@David ********

my understanding is that if you use an agent the first year, you have to use an agent for subsequent years (they somehow mark you down as gullible I guess), is that not correct?

If he gets the non o before he arrives he's only applying for the extension inside Thailand, which will be the same the second year.

It's all very simple to do himself.

@Steve *********

thanks Steve, but I have never used an agent.

I was replying to the person that posted. It seems that opening a bank account on a tourist visa is virtually impossible now without using an agent. It took a lot of persistence a couple of years ago when I did it, but it's even more challenging now.

I do agree with you that people seem to use agents for things that are very simple though.

@Mark *******

okay, what's your visa status?

What did they ask for?

Nothing or maybe your passport?

@Mark *******

things were different 5 years ago. You have a long term visa now and lots of evidence to ensure a bank will open another account.

I opened an account 2 years ago without using an agent and have subsequently opened extra accounts recently too.

@John ******

bless you 🤣

With both the situations you described, I presume you pay the agent on the day (certainly opening a bank account), so asking online for recommendations seems the obvious method as there's little risk. I did it on my own, but that's what I would do now. If they asked for money in advance I would walk away.

@Mark *******

how recently?

CDs and DVDs 🤔.

Do people still own such things, i got rid of mine 20 years ago.

Do yourself a favour ang go digital, surely you will have enough things to transport without these antiques.

@Gary ******

i think that is a good method, I do something similar with a Starling bank card and use it to pay for things anywhere that will accept a card. I am retired here, so I need a Thai bank account to deposit money (for the visa) and use that for cash.

@Michael *******

not sure, I tend to transfer larger sums less frequently, but someone on here will tell you.

I'm not saying it's a cheaper option than your method, simply that it works.