Can I get a Non-O visa, open a bank account in Thailand, and apply for a visa extension while there?

For over 50 years of age 100% easier & cheaper to apply for a Suitable retirement Visa from your home country through the Thai Embassy website ( All done online )

When you are ready to come - Apply for a Non-O 90 day single Visa from the Thai Embassy in your home country about 30-45 days before departure.

When applying online you will need to show the required funds in any bank account , some personal details & Flight details & proof of first weeks accommodation .

Once approved & arrive in Thailand you have 90 days to organise for the 12 month extension

No.1 requirement is

Within 2 weeks of arrival You need to set up a Thai bank account & deposit 800K Baht , per person , for at least 60 days to satisfy the extension

Go to the bank of choice & ask them what they require to open a bank account

You can also come to Thailand on a tourist Visa & get it converted to a Non-O retirement Visa for a much higher cost

Non O is the visa. You usecitvto enter forv80 days. Open bank account. Deposit the money. Apply for a 12 month extension of stay

If you want to apply for a 90 day Non-O visa you should apply before you travel to Thailand, this visa doesn't require insurance. Once you get to Thailand having the visa allows you to open a bank account but you will also need a residence certificate from the immigration office serving the area you live in Thailand and a Thai SIM registered against your passport. Once you have the bank account you put the required funds in it and once they've seasoned for 2 months you can apply for a 12 month extension of stay