Family and marriage visas in Thailand

Thailand marriage visas (Type O) require THB 400,000 bank deposit or THB 40,000 monthly income, Thai marriage certificate translation/legalization, and annual extensions at Immigration Bureau. Dependent visas for trailing spouses need THB 400,000 bank balance from primary visa holder (work/retirement), while guardian visas for parents of Thai children studying in Thailand require proof of child's enrollment and parental responsibility.

Navigating Thai family visas involves understanding three main categories: marriage visas (Type O based on Thai spouse), dependent visas (trailing spouses of work permit holders), and guardian visas (parents of Thai student children). Whether you're marrying a Thai national in Bangkok or joining a spouse with work authorization, this guide covers application requirements, financial criteria, and extension procedures.

Marriage Visa (Type O)

Requirements

• Valid passport (6+ months validity)
• Thai marriage certificate (translated/legalized)
• THB 400,000 bank deposit (seasoned 2 months) OR THB 40,000 monthly income
• Passport photos, application forms
• House registration (tabien baan) of Thai spouse
• Police clearance certificate (some embassies)

Application Process

Apply at Thai embassy/consulate in home country for initial 90-day visa. Enter Thailand, then apply for 1-year extension at Immigration Bureau before 90 days expire. Extensions require meeting financial requirements and providing updated documents.

Annual Extension

THB 1,900 fee. Submit bank statements, marriage certificate, house registration, passport photos, TM.7 form. Immigration may conduct home visits verifying genuine marriage. Extension stamps in passport, allowing continuous stays with 90-day reporting.

Dependent Visa (Trailing Spouse)

Requirements

For spouses of work permit or retirement visa holders:

• Valid passport
• Marriage certificate (translated/legalized)
• Primary visa holder's THB 400,000 bank balance
• Primary visa holder's work permit/visa documents
• Employer letter (if work visa dependent)

Application

Apply through same immigration office handling primary visa holder's extensions. Tied to primary visa, if that expires/cancels, dependent visa also ends. Cannot work without separate work permit.

Guardian Visa (Parent of Thai Child)

Requirements

• Child's Thai birth certificate
• Proof of child's enrollment in Thai educational institution
• Proof of parental responsibility/custody
• Financial evidence (THB 500,000 bank deposit recommended)

Application

Apply for Type O visa based on child studying in Thailand. Renewable annually as long as child remains enrolled. Both parents may qualify separately if both wish to stay.

Important Considerations

90-Day Reporting

All long-stay visa holders must report address every 90 days at Immigration Bureau or online. Failure results in THB 2,000 fine.

Re-entry Permits

Leaving Thailand without re-entry permit cancels visa. Single re-entry (THB 1,000) or multiple re-entry (THB 3,800) permits available at Immigration or airports.

Work Authorization

Marriage/dependent/guardian visas don't authorize work. Separate work permit required from Ministry of Labor.

Financial Requirements

Money must be in Thai bank account under applicant's name (joint accounts often rejected). Foreign currency accounts don't qualify. Bank letter confirming balance required.