For those not in the know the rules and regulations change here frequently even if your in or out of the country 🤷‍♂️ so best keep updated.

See Below:

Baht off! Bangkok Bank shuts the door on tourist accounts -

Bangkok Bank has recently implemented stricter policies regarding foreign accounts, leading to some accounts being frozen and cards blocked for those who don't meet the new requirements. The bank is primarily focusing on tightening restrictions for foreigners opening new accounts, citing cybersecurity and fraud concerns. This is particularly affecting Russian nationals and other foreigners who do not hold long-term visas, are not married to Thai nationals, or do not own property in Thailand. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

New Requirements:

Bangkok Bank has introduced stricter requirements for foreign customers, including the need for long-term visas, marriage to a Thai national, or property ownership in Thailand.

Impact on Foreigners:

These changes are causing a lot of concern, especially for tourists and expats who rely on Bangkok Bank accounts.

Account Freezes and Card Blocks:

Reports suggest that the bank has begun freezing accounts and blocking bank cards of those who do not meet the new criteria.

Focus on Fraud Prevention:

The bank's actions are reportedly aimed at preventing financial fraud, particularly the use of "mule accounts," which are used to facilitate illegal activities.

Counseling:

Customers with issues are advised to contact the bank for clarification and resolution.

Temporary Measures:

The bank may not be closing accounts immediately but rather asking customers to withdraw their funds and address any issues.

In summary, Bangkok Bank is tightening its grip on foreign accounts, particularly those of non-long-term visa holders. The new policy has led to account freezes, card blocks, and concerns among the foreign community in Thailand.

@ Roberto **

A I would suggest you call the Bank? 🏦 and keep informed with what’s happening here in Thailand after all you’ve applied for and now have a 5 year Visa here.

Good you flew business class??? 🤔

Anonymous participant if you only stay 20-30 days currently the VOA is 60 days, with a possible 30 day extension so 90 days in total 🤷‍♂️ no need for a DTV really. DTV is designed for long stay 180+ days… 👍

I’d say it’s got something to do with your employment being in the tourist industry this probably doesn’t play much in your favor.

Recently there has already been incidents in the tourist areas, of foreigners working illegally in the tourism sector appealing to their Nationalities for business.

As for the UK, Australian, NZ visas doesn’t really matter as completely different countries and process, and TBH they’re giving those out to just about anyone with a boat and a set of paddles at the moment… hence why I moved to Thailand 🇹🇭

@Calvin ******

if my time cost that much and I was making that much I’d probably look at getting an Elite Visa 🤷‍♂️ not the DTV

@Ben *******

took me all of 4hrs and 4 documents online, easiest Visa I’ve ever applied for TBH.

To me It’s actually a bit of a concern if people plan to travel and spend that amount of time in Thailand and they can’t process a simple Visa 🤷‍♂️

Anonymous participant if you’ve never been to Thailand yes. Why apply for a DTV if you’ve never visited before?

To me it makes perfect sense to come on a 60 day entry with the option of a 30 day extension to at least see if you like the place?

Yep little bit daft surely a 90 day tourist should suffice especially if you’ve never been to Thailand surely 🧐

And prostitution is officially illegal also in Thailand 🤷‍♂️

Prime example of not what to do when applying for a DTV

Moral of the story it pays to do your research and have all your ducks in a row before Ping ponging around SEA in the attempt and hopes of getting visa approval.