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Do I need to be married to obtain a visa for living in Thailand with my partner and child?

Oct 30, 2025
9 hours ago
Good day to the group .

I am planning to

Move to Phuket with my girlfriend and our kid next year .

My question is should we be married regarding visas issues ?

I am 54 ,she is 42 yo

I am wondering which visa should we apply for .

I have money to live without working anymore.

Thank you in advance
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The individual is planning to move to Phuket with his girlfriend and child and is inquiring whether marriage impacts their visa application. A commenter suggests that obtaining a Retirement Visa (likely a Non-O) might be the best route for him since he has sufficient funds to live without working. It is advised to secure this visa from the Thai Embassy or consulate before arriving in Thailand to avoid complications such as the inability to open a bank account.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Paul *******
I recommend that a Retirement Visa is the best for you and that you should obtain it from the Thai Embassy/consulate in your country prior to coming to Thailand. I say that because if you come to Thailand on a Visa Exempt stamp or tourist visa, then you will be unable to open a bank account in Thailand and a Thai bank is required to obtain such a visa while in Thailand.
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