James Mitchell then he had better get is wallet out. It is still better coming in on a tourist visa and getting precise information. It doesnt cost him anything since he has to travel back to the US. Better than getting half passed information on a thread like this. Half the people dont know what they are talking about !
Fastest I have been through is approximately 5 minutes. Business Class, carry on, and wonders of wonders, the aircraft used a gate directly opposite immigration. Usually have to walk
Probably tourist visa will suffice until ready to settle. Currently 60 day plus an extension (60 may reduce to 30?)
Being back in the US for a decent amount of time should disabuse the notion of visa runs, especially to the US and back (keep plane ticket stubs). Although not 100:%, a conversation with senior immigration officer when here would give you a better idea.
Chiang Mai immigration is pretty good and should be able to advise better. Gotta be carefull of Visa firms, some good, some bad. Personally never dealt with them, perhaps someone else living in the Chiang Mai area can provide further info.
And both EVA and Korean Air have direct flights from their hubs in Taiwan and S Korea bypassing the need to go through Bangkok
Section 38 is a report from House owners, heads of households, landlords, or managers of hotels who accommodate foreign nationals on a temporary basis who stay in Thailand. It is a must to notify the local immigration authorities within 24 hours from the time of arrival of the foreign nationals.
The marriage visa is for one year, so temporary, so the owner (wife?) has to file a TM38 with immigration
Andreas Mueller TM38 is notification of address. Every time a non-thai stays at an address the owner/agent files that address with government. That includes Thai wives for the husband. So I am afraid you don't know what you are talking about.
Non immigrant O visa for marriage. TM 38 on arrival and probably resident certificate. Find out what your chosen bank requires to open an account. Once open transfer money 500,000 baht, 4 for immigration and 1 for expenses.
Actual Visa documentation. Google enquiry "thai marriage visa requirements" and you will get requirements (fairly accurate).
You will need to find out more about meeting those requirements especially bank account and marriage license. Opening a bank account has been tightened up a lot over the last years. Marriage license is easy if you have registered with Thai Embassy/consulate in the US. Your local Anbon will just run off a copy. I assume your wife has a Thai ID and is on a family housebook
Or... if you have plenty of money get in touch with a reputable visa agency.
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