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SIM cards and Wi-Fi

Buy and register a SIM with your passport, then sign in to TU Wi-Fi and eduroam with your TU account.

For international students

Responsible office Mobile operators, NBTC and TU ICT

Last checked 30 September 2026

Updated 30 September 2026

Quick answers

What do I need for a SIM?
Your passport, and a biometric check at registration. Details
Do bank apps need a Thai number?
Yes. Register the number in your own name. Details
How do I use TU Wi-Fi?
Sign in with your TU username and password. Details
On this page

Buy a SIM at an operator's shop and take your passport. You do not need a Thai address or Thai ID.

Buying and registering a SIM

Thai law requires every SIM to be registered. Since 18 August 2025 the registration includes a biometric check, which is a photo or short video of your face taken at the shop or in the operator's app. The check applies to a new SIM, a SIM swap and keeping a number.

  • Buy from an operator's own shop, such as AIS or True, or an authorised dealer.
  • Take your passport. Foreign nationals register with a passport.
  • Ask the shop to register the SIM in your name before you leave.

Sources differ on newer limits, including a cap of three SIMs per operator and an activation deadline for new SIMs. Ask the shop for the current rule, or check nbtc.go.th (opens in a new tab).

Shops in the city are often cheaper than airport counters. Packages change often, so compare prices. See what a month costs.

Why you need a registered number

Bank apps, PromptPay and ride-hailing apps send codes to a Thai number. A tourist eSIM from a foreign provider may not work for these. Use a SIM registered in your own name. See opening a bank account.

Top up

Top up in the operator's app, at convenience stores or with a dial code. Note the date your monthly package renews. A shop can fix registration and activation problems. Take your passport and the SIM.

TU Wi-Fi and eduroam

Sign in to TU Wi-Fi with your TU username and password. The university issues the account after you enrol. If the sign-in fails, follow the steps in your first two weeks to reset the password.

eduroam is the academic network shared by universities. Connect to it with your TU account. The same account should work at other universities that use eduroam. Ask the TU ICT helpdesk on LINE at @icttuhelpdesk for the current settings.

Cafés, malls and most accommodation also have Wi-Fi.

Related guides

  • Your first two weeksSet up the TU Greats app, your student card and your TU account, register for courses and go to orientation. International students have extra steps.
  • Opening a bank accountTake your passport, visa page, enrolment letter and proof of address to the branch.
  • What a month costsThe Office of International Affairs estimates about 16,000 baht a month for housing, meals and transport, with rent the largest part.

Sources

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