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What are the options for converting a tourist visa to a Non-O or applying for a DTV visa given recent banking changes in Thailand?

Non-O Visa DTV Visa Thai Banking Restrictions Visa Application Process Retirement Visa Long-Term Visas

Feb 21, 2025

a year ago

Sara *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Re: Non-O vs. DTV visa given banking changes

We planned to convert from a tourist visa to a Non-O after a March trip to the Philippines, using an agent to open a Thai bank account. With the recent banking restrictions, that’s no longer an option.

Now we’re debating whether to:

1) Wait and see if agents can assist with bank accounts again soon, and stick with the non-O plan.

2) Apply for the DTV (soft power) visa while in the Philippines.

I also looked into applying for a Non-O in PH, but it still seems to require Thai bank funds. The OA isn’t ideal since it must be done from the US and requires insurance.

Any advice from those more experienced? Thanks!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is considering whether to apply for a Non-O visa or a DTV visa in light of recent banking restrictions in Thailand that affect the opening of bank accounts for visa purposes. They need advice on the necessity of a Thai bank account for the Non-O application from the Philippines and the implications of the DTV visa, which is classified as a tourist visa and may not allow for bank account access.

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Henrik *****

DTV is not eligable for a Bankaccount at all, since it is classified as a tourist visa and not a long term visa, which most banks require

a year ago

Brandon ************

Are you sure the non-O visa from the embassy in Manila requires a Thai bank account? I can't find anything that says that. In fact I can't even find their requirements for a non-O based on retirement. But the non-OA just says a bank statement in baht. Many embassy say that and they will accept equivalent in whatever bank account you submit.

I've heard many people say that particular embassy is good at answering questions, so you might want to double check with them first.

a year ago

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Brandon ************

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What should I consider about my bank account when changing visa types from Non-ED/Non-O to DTV in Thailand?

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