Does anyone (a westerner) have any experience in taking their Thai spouse to either country above without the 1-2 month visa applications for the Thai? I have a western passport as does our adult daughter, and while my daughter and I can easily get E-Visas to Aus/NZ, it seems my Thai wife has to be separated from us and sent down some Immigration rabit hole of complex tourist visa applications that take many weeks to process (and of course we wouldn't book anything until we knew the visas were approved.

My whinge actually has a question for those who've done the trip as a holiday (not long-stay) with a Thai spouse. Is there no way we can simply apply as one family with me as the guarantor and with return tickets and proof of reservations, and resources? If not, we'll be looking for somewhere else to holiday, but we've already been to the good visa-free places already (e.g. Japan, Vietnam, HKG, Sing). Maybe it's easier for Aussie and Kiwi citizens to bring a Thai spouse - but I am neither Aussie nor Kiwi. Anyone have a workaround or previous experience - good or bad with this?

BTW - while I have the 'floor' :)

Has anyone with a Thai spouse taken the spouse and your kids to Turkiye (which is visa-free for Thais)? I've been to Istanbul before - which is a great place - but not to Antalya or the beach resorts. Worth it? Or is it just trading one beach country (Thailand) for another? (and which are the best sandy beach towns there? Sand, not pebbles). Is it relatively safe?

18 hours ago, ronnie50 said:

Does anyone (a westerner) have any experience in taking their Thai spouse to either country above without the 1-2 month visa applications for the Thai? I have a western passport as does our adult daughter, and while my daughter and I can easily get E-Visas to Aus/NZ, it seems my Thai wife has to be separated from us and sent down some Immigration rabit hole of complex tourist visa applications that take many weeks to process (and of course we wouldn't book anything until we knew the visas were approved.

My whinge actually has a question for those who've done the trip as a holiday (not long-stay) with a Thai spouse. Is there no way we can simply apply as one family with me as the guarantor and with return tickets and proof of reservations, and resources? If not, we'll be looking for somewhere else to holiday, but we've already been to the good visa-free places already (e.g. Japan, Vietnam, HKG, Sing). Maybe it's easier for Aussie and Kiwi citizens to bring a Thai spouse - but I am neither Aussie nor Kiwi. Anyone have a workaround or previous experience - good or bad with this?

Looks like you will looking elsewhere for a holiday as you suggested I'm afraid.

Your wife will indeed need a visitor visa whereas you and your daughter are eligible for ETA's.

The visitor visa is not "complex" as you suggested, but she will still have to apply.

23 hours ago, ronnie50 said:

BTW - while I have the 'floor' :)

Has anyone with a Thai spouse taken the spouse and your kids to Turkiye (which is visa-free for Thais)? I've been to Istanbul before - which is a great place - but not to Antalya or the beach resorts. Worth it? Or is it just trading one beach country (Thailand) for another? (and which are the best sandy beach towns there? Sand, not pebbles). Is it relatively safe?

Google "Turkish beach resorts".

New Zealand immigration is sick and pathetic... you have to go through stupid procedures to do the online application. NZ is more like a third world country but the cost of an expensive first world country. I tried to get a visa for a Thai girl friend to visit - she has already visited me 10 years ago for 2 months. She has since been to Japan 7 times = NO VISA... so I will spend my money in Asia.. NZ is a joke of a country. An internet friend from Laos easily got a visa to visit a guy she met for only a few weeks - to Germany... absolutely no drama - I was really shocked at the difference.

I applied for my Thai partners NZ visa just before covid hit.

Turns out they processed them in the NZ offices in Beijing........

Covid hit, everything shut for months, couldn't go anyway because NZ was also 'shut' for tourism.

18 months later we got a response from the NZ embassy.

As far as Australia goes. Yes, you have to do the paperwork.

I hate using agents, but in this case I used one for convenience.

It just takes time and patience.

Hello Ronnie. I am just going through this process to take my wife to NZ in March for five nights and six days. We are going to my 1973 university class reunion in Napier. We appied for my wife under the visitor-partnership category as this was the category she got her visa back in 2027 when we last visited NZ. (That visa was through an agency in Bangkok). We applied on-line on December 16th and just got a reply this morning January 29. The reply was that there was just not enough information to show we had a loving and stable relationship. They said we should now apply under the general visitor visa category (VVG). They did say that they would grant her a three month VVG. I have asked them if we have to apply for the VVG or will they transfer the information across from the details on the partnership visa application. Waiting for their reply. We have booked return tickets and a rental car. I think this will be the last time we bother visiting NZ.

I am Australian so do not know if you can open an ImmiAccount to get the visa (https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/help-support/tools/immiaccount). As said above there is a lot of paper work but approval is quick if in order. The main problem your wife will need to have biometrics done at VFS Global in Bangkok or Chiang Mai and they only give you two weeks to do it after the application is approved. Crazy system as the biometrics are already in her passport.

On 1/20/2026 at 2:21 PM, ronnie50 said:

Does anyone (a westerner) have any experience in taking their Thai spouse to either country above without the 1-2 month visa applications for the Thai? I have a western passport as does our adult daughter, and while my daughter and I can easily get E-Visas to Aus/NZ, it seems my Thai wife has to be separated from us and sent down some Immigration rabit hole of complex tourist visa applications that take many weeks to process (and of course we wouldn't book anything until we knew the visas were approved.

My whinge actually has a question for those who've done the trip as a holiday (not long-stay) with a Thai spouse. Is there no way we can simply apply as one family with me as the guarantor and with return tickets and proof of reservations, and resources? If not, we'll be looking for somewhere else to holiday, but we've already been to the good visa-free places already (e.g. Japan, Vietnam, HKG, Sing). Maybe it's easier for Aussie and Kiwi citizens to bring a Thai spouse - but I am neither Aussie nor Kiwi. Anyone have a workaround or previous experience - good or bad with this?

I took my late Thai wife to New Zealand with me about 13 years ago and had to go through the same stupid procedure.

The other annoying thing about is having to buy the air tickets first.

And if her application is declined.

There is no refund on the already paid air fare.

I understand your frustration.

When you have a Cupcake PM in NZ that spends all his time as and international tourist saying he is promoting NZ business and flying in helicopters regularly, at tax payers expense, what else can you expect??????

2 hours ago, Michael Hare said:

Hello Ronnie. I am just going through this process to take my wife to NZ in March for five nights and six days. We are going to my 1973 university class reunion in Napier. We appied for my wife under the visitor-partnership category as this was the category she got her visa back in 2027 when we last visited NZ. (That visa was through an agency in Bangkok). We applied on-line on December 16th and just got a reply this morning January 29. The reply was that there was just not enough information to show we had a loving and stable relationship. They said we should now apply under the general visitor visa category (VVG). They did say that they would grant her a three month VVG. I have asked them if we have to apply for the VVG or will they transfer the information across from the details on the partnership visa application. Waiting for their reply. We have booked return tickets and a rental car. I think this will be the last time we bother visiting NZ.

2017 not 2027

On 1/20/2026 at 4:08 AM, ronnie50 said:

Antalya or the beach resorts. Worth it? Or is it just trading one beach country (Thailand) for another?

I've made many trips to Turkey, about 14 times, including multiple trips to Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir. Also, I spent a weekend in a Turkish resort in Marmaris, and it was better than Antalya - beachy, touristy, cleaner, and cheaper prices. Antalya is pricey, and there are better options for the Turkish beaches. But if you're looking for comparable beach options like Thailand, you will not find them in Turkey. However, I would never recommend visiting Turkey for anything. Without fail, you will get the chits, you know, Motazuma's Revenge. Turks are nasty and don't wash their hands. My experience after several years and multiple trips to Turkey. I don't even care to fly Turkish Airlines, and not even transit through the airport. There you go, the good and bad based on my experience. Good luck, but I'd visit elsewhere.

I've applied for many of my Thai wife's friends to visit Australia. If they have plenty of money in the bank (or a joint account) and are married/live with a westerner, they should be able to get a visitor visa (usually covers 12 months with max. 30 days per stay).

You don't need a return ticket or evidence of bookings etc. to fill in the online application form.

They typically need to show at least 100,000 Baht in a sole or joint bank account (6months of bank records) and evidence they will return to Thailand (home ownership, children or job etc.)

You need a lot of proof that she won’t do a runner in Australia. Proof like lots of photos as a family unit. Proof of asset ownership in Thailand. Copies of pages in Passport showing her as a seasoned traveler elsewhere and returning home. I’d recommend getting an agent to apply for hers. I took my partner to Australia but she was denied the first application I did but a subsequent one by an agent, no problem. I was a long term employee of the Australian Government at the time, having travelled on diplomatic passports and even I couldn’t get her application right.

1 hour ago, NedR69 said:

I've made many trips to Turkey, about 14 times, including multiple trips to Istanbul, Antalya, and Izmir. Also, I spent a weekend in a Turkish resort in Marmaris, and it was better than Antalya - beachy, touristy, cleaner, and cheaper prices. Antalya is pricey, and there are better options for the Turkish beaches. But if you're looking for comparable beach options like Thailand, you will not find them in Turkey. However, I would never recommend visiting Turkey for anything. Without fail, you will get the chits, you know, Motazuma's Revenge. Turks are nasty and don't wash their hands. My experience after several years and multiple trips to Turkey. I don't even care to fly Turkish Airlines, and not even transit through the airport. There you go, the good and bad based on my experience. Good luck, but I'd visit elsewhere.

Agree, been to Antalya and the surrounding area only twice though, but I didn't much like the beach, very hot to walk on, the sand is much more rough (small 'stones'). Maybe he at least should not go there during the hottest summer months. It can be freakishly hot.

And yes, I got the chits both times (they probably used tap water for ice cubes..), the last time it was a nightmare on my way back to Norway...

3 hours ago, Stevemercer said:

I've applied for many of my Thai wife's friends to visit Australia. If they have plenty of money in the bank (or a joint account) and are married/live with a westerner, they should be able to get a visitor visa (usually covers 12 months with max. 30 days per stay).

You don't need a return ticket or evidence of bookings etc. to fill in the online application form.

They typically need to show at least 100,000 Baht in a sole or joint bank account (6months of bank records) and evidence they will return to Thailand (home ownership, children or job etc.)

Unless things have recently changed, that's never been a requirement.

my sister emigrated to aus 25 years ago, even then she had to jump through many hoops. unfortunately, it it what it is, stay calm and follow the procedure. it's worth it as they are amazing places to visit. people bang on about thai beaches but only because they have never been to australia and seen what an amazing beach actually looks like.

35 minutes ago, it is what it is said:

my sister emigrated to aus 25 years ago, even then she had to jump through many hoops. unfortunately, it it what it is, stay calm and follow the procedure. it's worth it as they are amazing places to visit. people bang on about thai beaches but only because they have never been to australia and seen what an amazing beach actually looks like.

Thanks for your reply (and all the others). Yes, I've been to Australia and agree it's a great place to visit. But given the bewildering array of 30 odd Aus visa types, and the weeks of waiting, the plethora of things needed, and all the other stuff. We're not going - same for NZ. Way too much trouble. We were planning 3 weeks for both. There are three of us including an adult kid. I figure the 2 countries are out some USD 25-30k in revenue - hotels, restaurants, rental cars, domestic flights - not including long-haul airfares. Maybe they have so many tourists from Western countries the loss doesn't matter much to them.

6 hours ago, Stevemercer said:

they should be able to get a visitor visa (usually covers 12 months with max. 30 days per stay).

The normal is 3 months max stay. They can also give a multiple entry with 3 months max each stay. My wife gets a multi entry for three years each time but have heard they can give 10 year multi visa for frequent visitor. Will try that next time.

1 hour ago, ronnie50 said:

the bewildering array of 30 odd Aus visa types

You would apply for the 600 Visitor visa.

Since China announced it's expanding its 30 day visa exemption to more countries we may consider a Beijing/Shanghai trip. Thais can enter visa free since 2024. China's not my first choice for a holiday/visit, been there for work several times, but we're running out of options for Thai passports as we've been to most of the other visa exempt countries (e.g. Bali, Malaysia, Vietnam, Japan, HK, Sing). Not really interested in Korea and NedR69 has put me off Turkey. Only been to Istanbul once, not a place I'd be itching to return and the beaches don't sound great either, nor does the toilet intimacy. Maybe back to a different part of Vietnam.

Australia is a favorite place for Asians to overstay hence the strict visa rules. The fact that you’re not an Australian don’t expect any special favors from the Australian government not that it amounts to much anyway. Loss of potential income from you does not matter to them.

On 1/29/2026 at 7:01 PM, GreasyFingers said:

The normal is 3 months max stay. They can also give a multiple entry with 3 months max each stay. My wife gets a multi entry for three years each time but have heard they can give 10 year multi visa for frequent visitor. Will try that next time.

I'm currently in the process of applying for that frequent visitor visa for my Thai wife. She has made many trips to Australia over the past decade, usually has the 12 month/90 day visa, once she was granted the 3 year/90 day visa. So this time having a shot at the 10 year one, though they make it clear that you may not get 10 years, you may get less. The application fee is $1480 compared to $200 for the 12/90 one. But I reckon it's worth a shot, even if she got 5 years it'll be worth it. One interesting thing is she didn't have to go to BKK to do biometrics because she has done the biometrics previously. Instead we were told to download an app to her phone then scan her PP chip, scan the data page of her PP, and take a photo of her face, and all that gets uploaded auto. This was great for us because we live upcountry 280kms from BKK, so we were saved all that time and expense. Application went in last week, now we're just waiting. We have a few pluses that may make the difference. Wife owns her own home in Thailand, plus she owns 2 large lots of land used for fruit farming. She has a track record of making several trips to Oz (about a dozen) and always returning to Thailand. I own an apartment in Oz, so I'm providing accommodation, plus a have a pretty decent bank balance in Oz (100K AUD). So I think these are important factors they look at.

On 1/29/2026 at 2:04 PM, Brettoj said:

You need a lot of proof that she won’t do a runner in Australia. Proof like lots of photos as a family unit. Proof of asset ownership in Thailand. Copies of pages in Passport showing her as a seasoned traveler elsewhere and returning home. I’d recommend getting an agent to apply for hers. I took my partner to Australia but she was denied the first application I did but a subsequent one by an agent, no problem. I was a long term employee of the Australian Government at the time, having travelled on diplomatic passports and even I couldn’t get her application right.

As you have used an agent before can you recommend one please.

2 hours ago, grain said:

One interesting thing is she didn't have to go to BKK to do biometrics because she has done the biometrics previously. Instead we were told to download an app to her phone then scan her PP chip, scan the data page of her PP, and take a photo of her face, and all that gets uploaded auto. This was great for us because we live upcountry 280kms from BKK, so we were saved all that time and expense.

That is very interesting so will copy it and store in my Oz visa file as have never heard of it before.

If you are using an ImmiAccount, after you have uploaded all of the necessary documents, I think (as it is 3 years since last time) , before you hit the apply button there is an option to submit additional information. I have included a letter request for the 3 year period because of my family situation (older siblings) where we might need to return to Oz on short notice.

3 hours ago, grain said:

One interesting thing is she didn't have to go to BKK to do biometrics because she has done the biometrics previously. Instead we were told to download an app to her phone then scan her PP chip, scan the data page of her PP, and take a photo of her face, and all that gets uploaded auto. This was great for us because we live upcountry 280kms from BKK, so we were saved all that time and expense.

The double quote is because the AN system went down

On 1/29/2026 at 9:17 AM, Will27 said:

Unless things have recently changed, that's never been a requirement.

So, you can go to Australia with no money in your bank account. Really?

Last I heard it was $4500AUD needed.

6 hours ago, AustinRacing said:

Australia is a favorite place for Asians to overstay hence the strict visa rules. The fact that you’re not an Australian don’t expect any special favors from the Australian government not that it amounts to much anyway. Loss of potential income from you does not matter to them.

as the OP, let me just add that while you are probably correct that Australia might well be a place to overstay for SE Asians to work because it's closer to home - but as what - Thai or Vietnamese cooks? - you place Australia as some shining light in the world for them to want to emigrate for financial gain. I like Australia and think it's a really nice place to visit. BTAF, You're kidding yourself. All of them would prefer the USA or EU as a target with much greater financial gain than sleepy low poplated Aus. Most would choose Japan or Korea as options - even UK or Canada. My claim stands - your country has a ridiculous number of visa categories - like 30-odd - for everyone - that takes weeks - WTAF for?? Get over your self. Nice place, been there done that. Not going back with my family. Look forward to next year's new year's Sydney Harbour (or Harbor?) Bridge fireworks - on TV.

Can anyone please recommend an agent to get my partner of 12 years a visa to holiday in Australia with me for 10 weeks.

2 hours ago, KhunHeineken said:

So, you can go to Australia with no money in your bank account. Really?

Last I heard it was $4500AUD needed.

Like I said, unless it's changed, which I doubt, a set amount has never been required.