howerde

I suspect the main reason is they are lazy/don't know how to fill in the forms, there is no reason why they can't open an account, they will just come up with a different excuse( need work permit, need mobile phone contract etc etc, There are usual travel /visa agents in most places, they might do it you will need to ask. Nakom Phanom is a bit remote for most agents, are there any expat bars/restaurants expats can have a lot of local knowledge,( they probably had the same issue themselves) they would know ant local facebook groups whatapp etc, it is annoying but just keep plugging away

What are your wifes qualifications and english, a 20 000 pounds job would seem optimistic to me especially up north (hope i am wrong) there have been huge changes to employment terms fixed term contracts, casual work zero hour contracts are normal unless you are qualified and have experience. consider heating bills my gas/elec last year was 1300 i have just had the company contact me asking me to update my direct debit to 364 per month! but without doubt the education and health must be a strong reason to return, i have no kids but if one did come, i would not hesitate to return