Send Money to Vietnam, Philippines & Indonesia for Workers in Thailand 2025 | zrate.io
Short Answer: Beyond workers from neighboring border countries, there are also many Vietnamese, Filipino, and Indonesian workers in Thailand who need to send money home. Each country differs in currency, popular channels, and money-receiving culture. This article covers all three in one place.
Check the latest rates at USD/VND · USD/PHP · USD/IDR (zrate.io updates mid-market reference rates every 60 seconds)
Overview: 3 Countries, 3 Receiving Behaviors
| Country | Currency | Most Popular Receiving Methods |
|---|---|---|
| Vietnam | Dong (VND) | Bank transfer, e-wallet |
| Philippines | Peso (PHP) | Bank transfer, e-wallet (GCash), cash pickup |
| Indonesia | Rupiah (IDR) | Bank transfer, e-wallet |
Transfer Channels from Thailand
1. Licensed Money Transfer Operators (Recommended for Monthly Remittances)
DeeMoney, licensed by the Bank of Thailand, supports transfers to over 50 countries including all three. Flat fees starting in the low hundreds of baht with recipient amounts clearly displayed. Ideal for workers sending money regularly.2. Global Providers (Remitly, WorldRemit, etc.)
Notable for their cash pickup and e-wallet networks, especially in the Philippines (e.g., GCash). However, verify whether they support sending *from Thailand*, as some platforms focus primarily on US/Europe origination. Always check the app first.3. Thai Commercial Banks via SWIFT
Suitable for large amounts and formal documentation, but multi-layered fees and rates are less competitive than specialist providers. Not cost-effective for small amounts.4. Informal Brokers
Risk of fraud with no legal protection. Not recommended.How to Choose the Most Cost-Effective Option
The same principle applies across all countries — look at total cost, not just fees:
Total Cost = Fee + (Mid-Market Rate − Rate You Receive) × Amount
The key difference is the "receiving method":
- Philippines: If the recipient uses GCash or cash pickup, choose a provider with a wide receiving network.
- Vietnam/Indonesia: If the recipient has a bank account, direct bank transfers are usually the cheapest and fastest.
Required Documents
- Sender's ID card / Passport
- Work permit in Thailand
- Recipient details: Name matching account/ID, account number or e-wallet number, bank name
- Reason for transfer
Tips
1. Ask the recipient which receiving method they prefer (bank / e-wallet / cash) and match the provider accordingly. 2. Check the mid-market rate at zrate.io before confirming. 3. Be wary of "special first-time rate" promotions from some apps — the rate reverts after one use. 4. Consolidate transfers when fees are flat-rate.*Disclaimer: This information is for general reference only and does not constitute financial advice. Country/channel support and fees may change; always verify directly with the provider before transacting.*
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I send money to GCash in the Philippines?
Yes, through providers that support Philippine e-wallets. Check each provider's app for GCash support.
How many days to transfer to Vietnam or Indonesia?
Through providers with direct links to destination banks, transfers typically arrive within the same day to 1-2 business days.
Are there limits on transfer amounts?
Yes, both per transaction and per day, including reporting requirements for large transfers. Read our article on money transfer documents and regulations for details.