@Todd ********

yup understood I live here, if anything more the reason to have a proper visa. Who wants to chance it when entering a country? I don’t

@Henrik ****

I reckon the only type of person who would ask such a question would be someone who is not a genuine tourist and intends on abusing the system.

I don’t like to chance stuff like that, quite happy with my proper visa for past couple years.

Sounds like a question for Immigration, at first contact what did they tell you?

Some people believe that sharing honest experiences comes across as disrespectful. In this group, there’s an emphasis on handling things independently in a D-I-Y fashion.

I find it unreasonable to rely on these so-called agents who overcharge for basic services you need to live here in Thailand. Doing things properly and following the official process can save a lot of money compared to engaging in bribery and corruption.

At the same time, others seem fine with resorting to insults.

I don’t understand why anyone would pay 5-10K baht to open a bank account, unless they don’t meet certain eligibility criteria. I’ve never paid to open an account. As

I’m moving to Australia soon, I’ve opened an account there without any fees. I’d hate to imagine how much people might pay in that situation.

Reminds me of signs on the road… that Thai people seem to take as suggestions as opposed to hard rules.

If I were to wear a bikini at the bank, that isn’t going to hurt anyone. But driving negligent will.

@George ********

Good story in being persistent.

But it pays to always have backup options. Like mate, I’ve heard of people being denied to then reapply and pay the application fee another time!

Welcome to Thailand, where if someone local neglects their responsibility, it often becomes your problem.

I personally haven’t had any issues with this. My immigration office is pretty relaxed. As long as I have the correct visa and submit my TM47 form, they don’t seem to mind much about anything else.

@Kevin ******

I’ve been living in Thailand for the past two years, but honestly, it hasn’t been all that impressive. My partner and I just secured visas to move to Australia, and the entire process was far more efficient and transparent compared to anything I’ve experienced in Thailand. I guess it comes down to different priorities, but in my view, Australia outshines Thailand in every way.

After reading your detailed experience, if that was me I’d personally just apply for a visa for another country.