What are the requirements and options for extending my stay in Thailand based on marriage with a Thai national?

Question

I just want to share my experience at Hat Yai immigration yesterday. I was unable to apply for a 12 month extension of stay based on being married to a Thai national using the 12 monthly deposits in to a Thai bank account because there was no deposit in May 2020. My income was transferred late by the overseas bank in May 2020. I receive monthly deposits on the 28th of each month but the May deposit did not arrive till 2nd June. Although there were 11 other deposits on the 28th of each month, and a deposit on June 2 together with the normal deposit on June 28, they would not accept it. They suggested I apply for the unable to travel due to covid 60 day extension and they gave me an under consideration stamp until the 29th January. They also indicated to my wife that this extension type will be available after the 29th of January and suggested I stay on this extension until May 2020 is no longer part of my 12 month history.

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user shares their experience attempting to apply for a 12-month extension of stay based on marriage to a Thai national. They faced issues due to a missed bank deposit in May 2020, resulting in denial for the extension. Instead, they were offered a COVID-19 extension until January 29. Community members discussed the strict requirement of monthly deposits and suggested alternatives such as a spousal visa. Some emphasized the unyielding nature of the deposit rules, clearly stating each of the 12 monthly deposits must be at least 40,000 THB.

Tod ********* · Answer

Okay, people, while I sympathize with the plight of the O/P the clause governing marriage extensions is VERY clear about the terms when your embassy doesn't issue the income affidavit notary and you are using monthly income via international transfers. It says transfer in a minimum of 40K baht each month, every month for the previous 12 months. It doesn't say you can double up one month then skip, it says what it says.

At least the O/P has an option to bridge the gap until they can show 12 full months of incoming transfers.

At least the O/P has an option to bridge the gap until they can show 12 full months of incoming transfers.

Benjamin ****** · Answer

I'm seeing no reason to keep this post open. If someone has something else to add, send a mod a message and we'll reopen comments.

Lawrie ******* · Answer

I had something similar happen... They offered me a Spousal Visa for two months to give me time to put 400 k in my Bank and do it this way....

Nikolas *************** · Answer

A question here. It's required to either deposit 12x 40k THB or have 400k for a certain period of time, right? Theoretically, what if I deposit let's say 4x an year (once three months) over 120k? Is it compliant with these ridiculous rules? Thanks a lot!