Getting a bank account

Don’t expect to get something for nothing. Each office is an independent business. Each office makes their own criteria.

You certainly will pay a fee for transferring USD from USA to Thailand. The amount depends on the bank and the transfer service.

Banking is an essential service if you plan to spend time here. It’s not FREE.

I prepared ahead of time by getting a bank account set up 6 months ago.

I treated this as an important business transaction, not just a casual activity.

My Thai friend made an appointment for me at the Bangkok Bank branch across from Astra in CM. He also translated for me.

I am a middle aged physician and dressed as such. Yes I did do the whole business card ceremony.

I told the banker that I plan to retire soon and buy a condominium at Astra.

I was asked to purchase a life insurance policy for about $100. Presumably the banker gets a commission. Whatever, it’s the price of doing business at the bank.

They wanted to copy my passport and see my credit card from Wells Fargo. I think I showed them how much was in my account also to make the point that I’m a serious customer.

I also showed them $500 in perfect $100 bills that was to be the initial deposit.

Nothing else was required.

Act like a serious customer and you will be treated as such.

Present yourself properly and you should be fine.

If not, thank them for their time and visit another office.

Best wishes on your adventure to Thailand!

It’s a bit late, but you could see if BB has a branch in Malaysia. Then take a cashiers check or wire the money between the two banks in Malaysia as a domestic transfer.

Beats carrying a bunch of cash.

Register at an inexpensive hotel for one night and make sure they file your TM30. FInished.

Try it out and see what happens…..

Go to , buy anything and they will change it for you.

@Roberto ********

nailed it!

What was on the departure board?

@John ******

read it more closely..

It depends on the airline and the immigration agent.

You are supposed to have an exit ticket, a place to stay and $700 cash in hand.

This is endlessly discussed.

Some get through and some get caught.

The agents don’t speak English or want to hear excuses….

What will you do if you are refused at your home airport or at BKK?

@John ******

Good one!