How can I switch banks while maintaining my Non-O visa status in Thailand?

Question

Switching banks for non-O visa.

I am currently on a Non-O visa based on age (Bangkok Immigration) and plan to switch banks. I want to ensure the process goes smoothly without disrupting my visa status.

Planned steps:
 1. Transfer 400,000 THB from the old bank to the new bank six months into my current extension.
 2. Once the first transfer is confirmed, transfer another 400,000 THB.

Documents I plan to prepare for visa renewal:
a. Old Bank:
 • Bank letter confirming the account.
 • Bank statement showing both transfers (up to the day after the second transfer).
 • Updated bank book showing the balance after the second transfer.
b. New Bank:
 • Bank letter confirming the account.
 • Bank statement starting from the day before the two transfers to show the incoming funds and balance of 800K at least 3 months before the extension date.
 • Updated bank book showing the balance as of the visa renewal date.

I guess my question are:

1. Do i need to keep the old bank open until the extension renewal, or showing the overlap of transactions between old and new bank is good enough? (Will not keep old bank)

2. Which banks have a branch in Chaeng Wattana where I can update my Bank book (I heard Kasikorn closed their branch there).

Thank you

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user is planning to switch banks while holding a Non-O visa in Thailand based on age and seeks to understand how to do this without jeopardizing their visa status. They outline their plan to transfer 400,000 THB from the old bank to the new one and seek advice on whether they need to keep the old bank account open during the visa renewal process. Comments from the community emphasize the importance of maintaining the required balances, keeping both accounts until the new extension is approved, and ensuring clear financial documentation from both banks.

James ******** · Answer

I would keep a small amount in the old bank.  Just so when you apply for extension, you can get an annual state ent from the old bank, and an annual statement from the new bank.  That way, the money trail and continuity is crystal clear.

Bob ********** · Answer

If you close the account they might not give you a letter

Wannikea ********* · Answer

Don't do it the same day, keep transfers a day apart.

Ellie ******* · Answer

The steps seem to be legit. You need to keep both balances more than 400K baht during switching.

You need a transaction report from your old bank from the application date until the transfers are completed. That shows you meet the requirements: keep 800K baht for three months after a new extension is approved, and keep 400K baht for the rest of the year.

Q. 1. Do i need to keep the old bank open until the extension renewal, or showing the overlap of transactions between old and new bank is good enough? (Will not keep old bank)

-> You don't need to keep both accounts; logically, you need the new one. BUT, I'd keep both account until the new extension is approved with using a new account. I don't know what'd happen if the immigration office asks for more documents or information, but the account has already been closed.

Q. 2

That is totally up to you, and sadly, this group doesn't advise about "which bank should I get an account?" type questions. Sorry..

How can I switch banks while maintaining my Non-O visa status in Thailand?

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