Thanks a lot for the quick replies – much appreciated 🙏

Based on the feedback here, it does seem that DTV is treated similarly to a tourist visa by most banks, so opening or maintaining a bank account would be very difficult and not something I want to rely on luck for.

I currently hold a Non-Immigrant O (single entry, 90 days) and will therefore proceed with that and try to convert it to a more flexible retirement-based stay through Immigration when I return to Koh Samui next week.

Thanks again for sharing real-world experience – very helpful.