If you’re a Thai citizen married to a foreigner and wish to settle down permanently in Thailand, you might be wondering where to begin and what steps to take to stay legally.
This guide breaks down the entire process into 4 simple and practical steps.

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

Start by having your foreign spouse apply for a Non-Immigrant O Spouse Visa at the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in their country of residence.
Nowadays, the process can be done online via Thailand’s official e-Visa system, so there’s no need to submit documents in person.

Required documents include:

• Marriage Certificate
• Passport of the foreign spouse and Thai ID card of the Thai spouse
• Proof of funds of at least 400,000 THB (can be in a foreign or Thai bank account)

Once approved, your spouse will receive a 90-day Non-O visa, which allows them to enter Thailand.

2. Open a Bank Account in Thailand

After arriving in Thailand with the Non-O visa, the next step is to open a Thai bank account in the foreign spouse’s name.
This account will be essential later when extending the visa, as it serves as financial proof of sufficient funds for long-term stay in Thailand.

3. Prepare the Financial Requirement for Visa Extension

To extend the visa for a 1-year stay, your spouse must have at least 400,000 THB deposited in a Thai bank account,
and this amount must be kept (seasoned) in the account for at least 2 months before the extension application date, as required by Thai Immigration.

4. Add the Foreign Spouse’s Name to the House Registration and Get a Pink ID Card

Once the visa matters are settled, you can register your foreign spouse’s name in the house registration (for foreigners) at the local district office (Amphur or Khet) where you live.
After being added to the house registration, your spouse can apply for a Pink ID card (Foreigner Identification Card), which makes daily life in Thailand much more convenient — for example:

• Entering national parks
• Accessing hospital services
• Applying for local services

Having a Pink ID card can often be more practical than relying solely on a passport issued by the embassy.

✅ Summary

Settling in Thailand with a foreign spouse isn’t as complicated as it seems — as long as you plan ahead and follow the right steps:
Apply for a Non-O Visa → Open a Bank Account → Keep 400,000 THB in the account → Add to the House Registration and Get a Pink ID Card.

With these steps completed, you and your spouse can live happily and legally in Thailand for the long term.