If you travel back to Australia frequently, you're better off getting a new OA (or better still an OX) every two years. This method there is no requirement to transfer money into a Thai bank account. You will need the ongoing insurance, but under the changed rules, you just need a minimum US$100,000 insurance. There is no requirement now for the 40,000 baht outpatient component, which was a problem before. You can use home country insurance, or if declined, you can use home country assets (property, super, shares etc).
Go to Bangkok Bank head office branch in Silom. Take the escalator to the first floor to the international section, where they speak English. Present your lease and your passport and save yourself the 3900 baht. I say 3900, because I've deducted the 100 baht you'll need to buy me a beer. I'm cheaper than an agent
baht to open a bank account I'd suggest you have more money than sense, but each to their own! I opened two accounts and didn't pay one baht, but I always emphasise each to their own! 😆
Best method is the 65k per month, because you can spend it as soon as you get it. The 800k essentially you can't touch. Only problem is you need 12 months of transfers before you can use this method. Whoever told you an agent will cost you
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baht is dreaming. Try 30,000 to 40,000. Remember it's illegal and a bribe has to be paid! Be careful