Passport Only (no Visa) To Open Tourist Bank Account?

[brian123]

hope someone can confirm this?

[geoffphuket]

There's no such thing as a tourist bank account.

Some of the main banks will allow you to open a bank account with no visa or work permit. Check with the United Overseas Bank - www.uob.co.th or Siam Commercial www.siamcommercial.com

Hope this helps

Geoffphuket

[JohnC]

I opened an savings account with the Bangkok Bank in Pattaya just over a year ago when on holiday here and just needed my passport. I have transfered money from my UK bank using the swift forms with no problem most recently yesterday when I completed the form online, printed it and then faxed it to my uk bank along with copy of passport and driving licence and the transaction was completed same day. When I opened the account I did not even have an address as I was in a hotel but did not seem to be a problem. I understand a number of Thai banks offer the same service so I am not trying to push the one I use!

[IMA_FARANG]

hope someone can confirm this?

This subject has been covered on this forum a number of times.

General consensus is: Some banks are tougher on opening accounts than others. One branch of a large bank may insist on a work permit or such before they will let you open an account. Another branch of the same bank located a block away may be happy to open your account just on your passport. So it definately helps to shop around.

The other thing to remember is the desire of the bank to let you open an account is often dependent on how much money you want to deposit. Usually the more you want to put in, the more they are willing to let you do it. (More money gets more honey).

[ding]

I think in previous coverage you'll find that there's a branch of Bangkok Bank (if I recall) in New Yorn -if you're in the states...

try SEARCH for better accuracy on that than my memory.

[Crossy]

I think in previous coverage you'll find that there's a branch of Bangkok Bank (if I recall) in New Yorn -if you're in the states...

try SEARCH for better accuracy on that than my memory.

Unfortunately, for once this advice is of no use

Search is currently disabled to minimise server loading during the coup period.

EDIT. In any case the OP is in the UK.

Edited September 20, 2006 by Crossy