@Sean *********

yeah it is now clear that the Non O marriage or retirement visa is the easiest and most hassle free way to go. Not sure why anyone would choose the other option. Also with the marriage I only have to have 400k baht in a bank as opposed to 800k. So this is why I joined this page and asked the question. Got a lot of great info and learned a lot. Many thanks to you and everyone that contributed! Maybe we will see you when we get there.

@Brandon ***********

so as per our conversation yesterday my best plan would be to secure my non O marriage visa here in the US, then after arriving in Thailand use an agent like this to open my bank account?

@Jamie *************

thanks that seems to be the obvious and much easier and hassle free way to go. Also you only have to have 400k baht in a Thai bank acct as opposed to 800k.

@Brandon ***********

ok I think there was some confusion here. I thought you said a needed to get a bank account BEFORE I go, but what you meant was I need to get the VISA before I go and THEN open a Thai bank account in person after I arrive in Thailand with my visa. Is that correct?

@Ronnie ********

I think I misread his post. I see that what I would do is apply for the extension after 90 days. Then I just re apply every year. Looks like it’s the way to go with the least amount of hassle and also the smallest amount of money I have to have in a Thai bank acct. Thanks for the clarification!

@Brandon ***********

ummmmm. How do I open an account if I have to have one before I go, but can’t do it online? Sorry but that doesn’t make any sense.

@Brandon ***********

ok can I have my mother in law open it for me? Or do I do it online and if so what’s a good bank? Thanks!

@Wayne *******

great info thanks! So can I get that visa AFTER I arrive in Thailand or do I have to get it before we go?

@Kenny ****

thanks that’s what I was wondering. I know how to get the check for the state I am in but it says I need it for the country. Good info!

@Brandon ***********

ok that last part I had heard of and is probably the way I will go. I would only have to do until I turn 65, that’s when my work pension kicks in and the monthly income is enough. But as for having to return to the states every 2 years I don’t really wanna do that. I want the visa where I just have to re apply every year in Thailand. Anyway thanks for the info!