been there done that. Lol. I opened my bank account on exempt entry with a bit of creative arguing. I didn't have a second ID. . So offered my bus pass and showed them it said "Cornwall council" and they accepted it. I know better now! Don't do as I do. 🤦
You could have got the Non-O before arriving then you could open a bank account. Is there some reason you applied for tourist visa before arriving instead of non-O based on retirement?
where did you read "walk in the park"? Thai sim is not difficult. Took me about 20 mins. Your anger that someone says it can be done without agent is very strange.
of course she can do it. She can get the non-O retirement in home country before arriving. Arrive. Open bank account. Deposit money. Apply for 12 month extension.