Thailand – A Case Study for Biometric Data Control – Armstrong Economics
Thailand has become a test case for the use of biometric data in every facet of life. Facial recognition data is required for any single transfer above 50,000 baht (around $1,580), daily transfers above 200,000 baht, and any international transfers from personal accounts. All major Thai banks, such as Bangkok Bank, Kasikorn (KBank), SCB, Krungthai, and Krungsri, require customers to submit biometric data, and the Bank of Thailand (BOT) provides the general guidelines that these banks must follow.
Thailand adopted digital IDs back in 2023, but they were primarily mandatory for business at the time. Now, Thailand’s National Digital ID system (NDID) is now held by a private-public consortium that holds the identities of over 40 million people. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) became mandatory for all travelers on May 1, 2025. Citizens are technically not required to obtain a digital ID but it certainly makes life easier if one wants to access digital wallets, online banking, claim government benefits, and so forth.
The Thai government plans to expand Thailand’s digital ID policy to 1,000 public services within the next two years. All restrictive measures begin with a promise to guarantee safety. It appears optional, then convenient, before the measures are enforced through mandates. I know many people who have fled Thailand in recent years due to increased regulations and massive changes in taxation. Thailand is becoming a case study for the widespread use of biometric software, as government surveillance is becoming the new norm.