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What are the best ways for a retired U.S. citizen to stay in Thailand for 6 months before applying for a marriage visa?

Visa Rules Marriage Visa U.S. Citizen Retirement Visa Extension Education Visa Thailand Immigration

Aug 3, 2024

4 months ago

Randy ************

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi all,

Looking to those with experience.

I’m retired, plan on getting married but want to stay in Thailand leading up to a marriage visa.

Can someone help me understand under the new visa laws the best way to stay 6 months ?

I’m a U.S. citizen 

Appreciate the assistance and guidance

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A retired U.S. citizen seeking to stay in Thailand for 6 months before applying for a marriage visa has a few options. One suggestion is to arrive without a visa, receive a 60-day visa-exempt stamp, and then apply for a 30-day extension, followed by a border run to reset the visa. Alternatively, enrolling in a Thai language class can provide an education visa, allowing for a more stable stay while also facilitating language acquisition.

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.

Roger ********

If you don't feel like so many trips to immigration and the border, signing up for a Thai language class and doing an education visa is good. I highly recommend learning the language anyway, and it's not that hard.

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Randy ************

ORIGINAL POSTER

Roger ,

Thank you that’s a great idea

Can you take classes virtually ?

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Roger ********

@Randy ***********

It's possible, but not easy. There will be competition for a spot, and the government doesn't really like it. It's Thailand though, so I'm sure it can be done with some effort.

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Roger ********

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

Just arrive without a visa, get a 60 day visa exempt stamp and apply for 30 day extension. Then do a border bounce and get a new 60+30

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Randy ************

ORIGINAL POSTER

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

Brandon,

Thank you, that was my plan I’m just worried about refusal

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

@Randy ***********

unless you've spent a lot of time in Thailand recently, you shouldn't have any issues entering again after only 90 days.

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

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