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Is it worthwhile to start the Thai visa process while on a 21-day vacation in Pattaya?

Thai VisaRetirement VisaPattayaBank AccountDriver's LicenseExpat ExperiencesImmigration Help
Mar 12, 2023
2 years ago
Darrald ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I am coming to Pattaya for a 21 day vacation. I will be retiring @12 months later and looking for a visa.

Is there any use for me to start the visa process while on vacation?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
While on a 21-day vacation in Pattaya, you won't be able to start the visa application process for retirement. However, you can benefit from actions such as opening a Thai bank account and obtaining a Thai driver's license, which will assist you later. It's also beneficial to connect with locals and explore different areas in Thailand to decide on your future living arrangements.
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.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Lyndon ************
Bank account is step one
2 years ago
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Paul *******
Yes open a bank account and driver's license. The latter will initially be valid for 2 years. By the time you have your retirement extension and your license is up for renewal, you'll be eligible to get a 5 year one.
2 years ago
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Cliff *********
Open a bank account. Get a driver’s license.

Make some Thai friends to help with your transition.

Get Line to chat with them.

Visit several different parts of the country.

See what you like.

Plan on a few more trips before moving permanently.

Have fun!
2 years ago
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Stephen *******************
Change location the last place you want to retire is a dump like Pattaya

You’ll end up like those twisted bitter farangs who sit in a bar all day whining about how bad Thailand is 🤔
2 years ago
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Darrald ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thinking Jomtien or chiang Mai actually
2 years ago
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Stephen *******************
@Darrald *******
Then you will enjoy your retirement 🙏
2 years ago
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Stephen *******************
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Bä ****
Something to read when I was going down this route….People can chime in if the info. is “right” or not….Again a lot of variation across the industry, just some info. to start with…Can’t guarantee anything it’s Thailand..Good Luck 🍀

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2 years ago
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Dan ********
Bank account and Thai drivers license
2 years ago
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Chris **********
Sorry for jumping on this post . I too am hoping to open thai bank acount on my next visit is there any agents you guys might recomend in bangkok that speak good english . Please pm me with any info t.i.a
2 years ago
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Alistair **********
@Chris *********
 Siam legal is often recommended in Bangkok, 5000B. If your embassy will provide a residence letter then that's usually the cheaper option.
2 years ago
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Chris **********
@Alistair *********
 ok im only visiting this time but plan on moving to thailand in 2years so want to start getting things in place so i have an account to transfer pension and funds into it
2 years ago
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Chris **********
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Ian ************
Opening a Thai bank will be handy in the future.
2 years ago
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Graham ******
Yes, open a Thai bank account
2 years ago
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Brandon ************
The only thing you can start is opening a bank account.
2 years ago
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Darrald ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks for the info.
2 years ago
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Darrald ********
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Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
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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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