For foreigners married to a Thai citizen, one common question is:
“Should I apply for a Thai Marriage Visa (Non-O Spouse Visa) abroad or in Thailand?”
The answer is — both options are possible, but each has its own advantages and considerations.

Applying Abroad

Applying for a Thai spouse visa outside Thailand is done entirely online through a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Pros:

• Convenient — you can submit and track your application online.
• All documents can be in your local language, with no need for Thai translation.

Cons:

• You must already have a legally registered marriage certificate before applying.
  (If you are not yet legally married, you cannot apply.)

Applying in Thailand

If you are already in Thailand, you can apply for a spouse visa directly at the Immigration Bureau.
(Please note: applications cannot be done online inside Thailand.)

Pros:

• You can apply immediately after legally registering your marriage in Thailand.
• You may be able to convert your tourist visa to a Non-O spouse visa without leaving the country.

Cons:

• All documents must be in Thai language only.
  Any foreign documents must first be authenticated, then translated into Thai, and finally certified by the Thai Consulate.
• Missing documents can cause multiple visits and delays.
• Opening a Thai bank account can be difficult without a valid Non-O visa.

If You Are Not Yet Married

• It’s best to enter Thailand on a tourist visa or visa exemption,
  then register your marriage in Thailand first.
  After that, you can apply for the Non-O spouse visa from abroad before re-entering Thailand.
• Alternatively, if possible, you may register your marriage abroad first (depending on your country’s rules).

If You Are Already Married

• If you already have a Thai bank account, you can extend your stay in Thailand with a Non-O visa locally.

• If you don’t have a Thai bank account yet, apply for the Non-O visa from abroad.