What is the difference between a bank statement and a bank letter for a non-immigrant O visa extension in Thailand?

Dec 25, 2019
5 years ago
Karel *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
A question about extension of non-immigrant visa with 800k in Thai bank account. (Mine is an extension for a non-immigrant O based on retirement)

Apparently we now need a 'bank statement' with (or instead of) the so-called 'bank letter', at least that is what I read in local groups). I got me a paper from Korat Immigration last week and it made no mention of a different bank document, hence my befuddlement.๐Ÿ˜Ž

Can someone explain what the difference is and how to make that clear to my Bangkok Bank manager in Phimai?

Oh, and Merry Christmas everyone!
1,197
views
5
likes
26
all likes
8
replies
1
images
5
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is confused about the requirements for a non-immigrant O visa extension in Thailand, specifically the need for a bank statement versus a bank letter. Comments clarify that a bank letter confirms account balance and is valid for 7 days, while a bank statement details transaction history over a period. Users also suggest ways to communicate with the bank and express urgency due to the impending visa deadline.
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.
Robert *******
Apparently we now need a "bank statement" This sounds as a new requirement but in the replies it is the same as last year, nothing changed.

And yes, your time window to apply for an Extension of Stay is due to waiting till the last moment now 1 day left. Your can apply 30 days early, that means starting 30 Nov.

Not much to advice anymore, NO change in requirements and it was your decision to wait till the last moment. I hope you get all the documents in order on that day, otherwise you might need to go for plan B. Good luck
Karel *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thx for the replies. I mainly asked because my extension expires on december 31 and I have only next friday the 27th as a window to get an extension.
Tod *********
Strange that Bangkok Bank would have to call another branch to figure it out, you can't be the ONLY foreigner in Korat using that branch who needs the bank letter written. Here's a sample of what it looks like. I took that picture of a GIANT poster at Bangkok Bank at the government complex at Chaengwattana where the immigration office is in Bangkok.

Show them this format. Most offices will accept the letter being written up to 7 days early BUT some require it dated the day you apply for your extension, CHECK and see what your immigration office wants
Robert *******
And for sure you are not the only foreigner living in Korat, just visit your bank and ask for the immigration letter. if the staff do not understand you question, you can call their help desk, option nr ... for English, explain and ask to translate for the bank employee. Life can be so easy.
Karel *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Robert ******
Bangkok Bank in Phimai is not very 'English'. Last time I asked for the immigration letter, they literally had to call the Bangkok office to have me explain it to someone on the other side who spoke English.
Marty *********
The bank letter states you have an account and states the balance at the time of the letter. A bank statement is just what you think it is. The history of your transactions over a period of time (3 months, 6 months, 1 year)

It is likely you may be required to do a withdrawal or deposit same day and then have your bank book updated
Karel *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Marty ********
I'm with Bangkok Bank. They allow you to update your bankbook without a transaction first.
Daniel **********
Presuming itโ€™s the same requirements as the Chiang Mai office, you need a letter from your bank stating your balance. This letter is valid for 7 days. You also need to update your bank book (and get photocopy of each page) on the same day you do your visa application.
Thai Visa Advice
... members ยท 40% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice group is a specialized Q&A forum for visa-related topics in Thailand, ensuring detailed responses.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice