Thai Child Dependent Visa (Non-immigrant O)
The Non-Immigrant O Visa, specifically the Thai Child Visa, is important for parents who wish to reside in Thailand to be with their Thai child or legal step-child. This visa really helps families if the parents are separated or together but not legally married.
Key Features of the Thai Child Visa (Non-Immigrant O Visa):
1. Purpose:
- Designed for parents, often fathers, who have a Thai child or legal step-child. It allows the parent to live in Thailand long-term to care for and be close to their child.
2. Eligibility:
- Parent-Child Relationship: You must be the biological or legal step-parent of a Thai child.
- Legal Custody: In some cases, you may need to demonstrate that you have legal custody or are responsible for the child's upbringing.
- Unmarried Parents: If the parents are not legally married but are still together, this visa allows the non-Thai parent to stay in Thailand.
3.Required Documents:
- Passport: A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity.
- Application Form: Completed visa application form.
- Thai Child's Birth Certificate: A copy of the child’s birth certificate showing the parent’s name.
- Proof of Relationship: Documents that prove your relationship to the child, such as marriage certificates (if applicable) or court orders related to custody.
- Child’s Thai ID or Passport: A copy of the child's Thai ID card or passport.
- Parent’s Financial Proof: Evidence that you can financially support yourself and the child, such as a Thai bank account with at least 400,000 THB deposited for at least 2 months before the visa application.
4. Application Process:
- Applying from Outside Thailand: You can apply for the Non-Immigrant O Visa at a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or another country.
- Applying from Inside Thailand: If you are already in Thailand, you may be able to apply for a change of visa type at the Thai Immigration Office.
5. Visa Validity:
- Initially, the visa may be granted for 90 days. Afterward, you can apply for a one-year extension based on your relationship with the Thai child.
6. Visa Renewal:
- The visa can be renewed annually, provided that the parent-child relationship and financial requirements are maintained.
7. Additional Requirements:
- 90-Day Reporting: As with other long-term visas, you must report your address to the Thai Immigration Office every 90 days.
- Re-entry Permit: If you plan to leave Thailand during the visa's validity, you must obtain a re-entry permit to keep your visa valid.
Why This Visa is Important:
- Family Reunification: It helps parents stay close to their children in Thailand, ensuring the child’s well-being and providing stability.
- Flexible for Unmarried Parents: Even if the parents are not legally married, the visa allows the non-Thai parent to reside in Thailand.
This visa is an essential tool for maintaining family bonds and ensuring that parents can be active participants in their child's life while living in Thailand. TVS Visa Services expertise in guiding our clients through the application process can make this transition smooth for families.