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Child Custody Visa in Chiang Mai

A long-stay visa for parents of a Thai child under 20, based on your relationship with and care for your child.

Overview

The Child Custody Visa allows the parent of a Thai child under 20 years of age to live in Thailand with their child. The visa is based on your relationship with your Thai child: it does not matter whether you are married or unmarried to the child's Thai parent, living together or living separately, or widowed. What matters is that you can demonstrate parental responsibility and that you are genuinely caring for your child.

The core requirements are straightforward. You will need your passport, your child's Thai birth certificate, your child's Thai ID card (if available), the child's house registration (Tabien Baan), financial evidence, and documents showing your relationship with the child. For the financial requirement, most applicants must show THB 400,000 in a Thai bank account or a monthly income of THB 40,000. In many cases, you can apply for or change to this visa from inside Thailand.

MJ & Co is based in Chiang Mai and guides you through the full process, from the first eligibility review to your annual renewal. Immigration officers may conduct a home visit or request additional information to verify that you are caring for your child, and we help you prepare for this step. The visa is renewable annually, and if you plan to work in Thailand you will also need a separate Work Permit.

Child Custody Visa Requirements

  • Parent of a Thai child under 20 years of age
  • Valid passport
  • Child's Thai birth certificate
  • Child's Thai ID card (if available)
  • Child's house registration (Tabien Baan)
  • Financial evidence: THB 400,000 in a Thai bank account, OR monthly income of THB 40,000
  • Documents showing your relationship with the child
  • Ability to demonstrate parental responsibility and care for your child

Our Child Custody Visa Process

  1. 1Contact us and tell us about your situation for an initial assessment
  2. 2Eligibility review and a clear quotation before you decide to proceed
  3. 3Personalized document checklist and preparation of your paperwork
  4. 4Application with Immigration, including preparing you for a possible home visit
  5. 5Support with your annual renewal so your visa stays valid

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for a Child Custody Visa?
You may be eligible if you are the parent of a Thai child and your child is under 20 years of age. The visa is based on your relationship with your Thai child. It does not matter whether you are: - Married or unmarried to the child's Thai parent. - Living together or living separately. - Widowed. However, you must be able to demonstrate that you have parental responsibility and are caring for your child. Our team can review your circumstances and advise you on your eligibility.
What documents do I need?
The required documents generally include: - Passport - Child's Thai birth certificate - Child's Thai ID Card (if available) - Child's House Registration (Tabien Baan) - Financial evidence - Documents showing your relationship with the child - Other documents required by Immigration Once you start with MJ & Co., we'll provide a detailed document checklist based on your situation.
How much money do I need to show?
For most applications, you must provide one of the following financial requirements: - THB 400,000 in a Thai bank account; or - THB 40,000 monthly income. Our team will review your circumstances and advise you on the most suitable financial option.
How much does a Child Custody Visa cost?
The cost depends on your circumstances, such as whether you are applying from outside Thailand, changing your visa inside Thailand, or renewing your visa. Contact MJ & Co. for a personalized quotation.
How long does the application process take?
The processing time depends on your current visa status and your application type. Our team will review your circumstances and provide an estimated timeline before starting your application.
Can I apply from inside Thailand?
Yes. In many cases, you can apply for or change to a Child Custody Visa from within Thailand, provided you meet the Immigration Bureau's requirements. Our team will review your current visa status and recommend the most suitable application method.
Will Immigration verify that I am caring for my child?
Yes. In many cases, Immigration officers may conduct a home visit or request additional information to verify that you are genuinely caring for your Thai child. The purpose of this process is to confirm that the parent-child relationship is genuine and that the child is under your care. Our team will explain what to expect and help you prepare for the process.
Can I work while holding a Child Custody Visa?
Yes, but the Child Custody Visa alone does not allow you to work. If you wish to work in Thailand, you must also obtain a valid Work Permit before starting employment.
Can I renew my Child Custody Visa?
Yes. Child Custody Visas can generally be renewed annually, provided you continue to meet the Immigration Bureau's requirements and your child remains eligible. MJ & Co. can assist with preparing your documents and guiding you through the renewal process.
How do I get started with MJ & Co.?
Simply contact our team and tell us about your situation. We'll review your eligibility, explain the required documents, provide a clear quotation, and guide you through every step of the application process.

Ready to Get Started with Your Child Custody Visa?

Chat with MJ & Co to discuss your case. We'll give you an honest assessment and a clear path forward.

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