Marrying a Thai national does not automatically grant citizenship or unrestricted rights. However, it can open pathways to long-term visas, residency, and limited business ownership. However, this is subject to Thai law and official approval.
Issued to foreigners legally married to Thai citizens
Initial validity: 90 days, with renewable 1-year extensions
Allows residence in Thailand, but not employment without a work permit
Valid marriage certificate
Proof of financial stability:
THB 400,000 in a Thai bank account (held for ≥2 months)
OR
Monthly income of THB 40,000, with supporting documents
Does not grant employment rights (work permit required separately)
Must manage re-entry permits to avoid cancellation when leaving the country
Available after 3 consecutive years on a marriage visa
Requirements:
Continued legal marriage
Stable income and tax compliance
Medical exam and police clearance
Available after holding PR, typically following several more years of residence
Requirements:
Fluent spoken Thai
Proven contribution to society and the economy
Moral character assessment and government interview
Note: Marriage to a Thai does not guarantee PR or citizenship. Applications are subject to Ministry of Interior discretion.
Foreign spouses may not legally own land, even if married to a Thai
Thai spouse can own land, but the foreigner must sign a declaration confirming:
They did not fund the purchase
This is to comply with the Thai Land Code restricting indirect foreign ownership
Foreigners may own buildings or houses (not the land beneath)
Condominium ownership is permitted, subject to the 49% foreign quota rule
Thai spouse may own ≥51% of a Thai limited company
Foreign spouse may own up to 49%, unless in a restricted sector
Foreigners operating in restricted categories under the Foreign Business Act (FBA) need:
A Foreign Business License (FBL)
OR
Promotion via the Board of Investment (BOI)
Marriage does not alter tax residency status
If the foreign spouse stays ≥180 days per year in Thailand:
They are considered a Thai tax resident
Residents are taxed on worldwide income
Non-residents are taxed on Thailand-sourced income only
Married couples may file joint tax returns, potentially accessing:
Additional deductions
Allowances
Spousal tax credits
Both spouses must be Thai tax residents to qualify
We can assist you with:
Applying for Non-Immigrant O marriage visas
Preparing documents for permanent residency or Thai citizenship
Drafting legal land ownership declarations
Structuring joint business ventures legally and compliantly
Filing joint tax returns or confirming tax residency
Contact Us to speak with a legal expert or schedule a personalised consultation.