#immigration lawyer for spouse visa

[immigration-solicitors-uk]

How Immigration Lawyers Can Help in Spouse Visa Application? - A Complete Guide

A spouse visa, allows you to bring your married partner to the country. This visa will authorise your non-British spouse to work, live and eventually settle with you. At Intime Immigration Solicitors, they help families reunite and bring couples together. Their seasoned immigration solicitors work closely with families to apply for their visas and represent them if their application has been refused. 

It is therefore imperative to invest in knowledgeable legal advice from a law firm that cares about your family, to confirm your spouse's visa application is accepted the first time.

How Can a Spouse Visa Solicitor Help You Throughout the Application Process?

Hiring the right immigration lawyer for a spouse visa can ensure the following and more: 

Determining the Better Spouse Visa Route: 

Expert lawyers will provide you with insights on your best options so that you are fully aware of the possible outcomes. They are also open to answering any of your legal questions and queries during your visa application process.

Assistance Upon Entering the Country:

When you are applying from outside or have been in the country but went to your home state to process the immigration, you need to go through significant procedures at the port of entry. Intime Immigration Solicitors can help prepare for your entry and provide added legal services after that.

Getting Your Partner Employed:

Under immigration laws, there are specific visa types that allow immigrant partners to work within the country. Knowledgeable solicitors can guide you in all the necessary procedures. Allow their team to help you prepare the requirements and submit them to the designated offices.

Bottom Line: 

Hiring a spouse visa lawyer can increase your chances of a successful visa application at first time. It is always good to consult with experienced spouse visa immigration lawyers to make sure which route would be open for you to apply. They have an experienced team of immigration solicitors who care about your future and will assist with your complex Immigration matter. Their immigration lawyers are dedicated to supporting clients, giving you advice and representing you depending on your case.

[uk-visa-updates]

Bringing Hearts Together: All About the UK Spouse Visa

Table of contents:

What is a UK Spouse visa?

Is it easy to bring your spouse to the UK?

UK Spouse Visa Requirements

UK Spouse Visa Fee / Cost

Processing time for a UK Spouse Visa

Ways to speed up your UK spouse visa application

The success rate of spouse visa UK

Why would a UK spouse visa be refused?

How do I appeal a spouse visa refusal in the UK?

Read the detailed updated Guide on UK Spouse Visa

What is a UK Spouse visa?

A UK Spouse Visa, also known as a UK Marriage Visa, allows non-UK nationals to join their partner in the UK.

Know More: What is a UK Spouse Visa explained by The SmartMove2UK

Is it easy to bring your spouse to the UK?

According to the Home Office, 1 in 4 UK Spouse Visa applications are refused. However, there are other ways to bring your spouse to the UK:

·        UK Dependent visa

If you have a valid UK visa, you can bring your spouse, civil partner, or unmarried partner to join you in the UK.

·        Fiancé Visa

Your partner can enter the UK for up to 6 months and marry or register a civil partnership.

Interested Reading: Why settle for long-distance when you can bring your partner to the UK?

UK Spouse visa requirements

To qualify for a UK Spouse visa, you must meet the following requirements:

·        Age: You and your spouse must be at least 18 years old.

·        Relationship: You must have met each other and be legally married.

·        Income: Your UK sponsor must earn over £18,600 a year. You can use savings of over £16,000 towards proving the minimum income requirement. If you have savings of £62,500, you don't need to show evidence of minimum income.

·        Housing: You must have adequate housing provisions.

·        Money: You must have enough money to support yourselves (and any dependents) without claiming public funds.

·        English language: You need a valid UKVI IELTS score or a certificate of equivalency (ENIC).

The Specifics Explained: Qualify for a UK Spouse visa

Other requirements include: 

Provide extensive documents which show your relationship is genuine and subsisting.

Intention to live together permanently.

UK Spouse Visa Fee / Cost

In 2023, the application fee for a UK spouse visa is £1,048 if the application is submitted within the country, and £1,538 if it is submitted outside of it. 

The annual Immigration Healthcare Surcharge of £624 and the £19.20 biometric fee are additional expenses. 

Should you wish to get a decision by the end of the following working day, the super-priority service charge is £1,000.

Trending & Useful Guide: UK Spouse Visa Cost 2023

The standard processing time for a UK spouse visa is: 

Inside the UK: 6-8 weeks

Outside the UK: 3 months

However, processing times can vary depending on: 

The country where the application is submitted from

The documents provided

How you can satisfy the requirements

Processing times have recently been affected by COVID-19 and the war in Ukraine. For example, partner visa applications from outside the UK are currently taking up to 24 weeks to process. 

You can speed up the processing time by opting for the 'Priority Service'. The fee for priority processing service is £573 in addition to the visa application fee. 

UK Spouse visa processing time explained by The SmartMove2UK

Here are some ways to speed up your UK spouse visa application: 

·        Priority service

Pay £573 to get your visa processed within five working days. 

If you're applying from outside the UK, it can take up to 30 days. 

·        Super priority service

Pay £1,000 to get a decision within 24 hours. 

 There is a limit on how many people can use this service. 

·        Submit more supporting documentation

For example, you can submit proof of your partner's ILR or British Citizenship. 

·        Contact your MP

They can find out more about the delay and might be able to help speed up your application. 

·        Contact the Home Office

If there are compelling or compassionate circumstances, you can request that your application be treated as a priority. However, there are no guarantees that the Home Office will do so. 

What is the success rate of a spouse visa UK?

The UK spouse visa success rate for the year ending March 2021 was 86.88%. The refusal rate was 12.69%. 

The success rate for UK spouse visas in 2019 was 79.78%. The refusal rate was 19.66%. 

The Home Office doesn't publish UK spouse visa appeal success rates. 

However, general estimates indicate a success rate of around 35-50%. 

Why would a UK spouse visa be refused?

A UK spouse visa can be refused for several reasons, including: 

Financial requirements: Not meeting the minimum income requirements of £18,600 per year or savings of £62,500

Relationship evidence: Not providing enough evidence to prove the genuineness of your relationship

English language requirements: Not meeting the English language requirement

Application errors: Making a mistake on the application form or using the wrong form

Immigration status: Issues with the UK sponsor's immigration status

Convictions: Not disclosing past convictions

Appealing the decision: Appealing the decision

Home Office: 1 in 5 UK Spouse Visa Applications Refused Every Year

Other reasons for refusal include: 

Incorrect organization of documents

Applying for the wrong type of visa

Ineligibility for the visa

Not providing enough documents or evidence to prove you meet the requirements

Immigration officials believe your marriage is not genuine or subsisting

The notice of refusal will specify the reason for rejection. 

Top 3: UK Spouse Visa Refusal Reasons and how to avoid them

How do I appeal a spouse visa refusal in the UK?

To appeal a UK spouse visa refusal, you can: 

Complete an appeal form

Submit the appeal form within 14 or 28 days of receiving your decision letter

If your appeal is refused, you can challenge the decision by the way of Judicial Review (JR)

You can only appeal to the tribunal if you have the legal right to appeal. Your decision letter will usually tell you if you can apply for an administrative review and if you do not have the right to appeal. 

The appeal process may take between 6 and 12 months.

Guide: What to do next if your UK Spouse visa is refused?

Read the detailed updated Guide on UK Spouse Visa

If you would like to confirm your eligibility for a UK spouse Visa or have had a UK Spouse Visa refused, you can read detailed information here regarding the same or contact our UK Spouse visa Specialist.

[lexlawuk]

UK Fiancé(e) and Proposed Civil Partner Visa

The UK Fiancé Visa is a unique visa category for individuals intending to marry or enter into a civil partnership with a British citizen or a settled person in the UK. This visa allows the foreign national to stay in the UK for six months, during which time they are expected to formalize their relationship. Following this, applicants can transition to a Spouse Visa, which enables them to remain…

[rocketimmigrationpetitions01]

How Can You Request for Humanitarian Reinstatement After a Visa Petition Denial?

When a visa petition is denied due to the petitioner’s death, hope isn’t lost. You may still have the option to request for humanitarian reinstatement, allowing your petition to be reconsidered based on compassionate grounds. This process can be complex, and having the right legal support can make all the difference. At Rocket Immigration Petitions, we offer the guidance you need, including online immigration lawyer consultation to help navigate this sensitive process.

What is Humanitarian Reinstatement?

Reinstating a petition: If your visa petition was denied because the petitioner passed away, you can apply for humanitarian reinstatement to have it re-evaluated.

Compassionate grounds: USCIS may consider family ties, financial hardships, or other compassionate reasons when reviewing your request.

Applicable cases: This option is generally available to beneficiaries of approved Form I-130 petitions for family-based immigration.

Why Request Humanitarian Reinstatement?

Family reunification: It offers a second chance to reunite with family members despite the unfortunate circumstances.

No need to start over: Reinstatement allows you to pick up where your original application left off, avoiding the need to file a new petition.

Potential for quicker resolution: With a valid reinstatement request, you may experience a faster process compared to starting from scratch.

How Can Online Immigration Lawyer Consultation Help?

Expert guidance: At Rocket Immigration Petitions, we offer online immigration lawyer consultation to help you understand the humanitarian reinstatement process, eligibility criteria, and required documentation.

Avoid mistakes: Filing a reinstatement request can be complicated. A lawyer ensures all paperwork is completed accurately, reducing the chance of errors.

Tailored advice: Every case is unique, and an experienced immigration lawyer can provide personalized advice to improve your chances of approval.

Key Steps for Requesting Humanitarian Reinstatement

Prepare a compelling case: Clearly explain your compassionate reasons for seeking reinstatement, supported by detailed documentation.

Seek legal advice: An online immigration lawyer consultation ensures you understand the legal process and increases your chances of success.

Stay informed: USCIS guidelines can change, so it’s essential to stay updated on the latest requirements for humanitarian reinstatement.

Conclusion

Requesting a humanitarian reinstatement can be a lifeline for families affected by the death of a petitioner. By working with Rocket Immigration Petitions and utilizing online immigration lawyer consultation, you can ensure the best possible outcome for your reinstatement request. Let us guide you through this challenging process and help you reunite with your loved ones.

[nestaboardimmigration]

Canada Spousal Open Work Permit Expert Nawanshahr - Nestabroad Immigration specializes in helping spouses of Canadian residents obtain open work permits. With expert guidance, they simplify the application process, ensuring compliance with immigration laws. Located in Nawanshahr, they are dedicated to providing efficient and reliable services for successful permit acquisition.

Visit - https://www.nestabroadimmigration.com/canada-spousal-open-work-permit/

[malkusimmigration]

Applying for a spouse visa in Canada is a significant step for individuals wishing to reunite with their loved ones in the country. This process allows spouses or common-law partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to join them in Canada and eventually become permanent residents themselves.

[credasmigrations]

Want to Start Your Business and Get Investment Visa?

The Business Investment Visa allows for a foreign national to invest, work and set of residence in South Africa upon their successful business investment in the country. This visa is tailored to cater for individuals seeking to open and operate their own business within the country and overtime looking to reside permanently in South Africa.

[nazlaws]

Why Hire our Professional and Competent Immigration Lawyer in Brampton, Toronto

We are one of the legit and trustworthy law firms popular for the Best immigration lawyer in Brampton. Our lawyers are professional and well-experienced. You can depend on us for the best solutions that benefit you and fix the disputes. Our lawyer thoroughly reviews the case and then gathers all the necessary details to obtain the best solutions to protect the client and provide benefits. So, if you are looking for professional lawyer assistance, contact us for the best services.

[legafit]

UK Spouse Visa Processing Time 2023

The UK spouse visa processing time depends on several factors, including the applicant's circumstances and the type of country or embassy where the application is made. The length of time also depends on whether the applicant is applying from inside or outside the UK, whether it is their first application or an extension of an existing visa, and whether there are complexities or issues with their application. Additionally, civil or criminal penalties, police investigations, and other factors may affect the processing time. It's natural to want quick approval, but it's important to consider these factors that could impact the timeline. For more detailed information check out our latest update about UK spouse visa processing time 2023.  Talk with our experts to smooth your Immigration Process.  Visit our website - https://legafit.com/

[uk-visa-updates]

Unlocking Success: How to Avoid the Top 3 UK Spouse Visa Refusal Reasons

Refusals can bring you down! Especially when it is a UK Spouse Visa Refusal. The thought of continuing to be away from your partner when your UK visa application to join them is refused can be disheartening. Particularly when you find that it was totally avoidable and taking some measures in advance could have saved the day.

Generally, when a UK Spouse Visa Application is refused, the notice includes the reasons for refusal, however this may not always be self-explanatory.

👉🏻 The Top 3 Spouse Visa Refusal Reasons

Not providing the supporting/required documentation

According to the UK immigration rules, you are required to provide specific documents mentioned in the application as well as any other supporting documents like a bank statement, proof of identity, etc.

Some basic but mandatory documentation requirements are

Marriage certificate

Evidence that any previous relationship has ended

National Insurance, Aadhaar Card number

Details of accommodation arranged in the UK

Bank statements of the applicant or the sponsor (partner who is in the UK) that prove you can meet the minimum financial requirement

Sponsor’s (partner who is in the UK) British passport or documents proving Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)

These are some important requirements, among many. If you fail to provide any form of evidence, your application is likely to be refused.

Non-disclosure of criminal records

The UK Immigration rules state that – “Immigration applications are required to disclose all offences and consequent penalties both in the UK and overseas, in addition to other relevant information about their conduct, character and associates. Application forms make clear to applicants where they must disclose this information and that failure to declare it may lead to refusal of the application” It can be tempting to conceal details of any civil or criminal cases, cautions or judgements as one doesn’t want to prejudice their application. However, the applicant must declare all convictions, police cautions on your application no matter how trivial

Not providing adequate evidence for the relationship

Immigration officers are trained to find any spots or signs of fraudulent activities or sham marriages. Hence, you need to ensure your application does not signal any reason for suspicion. To provide as much information as you can about your relationship.

Conclusion: UK Spouse Visa Refusal Reasons

Is your UK Spouse Visa Application Refused? Don’t worry, you can get it right this time.

If you think you meet the requirements of a UK spouse visa and are considering applying for the same or have had your UK spouse visa application refused – it would be worth getting advice and assistance from UK visa experts who have a proven track record of managing cases (no matter how complex) successfully.

You can also opt for UK Spouse Visa Appeal if you wish to opt for it.

[lexlawuk]

How to Apply for Leave to Remain as a Bereaved Partner

Losing a partner is an incredibly difficult experience, and if you are in the UK on a spouse visa, navigating immigration issues during such an emotional time can be overwhelming. If your partner has passed away before you have obtained settled status, your immigration status may come into question. Since the basis of your visa is your relationship with your partner, you may fear that your leave…

[brf-rumortrackinganon]

Personally, I don't think Harry has gone for the spouse visa/green card route yet. Simply because his entitlement, and Meghan's entitlement, about his royal status would not allow them to show Harry as being dependent on Meghan in any way

They would both, much rather prefer to lord it over people, family, governments (both UK and US) that he is royal, the kings son (late queens grandson) and hence very very imp in his own right.

Also, the paperwork and forethought required to submit a greencard application means that both harry and meghan would need to do a lot of work - fill out applications, gather documents, aquire and submit bank data, proof of dates, proof of financials, taxation etc - all of which they are both incapable of doing. Not to mention that their narcissistic discordered tendencies would make them think this is below them.

(I know we can't actually diagnose them, but this is Tumblr, not CNN, and as a psychologist I know that filling out paperwork is the absolutebane of an NPD persons existence. These little quirks of the NPD are not talked about much but they are nearly universally observed.)

Another issue would be hiring an immigration lawyer for the spouse visa. The expenses and the process of actively listening to what the lawyers says is required procedure would put HnM on the backfoot and hate the process.

I have assumed that Harry is either on -

1). A1 Visa - diplomatic/head of state/official representative of a country

Or

2). O1 Visa - specialized skilled worker/Einstein visa given to artists, actors, models, investors in specialized fields, highly skilled academicians, persons contracted by a sponcer for a special skill etc

Now, there is some evidence to support both these. So I'll list those reasons and my conclusions from those below.

Option 1.- A1 visa

Harry moved to US in March 2020, just before pandemic. Most people focus on this, but forget that when the couple moved they both were still, officially, Full Time working royals for the BRF and embarking on the 1 year trial period to see how things pan out for them. This trial period lasted till March 2021, upon the conclusion of which the BRF promptly officially announced there demotions. So, they were working royals when they moved to US, albeit on a leave of absence.

So, what does that mean? That his (and her) diplomatic status was still intact. They did their last royal engagement for the UK in mar 2020, but they hadn't retired. Hadn't resigned. His royal patronages, commonwealth role etc were only taken back in 2021. Both parties had agreed to a separation period till then.

Another factor is that they had already asked Canada to provide him (them) with full time security, ie., treat him like a full fledged royal. But Canada said only till March 2020, and not after that. Trudeau actually released a statement about this.

So this tells me that they (may have). actually asked for full time royal treatment ie., security and diplomatic status for the trial period lasting upto March 2021 and were told no.

(I think that's what Harry means when he says the BRF took away his security, I thiy he means that the BRF pricipals personally prevailed upon Trudeau and made him refuse security)

So Harry's only option was to take his fancy diplomatic status passport, hope on a private jet and fly to LA without telling anyone.

People think this was because the lockdowns were imminent. But I think it was also timed in a way that they were out of Canada before the promised security period expired.

After this, during pandemic, Harry consistently did nonsensical "commonwealth" related zoom calls. Till the president/head/chairperson of the CW youth org (I forgot who exactly but one of main people of the org) publicly distanced themselves in late 2020.

Another thing that was odd was that Trump official said he will not be giving the couple security. Which means that his govt was asked, maybe repeatedly asked and Harry made his case, till the time Trump had to release a statement saying he won't. Makes me think, Harry made his case using his A1 status. Because otherwise, if he was there as a private citizen, this request was absurd and the govt would dismissed this without a second thought. But if they had permitted someone to enter based on their A1 status as representative of a head of state, they had weigh the pros and cons of this request and it could have caused a potential diplomatic incidence. So the president himself had to be face of this decision.

(this is irrespective of anyones thoughts about who the president was, or what kind of person the president may or may not have been. This was an executive decision)

So,

All this leads me to speculate that Harry initially, and until end of 2021 at least, made use of his status as a representative of the head of status, which he already officially had, and was on paper, to enter the US.

The duration of permit of this initial stay could have been 2 or 3 years. So, 2022. Or 2023, when curiosly, Heritage Foundation suddenly took interest in the status of his visa.

Option 2 - O-Visa

This is a bit funny and farfetched, but I think Harry could also have entered on his British passport, which allows a stay upto 6 months (tourist visa). And then applied for O- Visa status a couple of months later.

By June 2020 Harry had forged some sort of investment+partnership with Betterup. This likely involved an initial investment into the company. For enterpreneurs and/investors into a US based company, a minimum investment of 250k or 500k is required to be shown. If he did this, then Betterup could have easily sponcered his application and he could used his very imp, very skilled, very unique position as CHIMPO as a means to get a visa.

A lawyer and the company could have helped him. Plus his high profile status due to his work as a philanthropists, patron of various international organisations etc would definitely be an asset as it is proof and documentation of his years of work.

We may laugh and debate about the "quality" of his work all his life but when it comes to govt paperwork, this is still documented proof. And it's verifiable. So, noone is going to get into the nitty gritty of it, and getting a stamp is easy for him.

Another avenue could have been that he was immediately listed as a high in demand, much sought after international speaker or much renown. He did a couple of onscure, forgettable speaker gigs. But that's all he would need for proof.

He was also listed as the executive producer for oprahs documentary, he was earning his producer certification and the Apple documentary was under production.based on that, he could have applied for an O-visa and it would have been approved.

The duration of stay for O-visa status is 3 years at a time, after which you have to apply again for the visa. It is not eligible for renewal. All paperwork and applications have to be submitted again and will be scrutinized as new.

Let's assume he applied 2/3 months after initial entry, so that's June. His application would have been approved by July end Aug latest. (this is based on my personal experience with the same visa, in this the same time period).

With COVID restrictions, he gets approved but doesn't have to immediately go back to his home country to get it stamped at immigration. I got mine stamped end of 2021 from my country. Till then I stayed in US and worked. So he could have stamped his in April 2021 when he went back for his grandfather's funeral.

If he got his O-visa in 2020, then it would expire in 2023. This is the time heritage foundation started creating a fuss about his visa.

Now, with all of that, an important question we need to ask is- why did the heritage foundation start their crusade in 2023?

This could be because Harry's first visa stay (likely) expired in 2023 and he reapplied for a visa. And was (most likely) approved for the same type of visa again. This process would have gone quite smoothly with Harry's pull. But this second time it is quite clear that he got special treatment. And the heritage foundation wants to expose this special treatment.

Orr more likely, someone in the know tipped them off, and wants this exposed for whatever reason. I DO NOT think the BRf want this exposed, I don't think they care.

I do think someone in the US govt or maybe even a journalist wants to make a big deal out of this. And rightly so.

Anyway, that's my dissertation on Harry's visa. I don't think it matters to anyone outside of Tumblr, but I do feel his entitlement is mind-boggling and he should be held accountable for the person that he is. And if this visa issue is what does it, then so be it.

It is based on my personal experience with these 2 types of visas. And my theoretical and observed knowledge about how entitlement is one of the driving forces for most classical NODs. But the reality for him may be different. And you Rumour, being a fed, would probably know more and know better.

*********

I agree with you. I’ve been reading up about the visa issues (and also spoke to a few other fed friends).

I think Harry is here on an O-1 visa, for extraordinary/outstanding talent. Meghan doesn’t seem invested enough into the marriage to be willing to do the paperwork so if he’s here on a spousal visa, a lawyer would’ve done the paperwork. Additionally, I can see the financial requirements being a major concern for the BRF; the BRF goes to a great length to protect their financial information from other countries and the general public. They’re not going to let the US (no matter how special the relationship) take a peek at their books. So I suspect they squashed the idea of a spousal visa unless it was done *exclusively* on Meghan’s own savings/net worth. Which she balked at doing because it implies she’s financially responsible for Harry and that’s not what she signed up. She signed up to spend Charles’s money. Not her own. So that’s off the table.

Next is the diplomatic visa. Harry doesn’t actually have a diplomatic passport. He has a regular passport. He may have had a second passport for work that he traveled on UK business for, but he never had diplomatic status in the BRF; only The Queen and Charles did.

And that’s something government officials are really strict about, that people travel on official business use official papers. Officials traveling on personal business use personal papers. Or, that’s how it works here in the US. Not sure about the UK.

Now for Harry to have come to the US on a diplomatic passport for a diplomatic visa, he would have had to present his credentials for being here, and those credentials would have explained clearly and succinctly what he was in the US for and what official business he had with us. They would’ve looked into it.

So I don’t think he’s here on a A/diplomatic visa. Or perhaps not anymore, when it was made clear following the one-year Megxit review that he no longer represents the UK or works on behalf of The Queen/BRF.

Which leaves the O visa, for talent. But I don’t think it’s Better Up. I think it’s Invictus Games. Not only would it explain why they still stick with Harry despite all the expenses and criticism they cost the Foundation. And that’s what Harry is known for, outside of the BRF - his military support and support for veterans. It would also explain why Harry continues to try so hard to collaborate with the US military and warfighter community. Because he needs the military to support his visa.

Maybe it’s transferred to Better Up now since he seems to do more work for them.

As to why the government is trying so hard to keep his visa papers buried? I think they know we know Harry isn’t qualified to be here on a diplomatic or an O visa, so the BRF greased the wheels a bit in some way, shape, or form to help him get through the system.

But also if he’s here on a O-1 visa connected to Invictus Games, it could imply government or DOD support; if not DOD directly, then close partners or contractors…aka military lobbyists.

So that’s where I am right now.

And fingers crossed this gets posted in full. 🤞

[applythaivisas]

Thailand Marriage Visa

If you're planning to tie the knot with a Thai national and reside in the Land of Smiles, understanding the Thai Marriage Visa is crucial. This visa, officially known as the Non-Immigrant O Visa, allows foreign spouses of Thai citizens to legally stay and work in Thailand.  

Key Requirements for a Thai Marriage Visa

To qualify for a Thai Marriage Visa, you and your Thai partner must meet the following criteria:

Legal Marriage:

You must be legally married to a Thai citizen.  

The marriage certificate must be registered in Thailand.  

Financial Stability:

You must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support yourself and your spouse in Thailand.  

This can be proven through bank statements, employment contracts, or other financial documents.

Clear Criminal Record:

You must have a clean criminal record.

The Visa Application Process

The process of applying for a Thai Marriage Visa typically involves the following steps:

Prepare Required Documents:

Passport

Marriage Certificate

Financial Documents

Medical Certificate

Photographs

Visa Application Form

Submit Application:

You can submit your application at the nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.  

Some countries allow online visa applications.

Visa Approval and Issuance:

If your application is approved, the Thai Embassy or Consulate will issue the Non-Immigrant O Visa.

Important Considerations

Visa Validity:

The initial validity of a Thai Marriage Visa is usually one year.

It can be extended annually by visiting an Immigration Office in Thailand.  

Work Permits:

While a Marriage Visa allows you to stay in Thailand, it doesn't automatically grant you a work permit.  

If you intend to work in Thailand, you'll need to obtain a work permit from the Thai Labor Department.  

Visa Renewals and Extensions:

To renew your visa, you'll need to visit an Immigration Office in Thailand and submit the required documents.

The renewal process can be time-consuming, so it's advisable to start the process well in advance.

Seeking Professional Assistance

Given the complexities of Thai immigration laws, it's highly recommended to consult with an immigration lawyer or a reputable immigration agency. They can provide expert guidance and assistance throughout the visa application process, ensuring a smooth and successful outcome.  

By understanding the requirements and following the necessary steps, you can successfully obtain a Thai Marriage Visa and embark on a fulfilling life in Thailand with your Thai partner.

[thaivisanews]

Thailand SMART Visa

Thailand's ambition to transform its economy into a high-tech hub has led to the creation of the SMART Visa program. Launched in 2020, this visa aims to attract skilled professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs across ten targeted industries deemed crucial for the nation's growth. Let's delve deeper into the intricacies of the SMART Visa program and explore its various facets.

Tailored Categories for Specific Needs

The SMART Visa caters to a diverse range of individuals by offering four distinct categories:

SMART Talent (T) Visa: This category targets highly skilled professionals with expertise in fields like robotics, aviation, and digital technology. Applicants must possess a minimum monthly salary of 100,000 baht (approximately $3,000 USD) and have their work experience endorsed by a relevant government agency within the Strategic Talent Center (STC) network. This visa offers a maximum four-year stay with the possibility of renewal.

SMART Business (B) Visa: This category focuses on attracting business executives and investors. Applicants can qualify by demonstrating a minimum investment in a Thai company or a minimum annual income derived from overseas. Unlike the T visa, the B visa doesn't require specific industry expertise but offers a shorter maximum stay of two years, also renewable.

SMART Startup (S) Visa: This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs seeking to establish or join a startup in Thailand. Applicants can qualify by having a stake in a registered Thai startup or participating in an approved accelerator or incubator program. The S visa offers flexible stay durations of 6 months, 1 year, or 2 years, depending on the specific circumstances.

SMART Family (F) Visa: Spouses and children of SMART Visa holders can apply for the F visa, allowing them to accompany the main visa holder and reside in Thailand for the duration of the primary visa's validity. This eliminates the need for dependents to obtain separate visas, simplifying the relocation process.

Beyond Long Stays: Unveiling the SMART Visa Advantage

The SMART Visa goes beyond just offering extended stays. Here's a breakdown of some of its key benefits:

Fast-Track Immigration: SMART Visa holders benefit from expedited immigration services at designated Thai airports, saving valuable time upon arrival.

Work Permit Exemption: The T visa and, in some cases, the B visa exempt holders from the need to obtain a separate work permit, streamlining the employment process. Spouses with F visas may also be eligible to work without a separate work permit.

Tax Incentives: SMART Visa holders in certain categories might be eligible for tax benefits such as reduced personal income tax rates or exemptions on imported equipment for business ventures.

Multiple Re-Entry: Unlike some Thai visas, the SMART Visa allows for multiple entries and exits throughout its validity period, offering greater travel flexibility.

Eligibility Nuances and the Application Process

The eligibility requirements for each SMART Visa category can be nuanced. It's crucial to consult with a Thai immigration lawyer to determine the most suitable category and ensure you meet all the specific criteria. Here's a simplified overview of the application process:

Category Selection: Identify the SMART Visa category that best aligns with your goals and qualifications (Talent, Business, Startup, or Family).

Documentation Gathering: Compile the necessary documents as per your chosen category, which may include academic certificates, employment contracts, business plans, or financial statements.

Endorsement (if applicable): For the T visa, endorsement from a relevant STC agency is mandatory. This involves submitting your application and qualifications to the designated agency for review and approval.

Application Submission: Applications are typically submitted through the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) or a designated embassy or consulate.

The Legal Landscape: Considerations and Potential Challenges

While the SMART Visa program offers exciting prospects, some factors require careful consideration:

Industry Specificity: The T visa's focus on targeted industries might exclude skilled professionals in other sectors.

Work Permit Exemptions: The work permit exemption associated with certain SMART Visas might not apply to all job roles within a company. Consulting with an immigration lawyer is crucial to navigate this complexity.

Evolving Regulations: The SMART Visa program is relatively new, and regulations might evolve over time. Staying updated with the latest requirements is essential.

Conclusion

The SMART Visa program presents a compelling opportunity for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and their families seeking to establish themselves in Thailand's dynamic economy. By understanding the intricacies of each category, its benefits, and the application process, individuals can leverage this program to chart a successful course in the Land of Smiles. Remember, seeking expert legal advice can ensure a smooth application process and maximize your chances of securing a SMART Visa.

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