RobertyBob

Yes aware of the stories. That's why I kept trying.

Found it strange though that each bank (different banks & branches) all produced the very same form that needed to be submitted with photo attached and duly signed by an immigration office.

Apparently new govt rules recently introduced require 12 month visa, letter from immigration, 5000 baht deposit and possibly work permit.

Was told the above word for word by several different banks, including K Bank in Pattaya and Jomtien last week.

Finally, in Koh Chang, yesterday I opened a Bangkok Bank savings account on a 30 day visa exempt with just showing passport and using hotel address and hotel phone number. 500 baht deposit and 300 baht visa debit card fee.

Done and dusted in 30 minutes. Just have to get internet banking sorted tomorrow.

As mentioned earlier, if the account has less than 2000baht and isn't used for 12 months it will be deemed a dormant account ant attract a 50baht fee per month until it reaches zero and then will be automatically closed. Easy enough to prevent with internet banking access.

It pays to shop around but seems the end is nigh for easy Thai bank account openings.

Guys, and girls...

Thank you so much for your replies and kind offers, both here and via private messages. I just goes to show why I want to move to Chiang Mai for an extended time frame myself.

Once again, thankyou.

Bob

Hi guys,

My 30 yr old single daughter is considering a job offer in Chiang Mai. Along with the job will come an attractive package, including accommodation etc. She has been to Thailand previously and loves it.

My concern is that there may not be much of a social life for her. To this end, could you please advise what sort of expat community in the 25-35yr old bracket reside in Chiang Mai.

Any info much appreciated.