July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 2 minutes ago, DrJack54 said: Have you inquired about also obtaining insurance from bank? Think policy is ~4k. In Oz we would call that a bribe or more subtly an incentive. Assume you're talking of a life insurance of some sort?
July 23, 2025Jul 23 17 minutes ago, hotandsticky said: Interesting that DTV's are not specifically mentioned. The DTV doesn't allow the opening of a bank account, as far as I know it never did? I find it more interesting that they vaguely define documents for "entering Thailand" that are needed for a "Work permit". That infers that only a Non-B visa is accepted.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Latest information from Bangkok bank. Key points for foreigners looking to open a Bangkok Bank account: Long-term visas are generally required: This includes work visas, retirement visas, or student visas. Thai spouse or property ownership: These are alternative criteria that may allow account opening. Tourist visas may not be sufficient: Some branches may still accept tourist visas, but this is not guaranteed, and services may be limited. Biometric verification: Account holders may be asked to verify their identity through biometric data, such as a facial scan. Increased scrutiny: Bangkok Bank is taking steps to combat financial fraud and cybersecurity risks, which may affect how foreigners manage their accounts. Check with the specific branch: Requirements can vary by location, so it's best to contact the branch you intend to use for the most accurate information. Required Documents: Valid Passport, Valid Visa (as applicable), Proof of Address in Thailand, Work Permit (if applicable), and Possible Reference Letter (from employer or existing account holder). In summary, while it's still possible for foreigners to open accounts at Bangkok Bank, the criteria have become more stringent. Long-term visa holders, those married to Thai nationals, or property owners are generally prioritized. Tourists and short-term visitors may face challenges
July 23, 2025Jul 23 13 minutes ago, pdebuck456 said: Assume you're talking of a life insurance of some sort? Yes. The same insurance that agents purchased from BBL on behalf of client to open a bank account.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 12 minutes ago, NanLaew said: I find it more interesting that they vaguely define documents for "entering Thailand" that are needed for a "Work permit". That infers that only a Non-B visa is accepted. I would think that having a workpermit could also be sufficient when not having a non immigrant B? As you can have a workpermit on a non immigrant O when extended based on marriage. Might be possible when initially extending to 1 year based on an embassy document certifying the minimum 40K Baht/month income, as for extending with 400K Baht you're stuck in the catch 22! Unfortunately my embassy refuses to that, they only certify my signature and not the income itself, which immigration apparently won't accept (anymore).
July 23, 2025Jul 23 8 minutes ago, pdebuck456 said: I would think that having a workpermit could also be sufficient when not having a non immigrant B? As you can have a workpermit on a non immigrant O when extended based on marriage. Might be possible when initially extending to 1 year based on an embassy document certifying the minimum 40K Baht/month income, as for extending with 400K Baht you're stuck in the catch 22! Unfortunately my embassy refuses to that, they only certify my signature and not the income itself, which immigration apparently won't accept (anymore). FWIW, my 1-year marriage extension that was enabled by first having a Non-O visa based on marriage, wasn't accepted for a WP application. Just one of those inconsistent inconsistencies I guess. I'll stick to the present difficulties of being unable to open the account needed for getting the marriage extension. Speculatory I know, but since a Non-O and O/A visa for retirement is also not a Non-B visa, I wonder if we will hear of new applicants for a retirement extension also striking out with the banks here?
July 23, 2025Jul 23 13 minutes ago, Liquorice said: What type of account are you requesting to open? The OP stated.... "For 1-year extension (marriage to Thai national) I need a Thai Bank account." Almost for certain he would want a savings account. No need for a FD account..
July 23, 2025Jul 23 41 minutes ago, NanLaew said: The DTV doesn't allow the opening of a bank account, as far as I know it never did? I find it more interesting that they vaguely define documents for "entering Thailand" that are needed for a "Work permit". That infers that only a Non-B visa is accepted. I didn't read it that way (if I have understood you correctly) - I think the 'list' is more general than specific and Non-O visas are certainly acceptable......I doubt that further evidence is required for, say, an O visa based on retirement.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 30 minutes ago, Liquorice said: @pdebuck456 What type of account are you requesting to open? Regular savings account to stick the 400K Baht is for 1 year extension based on marriage.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 18 minutes ago, DrJack54 said: Almost for certain he would want a savings account. Agreed, for banking in Thailand. In other Countries, everyday accounts are known as 'current' or 'checking' accounts. In Thailand, these types of accounts are only available to Thais, foreigners with WP or PR status. In the UK a Savings account would be just that, for Savings, not everyday use. Is the OP specifically requesting to open a Savings account, or another type. Edit: Op just answered the question whilst I was typing.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 40 minutes ago, Liquorice said: Latest information from Bangkok bank. Key points for foreigners looking to open a Bangkok Bank account: Long-term visas are generally required: This includes work visas, retirement visas, or student visas. Thai spouse or property ownership: These are alternative criteria that may allow account opening. Tourist visas may not be sufficient: Some branches may still accept tourist visas, but this is not guaranteed, and services may be limited. Biometric verification: Account holders may be asked to verify their identity through biometric data, such as a facial scan. Increased scrutiny: Bangkok Bank is taking steps to combat financial fraud and cybersecurity risks, which may affect how foreigners manage their accounts. Check with the specific branch: Requirements can vary by location, so it's best to contact the branch you intend to use for the most accurate information. Required Documents: Valid Passport, Valid Visa (as applicable), Proof of Address in Thailand, Work Permit (if applicable), and Possible Reference Letter (from employer or existing account holder). In summary, while it's still possible for foreigners to open accounts at Bangkok Bank, the criteria have become more stringent. Long-term visa holders, those married to Thai nationals, or property owners are generally prioritized. Tourists and short-term visitors may face challenges It feels like most of that info, even if found on the website of the Bank itself is outdated. What I seem to be experiencing feels like it recently popped up, like in days, or maximum a week or two recent. Same as those new limits on mobile app and atm transactions, is literally days old!
July 23, 2025Jul 23 1 minute ago, Liquorice said: Agreed, for banking in Thailand. In other Countries, everyday accounts are known as 'current' or 'checking' accounts. In Thailand, these types of accounts are only available to Thais, foreigners with WP or PR status. In the UK a Savings account would be just that, for Savings, not everyday use. Is the OP specifically requesting to open a Savings account, or another type. 3 minutes ago, pdebuck456 said: Regular savings account to stick the 400K Baht is for 1 year extension based on marriage.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 3 hours ago, CallumWK said: Ok if you say so, but obviously you have no idea what you are talking about. When you are registered on the embassy as living in Thailand, then they will issue a COR. Some Thai government departments, for example if you apply for a yellow book, are not satisfied withe COR issued by immigration, and demand you have one from the Embassy, and have it translated by a certified translation office. @DrJack54 Can you confirm that an embassy will issue a COR if you are registered on the embassy as permanently living in Thailand? Since I can see the thumbs down from the usual suspect, here is proof that the Belgian embassy, since this is the nationality of the OP, will issue a certificate of residence and the according fee. Obviously the will only issue such a certificate if you are registered at the embassy with your Thai address. The OP has already clarified that he doesn't live in Thailand, so this is not an option for him. https://thailand.diplomatie.belgium.be/en/consular-services/consular-fees
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 1 minute ago, CallumWK said: Since I can see the thumbs down from the usual suspect, here is proof that the Belgian embassy, since this is the nationality of the OP, will issue a certificate of residence and the according fee. Obviously the will only issue such a certificate if you are registered at the embassy with your Thai address. That is 100% correct! Only caveat being you cannot keep a Belgian adress, need to get de-registered at your Belgian municipality first. But anyway, got the COR from immigration for 200 Baht!
July 23, 2025Jul 23 1 minute ago, pdebuck456 said: Only caveat being you cannot keep a Belgian adress, need to get de-registered at your Belgian municipality first. Yes I edited my post already to add that detail, and in a reply the other day to @JackGats, I also explained that you only can register at the embassy if you unregister yourself in your home country
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 4 hours ago, DrJack54 said: @ThaiVisaCentre any advice on this matter. They just got back, opening bank account can be done, but cost is 15,000 Baht, so seems some cash needs to change hands to make it happen. Assisting on the 1 year marriage extension cost 48,000 Baht.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 3 minutes ago, pdebuck456 said: They just got back, opening bank account can be done, but cost is 15,000 Baht, so seems some cash needs to change hands to make it happen. Assisting on the 1 year marriage extension cost 48,000 Baht. LOL, was there a Roller or Lambo in the parking lot?
July 23, 2025Jul 23 27 minutes ago, pdebuck456 said: They just got back, opening bank account can be done, but cost is 15,000 Baht, Previously ~4k 28 minutes ago, pdebuck456 said: Assisting on the 1 year marriage extension cost 48,000 Baht. Can't imagine what that would be for You have the Non O and extension marriage would be hand holding exercise. Don't understand.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 30 minutes ago, DrJack54 said: Previously ~4k Can't imagine what that would be for You have the Non O and extension marriage would be hand holding exercise. Don't understand. 15000 for bank account 48000 for extension marriage visa (while already having the non-O. 16000 for retirement extension. Only opening bank account without using their visa service is 20,000 Baht. If previously only 4000, I guess it has gotten difficult! If it would still be (relatively easily) possible to do it yourself I doubt they could get away asking that much.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Does your wife have a bank account? I'd try that branch Passport COR from Buriram Immigration Marriage certificate Wife is your reference. Proof of homeownership or rental contract
July 23, 2025Jul 23 4 hours ago, Liquorice said: Latest information from Bangkok bank. Key points for foreigners looking to open a Bangkok Bank account: Long-term visas are generally required: This includes work visas, retirement visas, or student visas. Thai spouse or property ownership: These are alternative criteria that may allow account opening. Tourist visas may not be sufficient: Some branches may still accept tourist visas, but this is not guaranteed, and services may be limited. Biometric verification: Account holders may be asked to verify their identity through biometric data, such as a facial scan. Increased scrutiny: Bangkok Bank is taking steps to combat financial fraud and cybersecurity risks, which may affect how foreigners manage their accounts. Check with the specific branch: Requirements can vary by location, so it's best to contact the branch you intend to use for the most accurate information. Required Documents: Valid Passport, Valid Visa (as applicable), Proof of Address in Thailand, Work Permit (if applicable), and Possible Reference Letter (from employer or existing account holder). In summary, while it's still possible for foreigners to open accounts at Bangkok Bank, the criteria have become more stringent. Long-term visa holders, those married to Thai nationals, or property owners are generally prioritized. Tourists and short-term visitors may face challenges Where did they publish this?
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 2 minutes ago, Liquorice said: Does your wife have a bank account? I'd try that branch Passport COR from Buriram Immigration Marriage certificate Wife is your reference. Proof of homeownership or rental contract Is basically what we done, apart from the local COR. Still bounced on the non immigrant B requirement. At both banks we tried here she had accounts (like for ages)...
July 23, 2025Jul 23 3 minutes ago, Caldera said: Where did they publish this? Bangkok Post. Bangkok Bank tightens account rules for some foreigners 28th May Please credit and share this article with others using this link: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3036585/bangkok-bank-cracks-down-on-foreigners-accounts-amid-scam-fears. View our policies at http://goo.gl/9HgTd and http://goo.gl/ou6Ip. © Bangkok Post PCL. All rights reserved.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 1 minute ago, pdebuck456 said: Is basically what we done, apart from the local COR. Still bounced on the non immigrant B requirement. At both banks we tried here she had accounts (like for ages)... You need the COR as proof of address.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 4 minutes ago, Liquorice said: You need the COR as proof of address. Did have a COR from Cheang Wattana immigration, opening a bank account AFAIK never has been tied specifically to where you live. My wife also holds accounts opened in Bangkok (although she never officially lived there, as many Thais she is still registred in the family home tabien baan). Those BKk branches where she years ago opened accounts were the first we tried and got refused.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 11 minutes ago, Liquorice said: Bangkok Post. Bangkok Bank tightens account rules for some foreigners 28th May Please credit and share this article with others using this link: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3036585/bangkok-bank-cracks-down-on-foreigners-accounts-amid-scam-fears. View our policies at http://goo.gl/9HgTd and http://goo.gl/ou6Ip. © Bangkok Post PCL. All rights reserved. Was one of the reasons I got taken by surprise, also read that and always assumed being married would be sufficient (along with regular requirements such as the COR). Again, current restrictions/non immigrant B requirement is much more recent, that article is from when Bangkok bank first cracked down about 2 months ago on account holders without visa and/or tourist status after catching that corrupt branch manager.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 7 minutes ago, pdebuck456 said: Again, current restrictions/non immigrant B requirement is much more recent, that article is from when they first cracked down on account holders without visa and/or tourist status. No, they started cracking down on opening accounts for Tourists in 2023 for different reasons to the current situation. Counter staff only tell you what they are told, insist on seeing the manager for any common sense. A work permit includes the holder's Thai address. No WP, then a COR or Yellow Tabien Baan are also accepted as proof of address.
July 23, 2025Jul 23 6 minutes ago, Liquorice said: No, they started cracking down on opening accounts for Tourists in 2023 for different reasons to the current situation. Counter staff only tell you what they are told, insist on seeing the manager for any common sense. A work permit includes the holder's Thai address. No WP, then a COR or Yellow Tabien Baan are also accepted as proof of address. Work Permit don't include holders address anymore since 2020
July 23, 2025Jul 23 Author 17 minutes ago, Liquorice said: No, they started cracking down on opening accounts for Tourists in 2023 for different reasons to the current situation. Counter staff only tell you what they are told, insist on seeing the manager for any common sense. A work permit includes the holder's Thai address. No WP, then a COR or Yellow Tabien Baan are also accepted as proof of address. On two of the 8 attempts the staff actually called the branch manager over. Very apologetic and insisting this is all new since the last few days/weeks As with many things in Thailand, maybe the rule itself not that new, but the enforcement of it is.
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