1. Apply for a Non-Immigrant “O” Visa (Spouse) Before Entering Thailand

Start by applying for a Non-Immigrant O (Spouse) Visa in the country where they reside.
The application can be submitted online through the Thai e-Visa system, without the need to visit the embassy in person.
Main documents required: Marriage certificate and Financial evidence showing at least 400,000 THB (can be in a foreign or Thai bank account)

Related articles:
➡ Required documents for Thai marriage visa
➡ How to apply for a Thai e-Visa before entering Thailand

✅ Once approved, the applicant will receive a 90-day Non-O visa to enter Thailand.

2. Open a Thai Bank Account and Deposit Funds

After entering Thailand with a Non-O visa, the next important step is to open a Thai bank account under the foreigner’s name.
This account will serve as financial proof for the visa extension in Thailand.

It’s recommended to open the account and deposit 400,000 THB immediately after arrival,
because the Immigration Bureau requires that the funds remain in a Thai bank account for at least 2 consecutive months before applying for a visa extension.

3. Apply for a One-Year Visa Extension in Thailand

Once the funds have been in the bank for 2 months, and at least 15 days before the 90-day visa expires,
submit an application at the Immigration Office to extend the stay for one year.

The new one-year visa will start counting from the date of approval.
Applying too early may shorten the remaining days on the 90-day visa,
while applying too late could risk missing the deadline.
A good time to apply is about 20 days before the visa expires or as soon as the 2-month deposit period is complete.

4. Add the Foreigner’s Name to the Household Registration and Get a Pink ID Card

After completing the visa process, you can add your foreign spouse’s name to a yellow house registration book (for foreigners)
at the district office (Amphoe or Khet) where you live.

Once the name is registered, they can apply for a Pink ID card (Foreigner Identification Card),
which makes many daily activities in Thailand more convenient — such as entering national parks,
accessing public services, or visiting hospitals.

Having a Pink ID is also easier for local transactions compared to using only a passport from their embassy.