When can I apply for a one-year extension based on marriage at the Nakhon Ratchasima immigration office?

Phil Wilson haha yes sadly that’s how it goes. I’ve done 3 marriage extensions with them so far. Every single one has been a nightmare. I’m honestly thinking of using an agent this time. I also live almost at the border of their coverage. So a 1.5 hour drive one way just adds more to it. Especially when something is wrong and I get the “come back tomorrow”.

Phil Wilson that makes it much easier ;)

Phil Wilson do not get confused. You can apply for your first one year extension after the bt400,000 has been in your account, after you just entered on a non-O 90 day visa, for at least 60 days. Then you can apply for your first one year extension, with the rest of the required documents, pictures, and map. That is standard throughout Thailand. The confusion is when you are on any tourist entry, and want to change to a long term visa extension. Then you must have more than 15 days left on your entry, but in your case you are entering on a type O 90 day visa, and you already have your Thai bank account with the bt400,000. After 60 days you can apply. A few remote immigration offices might allow the 60 day account balance to not matter, and allow you to apply as soon as you have all the documents, pictures, and map, but those are very few. You can also do all the TM30 filing online, with no interaction with Korat immigration, other than maybe the printout after it is filed. If you have the correct documents, you can do it yourself online with no problem.

@Phil *******

why do you have to do your own TM30? Normally this is done by the person that owns your accommodation. If that's your wife she should do it, simple to set up so it can be done online.

@Phil *******

Many offices have different rules for tourist extensions, but I've never heard of a single office that is less than 30 days for a non-immigrant extension.

But the initial application is only half the equation. You'll receive an "under consideration" stamp that is anywhere from 4-8 weeks depending on the immigration office, and you'll have to return to collect the full extension after that period. During this time, they may visit your home to do an inspection, to speak with your neighbors regarding the marriage, etc.

The local immigration office cannot process marriage extensions, hence the under consideration period to allow them to send it to the division headquarters for processing.