@Paul *******

you need to get a residence certificate and medical certificate. Make an appointment at Dept of Land Transport in either ChaAm or Pranburi and do the simple vision/reaction tests to get a 2 tear Thai license. It's very easy, good luck.

To answer your question is difficult because you have not given enough details about yourself. Things like age and reason for being in Thailand?

Why do you need a 5 year licence if you are here as a tourist? Can't you get another 2 year license instead?

@Mark ********

okay, that's good.

Opening a bank account in Thailand without a long term visa is virtually impossible. That is why people advise getting the non O before coming to Thailand. Do you already have a Thai bank account?

@John ******

you are welcome. Good luck with everything.

@John ******

yes John. As long as you return to Thailand with enough time to extend your stay again, everything is good. Essentially you would need to come back in about 11 months time after leaving Thailand maximum. The 90 day report is 90 days in Thailand, so the clock stops when leaving Thailand and starts at 1 again on the day you return.

@John ******

yes, the 12 month extension is the next step, after you have the 90 day non O. You can get the re-entry permit anytime before you leave Thailand, but it would make sense to get it at the same time.

Will 90 days be long enough for you to complete everything? I was thinking you would be better getting the 12 month extension (and re-entry permit) before going to the USA, then you have plenty of time.

Have you visited both countries? IMO Thailand is the best choice. The only real advantage the Philippines has is that the people speak English as their second language. Everything else in Thailand is so much better and safer. The healthcare, infrastructure, food and culture are all great in Thailand. There's also very little crime compared to Philippines. Accommodation is expensive in the Philippines, but most other things are probably a little bit cheaper. I personally didn't feel safe in the Philippines, I feel completely safe here in Thailand. The choice is yours.