Answered4 years ago

Can I open a Bangkok Bank account in Chiang Mai on a tourist visa?

Bank Account Retirement Visa Thailand Visa Chiang Mai Bangkok Bank Immigration Rules

Patrick *******

asked Aug 5, 2022

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Hi everyone. 

My wife and I are preparing for the retirement visa in January, but will be in Chiang Mai in October and want to open a bank account with Bangkok Bank there. Can we open the account with just a tourist visa and an AirBnB address in Chiang Mai?

Thanks in advance!

Answer summary

A user is preparing to apply for a retirement visa and wants to open a bank account with Bangkok Bank in Chiang Mai while only holding a tourist visa and providing an AirBnB address. Community comments provide insights into differing bank policies, advice to connect with local expat groups for specific branch experiences, and mentions of challenges in opening accounts, such as the need for a presentable demeanor. Some users indicate that while buying insurance is often presented as an option, it is not a requirement for opening an account.

11 repliesnewest first

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Cliff *********

Getting a bank account is tricky.

You need to look presentable and professional.

It is all up to the agent if you will succeed or not.

The agent wants to know you will be a long term customer and will put money into their bank so they can charge fees …it’s a Business after all.

Best seems to be Bangkok Bank.

I told them I’m a frequent visitor, had $500 to deposit and want to buy a condo soon.

This was the ticket.

I had to buy an insurance policy for about $100 …..I think it’s a side hustle for them.

4 years ago

Bobby ********

@Cliff ********

There's actually no requirement to buy insurance. I've opened five bank accounts over the years in Thailand and insurance is always offered, but always declined. It's just an up-sell, but not a requirement

4 years ago

Cliff *********

@Bobby *******

well that’s interesting…..

4 years ago

Patrick *******

Thanks 😁

4 years ago

Mark *******

You will have to hop from branch to branch & hope you get lucky.

4 years ago

Bobby ********

Every bank branch has a different policy on this. My advice is to join a Chiang Mai expats group and ask the question there, as those group members would know which bank/branch specifically would be the best to approach

4 years ago

Patrick *******

My parents are coming here too and I asked a manager of my bangkok bank branch. She showed me a form to give to immigration to get a bank account , even before applying for the retirement extention.

4 years ago