Go to different Bangkok bank branches until someone says yes. They don't require a work permit.

@Mike *******

so...3 generations from now?

@Ivan ***********

you're right on the healthcare aspect tho. If you get sick a lot Cambo is not for you. Unless there's a new super modern hospital in PP I haven't heard of.

@Ivan ***********

the main factor for me is that I can land in Phnom Penh and at the airport say "I am here to find a job" pay the visa fee and get a one-year visa to find a job

I can then change this visa to a work visa with a visit to immigration when I have a contract with my employer.

If you land in Thailand and say you're looking for a job they will pull you aside at Suvarnabhumi, make you feel uncomfortable, force you to empty your pockets and wallet and if you have enough cash on you say "If you pay us x amount we will let you into the country but you can't work here you piece of garbage foreigner, you're not Thai F U" and then you're 60 days from visiting a immigration office to extend your visa.

@Edward *******

no bribery is everywhere, but it's more "optional" in Vietnam and Cambo. And they don't extort foreigners everywhere in those countries. The scams are not racist.

If you're going to Elite Visa route, get the 5 year and give yourself a chance to change your mind if you end up wanting to move elsewhere.

But my honest opinion is that you should move somewhere else. Thailand has become increasingly more complicated for foreigners and the way this government is treating their people we might see a civil war or uprising within a year that changes everything, including how foreigners are treated..it might change for the better or worse.

Vietnam or Cambodia are excellent options that both welcome foreigners, let them work in the country without having to bribe your way to permits and have an overall better value for a medium to high quality lifestyle.

Welcome to the moronic idiocy that is Thai bureaucracy 😊 some agencies seems to help people get their visas without leaving the country. Thai immigration has also said they are considering doing it themselves since it's hard to travel now.

I hope it works out for you!

@Joe **********

Thai bureaucracy is a twisted joke. Unfortunately.

Walk into Bangkok Bank branches until one of them let you open an account. It all depends on if the staff is used to foreigners or not. It is not a technical or visa issue, it just depends on the willingness of the staff at the branch.

Or move to Cambodia and make life a loooooot easier. Things are so much better over there for expats.

Here's what they sent to all of their visa customers today:

Please do not be concerned about what has been spreading in the news.

Immigration has already checked all of our visas, and concluded that they are NOT fake. So please don't be concerned, all of the statements in the news are "alleged".

Our former staff member Grace, had a problem 5 years ago, and this caused immigration to inspect her, and they found that she was growing weed for research, with technology. For purpose of medicinal treatment.If you truly worry you may check with your local immigration to confirm that your visa is on the system. But please be aware that EVERY visa we have assisted with is on the system is done through immigration.

If you are still concerned, and we are currently processing your visa, and wish to cancel the process please contact us via LINE. We always support all customers the best we can.