@Michael ******

The OP didn't mention staying a full year not I'm not sure where you got that information.

There's probably more jumped the other way. From retirement to DTV

@Michael ******

The DTA allows for an habitual abode in two countries. If this situation exists the tie breaker decides on closest economic ties

@John ********

No

@Abu *******

Yep! Works every time.

Anonymous participant The previous six months expired as soon as you left the country

@Greg *******

Piss poor? Is that why some clowns pay an agent 20,000 baht just to avoid going to immigration? 😂😂😂. Those who switched keep their bank accounts. Who gives a sh1t about driver's licences? Struggling!

@Greg *******

The main reason is obvious. No requirement to attend an immigration office for five years. That alone makes it worthwhile. Putting up with the petty nuances of immigration officers. Reason number 2, greater flexibility. No requirement to be in the country at a certain time each year to effect an extension. Reason 3. Much cheaper in the long term.

I think those reasons are good enough

@Greg *******

Agreed. I know six non-O retirees who have already switched, still have bank accounts, and make a couple of dental appointments each time they bounce. Greatest visa ever!

@Jef *******

One thing. The OP asked about opening a bank account whilst on DTV, not about changing visa category whilst already having a bank account. On your reasons for changing visa category I agree. The marriage visa is totally stupid. How soppy and drippy to have to take your wife to immigration to extend YOUR visa, supply photos standing next to the house number and have your neighbours interviewed every year. Anyone who has one of those stupid visas needs urgent help