Do I need dependant Non-O visas for my young children in Thailand?

Non-O Visa Dependent Visa Visa Rules for Children Immigration Thailand Visa Policy Visa Exemption for Children

Sep 14, 2021

3 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello all,

I have applied for a Non-O (volunteer) visa and have also applied for a Non-O for my wife (as a dependant on my visa as was confirmed with embassy).  Do you believe it is necessary to secure Non-O dependant visas for my 3 year old and 1 year old?  In the past, friends with kids did not get visas for their kids as young children were not penalised for over-stays.  I have been out of Thailand for 18-months now so this might have changed. 

 The reason that I am asking about whether to get them visas is because of processing time (my kids are on Australian passports and we are applying in Canada), not cost.  Thanks.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

User inquired about the necessity of obtaining Non-O dependant visas for their young children following their own application for a Non-O (volunteer) visa in Thailand. Comments indicated that while children can enter Thailand on a visa exemption without penalties for overstays until age 15, securing visas may be prudent if they intend to enroll in school, as some institutions require children to hold valid visas.

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Benjamin ******

I can’t see this post continuing. I think the op has the answer to his question, and I’m closing comments. Thank you.

3 years ago

Ellie *******

Just be aware that kids not get penalties doesn't mean kids being on overstay is legal for kids. They would get overstay stamp upon departure or at some point. And once they are on overstay, they may not get any visa or extension inside Thailand to go back to be legal residents in Thailand.

3 years ago

Tonic ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Ellie ******

Thank you - an important consideration.

3 years ago

Reply to

Tonic ********

Andy ********

If time is an issue before you travel, you could bring them into the Kingdom on visa exemptions. When here convert to non immigrant O visas for them both. Even though there are no penalties for overstay it is the right thing to do to get them visas. As

@Benjamin *****

says it could be an issue when enrolling at school.

3 years ago

Benjamin ******

@Andy *******

>When here convert to non immigrant O visas for them both

I'm curious, what non-O visa would they qualify for?

3 years ago

Ellie *******

Children CAN get Non-O dependant to Some type of Non-immigrant holder. But dependants to Non-O based on volunteering is one of the hardest types to get especially inside Thailand if my understanding is not wrong.

3 years ago

Natalie *********

@Benj****

I believe it’s the Non-O based on being a dependent. The same one the op would get for his wife. I was told this would be the one I get for my daughter too after I get my non B

3 years ago

Tonic ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Natalie ********

Yes, this is my understanding as well. I have been trying to get a hold of the embassy to confirm.

3 years ago

Benjamin ******

@Tonic *******

The embassy would not be able to help you get an in-country visa

3 years ago

Benjamin ******

@Natalie ********

I do not believe a child can get a Non-O dependent, if the adult already has one "trailing" spouse. The child CAN get an ED visa if they are studying in school though

3 years ago

Reply to

Benjamin ******

The children can enter on a visa exempt, and they can go on overstay without fines or punishment until they are 15. HOWEVER, if you are planning on enrolling them in a school, some schools may require them to NOT be on overstay.

3 years ago

Tonic ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Benjamin *****

Thank you

3 years ago

Reply to

Tonic ********

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