Update 10/04/2025 opening a bank account
Recap
Yesterday I went to Bangkok Bank with my Passport, Ninety Day Non O Visa, issued in the UK,UK driving licence, Stamped TM30 and Immigration Letter addressed to Bangkok Bank and was refused an account.
Today after returning to immigration and collecting a new letter addressed to KrungThai bank and having the same documents, I managed to open an account. I did approach the bank first to make sure that they would accept them.
Costings As Follows:
£60 for 90 day Non O issued in the UK
500 baht for immigration letter
500 baht for one years fees on bank account
40 baht on coffees
Time taken in total
Approximately 4 hours over two days
The problem is, is that what has happened to me may not happen to the next person, as you learn quite quickly that processes are very rarely followed in Thailand and the outcome can be very much dependant on who you speak to and on which day.
As I’ve said in my earlier posts, I have only wanted to give my experience and highlight the pitfalls of trying to do things by yourself in Thailand and I hope that my posts help people, rather than encourage ridicule and negativity.
TLDR : Answer Summary
This post discusses the author's experience of opening a bank account in Thailand, specifically with a Ninety Day Non-O Visa. Initially, the author faced refusal at Bangkok Bank despite having the necessary documents. However, after obtaining a new immigration letter addressed to KrungThai Bank, the author successfully opened an account. The post highlights the varying experiences individuals may have due to inconsistent processes and offers insights into costs and time involved in the process. Comments from other users share similar experiences, emphasizing the unpredictability of banking and immigration procedures in Thailand.
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.