The Difference between a Marriage Visa and a Spouse Visa
Is there a real distinction between a Thai marriage visa and a Thai spouse visa? Learn everything there is to know about Thai marriage visas.
What should you know about Thai marriage visas?
The common term for a “1-Year Extension of Stay Dependent on Marriage” in Thailand is a marriage visa. This is a long-term Thai visa for a foreign national who is married to a Thai citizen and meets the immigration bureau’s other requirements. The holder of a Thai marriage visa is allowed to remain in Thailand for a year without having to leave the country.
Anyone who marries a Thai citizen can obtain a One-Year Extension of Stay based on marriage, also known as a Marriage Visa, in Thailand. However, to obtain this visa, you must first have a Non-Immigrant Visa O based on marriage or accompanying a family member..
Key Points
- Thai marriage visas allow you to stay or reside in Thailand with your spouse for up to a year.
- You can renew your visa without leaving Thailand by visiting an immigration office.
- This visa holder is also entitled to apply for a work permit if they marry a Thai citizen.
Is there a difference between a Thai marriage visa and a spouse visa?
There isn’t much of a difference between a marriage visa and a spouse visa; they’re both the same! If you’re applying for a marriage visa, you must be in a relationship which means you’ve been together for at least 12 months, or in a married/spousal relationship which means you’re spouses.
Applicants who are legally married to a Thai citizen may be given this type of visa. There are various forms and durations of marriage visas: Single-Entry Non-Immigrant Visa-O, which is valid for 90 days from the date of application and multiple entry visa which allows you to extend your stay for a total of 365 days after your first extension has been accepted and can be renewed year after year without limit.
After entering Thailand, holders can contact the Thai Immigration Bureau for a stay extension and re-entry permit.
Who else is qualified for a Thai Marriage Visa?
- The Non-Immigrant O Visa category includes various types of travellers, such as dependents, volunteers, retirees, and individuals seeking medical treatment.
- However, the Thai Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O Visa based on marriage) is specifically for foreign nationals who are legally married to Thai citizens.
- The Marriage Visa allows for a longer stay without the need for frequent visa extensions.
- Eligibility for the Marriage Visa is based on being legally married to a Thai citizen, and the visa must be obtained before entering Thailand.
- Applicants need to understand the specific requirements and procedures associated with the Marriage Visa to ensure compliance with Thai immigration laws and regulations.
There is no difference between a marriage visa and a spouse visa; they’re both the same! .
What is the procedure for obtaining a Thailand marriage visa?
The following are the basic requirements for applying for a marriage visa:
- Obtaining a 90-day Non-Immigrant O visa: This is typically the first step. You usually need to apply for a spouse visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate either in your home country or in a neighbouring country. However, the specific requirements and procedures may vary, so it’s essential to check with the relevant embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
- Travelling to Thailand to activate the Non-Immigrant O visa: Once you have obtained the non-immigrant O visa, you usually need to enter Thailand within a certain period to activate it. Again, this requirement may vary, so it’s essential to confirm the specific details with the embassy or consulate.
- Converting the non-immigrant O visa to a marriage visa: After entering Thailand with the non-immigrant O visa, you can begin the process of converting it to a marriage visa (officially known as an “Extension of Stay Based on Marriage”). This typically involves preparing the required documents and submitting them to the Immigration Bureau.
- Extending the visa within the last 30 days of the 90-day stay permit: Once you are in Thailand on the non-immigrant O visa, you need to apply for an extension of stay based on marriage within the last 30 days of the initial 90-day period. This extension will allow you to stay in Thailand for an additional period, usually one year.
- Processing time for the visa extension: The processing time for the visa extension can vary, but it’s not uncommon for it to take up to a month. During this time, your application will be reviewed by the Immigration Office, and they may request additional documents or information if needed
In Thailand, a foreigner with a Visa Exemption stamp or a Tourist Visa may still apply for a Thai marriage visa if they have already completed the qualifications for the non-immigrant O.
How long does a Marriage Visa last?
The Thai Marriage Visa is initially granted for one year from the date of approval. After the first year, a spouse visa can be renewed annually as long as the marriage remains valid and the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria.