@Sam *******

the irony of your post eludes you? Thanks for the laugh

Georgia is my go-to for ease and simplicity. Lived there when I left Thailand during the big flu19 panic. One year stamp at airport on arrival, no 90 day check ins, great food and friendly people.

@Bob ********

Same here, had a rough time with Wise. Western Union is 0.99 cents per transfer bank to bank and about half a baht below market for rates. Never had an issue with them so I am happy.

@Zac *******

once again how long ago? This is my first hand experience in Chiang Rai. If you did it without recently, well good for you. Just like with immigration your experience may vary by location

@William ********

no

@Zac *******

how long ago? I did this a few months ago without an agent in Chiang Rai at Bangkok bank. It now requires a notorized copy of your passport from your embassy. Every bank said no without the notorized letter and I had a wealthy Thai friend take me to every bank. I did not buy the insurance

@Charles *******

yes I had to do this a few months back to get a bank account. Make an appointment for notary services or you will be waiting many hours

@Brandon ***********

yep, happened to me. Thai embassy was late issuing and it showed in the system when I arrived. Was made to use the issued visa.

@VaiAna *********

they are not asking for a residency letter, they are requiring a verified passport letter from the embassy. This has been verified by my friend's Thai wife that handles visa issues for many here in Chiang Rai. She shuttled me all over town to two immigration offices. One here in Chiang Rai and the main in Mai sai as well. We physically went to four banks and she called her personal bankers as well. She is not some former bar girl. She is a wealthy Thai lady by her own rights. This will be coming down the pike for anyone trying to open an account very soon for all.

@Frank *********

thank you very much.