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Is a Non-Immigrant O Visa the Right Option for My Move to Thailand and Applying for a Marriage Visa?

Jul 2, 2025
13 days ago
Tony ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi all

I’m moving to Thailand next year.

It sounds like my best option is to get a non immigrant O visa, move to Thailand, open a bank account with proof of residence, and then apply for a marriage visa?

Does this sound right?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The initial poster is seeking advice on the best visa option when moving to Thailand, considering starting with a non-immigrant O visa due to marriage. Respondents clarified that the non-O visa serves as the marriage visa, explaining the process of applying for a 90-day non-immigrant visa before entering Thailand and later requesting a one-year extension based on marriage. Comments also highlight the importance of confirming marital status with a Thai national and experiences relating to visa management.
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.
Daniel ******
Important people do not need any visa!
Jim *******
I will be going through that process, in Thai, July 4 2025. Married to a Thai national, 23 years, both living in Japan. She got permanent residency 10 years ago, when the whole family got that. No visas, no reporting, no humiliations like with Thai.

That status has to be renewed every 7 years, nothing, no interraction with the goverment in between.
John ********
Are you married to a Thai or otherwise?
Tony ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@John *******
yes married to a Thai
Steve ***********
All correct except the marriage part, lol
Nongnuch ********
you apply for the 90-days non-imm-o Thai family visa in your home country, enter Thailand, the visa will become invalid upon entry, you will get a 90-days stay permit stamped, and before the 90 days expire, apply for the "1-year Extension of the Stay Permit based on being married to a Tha wife"
Brandon ************
The non-O IS the marriage visa.
Laetitia ******
@Brandon ***********
The "Non-O" visa in Thailand is a broad category for various purposes that don't fall under other specific non-immigrant visa types (like "B" for business/work or "ED" for education).

While sometimes referred to simply as "Non-O," it encompasses several sub-categories based on the purpose of stay. The main options for a Non-O visa include:

* Non-Immigrant O (General "Other Purposes"): This is a broad category covering various reasons, such as:

* Visiting family: For foreign nationals who are spouses, parents, or children of Thai nationals or non-Thai nationals residing in Thailand with a valid work permit or stay permit.

* Volunteering: For individuals performing duties for state enterprises or social welfare organizations.

* Medical Treatment: For those seeking medical care in Thailand.

* Sports Coach/Contestant/Witness: For specific roles in sports or judicial processes.

* Former Thai citizens: For those who used to have Thai nationality and wish to visit Thai relatives.

* **Non-Immigrant O-A (Long Stay Retirement Visa): Specifically for applicants aged 50 years and over who wish to stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding one year without the intention of working.

* Non-Immigrant O-X (Long Stay 10-Year Retirement Visa): A longer-term retirement visa available to nationals of specific countries with stricter requirements than the O-A visa.

It's important to note that the specific requirements and availability can vary depending on the applicant's nationality and the Thai embassy or consulate where the application is made. Always check with the official Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate website in your country of residence for the most up-to-date information.
Brandon ************
@Laetitia *****
what's your point? This person said they would get a non-O and then get the marriage visa. I corrected them telling them that the non-O IS the marriage visa. Your post doesn't change or add anything to that
Laetitia ******
@Brandon ***********
don't feel offended. I just reminded that behind non O there's a lot of field.
Tony **********
Close. Your non-o would be based on marriage for your 12 month extension.
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