Jun wrote: ↑Thu Nov 17, 2022 9:47 pm
However, if I wanted another Thai bank account, I would try asking at quite a few branches before considering paying an agency to facilitate it.
For opening a Thai bank account, here is the fee at Mots. Seems reasonable enough to me.
OPEN A BANK ACCOUNT. FEE 3500 BAHT
Mot is able to open a Thai Bank Account for you. Even on a Tourist Visa. Fee includes 500 baht deposit to open the account and Internet Banking.
Passport and proof of residence required. 2 Passport Photographs. FULL DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE AVAILABLE
(PLEASE NOTE FEE FOR ATM CARD IS PAID DIRECTLY TO THE BANK AND IS NOT INCLUDED IN ABOVE FEE)
Depending on which bank, the fee for the ATM card will not exceed 300 baht.
I don't know how much they charge for obtaining visas. I would think it would depend on how simple or complicated each individual case is.
If someone wants the retirement visa and is having problems trying to open a Thai bank account, I would use Mots. Having a Thai bank account is essential for obtaining the retirement visa. You won't get the visa without it.
If you are eligible for the retirement visa, once you have the bank account and can produce the necessary paperwork, I see no reason to use a service. It is quite simple to do on your own and the fee you'll pay at immigration for the visa is 1900 baht.
Some people are afraid to go to immigration, especially when applying for a first time visa. Don't be. Despite what some say about immigration, they really try to help you get the visa. Some people are under the impression that immigration does everything they can to prevent you from getting the visa.
WRONG! They try to help, not prevent - at least in Pattaya. I've heard horror stories about immigration in other provinces. To tell the truth, I doubt the credibility of some of those stories.
The worst mistake a person can make at immigration, and I've seen it for myself more than once, is to try to argue with them. They're not going to put up with it and it will get you nowhere - other than unceremoniously shown to the door. Just comply with what they want. If they want something you absolutely cannot provide or comply with, don't try to argue. That would the time to consult a visa agency such as Mots.
Of course, if you're the type who is stupid enough to argue even with Mots, now a typical American phrase definitely is going to apply to you: "You're shit out of luck".