This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

Can I extend my stay in Thailand based on marriage after entering on a visa-exempt stamp?

Thai Visa Visa Exemption Non-O Visa Visa Extension Marriage Visa Immigration Rules

Jan 27, 2025

a month ago

Danny **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I’m going to Vietnam today for a few days and will return on a visa exempt stamp. Can I go to immigration and extend a year based on marriage, or will I need to leave again to get a non-o to then extend?

Additional info: I know all the requirements for the extension (paperwork and seasoned money etc.) I just want to know if I can save another trip by extending on visa exempt

463

views

likes

all likes

replies

images

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

If you enter Thailand on a visa-exempt entry stamp, you cannot directly apply for a 1-year extension. Instead, you will need to apply for an in-country Non-O visa for 90 days first, after which you can apply for the 1-year extension if you meet the necessary requirements. It's recommended to check specific immigration office guidelines, as rules may vary.

NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES

Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.

Pelle Eriksson★★★★★

Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...

recently on Facebook

Luca G.★★★★★

I used this agency for my DTV Visa...

recently on Google

Trusted Retirement Visa Agent

OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED

#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND

Gregor **********

Danny Williams . . . you can find the official requirements for a "change of visa type" from a visa-exempt entry stamp to a 90-days Non-Imm-O married to a thai wife visa, under number 6 on this Immigration website. However I recommend you visit your Immigration beforehand, as they might have slightly different rules . . . . .

*******************************************

25 days ago

James ********

Enjoy your trip to Vietnam.

But if you are planning to get a Thai Visa from the Thai Embassy or Consulate in Vietnam, beware of the Holidays in Vietnam in the coming weeks.

a month ago

Danny **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@James *******

yeah I’m aware, I’ll probably go for the in-country option Ellie suggested

a month ago

James ********

@Danny *********

wise decision ✅

a month ago

Reply to

James ********

Ellie *******

When you enter Thailand on visa-exempt entry, you cannot apply for a 1-year extension directly from the entry stamp.

First. you have to apply for an in-country Non-O visa at the local immigration office for 90 days. Then you will apply for a 1-year extension at the end of that 90-day.

As long as you meet the requirements for in-country procedures, you don't have to leave again.

You need to get the requirements for a Non-O application, too, not for an extension, as some offices have slightly different requirements for a Non-O visa and extension for even the same reason.

a month ago

Danny **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Ellie ******

just to get things done quickly, can I get the in-country visa and then go back to immigration in the next day or 2 and extend?

I’d rather just get it over with since all the requirements are covered.

25 days ago

Ellie *******

@Danny *********

, No, you have to wait about 2 months to apply for a 1-year extension.

Most offices accept your long-term extension application when you have 30 days oe less remaining with your stamp. Some including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, accept within the last 45 days with the stamp. A few might have shorter window. But no office has longer window than the last 45 days under normal circumstance.

25 days ago

Reply to

Ellie *******

Danny **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Ellie ******

thanks

a month ago

Reply to

Danny **********

Thai Visa Advice

... members · 40% approval rate