Erm, it's a major focus

44/committee-issues-new-rules-governing-medical-tourism

Try different branches. I opened one on a tourist visa (Bangkok Bank.) I had a "letter of reference" from my embassy, though. That helps.

I did it recently. Took a month and a half. Lost a bit of time due to bankers being wankers. But there is no way I could've made it in a month.

So, there is a bit of uncertainty if starting the process now.

I totally get that mate. Hoping for (and, as said, kinda expecting) good news soon.

Right. Still, I'd say you don't want to be caught outside during the payment phase.

Nick, didn't read all the comments. But you can certainly get a bank account without a work permit.

A letter from your embassy will help smooth the process.

PM if interested in more info.

True

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

thank, Buddha :)

But I think it's too late now. I did it recently and I can't see any way it can be done before July 31.

@Nick ***********

I hear you! And I feel your anxiety. Here's what I would do. Wait until, say, July 15-20 ish. If no amnesty extension announced, start looking seriously at flights out. Perhaps spring for a flexible ticket and hope for a good announcement at the last minute. What I wouldn't do(!!), as mentioned above, is running any chance of an overstay.

That said, and I'm gonna pull speculation straight out of my ass, I believe they will extend. But wouldn't advise anyone to just rely on that.

Aside from it looking bad, if you ever had an overstay, you can't use certain fast track immigration services. Thai Elite will not be an option. I would avoid it like the plague.

Yeah, in my case it took more than a month. I lost some time due to annoying banks. But I don't think I could've made it in a month. I'd not recommend anyone inside the country start the process now. Would need some post July 31 clarity.