Thailand Marriage Visa – Fees, Documentation and Application
Are you planning to obtain a Thailand Marriage Visa? Then, this guide is for you. Thailand is a country known for its warm tropical climate, beaches, and luxury resorts. It is also a popular tourist destination for those looking to find their dream wife.
It is important to remember that Thailand does not recognize same-sex marriages. Accordingly, if you are looking to marry a Thai national, your partner must be female, and you must be at least 20 years of age. You will also need an official marriage certificate from your home country.
This article will explain the steps to apply for a Thailand marriage visa, the required documents, and the eligibility criteria.
About Thailand
Thailand is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. Myanmar and Laos border it to the north, Cambodia and Vietnam to the south, and Indonesia and Malaysia to the east. The country’s total area is about 513,000 square kilometers. Its population is around 66 million people.
The culture of Thailand reflects its diverse origins. The dominant religion is Buddhism, but there are also substantial numbers of Muslims, Hindus, Christians, and animists. Thai culture has been heavily influenced by India, China, Thailand’s former colonial ruler France, and other countries. Thai cuisine features a wide variety of dishes that are often spicy.
Thailand’s rich cultural heritage includes traditional dance and music, artwork, literature, and cinema. Major tourist destinations include Bangkok, Pattaya Beach, and Phuket Island.
What is a Thailand Marriage Visa?
A Thailand Marriage Visa is a visa that allows an individual to enter Thailand for marriage. It is typically granted to individuals who can provide proof of their relationship to someone already living in Thailand. In addition, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. To qualify for a Thailand Marriage Visa, applicants must also meet certain physical and medical conditions.
Benefits of a Thailand Marriage Visa
There are many benefits if you consider marriage to a Thai citizen. A Thailand Marriage Visa is relatively easy to obtain and can provide you and your spouse with several legal rights and protections. Here are just a few of the advantages:
- You will be able to live and work in Thailand legally.
- Your spouse will be eligible for social security benefits in Thailand.
- You will have the ability to apply for citizenship in Thailand if you choose.
- There is no waiting period to receive a Thailand Marriage Visa
Eligibility Criteria to apply for a Thailand Marriage Visa
Citizens of most countries are eligible to apply for a Thailand marriage visa. However, there are some eligibility criteria that you must meet before applying.
The Thai government has put together this list of countries based on their historical record of issuing visas to unmarried foreigners.
In addition, you must have met your prospective spouse in person within the past two years and intend to marry each other. The couple must also have enough money to support themselves while living in Thailand. Finally, both parties must have valid passports and visas for their respective countries.
Steps to apply for a Thailand Marriage Visa
If you are looking to marry a Thai citizen, there are some critical steps you need to take to secure a visa.
- First, you must apply for a marriage visa with the Thai Embassy or Consulate. You will need to provide evidence that you and your prospective spouse have been in contact for at least six months and that both of you are seriously interested in marrying one another.
- Next, you must schedule an appointment with the Thai embassy or consulate. You will need to bring all the documents mentioned above and two passport-sized photographs of yourself and your potential spouse.
- Finally, if everything is approved, you must pay a fee and leave documentation such as your passport copy, itinerary, and proof of financial stability.
Required documents to apply for a Thailand Marriage Visa
Required documents to apply for a Thailand Marriage Visa:
- Your passport with at least six months remaining validity.
- Two recent passport-size photographs (3×4 inches).
- If applicable, proof of your Thai citizenship or residence permit, including your ID card or Alien Registration Card.
- A completed visa application form (available from the Immigration Department website) including your full name, date of birth, nationality, and address in Thailand.
- Two recent passport-size photographs (3×4 inches).
- A photocopy of your Thai citizenship or residence permit (if applicable).
- A medical insurance policy is valid for 60 days after you arrive in Thailand, with a minimum coverage of THB100,000 per person per trip/incident.
Thailand Marriage Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Thai marriage visa is usually around two weeks, but this can vary depending on the level of bureaucracy involved. However, most couples can obtain their visa without any problems.
First and foremost, ensure that you have all the necessary paperwork ready before going to the embassy. You will need your passport photos, your fiance’s passport photo, your ID card (if you are both over 18 years old), and proof of income if you are not a citizen or resident of Thailand.
Cost of a Thailand Marriage Visa?
The cost of a Thailand Marriage Visa depends on your nationality. For example, the cost for an American citizen is $140. You must provide documentation such as your passport and visa application form to obtain a Thailand Marriage visa. Additionally, you will need to pay a fee at the embassy or consulate. Finally, you will need to present your visa number and passport when arriving in Thailand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you marry a Thai citizen?
Some things will happen automatically if you are a foreigner married to a Thai citizen. For example, your spouse will receive a Thai passport, and all of your legal documents will be in Thai if you want to keep any citizenship that you may have. In addition, you will need a renunciation letter from your home country’s government. Furthermore, it would be best to inform your bank, as many institutions will not allow Thai citizens to open accounts. Finally, if you wish to retire in Thailand, you must purchase a retirement villa here and register it with the authorities.
Do I need a marriage certificate required for a Thailand visa?
Thailand is a country that values family and tradition. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. Additionally, if you are traveling on official business and your sponsor is a government official, you do not need a marriage certificate.
How long can I stay in Thailand with a marriage visa?
If you are married to a Thai citizen and have a valid marriage certificate, you can stay in Thailand with your visa status intact for up to 90 days. After that, if you want to continue living in Thailand, you will need to apply for an extension of your visa.
Can I live in Thailand if I marry a Thai?
Yes, you can live in Thailand if you marry a Thai. However, if your spouse is not a Thai national, you may need a visa or residence permit to live with them in Thailand. You may also need to register your marriage with the authorities.
How long does it take for a married visa?
The processing time for a Thai marriage visa is usually around two weeks, but this can vary depending on the level of bureaucracy involved. However, most couples can obtain their visa without any problems.
Can I buy a house in Thailand?
The short answer is yes, but it isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. There are several factors to consider before making any purchase. First, it is always best to consult with an expert. The good news is that this doesn’t mean buying property isn’t possible. There are plenty of opportunities if you know where to look.
Does Thailand give citizenship by marriage?
Thailand does not grant citizenship by marriage. This means that a foreign spouse of a Thai national cannot automatically gain Thai citizenship, even if they have been married in Thailand. Instead, the foreigner must first obtain permanent residence status in Thailand and then apply for citizenship.
How can I live permanently in Thailand?
There are a few ways to live permanently in Thailand.
- You can obtain a Thai residency card which entitles you to all the benefits of being a Thai citizen, including free health care and education.
- You can also reside in Thailand on a tourist visa, allowing you to stay for only 90 days at a time.
- If you want to live in Thailand for an extended period, you may want to consider applying for citizenship.
- Becoming a Thai citizen is complicated and requires proof of good moral character and fluency in Thai.
Conclusion
Finally, if you want to get married in Thailand, you should apply for a marriage visa. There are several things that you need to take into account when applying for a marriage visa. Such as your marital status and the citizenship of your spouse. Consult an immigration attorney if you have any questions about the process.