Can I open a bank account in Thailand on a tourist visa and obtain a work permit?

George's Thailand Trip 2024, you can apply for a 90 day non-o retirement visa from the UK and it's my understanding that you could open a bank account, Bangkok bank is probably the best to try first, they have now stopped people opening bank accounts on a tourist visa, once you have an account with Bangkok bank then the other banks might give you an account, I'm not an expert but that's what I've been told and that's what I intend to do on my next visit, you could get an agent to do this but they can be a bit expensive, hope this helps you 🙏

use an agent to open a bank account. Should cost something like 5000.-. THB

I have a bank account at Bangkok Bank. But they did make me buy insurance. Which probably is a good idea in case something happens to me 

I am sure, that tourist can not get a bank account.

I have a bank account I'm a tourist. Try different banks

I went to ais recently to change my phone plan and they tried to tell me I needed a work permit. I told them they were full of shit and ask for manager. Than they tried to tell me I was no longer able to have the unlimited internet account and I told I was no longer able to pay the bill. Than after everything I said I would post the experience and they changed their mind. I ask why they lie. Was it for their amusement. After looking at bank book she said oh you live here. It's always something.

Why do you want to open a bank account? You need a long term resident visa to open a bank account. Tourist visas not acceptable.

So, you got your extension within the first 30 days of your stay? That’s quite unusual, judging by the things I’ve read in this group.

You need a company that wants to employ you to arrange a work permit. Are you in that situation?

How can your passport be stamped until 31st March? That is more than 60 days.

@George’s *********************

you can't open a bank account on a tourist visa or on a visa exempt entry, by yourself. Depending where you are - in Pattaya you just get into touch with an agency, and they will open a Thai bank account in your sole name. Agents will prefer Bangkok Bank but maybe if you ask, they can open a Kasikorn bank account for you. This service normally goes for 5000-7500 Baht

I walked into Bangkok Bank in Krabi Town, about 2 months ago, with my passport with an ED visa stamp. Handed over my mobile phone and 500 baht, they opened an account, and installed the mobile app, handed me a debit card, all took about 30 mins.

@Dennis ***

opening a bank account here has been tightened up so the answer is no. But using an agent and paying ฿5k you can. 2 reputable agents are

@Mots *********

and

@Tik ************************

You are on a visa exempt stamp.

Just use an agent in Pattaya

If you get a job first then the company will help you get a WP

Work permit can only be issued to you if you have a business visa, plus lots of other documents from a company applying work permit for you.

You can't get a work permit on a tourist visa as you're not allowed to work

Most likely no, it's not possible. Banks do not give bank accounts to tourists, and tourists do not need bank accounts.

If you want to open a bank account, you will probably have to pay an agent to help you get one. Costs run about 5-8,000 baht.