Open a bank account. Get a driver’s license.

Make some Thai friends to help with your transition.

Get Line to chat with them.

Visit several different parts of the country.

See what you like.

Plan on a few more trips before moving permanently.

Have fun!

Congratulations on your rapid acceptance.

I am curious to know if Tri-Care will pay for your medical care while in Thailand and how you obtain authorization for services.

I am a physician in Los Angeles and have quite a few Tri-Care patients.

I wrote this as an American staying in Chiang Mai but the same concepts apply for you…

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!

Someone has an excellent English teacher. You present your situation very well. I hope your situation has a good resolution.

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

clear concise and accurate information, as always. Thank you.

They love blue ink for official signatures.

@Chan *****

yes why not?

No. Go to another branch.

You probably should hold off on buying the house until she is approved to come and stay in USA.

Book directly with the local carrier and forget about Expedia. They can’t help you.