Marriage Visa in Thailand

The Thailand Marriage Visa, also known as the Non-Immigrant O Marriage Visa, is available to foreigners legally married to a Thai citizen. This visa allows the holder to stay in Thailand long-term, with an option for annual renewal. While the initial visa is usually valid for 90 days, it can be converted to a one-year visa, and further extended each year if eligibility is maintained.

1. Eligibility Requirements for the Marriage Visa

To qualify, applicants must meet certain criteria:

• Legal Marriage: The applicant must be legally married to a Thai citizen. A marriage certificate from Thailand or one legalized in Thailand is required.
• Financial Requirements: Applicants must demonstrate financial stability through one of the following:
  • A minimum deposit of THB 400,000 in a Thai bank, held for at least two months before the application.
  • A monthly income of THB 40,000, documented through a certified affidavit from the applicant’s embassy.
• Criminal Background Check: Some Thai immigration offices require a background check from the applicant’s home country, particularly for initial applications.

Additional requirements include a valid passport with at least six months of validity, proof of address in Thailand, and a medical certificate in some cases.

2. Application Process for the Marriage Visa

The application process involves multiple steps:

a) Initial 90-Day Visa Application

The initial marriage visa application is typically made outside Thailand at a Thai embassy or consulate. This initial visa is valid for 90 days, allowing entry for an extended stay, during which the applicant can apply for a one-year extension.

b) Conversion to a One-Year Visa

After entering Thailand on the initial 90-day visa, applicants can apply for a one-year extension at their local immigration office. Required documents include proof of marriage, financial records, and additional photos with the spouse at their home to verify cohabitation.

c) Visa Fees

The initial application fee for the 90-day Non-Immigrant O Visa is around THB 2,000. Extending the visa to one year generally costs THB 1,900.

3. Financial Verification Requirements

To qualify for the marriage visa, applicants must meet specific financial requirements, which can be demonstrated through:

• Bank Account Deposits: A minimum deposit of THB 400,000 in a Thai bank account must be maintained for at least two months before the application or three months before renewals.
• Monthly Income: If opting to prove monthly income, the applicant must provide a certified income affidavit from their embassy in Thailand, verifying a consistent income of THB 40,000 or more per month.

4. 90-Day Reporting Requirement

Like other long-term visa holders, marriage visa holders must comply with 90-day reporting. Every 90 days, they must report their residential address to the Immigration Bureau, either in person, by mail, or online. This process ensures compliance with immigration regulations and keeps official records updated.

5. Re-Entry Permits

If marriage visa holders intend to leave and return to Thailand without losing their visa status, they must apply for a re-entry permit. Re-entry permits can be single-entry or multiple-entry:

• Single Re-Entry Permit: This allows one re-entry and costs around THB 1,000.
• Multiple Re-Entry Permit: Allows unlimited re-entries within the visa’s validity period and costs around THB 3,800.

6. Renewal of the One-Year Marriage Visa

Marriage visas are renewable annually, provided that eligibility is maintained:

• Documentation: Updated financial proof, marriage certificate, and proof of cohabitation may be required each year.
• Bank Funds: The THB 400,000 deposit must be held for three months before renewal applications.
• Renewal Fee: The one-year extension fee remains THB 1,900.

7. Alternative Options for Long-Term Stay

In cases where a marriage visa is not feasible, foreign spouses can explore other options:

• Retirement Visa: If the foreign spouse is 50 years or older, a retirement visa may offer long-term stay privileges.
• Dependent Visa: For foreign spouses of Thai citizens holding work visas, a dependent visa is an alternative option, though requirements differ.

Conclusion

The Thailand Marriage Visa provides an accessible pathway for foreigners married to Thai citizens to reside in Thailand long-term, with annual renewals and financial requirements. By understanding the financial proof requirements, renewal procedures, and compliance obligations like 90-day reporting, applicants can enjoy a stable and legally compliant residence in Thailand.