Hi everyone - just joined and need some "expert" guidance.. UK national, late 50's looking to retire to Hua Hin within next few months. Currently have temporary residence is Spain so will be relocating from Spain not UK. A few initial questions:

1. As a UK national, can I just travel to Thailand as a visitor (with no special visa) and then undergo the process for the Retirement visa in Thailand or do I need to come under the Non-Immigrant "O" visa and then undergo the process in Thailand to change it to the Retirement visa?

1. I will be bringing my cat with me so will it be allowed entry if I just travel to Thailand as a visitor (with no special visa) and then undergo the process for the Retirement visa in Thailand or do I need to come under the Non-Immigrant "O" visa and then undergo the process in Thailand to change it to the Retirement visa?

1. If I do need a visa to enter, can I obtain it myself easily, online etc or will it require a visit to the Thai embassy/consulate in Spain, since I have temporary residence there, and not the Uk?

1. Is it possible to open a bank account in Thailand from overseas? Ideally would like to go with Bangkok Bank as they have been recommended.

Thanks

Hi and thanks for the previous replies. But I think my query was misunderstood. I am NOT looking to apply for a Tourist Visa, but enter Thailand under the 30 day visa exemption scheme which I understand applies to UK Nationals such as me. My question remains, can I simply enter Thailand on the visa exemption scheme and stay for 30 days, then re-enter Thailand to gain a further 30 days. Also , if this is possible, what are the requirements. Would I still require a COE and medical insurance? I am interested in travelling after the 1st November when quarantine for UK Nationals is no longer required.