If you're currently in Thailand on an O-A Retirement Visa and wish to switch to a Marriage Visa Extension (Non-Immigrant O Visa based on marriage), the process involves canceling your O-A visa, obtaining a Non-O Visa, and then applying for a 1-year extension. This extension can be renewed on a yearly basis.
In case you were wondering, this process also applies when switching from a Non-Immigrant O Visa (based on retirement) to a Marriage Visa Extension (Non-Immigrant O Visa based on marriage)
Why Switch Your Visa?
Well, you're married now, so it makes sense to be on a visa with easier requirements.
- The O-A Visa requires proof of 800,000 THB in a Thai bank, or proof of a monthly income of 65,000 THB, whereas the Marriage Visa only requires 400,000 THB in savings or a monthly income of 40,000 THB.
- No need for health insurance, which is mandatory for O-A visa holders.
To be accurate, there is no such thing as a Marriage Visa. It's a Non-Immigrant O Visa based on marriage, and when you extend that visa for the year, it is simply an extension based on marriage (to a Thai national).
Step 1: Cancel Your O-A Visa & Obtain a Non-O Visa
You cannot directly convert an O-A Visa to a Marriage Visa extension. Instead, you must first cancel your O-A Visa and apply for a Non-O Visa based on marriage.
1. Visit An Immigration Office
Request to cancel your O-A Visa at an immigration office. Upon doing so, they will provide a 7-day extension (cost is 1,900 THB) to allow you to stay in the country, and give you time to gather your documents and come back to apply for a Non-O Visa. You may be able to apply there and then.
2. Apply for a Non-Immigrant O Visa (90-Day) Based on Marriage
Your local immigration office may not be able to do this, but a main office like the Bangkok Immigration Division 1 (in Chaeng Wattana) will.
Required documents:
- Marriage Certificate (Kor Ror 3)
- Your Thai spouse’s ID card & Tabien Baan (house book)
- Bank statement showing 400,000 THB in a Thai account OR proof of income of 40,000 THB/month
Fee: 2,000 THB
Processing time: 7-14 days
Once this visa is issued, you have 60 days to apply for an extension of the visa for 12 months. It is best to start the process immediately, if possible.
Step 2: Apply for a 1-Year Marriage Visa Extension
Once you have your Non-Immigrant O visa, you can apply for a 1-year extension based on marriage to a Thai national.
Requirements for the Extension:
- Passport (Non-O Visa inside).
- Marriage Certificate (original + copy).
- Spouse’s ID card & Tabien Baan (house book).
- Proof of 400,000 THB in a Thai bank (seasoned for 2 months). Get a bank letter and statement on the morning that you apply.
- Or proof of monthly income of 40,000 THB (certified by your embassy). If you are unable to obtain an income affidavit from your country's embassy, you can show your monthly income in the form of a 12-month bank statement of your Thai bank account, which must show a monthly deposit of at least 40,000 THB.
- Photos of you & your spouse inside and outside your house.
- Map of your residence (hand-drawn or otherwise) of your residence) – ridiculous, I know!
- Immigration forms TM.7 (extension application) & TM.30 (residence notification).
- Fee: 1,900 THB.
Immigration Visit & Home Inspection
Immigration officers may visit your house to verify your marriage. These inspections have become increasingly common, paricularly in rural areas. They may even speak with neighbors and ask questions about your relationship.
Step 3: Obtain Your Marriage Visa Extension
- If approved, you will receive a 1-year extension (stamped in your passport).
- One you have complete the 1-year extension, you must report your address every 90 days at immigration (TM.47). More on reporting here.
- If you plan to travel outside of Thailand, you must apply for a re-entry permit (1,000 THB for single entry, 3,800 THB for multiple). This ensures your visa remains valid for the period that you are outside the country. More on re-entry permits here.
Final Notes
- Timing is important: Start the entire process at least 1 month before your O-A visa expires. Get all your documents together. That way you can immediately apply for the 90-day Non-Immigrant O Visa once your O-A Visa is cancelled.
- Financial proof: Ensure funds have been in your Thai bank account for at least 2 months before applying for the 1-year extension based on marriage. And remember, you will need proof of funds for your extension. Speak with your bank about getting the letter and statement on the morning of the day that you plan to do the extension at the immigration office.
- Using a visa agent: If this process feels daunting, you can hire a visa agent to assist you. However, you’ll still need to gather and prepare the required documents and ensure you meet the financial requirements. The agent will clarify the steps outlined in this article, ensure you have everything needed, and accompany you to immigration for a smoother experience.
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Get Good Health Insurance:
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Improve Your Thai Skills:
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