What is the best strategy to extend a Non-O visa in Thailand for a spouse of a Thai national?

Chiang Rai allows for extension of stay based on marriage to be filed no sooner than 45 days before your existing stamp expires. The soonest you can apply for a one year extension of stay based on marriage is August 16th.

To get a one year extension of stay based on marriage to a female Thai national, you will need the following:

1. Your passport and a copy of:

- Your data ("picture") page

- Your Non-O visa

- Your entry stamp

- Your departure card

2. Your wife PHYSICALLY next to you, and

- Her ID card and a copy of her ID card

- Her housebook, and a copy of the first page

3. To meet the money requirements, which are:

- 400K THB in a Thai bank account, seasoned for 2 months OR;

- 40K THB in income OR;

- a letter from your embassy saying you make 40K THB a month

4. Marriage certificate (either the rose border certificate, OR a translated copy from your home country)

5. The application form

6. 2x passport pictures

7. 1,900 THB for the processing fee.

Different immigration offices have different requirements, and this may include:

- A copy of the TM30 filed where you live

- A hand drawn map to your house

- Pictures of you and your wife in various locations in the house (front of the house/ condo, in all rooms, etc)

- Witnesses or interviews with neighbors

- Rental contract (if renting property or a condo)

Ask your local immigration office for the specific requirements.

Once you get out of Phuket and head to Chang Rai, make your way to immigration (with your wife) and ak them for the hand out for requirements for extension.

You need to state where will you be applying for visa or residing, the different office has different rules

What immigration office will you use?