Visa extensions for marriage

[Robin]

Is there a financial requirement for extending a Non-Im O visa for marriage?  

My friend, UK National, married to Thai, with 2 children, has just re-extended his visa at Chiang Khong and had to show 250,000 Baht in a Thai bank.  He was then told that next year he will need 400,000 in the bank and an income of 40,000 Baht a month.

Is this right? Or were they looking for some ‘assistance’ next year?

Please do not ask me why he goes to this place, other than it is nearest Immigration Office, as they have to send everything to Bangkok for stamping.  I go to Bangkok and get my extension for retirement, despite having a Thai wife, as this was what the Immigration officer suggested as the easiest way.  A letter from my bank and I get the stamp there and then, well worth the journey.

Thanks for an excellent web site.

[lopburi3]

Is there a financial requirement for extending a Non-Im O visa for marriage?  

Yes.  What your friend is required to do is what everyone is required to do if they want to extend there stay in country.  Those without the requirements must obtain a multi entry non immigrant class O visa each year and exit the country every 90 days.

The requirements are scheduled to change next year but I suspect those already with extensions of stay will only be required to have the old requirements as long as they continue without a break.  It is not clear yet.

Retirement requires 800k presently and officials are free to stamp extensions immediately.  If the bank account of a marriage applicant has 800k believe they can immediately stamp the extension also.

[Robin]

I did not make myself clear.  

What is the current and proposed new financial requirement for a marriage extension.  My friend has extended his twice or more already, but is worried about the comments from Immigration.

Is this increase in retirement charges confirmed, or just rumour?