Deposit Phase
Step 5: Fund Your Account with Thai Baht
For Bitkub:
- Go to the “Deposit” section
- Pick “Thai Baht (THB)” as your money type
- Pick how you want to add money:
- Thai QR Payment (fast, using your bank app)
- Bank (same day or next day, with a Thai bank)
- ATM Withdrawal and Deposit (stop by any bank)
- Do what the screen tells you
- Confirm the money from your bank
For Bitazza:
- Pick the “Deposit” tab.
- Choose the money type and how you want to pay.
- You will see steps on how to send money from the bank, with the right details.
- Send money from your Thai bank.
- Your money should show up in 1 to 2 hours.
Key Tips:
- Use bank transfers instead of ATM withdrawals. This way, you can avoid the 150-220 THB fees.
- If you use an international card, be ready for some processing time. It can take between 24 to 48 hours.
- Begin with a small amount for your first deposit to check if everything goes well.
Trading Phase
Step 6: Buy Your First Cryptocurrency
For Bitcoin Purchase:
- Click “Buy Bitcoin” or go to the “BTC/THB” trading pair
- Enter the amount in THB that you want to put in
- The system shows you how much BTC you will get
- Look at the fees (these are usually 0-0.25% based on the exchange)
- Click “Confirm Purchase”
- The deal is done in seconds
- Your Bitcoin will show up in your wallet
For other types of cryptocurrencies (like Ethereum, USDT, and more):
- Follow the same steps, but pick the currency you want.
- Most exchanges give you ready-made pairs like BTC/THB, ETH/THB, or USDT/THB.
Security Phase
Step 7: Secure Your Account
- Turn on Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) right away:
- Download the Google Authenticator or Authy app
- Scan the QR code from the exchange
- Save backup codes in a safe place (this is important if you need to get back in)
- Turn on the withdrawal whitelist (this means your money can only go to certain wallets)
- Set withdrawal limits (this helps stop big losses if you get hacked)
- Use a hardware wallet or cold storage when you hold more than you trade
Withdrawal Phase
Step 8: Withdraw Funds to Bank Account
For crypto-to-THB withdrawal:
- Go to the “Withdraw” section
- Choose “Thai Baht (THB)”
- Type in the amount you want to take out
- Check your Thai bank details
- See the fee for withdrawing money (is usually 0-25 THB)
- Send your request to take out money
- You will get the money in your bank in 1-2 business days
Alternative Payment Methods and Workarounds
Option 1: Wise (Recommended for International Transfers)
Wise gives good exchange rates when you want to change money from another country to Thai Baht. This is very helpful for people who trade to other countries and do not have a Thai bank account.
Process:
- Make a Wise account. It is free and takes about five minutes.
- Send your home money to your Wise account.
- Change your money to Thai Baht at the real exchange rate. There are no extra charges.
- Pull your Thai Baht out to your Thai bank or get your debit card.
- Use your Thai Baht to put money into a crypto exchange.
Advantages:
- You get rates that are 1-2% better than the banks.
- The fees are low (usually 50-150 THB).
- Money goes fast through the mobile app.
- Thai banks take it.
Option 2: Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Trading
Platforms like Binance P2P and local Thai P2P markets let people buy and sell from each other directly.
Process:
- Look through P2P offers on the exchange platform.
- Pick a seller who takes the payment way you want (like bank, PromptPay, and others).
- Start the trade (the money will be kept safe in the middle).
- Pay by the payment way you picked.
- Say you have finished the payment.
- The seller will send the crypto to your wallet.
Risks:
- Counterparty not paying (escrow helps lower most risk)
- Slower than trading on an exchange
- Chance of scams (use only platforms that let you solve problems)
Option 3: Cryptocurrency-to-Cryptocurrency Conversion
If you already hold crypto in non-Thai wallets:
- Send your crypto to the exchange wallet (keep in mind that blockchain fees will be added).
- Sell it for USDT or another stablecoin.
- Take out the stablecoin to the Thai exchange.
- Change it to THB right away, or you can use another trading pair in the middle.
Advantage: Takes away problems with bank moves
Disadvantage: More fees because of blockchain costs
Option 4: Bank-to-Bank International Transfer
For big payments, use direct international transfers to bank accounts in Thailand:
Process:
- Get the Thai exchange’s bank info.
- Send the money from your home bank.
- Put your exchange ID in the notes when you send money.
- The money will show up in 2 to 5 work days.
- The exchange will add money to your balance by itself.
Fees: Most of the time, you will have to pay $15-50 USD from banks in other countries. You will also need to pay for changing money to a different currency.
Transaction Fees Breakdown: What You’ll Actually Pay
Bitkub Fee Structure
| Transaction Type | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maker (your limit order filled) | 0-0.025% | Varies by volume tier |
| Taker (instant market order) | 0-0.25% | Varies by volume tier |
| THB Deposit | 0 | Free via all methods |
| THB Withdrawal | 20 THB (~$0.55 USD) | Flat fee to bank |
| Crypto Withdrawal | 0 | Free for most coins |
| ATM Withdrawal | 150-220 THB | Thai bank fee |
Bitazza Fee Structure
| Transaction Type | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Trading Fees | 0.1% | Standard for all users |
| Deposit (Bank Transfer) | 0 | Free |
| Deposit (Card) | 3-5% | Card processor fee |
| Withdrawal | Varies | Typically 20-100 THB |
| Crypto Transfer | Network dependent | Blockchain fees only |
MEXC Fee Structure
| Transaction Type | Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | 0% | No maker fees |
| Taker | 0.02% | Lowest in industry |
| Deposit | 0 | Free |
| Withdrawal (Crypto) | Network dependent | Blockchain fees only |
| Futures Trading | 0.02% | Competitive |
Hidden Costs to Avoid
ATM Withdrawal Fees: It will cost you 150 to 220 THB each time you take out money at Thai ATMs.
- Solution: Put money in by sending it from the bank right to the exchange.
Currency Exchange Markups: 2-3% at a money exchange booth
- Solution: You can use Wise or digital exchanges. These often give you better rates.
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): ATMs that let you “pay in your currency” add a 2-4% fee.
- Rule: Always choose Thai Baht payment at ATMs
3-5% Credit Card Fee: Local shops and some exchanges
- Solution: You can use debit cards or bank transfers if you want to pay less.
International Wire Fees: $15-50 per wire transfer
- Solution: Use Wise for amounts under $10,000 USD
Internet Connectivity Considerations for Koh Chang Traders
Broadband Infrastructure Status
Koh Chang has different levels of digital infrastructure, depending on where you are.
High Connectivity Areas (Main Beaches):
- White Sand Beach: There is 4G there, and fiber internet in the main places at the resort.
- Lonely Beach: You get 4G there, and sometimes there is fiber internet.
- Kai Bae Beach: The 4G can be mixed, but there is back-up internet with satellite.
Limited Connectivity Areas:
- Eastern side of island: You get spotty 4G, but there is no fiber.
- National park interior: There is very little coverage.
- Areas on the water: There is no coverage.
Mobile Network Providers
Thailand has three main phone companies. You can use all of them on Koh Chang.
- AIS: The most steady coverage (recommended)
- DTAC: Good coverage in main places
- True: The coverage is okay but a bit less than the others
Setup: Get a 4G SIM at 7-Eleven or a mobile shop. The price will be between 50 and 150 THB.
- Bring your passport to show who you are.
- Data packages are between 150 and 500 THB for each month.
- You can add money to your plan by using automatic recharge or by topping up yourself.
Best Practices for Trading During Island Outages
- Never keep all funds on exchange: Keep about 90% of your coins in a cold storage or hardware wallet.
- Schedule important trades ahead: When you have to travel to far places, set your limit orders before you leave so you can avoid problems that may come up.
- Test connectivity before deposits: Make sure you have a good internet connection before you move a lot of money.
- Use backup mobile hotspot: Rent a backup 4G device for trading days that really count.
- Avoid margin trading: Borrowing money for trading can make things worse if you lose your internet connection.
Security Best Practices for Cryptocurrency on Koh Chang
Exchange Security Standards
All major Thai exchanges implement:
- The system uses strong industry-standard encryption (SSL/TLS).
- There is two-factor authentication (2FA) through authenticator apps.
- Most user funds (over 95%) are stored in cold storage.
- There are regular security audits and testing for safety.
- Insurance is there for some loss situations.
Personal Security Measures (Critical)
Tier 1 – Account Security (implement immediately):
- Enable 2FA: Use an authenticator app like Google Authenticator or Authy. Do not use text message based 2FA.
- Strong Password: Make a password that is at least 16 characters. Add uppercase letters, numbers, and special marks in it.
- Separate Email: Use a different email just for the exchange. Do not share this email with other services.
- Backup Recovery: Keep your 2FA backup codes in a safe place that is not online.
- Withdrawal Whitelist: Turn on this tool to let money go out only to the addresses you have put in the list.
Tier 2 – Fund Storage (use this before you build up a lot of holdings):
- Hardware Wallet: If you have over 10 million THB, use a Ledger or Trezor hardware wallet.
- Cold Storage: Keep 90% of your coins offline. Only keep 10% on the exchange for trading.
- Multisig Wallets: If you have more than 50 million THB, use wallets that need more than one key.
- Geographically Dispersed: Store your backup seeds in different physical places.
Tier 3 – Operational Security (ongoing practices):
- Public WiFi: Do not use public WiFi to trade on Koh Chang. Always use your own mobile hotspot.
- Device Cleanliness: Stay safe from phishing by typing exchange URLs by hand. Do not click links.
- Regular Audits: Check your transaction history every week to spot any activity that should not be there.
- Update Software: Always keep your phone, authenticator app, and browser up to date.
- Avoid Sharing: Never give your seed phrases, private keys, or 2FA codes to anyone.
Fraud Prevention Checklist
- Exchange URL is an exact match (look at the spelling with care)
- SSL certificate is good (look for green padlock by browser address bar)
- Email from exchange is sent from the main domain (not @gmail.com)
- You can find the phone number for help at more than one source
- The recent transaction history shows just your moves
- Your balance is the same as your records
- There are no new or odd devices in your “active sessions” list
Relevant Questions and Comprehensive FAQ
Is Bitcoin Legal in Koh Chang?
Yes, Bitcoin and all types of cryptocurrencies are legal in Thailand. This is true even on Koh Chang Island in Trat Province. But you need to trade only on exchanges that are licensed by the SEC. Exchanges like Bybit, OKX, and CoinEx do not have licenses in Thailand. These will be blocked for Thai users by June 2025. If you use platforms that are not licensed, it is against the law for Thai people and those who live in Thailand.
Which is the Best Crypto Exchange for Koh Chang Specifically?
Bitkub is the best choice for people in Koh Chang who want to trade. This platform stands out because:
- Highest Trust Score: Handles the most THB trades, with $28B traded each year.
- Thai Optimization: All baht moves smoothly, with no need to swap money for another type.
- Customer Support: A team is ready to help you all day and night, in Thai language. This is important when there is an emergency.
- Security: Bitgo/Coinbase takes care of your assets to keep them very safe.
- User Base: More than 5 million people have checked their identities. A bigger group means better safety and more money moving.
- Regulatory Certainty: This site has been running the longest in Thailand with a license.
Bitazza is the second choice for traders who want more ways to pay and the best new features.
What’s the Difference Between Regulated and Unregulated Exchanges?
| Feature | Regulated (SEC-Licensed) | Unregulated |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Status in Thailand | Fully Legal | Illegal as of April 2025 |
| Account Protection | Thai law guarantees protections | No legal recourse |
| Withdrawal Restrictions | None for legitimate users | Possible sudden freezing |
| Tax Benefits | Tax waiver 2025-2029 | Not eligible |
| Customer Support | Regulated response requirements | No accountability |
| Blocking Risk | Protected from blocking | Subject to ISP blocking |
| Examples | Bitkub, Bitazza, Gulf Binance | Bybit, OKX, CoinEx |
How Long Does It Take to Withdraw Crypto to a Bank Account from Koh Chang?
Timeline for Thai Baht Withdrawals:
- Bitkub: 1-2 hours (during business hours), you get a quick reply right away.
- Bitazza: 1-2 business days
- Gulf Binance: It depends, but it is often done the same business day.
- Blockchain transfers: 10 minutes to 1 hour. This will change when the traffic is heavy.
Factors Affecting Speed:
- Weekend or holiday processing can be slower.
- Bank works on processing at all hours for night transfers.
- A lot of people trying to use it at once in bull markets can slow things down.
- If you take out a large amount, it might need someone to check it first.
Recommendation: Start withdrawals during business hours (9 AM – 5 PM) to get faster processing.
Is There a Maximum Amount I Can Deposit or Withdraw?
Exchange-Imposed Limits:
| Exchange | Daily Limit | Monthly Limit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitkub | 5M THB (~$138K USD) | Unlimited | Pro accounts higher |
| Bitazza | 50M THB (~$1.4M USD) | Unlimited | Verified accounts |
| Gulf Binance | 10M THB (~$275K USD) | Unlimited | Varies by tier |
Bank-Imposed Limits:
- Thai banks usually let you send only 5-10 million THB in one transfer.
- If you want to send more, you will have to show some papers about where the money comes from.
- You can take out 20,000-40,000 THB at an ATM each time.
Compliance Note: Thailand’s Financial Intelligence Unit looks at any transfer that goes over 1 million THB. They do this to help stop money laundering. This is normal and not a problem for good traders.
What Cryptocurrencies Can I Trade on Koh Chang?
Most Available (on all major exchanges):
- Bitcoin (BTC) – this is the first one and it is easy to buy or sell
- Ethereum (ETH) – this is used for smart contracts
- USDT (Tether) – this is a stablecoin that is not as up and down
- USDC – this is backed by the US dollar and is another pick close to USDT
It’s best for beginners to stay with the top 5 to 10 cryptocurrencies by market cap. Use these until you have more experience.
Speculative Coins (on MEXC): There are more than 1,600 other coins available.
- Higher risk/reward approach
- A lot of volatility
- Leverage trading options available
Exchange-Specific Limitations:
- Bitkub: 150+ coins (Thailand-approved list)
- Bitazza: 90+ coins (curated selection)
- Orbix: 30+ coins (beginner-focused)
- Gulf Binance: 100+ coins (broad selection)
- MEXC: 1,600+ coins (big global coverage)
Do I Pay Taxes on Crypto Gains from Koh Chang?
Yes, you can only do this on exchanges that are regulated. But there will be a big advantage for you from 2025 to 2029.
Detailed Tax Situation:
For Thai Residents:
- Capital gains made from crypto trading are taxed like income from a job.
- The tax can be from 5% to 37%, and this depends on how much you make in total.
- Exception: There will be no tax from these gains until the end of 2029, but it only counts for trades on regulated exchanges.
- This means you do not have to pay taxes on your profit through 2029 if you use SEC-licensed platforms.
For Tourists/Digital Nomads:
- Look at home country’s tax filing rules.
- A lot of countries take tax on money you make everywhere, not just money made at home.
- The Thailand-US treaty may change things for US people (ask a tax expert about this).
- Thailand counts tourists as non-residents when it comes to tax (this can be better for you).
Documentation Requirements:
- Keep a list of all buys and sells from every exchange.
- Write down the buy price, sell price, and date.
- Watch for new tax rules that may start after 2030.
- Tax break ends on Dec 31, 2029.
The 2025-2029 tax waiver makes controlled platforms much better than any platforms that do not follow the rules. This is true even when you do not just look at what is allowed by the law.
What Should I Do If I Lose My 2FA Device or Forget My Password?
Account Recovery Process:
Step 1: Contact exchange support immediately
- Bitkub: support@bitkub.com or you can use live chat any time, day or night (24/7)
- Bitazza: support@bitazza.com
Step 2: Verify identity with:
- Email address used for registration
- Phone number on file
- A copy of your passport or ID
- Recent transaction details
Step 3: The support team starts the recovery process. This usually takes about 24 to 48 hours.
Step 4: Access restored with new 2FA setup
Prevention:
- Important: Save your 2FA backup codes right away when you turn it on.
- Keep your backup codes in:
- A locked file on your computer
- A paper copy placed somewhere safe
- A second place that is not close to Koh Chang
Can I Trade Crypto While Traveling Between Islands?
Practical Considerations:
Connectivity During Ferry Rides:
- 30-minute ferry to Koh Chang: Spotty 4G, do not trade while moving
- Moves between islands: Mobile data is not good
- What to do: Finish all trades before the ferry leaves
Best Practice Protocol:
- Finish all your trading before you move to another island.
- Use limit orders to get income while you travel.
- Turn on withdrawal rules (whitelist) before you leave.
- Keep your hardware wallet key in a safe place.
Avoid During Travel:
- Margin or leverage trading has gap risk if there is an outage.
- Large deposit and withdrawal transactions
- Changing your password or resetting 2FA
What’s the Best Strategy for a First-Time Crypto Buyer on Koh Chang?
Beginner-Optimized Strategy:
Phase 1: Education (Week 1)
- Open Bitkub account (best for beginners)
- Study exchange interface (no real trades yet)
- Complete KYC
- Practice with minimum deposit (10,000-50,000 THB)
Phase 2: Small Transactions (Weeks 2-3)
- Buy a small amount of Bitcoin (1M-2M THB in value)
- Complete your first withdrawal to your bank
- Get to know the fee structure by doing real transfers
- Turn on 2FA and other safety settings
Phase 3: Accumulation (Month 2+)
- Buy every month with dollar-cost averaging. This means you put in the same amount each week.
- Keep 90% of your money safe in a cold storage wallet.
- Leave 10% on the exchange so you can trade.
- Do not use leverage trading at all. The risk is just too much.
Specific Entry Points:
- Don’t wait for the “perfect price” because no one knows what it is.
- Making small buys often is better than trying to guess the right time.
- Buying 50,000-100,000 THB every week helps you stay on track.
Should I Keep My Crypto on the Exchange or in a Personal Wallet?
Distribution Recommendation (Safety-Optimized):
For Holdings Under 5M THB:
- 70% will be on SEC-licensed exchange (Bitkub)
- 30% will be in a hardware wallet (cold storage)
For Holdings 5M-50M THB:
- 50% on exchange (active trading)
- 50% in hardware wallet (long-term storage)
For Holdings Exceeding 50M THB:
- Keep 25% on the exchange for active trading.
- Store 75% in a hardware wallet or a multisig wallet.
- If you have institutional-scale holdings, think about using custodial services.
Why This Distribution:
- Exchange access: You get fast trading, staking, and lending options
- Cold storage security: Keeps you safe from exchange hacks, which do not happen often but can still take place
- Diversification: Helps you avoid big losses
Are There Crypto ATMs on Koh Chang?
Current Reality (2026):
- There are zero Bitcoin ATMs right now on Koh Chang Island.
- The closest Bitcoin ATM is in the Phuket area. You will need to travel to get there.
- All across Thailand, there is only about one verified Bitcoin ATM spot.
Better Option: Try Bitkub or Bitazza exchange with bank transfers. You can get lower fees and quick service this way.
Future Possibilities: As more people in Thailand start to use crypto, Koh Chang might put Bitcoin ATMs in busy tourist places later on.
How Do I Avoid Cryptocurrency Scams on Koh Chang?
Most Common Scams Targeting Koh Chang Visitors:
Scam #1: Fake Currency Exchange Booths
- A lot of people try to get tourists at the beaches by saying they have “special exchange rates.”
- Red Flags: There is no real sign, they want you to give big amounts of money, and they only tell you the rate without anything written down.
- What to Do: You should use only banks or ATMs if you want to get money.
Scam #2: Unsolicited Investment Offers
- Strangers in bars or places to eat may offer you “guaranteed returns.”
- These people often pick tourists, and drinking can be part of it.
- How to avoid this: Walk away from any investment pitch you did not ask for.
Scam #3: Phishing Emails Mimicking Exchanges
- There have been fake “Bitkub” emails that ask you to reset your password.
- These emails have links that go to look-alike websites that take your login details.
- How to stay safe: Type the exchange URL right into your browser. Do not click on links in emails.
Scam #4: Counterfeit Tourism Currency Exchanges
- Offering rates that are 20-30% better than what the official exchanges give
- They do short-change scams by swapping money fast with their hands
- How to stay safe: Count all your money well before you walk away from the exchange booth
Scam #5: Fake Bitcoin ATM Installations
- ATMs that scammers put at places where many people travel
- They get your debit card info or keep your crypto
- How to avoid this: Use only the ATM that is inside a real bank
Universal Scam Prevention:
- All real money services need to be registered the right way. You can check this on the SEC website.
- Be careful of any rates that are much better than others you see around.
- Never give your seed phrases, private keys, or passwords to anyone.
- Use the main websites only. Check the spelling of the URL before you use it.
- Only trust support from the main channels of the platform.
What Happens If an Exchange Gets Hacked While My Funds Are There?
Thai Regulatory Protections (as of 2025):
All SEC-licensed exchanges must maintain:
- Insurance coverage for customer money (this can change by exchange)
- Most funds are kept in cold storage (this helps lower hacking effects)
- Security audits and tests are done often
- The money is kept separate (your funds stay safe if the exchange goes out of business)
Bitkub-Specific Protection:
- Assets are in the care of Bitgo and Coinbase Custody. The security level is high enough for big companies.
- The company has been running since 2014. There have not been any big security problems.
- The registered money is 450M THB.
Your Recourse:
- Exchange risk is covered by insurance.
- Thailand’s Consumer Law gives you legal help if you need it.
- The SEC takes action when exchanges do not follow the rules.
- Problems can be settled in Thai courts.
Best Risk Mitigation: Do not keep more than 30 days of your trading money on the exchange. Keep 70% in a hardware wallet.
Is It Safe to Trade Crypto While Connected to Island WiFi?
Security Assessment:
Public WiFi Risk Level: 🔴 HIGH RISK
- Public or resort WiFi can be easy for others to read and take your data.
- Bad people can get your passwords and 2FA codes.
- Someone can get between you and the site you want to visit.
- Never trade or open your accounts when you are on public WiFi.
Personal Mobile Hotspot: 🟢 LOW RISK
- 4G encryption helps keep your data safe when it is sent
- A device used by one person means the connection is safe
- It is a good idea to use this for all crypto trades
- Price: 150-500 THB each month for the data plan
Hotel WiFi with VPN: 🟡 MEDIUM RISK
- A VPN adds a layer of coding to your stuff.
- You should still use your own hotspot.
- Picking the right VPN is important (use a well-known service like ExpressVPN, NordVPN).
Best Practice: Only use your own mobile hotspot for:
- Exchange login and getting into your account
- Buy or sell actions
- Take out or put in money
- Setting up or changing 2FA
Can I Short-Sell Crypto or Use Leverage on Koh Chang Exchanges?
Availability by Platform:
| Exchange | Margin Trading | Leverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bitkub | No | Not available | Spot trading only |
| Bitazza | Limited | Up to 3x | Via derivatives trading |
| Orbix | No | Not available | Spot trading only |
| MEXC | Yes | Up to 200x | Advanced trading only |
| Gulf Binance | Limited | 2-10x | Via futures trading |
Risk Assessment:
🔴 Not Recommended for Koh Chang Traders due to:
- When there are problems with staying connected, you can lose more money.
- A small problem with the internet can cause your trades to end.
- If you move from one island to another, you may get margin calls.
- It is hard to manage risk when you are far away.
Beginner Recommendation: It is good to stay away from all leverage trading if you are new. Just use spot trading, where you buy and hold without borrowing money.
How Does Thailand’s Tax Waiver Until 2029 Actually Work?
Exact Terms (as of January 2026):
Who Qualifies:
- All Thai citizens and residents
- Digital nomads with the right visas
- Anyone trading on SEC-licensed exchanges
What’s Covered:
- You need to pay capital gains tax when you sell cryptocurrency.
- If you get staking rewards on any regulated platform, it counts too.
- Interest you make from lending your crypto on regulated platforms also gets counted.
- NOT covered: Day trading fees and transaction costs are not included in this list.
What Trades Qualify:
- The trades that happen only on SEC-licensed exchanges are covered.
- If you trade on an exchange that is not regulated, it will not be covered.
- When you do P2P trades, it is a gray area. You should talk to a tax professional.
- For OTC trades, the tax treatment is not clear.
Documentation Requirements:
- Keep exchange transaction history
- Record dates and amounts of all trades
- Keep records through 2030 (tax authorities may audit)
After 2029:
- Rates may go back to normal 5-37% capital gains tax.
- Think about using tax-loss harvesting plans in 2029.
- Be sure to stay updated on any news from the government.
This is a key point. Regulated exchanges have the biggest advantage over unregulated ones. This is true even more than just following legal rules.
What Cryptocurrencies Have Approved Status in Thailand?
SEC-Approved Cryptocurrencies:
- The Thai SEC keeps a list of coins that you can trade.
- Most of the big coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT are on this list.
- Bitkub offers over 150 coins, and these are the coins that people in Thailand can trade.
Non-Approved Coins:
- Some privacy coins like Monero and Zcash are banned because of rules set by the law.
- Altcoins that are not registered and come from ICOs that do not look good.
- Coins that were taken off exchanges from projects that are not working anymore.
Practical Approach:
- If you find it on Bitkub, it will be approved right away.
- If you do not see it on Bitkub but do find it on MEXC, you should do some research before you start trading.
- Try to use only the top 50 cryptocurrencies by market cap because they have the highest regulation trust.
Should I Tell My Bank I’m Trading Cryptocurrency?
Legal View: You do not have to let your bank know about crypto trading. The law does not ask you to do this.
Practical Reality:
- Banks now spot crypto transactions on their own.
- If you put a lot of money in, banks may check for “unusual activity.”
- It’s not against the law – it’s just banks being careful.
Best Practice:
- For deposits less than 1M THB, you do not need to tell the bank.
- For deposits between 1M and 5M THB, the bank will see it. This is the normal way they check things.
- For deposits over 5M THB, you should tell the bank before you put money in. This is needed to stop your money from being frozen.
- Show where your money comes from, like your job, inheritance, or other ways.
Recommended Approach:
- Put money in the bank often. Try to put in 100K every week instead of waiting to put 500K in each month.
- Use the same bank again and again.
- Do not split up your deposits to try to sidestep reports. This is breaking the law and not allowed.
- Tell your bank about where your money comes from. Keep your information with the bank up-to-date.
What’s the Difference Between Spot Trading and Futures Trading?
Spot Trading (Recommended for Koh Chang):
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| What You Buy | Actual cryptocurrency |
| Settlement | Immediate (seconds) |
| Ownership | You own the actual crypto |
| Risk | Limited to amount invested |
| Fees | 0-0.25% per trade |
| Complexity | Simple (buy and hold) |
| Connectivity Risk | Low (no liquidations) |
Futures Trading (NOT Recommended):
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| What You Buy | Contracts based on future price |
| Settlement | Varies (expiration dates) |
| Ownership | No actual crypto owned |
| Risk | Unlimited via leverage |
| Fees | 0.02-0.1% per trade |
| Complexity | High (requires risk management) |
| Connectivity Risk | HIGH (liquidation if disconnected) |
Specific Recommendation for Koh Chang:
- Stick only to spot trading.
- The island’s connection is too unreliable for any trades with leverage.
- Do not trade futures at all.
Practical Scenarios and Real-World Examples
Scenario 1: Digital Nomad Moving to Koh Chang for 6 Months
Goals: Keep your crypto, earn staking rewards, and pay less in fees
Recommended Strategy:
- One month before you go:
- Make a Bitkub profile
- Finish KYC check
- Send money to the exchange (it is best to use Wise for outside country transfers)
- When you get there:
- Buy a local 4G SIM card
- Open a Thai bank (this is needed if you want to put THB in there)
- Put 2M THB in (this should be enough for about half a year for your costs)
- Each week, buy 100K THB in Bitcoin
- Every month:
- Spend 10% for what you need day to day
- Use 10% to buy more crypto a little at a time
- Put 80% in a hardware wallet (keep it where only you can touch it)
- Get ready to leave:
- Take out any THB you still have and send it to your other bank (use Wise)
- Check your wallet is safe before you go
Cost Estimate:
- Wise: 50-100 USD in fees for sending 2M THB
- Trading fees: About 5,000 THB over 6 months
- Total cost: Less than 50,000 THB for 6 months of use
Scenario 2: Tourist with $5,000 USD to Convert to Bitcoin
Goal: Buy Bitcoin in a way that has less trouble and fewer fees.
Step-by-Step Process:
Phase 1: Changing Currency (24 hours before trading)
- Make a Wise account for free.
- Send $5,000 USD to your Wise account.
- Change that to Thai Baht using the real exchange rate (you will get about 180,000 THB if $1 is about 36 THB).
- Take money out to a Thai bank or use your Wise debit card.
- You pay about 200-300 THB in Wise fees.
Phase 2: Exchange Setup (30 minutes)
- Go to Bitkub.com using a computer
- Tap “Sign Up”
- Make an account with your email
- Finish KYC check (you will need a passport photo)
- The check is done in 1-2 hours
- You can add money after your email is checked
Phase 3: Bitcoin Purchase (10 minutes)
- Put 180,000 THB in by Bitkub
- Pick “Buy Bitcoin”
- Type in 180,000 THB to buy
- Check fee (is about 450 THB)
- Say yes to buy
- You get about 0.0050-0.0055 BTC
Phase 4: Secure Storage (Day 2)
- Download Ledger Live app or use Coinbase Wallet
- Set up hardware wallet or software wallet
- Withdraw Bitcoin from Bitkub to your own wallet
- Withdrawal fee: Usually 0 for Bitcoin
- Total cost: about 650 THB ($18 USD)
- Total fees: 0.35% (very good for saving money)
Total Timeline: It takes about 24 to 48 hours to go from USD to a safe Bitcoin wallet.
Total Cost: You will pay 650 THB in fees. This is 0.35% of the total amount changed.
Difference: If you use normal money exchange and buy Bitcoin by hand, it would cost you $200-$300. That is about 4% in fees.
Scenario 3: Recovering From a Forgotten Password on Koh Chang
Situation: You lost the device you use for 2FA and forgot your Bitkub password while you are traveling on Koh Chang island. The internet connection is limited there.
Recovery Process:
Step 1: Immediate Action
- Get into your email account (Gmail, Yahoo, etc.) – this is important because you know this password
- Do not get scared; all good exchanges have steps you can follow to get your account back
Step 2: Contact Support (the best way is by email because the island can have slow internet)
- Email: support@bitkub.com
- Subject: “Get Help to Recover My Profile – [Your Email]”
- Include:
- Email address you use for your profile
- Name as seen on your passport
- A guess at when the profile was made
- Last time you used it (date and how much)
Step 3: Verification Process (takes 24-48 hours)
- Bitkub support will ask for:
- A copy of your passport (front and back)
- A document to show where you live (a bill for services you use at home or a bank statement)
- A picture of a transaction you made recently (if you can give one)
- Use your phone camera to take clear photos of those papers
- Answer the support email and add your photos as attachments
Step 4: Password Reset
- After support says your check is good, they give you a temporary password
- Log in with the temporary password
- Right away, change it to a new password that you will use all the time
- Keep your new password in a safe place
Step 5: 2FA Reconfiguration (NEW – important)
- Turn on 2FA with a backup phone or a new device.
- Right away, save the backup codes in a text file.
- Keep your backup codes in:
- An email draft in your Gmail
- A cloud site like Google Drive or iCloud
- A copy you write by hand in a safe place
- Do not take a screenshot, as that is less safe.
Timeline: You will get a response in 2-3 business days. It may take longer if it is the weekend.
Avoid: Do not reach out by any unofficial way. Do not pay anyone who says they can “speed up” the recovery.
Your Koh Chang Crypto Trading Action Plan
Trading cryptocurrency from Koh Chang comes with its own set of chances and problems. The island is still growing. This, along with Thailand’s new but tough rules, means there are some special things that traders must know and follow if they want to do well.
Key Takeaways
- Regulatory Compliance is Non-Negotiable: Use only SEC-licensed exchanges like Bitkub, Bitazza, and Gulf Binance. If you use a platform that is not regulated, you may get blocked by the law, and you might face legal problems.
- Bitkub Reigns Superior: Bitkub is the top choice for Koh Chang. It has a big share of the market with $28B volume. It is easy to use with the local currency (THB), offers Thai support all day and night, and stores coins safely with Bitgo and Coinbase. All these points make Bitkub stand out.
- Infrastructure Matters: The internet on the island is not always strong. Go with safe ways – no extra-risk moves, no hard trades, and do not keep too much money on the exchange. Use hardware wallets to keep more than 70% of what you own safe.
- Cost Efficiency Wins: Use Wise for transfers from other countries, and Bitkub for putting THB on your account, so that you cut down on fees. Try not to use cash exchanges and ATMs so you can save 2-4% each time.
- Tax Advantages Are Real: You get lower capital gains tax until 2029 when you use regulated platforms. This is a good reason to use them. Normal taxes will be back in 2030.
- Security is Foundational: Turn on
Your 30-Day Action Plan
Week 1: Account Setup
- Create Bitkub profile
- Finish KYC check
- Turn on two-factor login
- Learn the exchange screen (no trades)
Week 2: First Transactions
- Open a Thai bank. If you have one, you do not need to do this again.
- Put at least 50,000 THB in your bank.
- Buy a small amount of Bitcoin (0.001 BTC).
- Make your first transfer of money to your bank.
Week 3: Security Implementation
- Buy a hardware wallet (Ledger Nano S costs about 2,000 THB)
- Set up the hardware wallet
- Move most of your coins to the hardware wallet
- Check that you can take money out and save it without any problems
Week 4: Ongoing Operations
- Set up a plan to put money in every week if you are building up savings.
- Put limit orders in place so you can get money over time without doing much daily work.
- Check your list of money transfers every week.
- Change your safety steps when you learn new things.
Final Risk Reminder
Cryptocurrency trading comes with some risks that you need to know about, including:
- Market ups and downs (losses can happen if prices change a lot at night)
- Technical risks (the exchange may stop working, but this does not happen often)
- Rule changes (the government may change what you can do)
- Simple mistakes (if you lose a password or send money by mistake)
Start with small amounts that you can lose without any problem. Koh Chang is a nice island, and it’s easy to stop thinking about your money rules here. Keep watching your money and stick to your plan even when you feel like relaxing all the time.
Appendices
Appendix A: Verified Exchange Contact Information
Bitkub
- Website: www.bitkub.com
- Support Email: support@bitkub.com
- Support Line: Live chat on website
- Hours: 24/7 customer support
Bitazza
- Website: www.bitazza.com
- Support Email: support@bitazza.com
- Hours: Business hours + emergency support
Gulf Binance
- Website: www.gulfbinance.com
- Support: support@gulfbinance.com
- Hours: 24/7
Appendix B: Cryptocurrency Websites and Educational Resources
- CoinMarketCap.com – Market data and research
- CoinGecko.com – Alternative market data
- Bitcoin.org – Bitcoin education
- Ethereum.org – Ethereum education
- Ledger.com – Hardware wallet information
Appendix C: Thailand-Specific Resources
Thai Revenue Department: rd.go.th (tax information)
Thai SEC Official Website: sec.or.th (check licensed operators)
Bank of Thailand: bot.or.th