Easily obtain a marriage visa for foreigners married with a Thai spouse to get the right to stay in Thailand. An expert will review your documents before to submit them to the government.
The Thailand Marriage Visa, officially known as the Non-Immigrant O Marriage Visa, offers a legal way for foreign nationals married to Thai citizens to reside long-term in Thailand. This visa is designed for foreigners who want to live with their Thai spouse and enjoy a stay of up to one year, renewable annually within Thailand. While the marriage visa does not grant work rights, holders can still apply for a separate work permit if they wish to work legally in the country. Understanding the application process, required documents, and renewal procedures is essential to ensure a smooth stay. Whether you’re planning to live in Thailand with your spouse or want to know your rights in case of divorce, this visa provides important benefits for family unity. Learn all you need to know about the Thailand Marriage Visa to prepare your application correctly and avoid common pitfalls.
The Thailand Marriage Visa is a type of Non-Immigrant O Visa granted to foreign nationals legally married to Thai citizens. It allows the foreign spouse to stay in Thailand legally for up to one year per visa issuance, with the option to renew annually.
If applying for the marriage visa Thailand for the first time, you generally must apply at a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand. If already in Thailand on another visa, you can apply for a visa extension at the Thai Immigration office.
You must show financial stability by either maintaining 400,000 THB in a Thai bank account for at least two months prior to applying or demonstrating a monthly income of at least 40,000 THB.
Once approved, the visa grants you legal residency in Thailand for one year.
What documents are required to support my marriage visa application?
To successfully apply for a Marriage Visa in Thailand, you must prepare and submit a comprehensive set of documents. These ensure your eligibility and legal compliance under Thai immigration laws. Below is the standard checklist required for the Non-Immigrant O Marriage Visa:
➤ Valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
➤ Thai marriage certificate, officially registered and recognized by Thai authorities.
➤ Copy of the Thai spouse’s ID card and Tabian Baan (house registration book).
➤ Proof of financial stability (Thai bank statements showing at least 400,000 THB or income slips showing a monthly income of at least 40,000 THB).
➤ Completed Thailand marriage visa application form (available at most Thai embassies or online).
➤ Recent passport-sized photos (typically 2–4, taken within the last six months).
➤ Police clearance certificate or criminal background check from your home country (required by some Thai consulates or embassies)./td>
➤ Medical certificate verifying the applicant is free from contagious diseases (required by certain embassies).
➤ Proof of accommodation in Thailand, such as a rental agreement, utility bill, or spouse’s house registration.
Remarks:
Make sure your marriage certificate is either issued in Thailand or properly legalized and translated if obtained abroad. Incomplete or non-authenticated documents are the main reason for visa rejections.
Can I apply for the marriage visa from inside Thailand or do I need to apply abroad?
1. Applying for a Thai Marriage Visa from Outside Thailand
If you’re applying for the Thailand Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O Visa) for the first time, you are generally required to submit your application at a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand. This route is especially common for foreign nationals living abroad who plan to relocate to Thailand with their Thai spouse. You’ll receive a 90-day Non-Immigrant O Visa, which can later be extended into a one-year marriage visa once in Thailand. Many embassies require you to submit key documents including your Thai marriage certificate, proof of financial means, and other personal information. It’s essential to contact the Thai consulate where you plan to apply, as documentation and procedures can vary. For the latest requirements, refer to your nearest consulate or the official Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
2. Converting to a Thailand Marriage Visa Inside the Country
If you’re already in Thailand on a valid visa (such as a Tourist Visa or Non-Immigrant B Visa), you may apply to convert your current visa into a Thai Marriage Visa at a local Thai Immigration Office. This process is known as the one-year extension of stay based on marriage. To qualify, you must meet all financial and documentation requirements, including maintaining 400,000 THB in a Thai bank account for at least two months or earning a monthly income of 40,000 THB. Immigration officers will carefully review all paperwork, so preparation is crucial. Looking for a hassle-free way to secure long-term residency in Thailand without embassy visits or renewals? Download the Elite Visa to discover how to enjoy Thailand with ease and exclusive privileges.
How long is the Thailand Marriage Visa valid and how can I renew it?
The Marriage Visa is initially valid for one year from the date of issue or extension approval. Renewal is possible annually under these conditions:
➤ The marriage is still valid and intact
➤ Financial requirements are continuously met (same bank balance or income proof)
➤ All paperwork is up to date and submitted correctly
➤ The holder continues to comply with Thai immigration laws, including the 90-day reporting requirement
To renew, submit your renewal application before your current visa expires at the Immigration Bureau, along with updated documents and proof of finances.
ℹ️ Thinking about a long-term stay beyond your marriage visa? The Retirement Visa lets you live in Thailand with extended flexibility, download the Retirement Visa.
Am I allowed to work in Thailand with a marriage visa?
A Thailand Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O Visa) allows foreign nationals married to Thai citizens to legally reside in Thailand, but it does not grant the right to work. If you wish to work while holding a marriage visa, you must first obtain a valid work permit from the Thai Ministry of Labour. Working without a permit is a serious immigration offense and can lead to fines, revocation of your visa, and deportation. To apply for a work permit, you must have a job offer from a Thai-registered company that meets legal requirements such as registered capital and a minimum number of Thai employees. The work permit will specify your role, the company name, and the location of employment. It is essential to carry this permit with you while working, as random checks by authorities are possible. You can learn more about the application process and legal obligations by visiting the official Thai Ministry of Labour website. Always ensure you are fully compliant with Thai labour laws before starting any employment activity in Thailand.
ℹ️ If you’re considering working in Thailand, make sure to check out our detailed guide and application process by downloading the One-Year Business Visa document.
What happens to my visa status if I get divorced?
If you get divorced, your Marriage Visa becomes invalid as it is contingent upon your marital status with a Thai citizen. Upon divorce:
➤ You must report the change in marital status to the Immigration Bureau
➤ The visa extension based on marriage will be revoked
➤ You are required to change your visa status or leave Thailand before your visa expires
➤ Failure to report or act accordingly may result in penalties or blacklisting
It is crucial to seek legal advice immediately if you are divorced while on a marriage visa to understand your options. Lost your marriage visa due to divorce but still want to stay and work legally in Thailand? Download the Four-Year SMART Visa to explore a powerful, independent residency solution for skilled professionals.
Remarks:
If a divorce occurs while holding a Marriage Visa, you must notify Thai Immigration immediately. You may be required to switch to another visa category or leave the country within a set period.
Is the Thailand Marriage Visa single-entry or multiple-entry?
The standard Thailand Marriage Visa is typically issued as a single-entry visa, meaning it allows you to enter the country only once. If you leave Thailand without securing a re-entry permit, your visa will be considered void, and you will need to apply for a new one. This is crucial for those who plan to travel, even briefly, outside Thailand during the validity of their visa.
If you anticipate leaving and returning to Thailand multiple times, it’s recommended to apply for a multiple-entry re-entry permit. This document ensures your Marriage Visa Thailand remains valid each time you leave and re-enter the country. Re-entry permits are available at Thai Immigration offices or at international airports before departure. For accurate requirements and fees, refer to the official Thai Immigration Bureau website.
Do I need to submit a 90-day report while on a marriage visa?
Yes, if you are staying in Thailand on a Marriage Visa, you are legally required to submit a 90-day report to the Thai Immigration Bureau. This regulation applies to all foreign nationals residing in Thailand for more than 90 consecutive days, regardless of visa category. As a Marriage Visa Thailand holder, you must report your current residential address every 90 days. This can be done in person at your local immigration office, via registered mail, or online through the official Thai Immigration website. Failing to comply with the 90-day reporting rule may result in financial penalties, complications with visa renewals, or possible immigration issues in the future. It is essential to mark your calendar and ensure each report is submitted on time to maintain legal status.
Conclusion: Why Choose Themis Partner for Your Thailand Marriage Visa?
The Thailand Marriage Visa is the ideal option for foreign nationals legally married to Thai citizens who want to stay long-term in the Kingdom. However, strict requirements such as financial proof, timely renewals, and the mandatory 90-day reporting mean any mistake can lead to visa refusal, fines, or deportation. With Themis Partner, you benefit from expert legal support to ensure your marriage visa application fully complies with all Thai immigration laws and regulations. We guide you through every step, helping you prepare and submit your documents accurately and efficiently. Download your Marriage Visa documents today to secure a smooth, compliant stay in Thailand.
Ask our Lawyers
Ask your question and receive legal advice from a qualified lawyer
