@Ian *********

visitors might stay longer and spend more in Thailand 🤔

I remember it well, it was quite tricky and I am reasonably IT literate. Very clunky system and illogical questions.

Would be easier if day exempt was introduced.

Good luck.

I am guessing you have no choice on the Pattaya location, but it is not a great place for children.

Have you thought about the potential for regular problems with noise from other guests as it's a hotel in a party location?

I would think about going further out, renting a condo and getting a hire car.

In my experience opening the bank account was the most challenging part of the visa process, so I would do this as soon as possible.

I tried at all the banks in Bluport first, but ultimately managed to get the Boontavorn Bangkok Bank branch to open one.

They sometimes insist on you buying an accident insurance policy from them as a bit of a "sweetener".

More recently I have read people stating the only way to do it now is to use an agent and that costs about 3 to 4,000 Baht.

When you go, dress smartly, be patient and polite and explain that you want to deposit money for retirement.

You need to get a letter from immigration first. Take all of your documents with you. If possible take a Thai speaking friend with you to assist.

Good luck.

@Marty ********

thanks Marty, yes I had realised idifferent requirements are necessary at different offices and that .is abundantly clear from the comments.

I am retired, so I can deal with staying in Ubon for a few days

@Michael *******

thanks Michael glad I asked in that case.

Yes I will be added to my wife's parents Blue book in Ubon, hence the long journey.

@Robert *********

thank you Robert.

@Robert *********

thanks Robert that's interesting, not seen the requirement of proof of residency from immigration before, but it makes sense.

Did you need a translation of your passport?

@Dave *********

thanks Dave, problem is the Amphur are not responding to telephone calls or emails.

@Michael *******

I know that I will have to go to Ubon. I just want to ensure I have all the documents first. If I need the passport to be certified that will mean a trip into Bangkok to the embassy and dept of consular first.