I have heard that you need a work permit to open a bank account? True?

What bank do you guys recommend for a simple savings account with international ATM-card?

I opened a bank account about 7 years ago ..no problem and only ever had a tourist visa.Bangkok Bank is as good as any with full ATM and internet facility. ::

Go for Bangkok Bank or Bank of Asia. If they require work permit at one branch, just go to the next one... TiT.

Both of these banks have both ATM and internet banking.

Anyone have Thai Farmers or Krung Thai Bank here??

I got a savingas account with international ATM and internet bangking at Bank of Asia (Asoke Branch) a week ago.

No work permit required! (They asked for it, but I said I don't intend to work...)

I've got accounts and ATM's at both Bangkok Bank and Thai Farmers. However, they will not issue cheque books. Does anyone know why?

I have cheque books from Bangkok Bank...rules change without reason...and no work permit

Just go to any bank with your passport and XX,000 Baht deposit and say 'I will bring all the paperwork next week when I get paid...'  

They don't issue check accounts without work permits that  easy. I bet there has been quite a few farang "cheque daeng" (bounced cheques...)

Bangkok Banks web site says regarding Internet banking:

"Only foreign nationals with a resident Baht account holding a non-immigrant visa along with a valid work permit or certificate of residence are eligible to apply for Bualuang iBanking."

Open a regular savings account without internet banking should be possible without WP.