Can I change my health insurance after obtaining it for a Thai bank account while applying for a Non-O visa?

@John ********

good luck

@Joseph ******

Maybe I should've said that I've never heard, or read, of that happening Joseph. Please correct me if I'm wrong 🙏

@James ********

I haven’t heard of it happening either. But I’ve been either visiting or living in Thailand since 1978, & one thing I’ve learned is that nothing should surprise you regarding anything related to Thailand. Hence the saying, TiT.

As to whether or not Bangkok Bank would close the OP’s account if he refused to renew his insurance, consider (1) the refusal itself would likely be taken as a loss of face, & (2) most Thai with any authority often flex the boundaries of that authority with impunity. In one example, an immigration officer once changed my extension from “married” to “retirement” because he didn’t want to deal with organizing the documents & sending them to Bangkok for approval. At the time, I was considering eventually going for permanent residence as a prelude to applying for Thai citizenship, neither of which I could accomplish on a “retirement” extension. When I tried to make a case, he raised his voice & said, “is there a problem?” Having just learned of a fellow farang being denied his annual extension after seven years of living in Thailand, I curtly responded, “no sir” & left before he could change his mind about my renewed-but-changed visa extension.

@Joseph ******

I've several accounts here in Thailand, 2 with Bangkok Bank, and politely refused the insurance both times without issue, but do understand that some bankers can make it difficult. Take care 🙏🤟👍

@James ********

But to ease the OP’s concerns, like you, I don’t believe the bank would close his account at that point.

@John ********

it is if you have a residency certificate and dress like a person conducting business.

@Tony *********

I already have one account in Krungthai Bank and two in Bangkok Bank. I don’t think it has anything to do with my appearance.🤣

@John ********

This was my personal experience at the Krungthai bank in Buriram, same branch as I opened on visa exemption previously;

Tried to open a second savings account in Krungthai bank last month with a Non O visa. They didn’t allow me even if I’ve been a customer in their bank for 11 years with a debit account and could provide a residence certificate. Requested a yellow book or a work permit as well.

They referred to general written guidelines from their head office and gave me a copy.