Opening a bank account

[Aussie999]

My mate is on a 60 day visa free, will extend to 90 days, with possible conversion to Non O Retirement, while visa free can he open a bank account, Kasikorn has said no.

[Tropicalevo]

I have heard that Bangkok Bank sometimes say yes.

Friend of a friend managed to open one.

You may have to try in a couple of different branches though.

[CharlieH]

MOVED to Banking

[oldcpu]

There was a time when opening a bank account with a visa exempt was possible (ie 9 years ago).  I did so in 2016 at a Bangkok Bank branch in Phuket town (although it wasn't easy, as UOB, SCB, K-Bank and Krungsri all refused then to let me open a bank account when Visa exempt). .  However times have changed, as have bank policies.  The Bangkok bank branch where I opened my account in 2016 have a big sign that they will no longer open bank accounts for those who are Visa exempt.  They will thou open a Bank Account for those on a Type-O, Type-OA and some other longer term Visas.

 

To the best of my knowledge, this (not allowing account to be open if Visa exempt in Thailand) is bank policy across all of Thailand, and it is not Thai law.

 

I have read on this forum that there are agents who will facilitate the opening of a bank account when Visa exempt (for some nominal fee). Your 'mates' best approach may be to find such an agent and have them help to ope an account. 

 

or alternatively exit Thailand back to their home country, obtain a Type-O visa, and return to Thailand, and open an account then as soon as they arrive in Thailand.

 

Possibly, given travel expenses to leave and re-enter Thailand, an agent approach may be the least expensive approach, if your mate can find such an agent.

[black tabby12345]

Legally, it is possible for the visa waiver to open an Thai bank account.

But it is up to the discretion of each branch.

So try as many as banks possible.

 

Good to say he intends to deposit (at least) THB 800K for retirement visa.

As it appeals well.

 

Good luck.

[Liverpool Lou]

16 minutes ago, black tabby12345 said:

Legally, it is possible for the visa waiver to open an Thai bank account.

But it is up to the discretion of each branch.

So try as many as banks possible.

 

Good to say he intends to deposit (at least) THB 800K for retirement visa.

As it appeals well.

He should note that the deposit can be immediately withdrawn and just used as an incentive for the branch to open an account.

[NativeBob]

since April 2023 holders of tourist visa are not allowed to open a bank account. Some tricksters "agents" are the only solution is you're desperate

[Aussie999]

To all... Thanks for to replies... He says he might try the agent approach first.