There’s no real getting around the initial 800K THB in the bank anymore.

Far more straightforward exploring this “in country”

Visit the local Immigration Office and request the exact protocols. The rules that always existed, but were once circumvented are now being rigidly applied. She needs a 90 day Non O retirement Visa. Then it can be extended. Effectively that gives you 15 months. It also offers flexibility, she can bail out and return if it’s not for her. The first extension will also likely require 800K. Then a minimum of 400K Banked, and a combination of pension may be viable. That depends on the local Office. Believe that is 65K 12 months bank statements from overseas. Because the US Embassy no longer confirms that. Practically she needs to be in Thailand with her Non O Visa granted in the US. That is without considering the practicalities of healthcare, for which provision needs to be made.

Recently replaced all of mine in three bathrooms. it’s a job for a professional only, and as previously mentioned big stores like HomePro will help you out here with a survey. We all love a powerful hot shower. But in Thailand you may need to compromise, and you need to be circumspect. If you live in a new(ish) build take a good look at your main house water pump first. Because developers often fit something relatively underpowered.

Mine was 150KW for a 4 bed, 3 bath property which was ridiculous. I replaced that with a Mitsubishi 400W Inverter pump. Pressure issues solved. Use an online tool to correctly identify the correct pump for your house. If need be upgrade it. Most Thai domestic wiring is a 2.5mm conductor for your socket main. That will only support up to a 4.5KW shower heater at a push.

Which does the job I find.

Or a storage water heater.

Up to you. Stiebel Eltron, Panasonic, Hitachi + Toshiba units are quality, safe and affordable units.

Gregor Huettner - About as accurate and as comprehensive as it gets.

Having just done mine. I could only add this. Get to the bank early, do it all on the same day of you can.

Be aware that Bangkok Bank’s policy differs significantly from

TM30 is what they really want to see.

Tabien Baan not required

Copy will suffice

Passport

Copy of Landlord ID

Lease

Banking:

Do it all the same day.

Bank nice and early.

First up, do a transaction.

Small withdrawal at ATM

Update your Savings book

Ask for your bank letter- Costs 200Baht

Direct to immigration

- Get copying and form filling. Immigration Office’s vary. Some helpful, some not. As previously suggested a visit to confirm the exact requirements is sensible.

Request any Single or Multi entry stamps when you hand over the completed paperwork.

Greg Alexander - True enough. If the price is right

You will find that Immigration have tightened up significantly.

Personally I would avoid having an Agent contrive the 800K protocol. Which is now likely to be significantly more expensive. Unless of course that’s unavoidable.

No matter, I wish you well.

It’s good of practice if you can to do it the same day.

Kbank first thing.

Bank letter - 200THB

Update your bank book

- Immigration, go get your extension.

Kbank. If one branch says no (some do) try another. Dress smart and be humble.

Airbnb, it is technically illegal to rent it out. But not to rent it. Most Condo’s strictly forbid it.

So if the lease of law forbid it you’re on a sticky wicket as far as your TM30. Far better a serviced apartment. It must be legit. One month wherever is ample time to find a condo to rent long term. The onus is on the supplier or landlord to complete the TM30 for you. The Banks have strict protocols for opening accounts. So you really need to have your ducks in a line here. Which is why for your first extension I’d strongly recommend an agent to take care of it all for you. Money well spent.

London - 24 Hours.

But I would not be too concerned. Things have recently tightened up considerably.