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How to Change Your Visa Type

If you’re staying in Thailand on one type of visa but need to switch to another (such as moving from a tourist visa to a work visa), the Thai immigration system allows you to apply for a visa type change. However, it requires specific steps and documentation to ensure a smooth transition.

When Might You Need to Change Your Visa Type?

  • From Tourist Visa to Non-Immigrant B Visa: If you’ve found a job in Thailand.
  • From Tourist Visa to Retirement Visa: If you qualify for a retirement visa and wish to stay long-term.
  • From Non-Immigrant Visa to Marriage Visa: If you’re married to a Thai national and wish to stay longer with your spouse.
  • From Education Visa to Work Visa: If you’ve completed studies and secured employment.

Key Steps to Change Your Visa Type:

Visit the Immigration Office or Leave Thailand

  • In most cases, you will need to visit the immigration office where you are currently residing in Thailand. However, for certain visa changes (like tourist to work visa), you may need to leave Thailand and apply at a Thai consulate abroad, depending on the circumstances.

Prepare Necessary Documents

  • Current visa: You must be holding a valid visa when applying for a visa change.
  • TM.86 or TM.87 form: Depending on whether you’re applying inside or outside Thailand.
  • Passport copies: Include the photo page, visa page, entry stamp, and departure card.

Supporting documents: These vary based on the visa you are changing to.

For example:

  • Work visa: Requires an employment contract, company documents, and financial proof.
  • Marriage visa: Requires a marriage certificate, spouse's ID, and proof of funds.
  • Retirement visa: Requires proof of age (50+), financial statements, and health insurance.

Meet the Financial Requirements

For certain visa types, such as marriage and retirement visas, you’ll need to prove financial stability:

  • Marriage visa: 400,000 THB in a Thai bank account or monthly income of 40,000 THB.
  • Retirement visa: 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account or monthly income of 65,000 THB.

Submit Your Application

  • Once all documents are prepared, submit your visa change application at the immigration office.
  • You will need to pay the visa conversion fee (approximately 2,000 THB).

Wait for Processing

  • Processing times may vary depending on the type of visa and where you apply. It can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Receive Your New Visa

  • Once approved, your new visa type will be stamped in your passport, and you’ll be subject to the new visa’s conditions, such as 90-day reporting or work permit requirements (if applicable).

Things to Keep in Mind:

  • Timing: Ensure you apply before your current visa expires, as overstaying can result in fines or penalties.
  • Location: Some visa changes may require a border run or application at a consulate outside Thailand.
  • Eligibility: Not all visas can be changed within Thailand; check with immigration for specific details regarding your situation.

Changing your visa type in Thailand can be straightforward if you follow the right steps and meet the requirements. Always ensure your documents are in order and plan well ahead of your current visa’s expiration date to avoid any complications. If in doubt, consult with Thai immigration or legal experts to ensure a smooth process.

Still have questions? Message us on WhatsApp at +66 66-146-8724 or on Line at @issacompass and ask our in-house legal team about your specific situation.

Note: Issa Compass is a software platform designed to streamline visa applications and connect you with immigration professionals. We're here to make the process faster and easier, but we're not a law firm or government agency. The final decision for visa approval rests with government officials and immigration policies.