What type of US visa should my Thai husband apply for after changing his legal name and getting a new passport?

US visa options marriage visa tourist visa Thai immigration expat advice travel to the US Thai-American marriage

Jul 17, 2024

4 months ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

I have a few very specific questions but thought one of you might be able to help!

I am recently married and my husband is Thai. We have just gotten our marriage certificate in Thai.

We are planning a trip to the US. He previously had a US visa but changed his legal name (and got a new passport) so now needs to reapply for a new visa. What type of visa do you recommend he applies for? 

According to Thailand, we are married. We plan on registering our marriage in the US the next time we go. 

Thanks in advance!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A recently married individual is seeking advice on the appropriate US visa for her Thai husband, who needs to reapply after changing his name and passport. The main options discussed include applying for a marriage visa, which takes 6-9 months, or a tourist visa, which is generally more challenging for Thai applicants due to the assumption they may overstay. The importance of providing evidence of intent to return to Thailand when applying for a tourist visa is also highlighted.

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

You only have 2 options really.

You either apply for marriage visa which will take 6-9 months.

Or you apply for tourist visa.

It's very difficult for a Thai person in a relationship with an American to get a tourist visa as the assumption of the consular officer will be that the Thai person just wants to enter the US and then apply to change their status. So you either need a lot of compelling evidence that they'll be returning to Thailand, or you need to apply for the marriage visa which is a visa for the intention of permanently moving to America.

4 months ago

Bailey *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

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

But with no intention of living in America, our only option is tourist. Correct?

4 months ago

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

@Bailey ********

most likely, yes

4 months ago

Bailey *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

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

Okay, thanks so much! I appreciate it.

4 months ago

John *******

@Bailey ********

It will be extremely difficult though. Being married to an American is actually a negative when applying for a tourist visa, as consular staff see you as a means for the non-American to overstay and be supported financially. Totally messed up, but is the case.

4 months ago

Reply to

John *******

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