Dghart001

2 hours ago, ukrules said:

Was that an upgrade from a 5 year membership or a new application where they did not know you from before?

 

New Application

Just to add a datapoint on processing times... I applied for the ESE 20 year on August 8th...was just approved this morning. Seems they are pushing these through quickly. I have 30 days to pay.

Just a follow up from OP:

I managed to open a BB account in Hua Hin with the help of a local law firm (David Martin at Legal Services Hua Hin). Had to buy insurance for 5900B. Thanks for everyone's replies here!

OP here...if I exit thailand to a neighboring country to get a non-O, what country would be best? Seems having a non-O would help this situation. Is it really difficult to get one in another Asian country? 

So just a status update: Both kasikorn and bangkok bank said no way on a tourist...need work permit or buy a condo. Bangkok Bank at emporium said i need non-o. Thai visa centre is now charging 15000 baht to open an account, and Siam legal is not doing them at all. Guess I will need to leave and get a non-o. Let me know if anyone has an agent that can still help. Thanks for all of your excellent comments!

7 minutes ago, sandyf said:

If you are planning to get a retirement visa it should have been done prior to travelling to Thailand. banks would be more co-operative with the correct type of visa. There is nothing new in the stance banks are taking. I have letter from 2014 that pointed out that a change in BOT regulations required foreigners to have a work permit or long term visa.

Yes good advice. 

6 minutes ago, daveAustin said:

Highly unlikely today but might be doable in a tourist-‘friendly’ place like Pattaya. On the bank’s regs,  you typically need a work permit to open one, or at least a non-O (which you can’t get without an account) + local ID such as driving license and yes certified address/contract. Unless op knows banking staff—preferably manager—to bend the rules, would be best off contacting an agent. 

Thanks...I guess I am just curious if anyone knows of an agent or legal firm that will still open an account for me for a fee.

Just now, phetphet said:

Have you made living arrangements yet?

Even if you are staying long term in a hotel. Try and get TM.30 plus a letter that you are staying there and use them to get a Residence Certificate. Then use the resi Cert to open a bank account.

Yeah 1 month airbnb but will get 12 month lease.

I don't mind paying 5k or so to open one...just a bit surprised that not even Siam Legal is doing it anymore.