This can be tricky. We tried to get our Mae Baan to come to Europe with us (as well as a trip to the UK) but she failed on reasons to return to Thailand. No land, ni house, no proper job and did not meet the income requirements to support herself even if we sponsored her financially.

Its not that easy. Having said that where there's a will there's a way. Best of luck to you. I'm sure you'll find something that can work.

@Jim *****

enjoy! Hope you enjoy your time here. 💖

@Ivano ********************

It seems to be very inconsistent. Happy to hear KrungThai got you sorted though. That's awesome 🎉.

I just wanted to update what happened when I went to Bangkok Bank today in Chiang Rai (Big C Branch). I took my lease agreement for our property, my current bank book - (with them, just in a joint name), my passport, my work permit.

They asked for my driver's licence. I gave them my NZ licence. They wanted a Thai one. I told them I don't have one. They said they couldn't open the account.

So I went to SCB - queues out the door and down the hall.

Kasikorn (next door) empty but for one person. They served me immediately. Got an account, an ATM card, internet banking loaded onto my phone & prompt pay. All working perfectly.

The whole process took about an hour. No worries. 🎉

It seems Bangkok Bank branches are different. Just a few weeks before my partner got an individual account with Central Chiang Rai branch without a driver's licence. Go figure!

Just wanted to provide an update in case anyone searches this group and needs to know what they can do. Thanks everyone for your advice. I am finally sorted !!!

@John *********

my son goes to a language school. You're right. 1 day a week is certainly not acceptable.

@Martin ********

my family got a remark on their passports for extending a visa on arrival too many times and told to get a long term visa instead. We spoke to an agent and they said if they tried it again they could get refused entry. This was at BKK. It's just not worth it. Your warning is sound advice 👍.

@Dennis ********

No, no issues so far. Immigration know us well. No problems. Just a major problem getting an individual account. 🙈 I've got lots of good advice now so have a way forward.

@Ivano ********************

thank you.

@Michael ******

that's ok. I only use my phone for Bangkok Banking to check my balance, pay people and scan to pay. I very rarely use the website so SCB could work well.

@Michael ******

thanks for that. I haven't had time to go to a branch yet, but maybe I will try SCB instead. I have all the paperwork. I just want someone who will make my life easier! Appreciate that tip.