For foreigners who want to stay in Thailand, there are several visa options available. The two most commonly asked about are the Tourist Visa (TR Visa / Visa Exemption) and the Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O based on family/marriage).
This article will explain the key differences between the two and help you decide which one suits your situation best.

1. Tourist Visa (TR Visa / Visa Exemption)

Length of Stay

• If you enter Thailand under a Visa Exemption, you can stay for 60 days and extend for another 30 days, making a total of 90 days.
• If you apply for a Tourist Visa (TR Visa) before entering Thailand, you will get 60 days and can extend for another 30 days, also totaling 90 days.

(Related topic: Why should you apply for a Tourist Visa even if you qualify for Visa Exemption?)

Who is it for?

• Travelers who want to stay short-term, up to 3 months.
• Foreigners who do not yet have legal ties in Thailand (such as marriage registration with a Thai citizen).

2. Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O Family Visa)

Length of Stay

• Initially valid for 90 days upon entry.
• Can then be extended for 1 year (making a total of 1 year and 3 months).
• Renewable annually as long as the conditions are met.

Key Requirements

• Must have a legal marriage certificate with a Thai citizen.
• Must provide financial proof, either:
  • At least 400,000 THB deposited in a Thai bank account, or
  • A monthly income of 40,000 THB (with proof such as salary slips or remittance documents).

Who is it for?

• Foreigners married to a Thai citizen who want to live long-term in Thailand.
• Those seeking stability without having to exit and re-enter the country frequently like Tourist Visa holders.
• Easier to open a Thai bank account with a Non-O Marriage Visa compared to a Tourist Visa.

Summary

If you only plan to stay in Thailand for a short period, a Tourist Visa is usually sufficient.
However, if you are married to a Thai citizen and wish to stay long-term legally, a Marriage Visa (Non-O) is the better choice.

Although it comes with stricter financial and documentation requirements, it provides more stability and convenience for living in Thailand.