How do I apply for a Non Immigrant O visa for Thailand before transitioning to a Marriage Visa?

Non-Immigrant O Visa Marriage Visa Visa Application Process Thai Visa Expats in Thailand

September 25, 2024

3 days ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

My Thai wife and I (US citizen) will be retiring to Thailand next year...I will be looking to eventually get a Thai Marriage Visa...I understand the process is to 1st aquire a 90-day or Non Immigrant O visa, then eventually the Marriage Visa...If correct,  where do I apply for/aquire the 90 Day or Non Immigrant Visa, in Thailand after arriving or in my home country before arriving ?   Thank you in advance for any information..

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A US citizen planning to retire in Thailand should ideally apply for a Non-Immigrant O Visa (often related to marriage) in their home country before arriving. This approach simplifies the process of opening a Thai bank account needed for the subsequent one-year extension based on marriage. While it's possible to apply for the visa in Thailand, doing so beforehand is recommended for a smoother experience.

Louis **************

I just went through the process.Do it before you come.It wasn't that difficult,15 business days to get it.Go to link in previous comment

3 days ago

Joseph ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Louis *************

thank you

a day ago

Reply to

Joseph ********

Louis **************

************************

3 days ago

Tan *************

Following

3 days ago

Stuart *********

You have the option of both. Either apply for a Non O visa prior to coming and then apply for an extension or do so in Thailand

3 days ago

Joseph ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Stuart ********

thank you

a day ago

Rick *********

@Stuart ********

I am doing basically the same thing as the person asking the question. So do I apply for the e-visa online at the US Embassy or what? Thanks in advance!

3 days ago

Graham ******

@Rick ********

yes

3 days ago

Reply to

Graham ******

Marty ********

easier in your home country

3 days ago

Joseph ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Marty *******

thank you

a day ago

Reply to

Joseph ********

Brandon ************

The non-O visa IS the marriage visa. The O is for "Other" and covers many things.

The 1-year extension based on marriage to Thai is what comes after the visa.

You can get the visa from the e-visa system online before you travel, or you can apply to convert to it in Thailand. In order to convert in Thailand you will need to show proof of money in your Thai bank account. It's almost impossible to open a Thai bank account without a long-term visa now, so it's much better to get the visa before you travel to Thailand so you'll have an easier time opening the bank account you will need for the 1-year extension.

3 days ago

Joseph ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

thank you

a day ago

Mikkel *******

@Brandon ***********

beware that not all immigration offices offer that initial 90 day visa for marriage. My local one says you have to go to an embassy outside Thailand. It might be a minority of offices.. But still. Check first, or prepare to maybe have to take a trip. Getting it before traveling would be advisable if possible.

3 days ago

Joseph ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Mikkel ******

thanks

a day ago

Brandon ************

@Mikkel ******

I would never advise anyone to try and get it in Thailand anyways. That's not how visas are supposed to work anywhere in the world. You are supposed to get the visa for you purpose BEFORE you travel, not after.

3 days ago

Joseph ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

thanks

a day ago

Reply to

Joseph ********

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