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