You open an account at the branch closest to where you live (or at least convenient to where you live). Your new branch will close your existing account and transfer the money to your new account, and issue a new ATM/Visa card. The process takes around 30 minutes. It's clunky and bureaucratic, but it sure makes life easier in the future
Anonymous participant That's not how Thailand operates. In Thailand it is necessary to maintain close ties with your actual branch. It's very easy to move your account from one branch to another closer your home. I've done it twice.