Family Visa in Thailand-Dependent Visa (Non-O)
In order to accompany a spouse or family member working in Thailand, individuals must obtain the appropriate dependent visa. This visa, formally known as the Family Visa in Thailand – Dependent Visa (Non-O), grants dependents the legal right to reside in Thailand while their primary family member is employed in the country.
Eligibility and Requirements
- Spouses: Must be legally and practically married. Same-sex marriage may be considered depending on Thai laws.
- Dependents: Children (under 20, unmarried, living with the family), adopted children, or spouse’s children.
- Parents: Must be at least 50 years old.
Steps to Apply for a Dependent Visa in Thailand
- Initial Visa Application from Abroad:
Family members or dependents will receive a Non-Immigrant O visa valid for 90 days, issued by the Thai embassy or consulate in their home country. This application needs to be submitted before entering Thailand.
- Visa Extension in Thailand
Upon arrival in Thailand, dependents must extend their visa within 21 days of its expiration date. The maximum extension period is one year, subject to Immigration Office approval.
Required Documents
To extend a Family Visa (Non-O), applicants must submit the following documents:
- A copy of the applicant’s passport
- A copy of the foreign sponsor’s passport (for dependents of Non-B visa holders)
- Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption certificate, etc.)
- Copies of the sponsor’s resident certificate and alien registration certificate
- Proof of financial stability (e.g., bank statement showing at least 400,000 Baht)
Additional Considerations
Several factors influence the Family Visa (Non-O) process.
- 90-Day Reporting: Visa holders with a one-year visa must report to the Immigration Office every 90 days.
- Re-entry Permits: Individuals leaving the country need a re-entry permit from the Immigration Office or airport.
- Employment Restrictions: Dependents cannot work in Thailand on a Family Visa. They require a Non-B Visa and work permit for employment.
- Visa Cancellation: Divorce terminates the Family Visa, and the dependent must leave Thailand.
Information Sources:
- Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://consular.mfa.go.th/
Immigration Bureau: https://www.immigration.go.th/
RJ-SS offers consultation services with a team of experts to help you prepare documents for applying for a Family Visa in Thailand – Dependent Visa (Non-O). Contact us via the inquiry section on our website, call 02 617 6405, or Line ID @rjsupply.