@Nick ***********

Two of the bigger agencies there recently posted on their websites that they could no longer offer “opening bank account” services nor offer new Non Os or extensions off of O visas.

They mentioned that they hope both situations were temporary but didn’t elaborate as to why.

At the moment there is an issue in Pattaya (only) with new bank accounts. Unfortunately that’s also the place that many hopeful retirees are looking to stay (I’m not going to get into the politics of that decision).

Elsewhere we haven’t seen many issues with people on Non Os getting bank accounts.

On a Non O visa you should have little trouble getting a bank account. The main problem currently is with people on tourist visas or exempt entries trying to get one - which they need to convert to a non O in country.

I’m not saying you can breeze in to any branch and they’ll open one but it shouldn’t be that difficult especially if you’re willing to pay for their useless “insurance” policy.

@Bill *************

They’re feeding you bullshit.

The only thing that matters is the day your next extension is due. Come back even one day after that and you’re back to square one needing to apply for a Non O again.

Couple of things. You’re not on a Non O visa anymore. You have an extension of stay granted for one year based off the initial Non O and subsequent extensions.

There is no time limit of how long you can be out of Thailand. You can get your extension and a re-entry permit on day one, fly out then and come back on the date your next extension is due if you like. Although I wouldn’t recommend the latter part.

P.s. if anyone has a better copy of this then please post here. The one in my office is even worse.

@John ******

Where did you read that? For many offices that’s the earliest you can apply. You can apply on the last day if you wish - but not advisable.

Of the one application for an extension that I’ve seen they decided to fly to Malaysia and back instead.