@Robert *****

totally agree the bureaucracy in Thailand is next level, the amount of times you sign your name over and over again and the reams of paper 📝 is incredible.

All the best on your retirement. Mine is going well so far.

I successfully opened a second account at my local Kasikorn branch recently after arriving on Non-O visa.

Lease agreement, Non-0 stamp in my passport, thai phone number, verification receipt from my Telco, recently obtained Thai driver’s licence. Ticked all the boxes. Lot of paperwork on their end the poor buggers, bit of patience and time my end.

Initial bank 🏦 account opened in BKK via assistance with my Visa Agent.

Be humble, be patient and have all your documentation ready.

@Jim *****

mandatory part of KYC ( Know Your Customer ) rolled out by BOT.

@Gwennie ********

which has nothing to do with IMMIGRATION which is WHO you are dealing with in Thailand,

Jus telling you how it is, listen or don’t, you asked for advice.

My advice for you is get an Agent like Siam Legal and they make it very easy, not without cost, but EASY.

Being a VETERAN doesn’t account for anything with Thai immigration, only means something in your own country, doesn’t give you any PULL or extra benefits here.

You are just another number on the system. Welcome to Thailand.

@Gregg ******

unfortunately that may change now with Anutin ( PM) backing this reform.

That said, the Immigration Ministry did say unless there is valid reason exemptions may be granted. All the best Digger!!

@Maitin ******

I was looking at the Elite as well, but with how the last couple of years with swinging door Governments and economic uncertainty I will go year to year and see what we see.

@Maitin ******

yes, but you can’t put brains into monuments, so let the ones who know what they know discover the hardway.

@Marianne *******

needed it at BOTH, Sukumvit and my local area. But if you know BEST. 💪🏾

@Marianne *******

having JUST opened with Kasikorn Bank 2 weeks ago on my Non-O I can say with certainty that they NOW require either a 12mth lease with all the owner’s information and deed of title for the rented property , or proof of ownership of a property ( the Chenote ) if a condo in your name if not married to a Thai.

Seems things have changed now the BOT has cracked the whip with all banks.