Why can't I open a bank account with a DTV visa in Thailand?

Question

Hi Group,

First of all, I want to thank everyone for their contributions. I’d like to share my experience so far, along with a question and a disappointment I’ve encountered.

I applied for the Online DTV visa from Istanbul on December 3, 2024, and my visa was approved on December 20, 2024, by the Thai Embassy in Ankara. I’m currently in Bangkok and working through the process to obtain my Thai driver’s license. I’m planning to get it later this week.

Everything was going smoothly until I hit a major problem. For about a week now, every bank I’ve approached has refused to open a bank account for me. They all claim that due to regulations, accounts cannot be opened for those with the DTV visa type. I started this DTV journey after reading in this group about others who successfully opened bank accounts with a DTV visa, but now the banks seem to have changed their policies, leaving me in a difficult position.

Why is someone with a 5-year visa, planning to purchase a car and a condo, unable to open a bank account? How is it practical to rely solely on ATMs for transactions over such a long period? This situation has significantly disrupted my plans and is extremely disappointing.

To be honest, if I had known I wouldn’t be able to open a bank account, I would never have started the DTV process. Financial control is very important to me, and keeping my money outside the country I’m living in adds unnecessary costs that I don’t want to bear. I deeply regret my decision now.

If anyone has faced the same issue and found a solution, or can point me toward a bank branch willing to help with opening an account, I’d greatly appreciate it.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user shares their experience of applying for a DTV visa from Istanbul and being unable to open a bank account in Thailand due to recent strict regulations that seem to prevent DTV visa holders from accessing banking services. Despite initially reading that others had opened accounts with similar visas, the user has faced challenges that have frustrated their financial planning, especially as they intend to purchase significant assets like a car and a condo. They are seeking advice and solutions from the community regarding this banking issue.

Rok ******** · Answer

Not hard to open on non-O visa. You will need an agent as DTV is effectively a multi-entry tourist visa.

Lee *********** · Answer

It's a 5 year multi entry tourist visa that's why, they won't open, I've asked the same. People will tell you to use an agent

Omar ********** · Answer

Thai government like any other government donnot make much sense

Marks ********* · Answer

Have to put in a plug for the Charles Shwab debit card. I opened my account last Friday, no minimum deposit, no fees, they refund all ATM charges at the end of the month by crediting back to your account, apparently the card works very well in Thailand. You even get a brokerage account along with your checking account. I spoke to them and they are expediting delivery of my card so I will have it before I leave next month for Thailand. They have 24 seven live customer service, and are incredibly helpful.

Incognia ********** · Answer

Kardesim burasi Tayland.Bu sorular anlamsiz.Burada hersey olur

Gemma ****** · Answer

You can use western union transfers until you find a solution, simply transfer to a friend/family member, they can pick up straight away only showing ID, for up to £1000 is only £4 fee..hope this helps a little

마리오 *** · Answer

Go somewhere with a large amount of expats (like Pattaya) and find an agent there to help with opening an account.

Todd ********* · Answer

Just get an agent and sort this out. Pay their fee and move on with your life. It’s that simple.

The DTV is a tourist visa. It’s not intending for people planning to live full time in Thailand and this the problems you are experiencing. But people will use it like a residency visa regardless. But it’s still just a tourist visa. Once that is clear for you, it’s easier to understand the process

Crystal *********** · Answer

I would like to take a moment to convey my sincere appreciation for your invaluable guidance and support. Your mentorship was instrumental in enabling me to assume a leadership role and explore international opportunities throughout 2024. Your encouragement empowered me to harness my capabilities and achieve significant milestones. Here’s to an exhilarating 2025, filled with growth, exploration, and professional accomplishments for you join Be Your own Boss Here

Dca ***** · Answer

Unfortunately, the most efficient solution is either find an agent or buy other products (insurance) with the bank.

Otherwise, stop by every branch, service unit of every bank (over 5000 across Thailand) until someone opens a bank account for you....

Darcy ************ · Answer

You can open a Bank account. It's not simple but it can be done. Find an agent and open with Bangkok Bank. Even without an agent some branches will open for you in exchange for a THB30L life insurance policy with their bank but most people eg Pattaya and Phuket are finding it can be done for between THB5K and THB12K inclusive of an insurance policy through the bank

Why can't I open a bank account with a DTV visa in Thailand?

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