Answered2 years ago

Can I extend my stay in Thailand based on marriage after entering on a visa-exempt stamp?

Thai Visa Visa Exemption Non-O Visa Visa Extension Marriage Visa Immigration Rules

Danny **********

asked Jan 27, 2025

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I’m going to Vietnam today for a few days and will return on a visa exempt stamp. Can I go to immigration and extend a year based on marriage, or will I need to leave again to get a non-o to then extend?

Additional info: I know all the requirements for the extension (paperwork and seasoned money etc.) I just want to know if I can save another trip by extending on visa exempt

Answer summary

If you enter Thailand on a visa-exempt entry stamp, you cannot directly apply for a 1-year extension. Instead, you will need to apply for an in-country Non-O visa for 90 days first, after which you can apply for the 1-year extension if you meet the necessary requirements. It's recommended to check specific immigration office guidelines, as rules may vary.

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Gregor **********

Danny Williams . . . you can find the official requirements for a "change of visa type" from a visa-exempt entry stamp to a 90-days Non-Imm-O married to a thai wife visa, under number 6 on this Immigration website. However I recommend you visit your Immigration beforehand, as they might have slightly different rules . . . . .

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2 years ago

James ********

Enjoy your trip to Vietnam.

But if you are planning to get a Thai Visa from the Thai Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam, beware of the Holidays in Vietnam in the coming weeks.

2 years ago

Danny **********

@James *******

yeah I’m aware, I’ll probably go for the in-country option Ellie suggested

2 years ago

James ********

@Danny *********

wise decision ✅

2 years ago

Ellie *******

When you enter Thailand on visa-exempt entry, you cannot apply for a 1-year extension directly from the entry stamp.

First. you have to apply for an in-country Non-O visa at the local immigration office for 90 days. Then you will apply for a 1-year extension at the end of that 90-day.

As long as you meet the requirements for in-country procedures, you don't have to leave again.

You need to get the requirements for a Non-O application, too, not for an extension, as some offices have slightly different requirements for a Non-O visa and extension for even the same reason.

2 years ago

Danny **********

@Ellie ******

just to get things done quickly, can I get the in-country visa and then go back to immigration in the next day or 2 and extend?

I’d rather just get it over with since all the requirements are covered.

2 years ago

Ellie *******

@Danny *********

, No, you have to wait about 2 months to apply for a 1-year extension.

Most offices accept your long-term extension application when you have 30 days oe less remaining with your stamp. Some including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, accept within the last 45 days with the stamp. A few might have shorter window. But no office has longer window than the last 45 days under normal circumstance.

2 years ago

Danny **********

@Ellie ******

thanks

2 years ago