Can I convert my retirement visa funds into a fixed deposit account in Thailand?

To apply for a retirement visa in Thailand, one must maintain 800,000 baht in a bank account. Questions arose regarding whether these funds can be shifted to a fixed deposit account in the same bank or another bank. Responses indicate that it's crucial to check with the local immigration office, as some offices prefer funds to remain in instant access accounts for emergencies. While some expats reported that fixed deposits are accepted, others shared that their immigration offices strictly require instant access accounts. The conversation also highlighted that interest rates on savings accounts in Thailand are generally low, often around 1.5% to 2%, raising debate on the practicality of keeping large sums in Thai banks.