Thailand introduces innovative visa for same-sex couples

Eligible spouses can apply for a non-immigrant O visa, which is valid for 90 days. Applications must be submitted at the Thai embassy in the applicant's home country, where the required supporting documents may vary by embassy. For those already residing in Thailand, spouses legally married to a Thai national of the same sex are entitled to apply for a long-stay (dependent) visa at the Thai Immigration Bureau. The program recognizes both Thai and foreign marriage certificates, though marriages conducted abroad need to be registered in Thailand to qualify. This visa is also accessible to spouses of foreign residents with long-stay visas.

These developments are part of broader changes following the enactment of the same-sex marriage law on September 24, 2024, which officially took effect on January 23, 2025. The Thai government is also considering additional programs, potentially including visas tailored for LGBTQ+ workers and investors.