In HCMC, Vietnam, each time they requested additional documents (that had always already been supplied) it reset the approval time to 5-days. In all, I ended up staying in Vietnam for a whole month.

@Tom *********

if you link your Thai number to streaming accounts, the monthly cost of services like Netflix is a fraction of what they charge in America

I use DTAC, you can get a 12-month data only plan for peanuts. Works great for Thai banking Apps, fee free cardless ATM withdrawals from Thai bank accounts. Streaming services. Social media accounts and trading platforms. Be sure to link your Thai SIM to your passport for identification purposes.

@Ron ***

can you imagine being up for extension of stay renewal, needing the bank letter of confirmation of funds, only to be told, we will not supply that while your account is frozen? Day 30 for me and still can't access my own money.

@Andrew **********

yes, of course. You also need to update new passports with the bank and your cellphone company.

@Kevin *****

now it's a waiting game

@Andrew **********

there was nothing to update in my case. They already had all of the required pertinent information.

@Mark *****

not correct. There is no JUST do anything, it should be simple, but it isn't. My account remains frozen three weeks after confirmation of requirements, in person, at the branch where I originally opened the account: Passport, secondary ID (drivers license), legitimate Non O extension of stay (retirement visa), long standing, Thai telephone number linked to my passport. Residence certificate from Jomtien Immigration and copy of my condo contract. I am however, not surprised that the bank's head office staff are swamped by this self inflicted extra workload. I remain patient, but not being allowed access to my own money is wearing thin. Yes, I have other Thai bank accounts, but I can't transfer my funds until they unfreeze the account.

@Gary *******

Japan was too expensive for my meagre pension to afford. Hua Hin/Cha Am area has grown on me over time. I have tried a number of condos in Jomtien and Na Jomtien in recent years. View Talay 2B, Laguna 2 behind Rompho Market, Seven Seas Cote d'Azure and Lumpini Park Beach. Each had its pros and cons, but LPB was a good all round fit.

@Corey *************

best of luck finding your dream location.