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Can I open a bank account in Thailand while on a Special Tourist Visa (STV)?

STV visa bank account opening in Thailand Thai banking requirements visa regulations Thailand expat banking in Thailand

Feb 3, 2021

4 years ago

Luis ***********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I was thinking and I have not seen anyone talk about opening a bank account with a STV. I just want to know if it is possible and has anyone tried. 

If I go to Thailand and stay for the 9 months and leave for the 3 months, use the STV instead of getting a O-A visa, could I get a bank account to make life easier. (pay rent and bills). 

What are your thoughts and Thanks,

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The conversation discusses the possibility of opening a bank account in Thailand using a Special Tourist Visa (STV). It appears that while there is no strict visa requirement to open an account, banks individually set their own criteria. Generally, having a residential address is necessary. Some users shared their experiences of successfully opening accounts even with tourist visas; however, others noted a trend towards stricter requirements, emphasizing the importance of having work permits or retirement visas, especially recently. Overall, the feasibility of opening an account on an STV can vary by bank and individual circumstances.

NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
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Stephen *******

Open 1 online with a retirement visa.. n mayb a address

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Martin **********

Got one open on Bangkok bank, corner walking street , Pattaya.

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Kool *******

Currently it is getting much harder to open a new bank account, as most will not do it unless you have a work permit, or a retirement visa. It has all changed in the last year, and not because of the virus.

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Garrett ***********

wrong

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Kool *******

@Garrett **********

oh, so you think it is the same? When is the last time you tried to open a new bank account? I went through all this two weeks ago, trying to open a new account with a marriage extension, and was turned down by seven banks, because I did not have a work permit, or a retirement visa. Finally had to go to my regular branch of Bangkok Bank, that I have two accounts with already, and, with manager written override they opened a new account for me. It has all changed. Even at Kasikorn, who I have an account with, they would not open a new account without a work permit, or retirement extension.

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Kool *******

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Luis ***********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Is it true that the STV visa will end Sept 2021?

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Tod *********

@Luis **********

that is how long the program was initially approved to run for. All that means (unless they extend the program) is after that date you couldn't apply for a new STV, it has nothing to do with anyone who already has one

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Tod *********

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David ******************

As long as you are throwing cash at the bank, I don't think they care do they. It's only when you borrow that they care.

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Steve *********

I've opened bank accounts whilst on 30 day exemption! My advice is to take a Thai person with you.

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Garrett ***********

I actually find going by yourself and only speaking English works better. Bank, DLT, Police station, normally there's one person who's designated to work with foreigners (they speak English) so they know more about the foreigner requirements than others.

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Steve *********

@Garrett **********

as with all things Thai - there's no one rule.

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Steve *********

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Garrett ***********

There is no visa requirement to open a bank account in Thailand. Each branch sets their own requirements, but you can open an account with a tourist visa or visa exempt entry.

As a rule you'll need some sort of address (condo lease).

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Ken ********

Depends on the bank most won't open an account on a tourist visa. TMB won't open an account unless you have a work permit

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Garrett ***********

First I've ever heard that.

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Ken ********

@Garrett **********

I've tried 4 branches of TMB all said same thing even after I'd had an account with Bangkok bank for 4 years

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DustySu **********

@Garrett **********

many banks, according to branches won't. I have had and seen this experience for years. I have an account. Two in fact, formerly three, each time I had to show my retirement visa.

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DustySu **********

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Luis ***********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thank you

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Luis ***********

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The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.

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