Family Visa to Thailand: Methods and Conditions for Obtaining
To apply for a family visa to Thailand, applicants must follow certain procedures and meet specific requirements. This visa is typically available to those who have a spouse, child, or parent who is a Thai citizen or holds a valid visa for Thailand. There are several visa types that may be suitable for family members, such as the Non-Immigrant O Visa or dependent visas.
The application process usually involves submitting required documents, proof of relationship, and financial evidence demonstrating the ability to support family members in Thailand. Additional conditions may include the need for health insurance and periodic renewals.
A family visa for Thailand may be necessary if you plan to relocate to the country with your spouse and children. Thailand’s visa program offers several options for granting residence permits to foreign nationals. Let's explore who requires a family visa, whether it can be obtained by purchasing an apartment in Thailand, and the benefits and key features of acquiring one.
CONTENT:
- Why is a visa necessary?
- Differences between a family visa and a tourist visa
- Key questions about family visas
- Requirements for obtaining a Thailand family visa
- Legal assistance in document preparation and real estate purchasing
WHY IS A VISA NECESSARY? The requirements for obtaining a residence permit depend on the applicant's nationality, how long they intend to stay in Thailand, and the purpose of their visit. Most European nationals do not need a separate visa to enter the country and can legally stay for up to 30 days after arrival. For longer stays, a visa is required; otherwise, the foreigner may face deportation. Several visa options are available:
- Tourist visa valid for 2 months
- Multiple-entry six-month visa
- Non-immigrant visa allowing a stay of up to 90 days
- Long-term visa under the Thailand Elite program
Each visa option has its own time limits and conditions.
Difference Between a Family Visa and a Tourist Visa The main differences between a Thai family visa and a tourist visa are the length of stay and purpose. A tourist visa does not allow for long-term residence, which is unsuitable for expat families. For those planning to move, work, or study in Thailand, a long-term visa is required. The key advantage of a family visa is that it allows extended stay in the country. To obtain it, one spouse must be officially employed by a Thai company with the necessary permit.
The entire family can also relocate to Thailand through the Thailand Elite program, which will be described in detail below.
Unmarried expats can also qualify for a family visa by marrying a Thai citizen.
Basic Questions Regarding a Family Visa
There are three main ways to obtain a family visa for Thailand. The first option is through marriage to a Thai citizen. In this case, the spouse can apply for an annual marriage visa, which can be renewed as long as the couple remains married. This visa allows the holder to live in Thailand and obtain a work permit. Men are required to provide proof of THB 400,000 (approximately USD 11,446) in a bank account, along with a monthly income of at least THB 40,000 (USD 1,144).
The second option is for the spouse and children of a specialist invited to work in a Thai company. To apply, you must prove your relationship and provide a local bank statement showing sufficient funds to support living expenses (THB 20,000 or USD 572 per person per month).
The third option for relocating with a family is the Thai Privilege Visa, issued under the Thailand Elite program. This visa is valid for 5 to 20 years. What benefits does this visa offer? It saves time as the visa holder and their immediate family are not required to leave the country every 90 days, unlike other visa types. In addition, holders gain access to premium services such as transfers, annual medical check-ups, and access to sports and entertainment venues. The cost of a family visa under this program ranges from THB 500,000 (USD 14,254) to THB 2,000,000 (USD 57,000), depending on the package.
It’s important to note that this visa does not limit the ability to purchase property in Thailand, but it does not grant the right to work or run a business. Income is limited to earnings from investments such as stocks or securities.
Thailand Family Visa Requirements
To obtain a family visa for those married to a Thai citizen, the applicant must:
- Apply for a non-immigrant visa
- Provide a document proving a bank account was opened at least two months before the visa application
- Submit a visa application to the immigration service
The processing time for a Thailand visa is about 30 days.
For family members of expatriates working in Thailand, the required documents include:
- Proof of relationship
- Copy of the passport and visa of the employed specialist
- Copy of the work permit and a certificate from the employer
- Local bank statement showing the required funds
For participation in the Thailand Elite program, the following documents are necessary:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months
- Photocopy of the passport's personal data section
- A high-resolution scanned copy of any valid ID
- Application form
- Proof of relationship for immediate family members of the main participant