Just remember that you have to go in person to Thai banks to make even there smallest request. So using a branch local to you can be important.

Go to the bank prepared. Have copies of all needed documents neatly in a folder. Residence certificate, passport pages, 1yr lease agreement, etc. Dress somewhat professionally and be respectful. Your goal is to make THEIR job as easy as possible.

Cost of living difference is about 30-50% depending on lifestyle and activities. If you play golf it's about 120% for comparable quality. Healthcare is about 30%. Health insurance is about 70% but quality and payout vary widely. Many choose to self insure.

@Max ************

the will prevents a long probate period upon your death. Even if a beneficiary is listed with the bank, the account will be frozen until probate completes. A will in the hands of a lawyer will ease that process.

@Dianne *********

I think you applied for oa, not o.

@Dianne *********

non-o has many sub-types. Over 50 based on retirement is one, marriage is another. It's is a 90 day visa for you to fulfill the financial requirements for a 1yr extension. The non-oa is a 1yr multi entry retirement visa that can get you almost 2yrs. It requires a medical certificate, criminal background check and medical insurance.

It sounds like you applied for the OA not the O.

@Jon *******

the visa is different from the extension. Evisa from Laos just has to show proof of funds in his name. If he were applying in Thailand it would have to be in a Thai bank.

@Max ************

Actuallyi have heard of it. I don't know how common it is because I wouldn't use an agent. But as accounts get scarcer, the odds increase. Just saying it's something to ask about.

@Roger ******

you must be basing it off something other than retirement over 50...

@Max ************

your assumption is that agents have your best interest in mind...