Sorry if a bit long winded. Looking for some advice. I’m Australian, over 50 and married to a Thai, although the marriage is not registered here. We have 2 kids, 1/2 Thai, one lives here in Phuket with my wife. I am currently in Phuket.
I was incorrectly led to believe i could get a guardian visa and my child’s school prepared the paperwork, but a guardian visa hangs off the kid’s (Ed, I assume)visa, and since he is a Thai citizen he does not have a visa.
I was then told I need to apply for a Custodian to a Thai Child visa, but on closer inspection the requirements list I was given by Phuket immi says the foreigner must have sole custody of the child. A copy of what I was given is attached as a photo.
1. Does this visa really only work if sole custody? Is there a joint custody equivalent?
2. Given my circumstances (over 50 and married to a Thai) are retirement and married the only options I have (ignoring Elite, Ed and Ltr for now)? And if so which is best/easiest?
I feel exhausted after a long hot day at HKT immi, where they also reminded me I have ‘too many’ stamps in my passport.
Thanks for kind advice. Cheers, KO
TLDR : Answer Summary
The post discusses the complexities of visa options for an Australian expat in Phuket who is married to a Thai national with two children, one of whom is a Thai citizen. The user initially sought a guardian visa but discovered it required sole custody, leading to confusion about a Custodian Visa. Comments suggest that registration of the marriage in Thailand could simplify matters, while alternatives like Retirement Visas (requiring 800k THB) or applying for a Thai Child Visa may also be viable depending on custody arrangements. The user seeks clarity on the requirements and processes within Thailand's immigration framework.
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.
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