Phuket

fredbare · #1 30-05-2004, 22:59

Can anyone advise me how to open a bank account in thailand.
I am married to a thai lady and we are considering retiring to thailand in a couple of years time, I would like to set up an account to pay usual living expenses with atm service before moving there.
Is it possible to set up an account while on a short holiday. what problems am I likely encounter. Is there a bank that welcomes farangs.
any info would be appreciated

Coolhand · #2 31-05-2004, 00:43

Most people I know speak well of Thai Farmers.
You will need a permanent address i Thailand.

Nicke · #3 31-05-2004, 03:16

Thai Farmers changed name to K-Bank, but I think Patong branch still use TF sign.

I use Krung Thai for my company and Bangkok Bank for my private accounts. Bangkok Bank is maybe one of the biggest banks in Thailand and they have e-banking.

tumyumkung · #4 31-05-2004, 16:04

Hi Fredbare,

I can suggest you for a short time before opening a bank account in Thailand to use your Credit card at the ATM.
When I go in Thailand I load for example 3500 EURO and then can use everywhere my card without any fixed charge
Of course you have to be above zero.
The advantage is : - you have also a good rate with the exchange

,
- no fixed rate very high if low amount

,
- no queue at the bank

- ....and open 24/24

of course don't use only this card

so you can see the life like that ->

Anyway HAPPY RETIRMENT you choose the good place !!!!

fredbare · #5 01-06-2004, 01:02

Tumyumkung, Nicke, Coolhand,

Thanks for the advice, much apprecieted

Fredbare

Schmeen · #6 01-06-2004, 02:59

Officially you need either a retirement visa or a Work permit to open a bank account in Thailand these days...so they say...but I know people seem to get around it...I also know people who faiuled to get around it...depends on the individual that serves you.

fredbare · #7 07-06-2004, 23:32

Thanks Schmeen, getting an account is not as easy as i thought

its like applying for a visa depends who you talk to on the day

steve · #8 10-06-2004, 23:17

Recently opened savings account at Bangkok Bank in Patong. Patong branch are happy to open an account with just a tourist visa and address (which can be anything - even a hotel address - no post actually goes there in the future). They will also give you a choice of ATM cards to use with the account. When you are in there you will see that there is a whole queue of 'farangs' opening accounts with tourist visas.

Schmeen · #9 11-06-2004, 05:58

Yep, law in Thailand is open for anyone's interpretation, bank clerk, post office employee.....