Which UnionPay cards from Russian banks work in Thailand?
Answers 2
Answered by Admin
In Thailand, far from all UnionPay cards from Russian banks work. Of the major banks, working UP cards remain only with Rosselkhozbank (RSHB). Cards from Asia-Pacific Bank (ATB) are also consistently accepted. Rostov-based Center-Invest and Ingo Bank plan to start issuing working cards.
But all old cards from T-Bank, PSB, and Gazprombank no longer work in Thailand — don't try to pay with them, you'll only waste your nerves.
What's important to know about using UnionPay in Thailand:
- Payment in stores and cafes is processed without an additional commission — it's already built into the payment system's exchange rate difference. This makes the card one of the most advantageous options on par with cash dollars.
- In large chains (Big C, Lotus's, Central), UnionPay is accepted almost always.
- In small shops and at tourist markets, there are usually no terminals — it's better to have cash baht there.
- ATM withdrawal — double commission, this is worth remembering (more details below).
Not sure which UnionPay card to choose — ruble, yuan, dollar, or euro? In a separate article we break down the pros and cons of each option with calculations. And a currency exchange profitability calculator is here.
If you don't have a UnionPay card yet — this is the first thing worth getting before your trip, because it's not a replacement for cash, but a safety cushion. Cash can run out or be stolen — in that case, the card will save your vacation. A detailed breakdown of all the fine points is in our main article QR codes of Russian banks no longer work in Thailand: what else works in 2026.
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Comments 1
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