I want to apply for a work permit on my non o visa. I applied for a non o marriage visa from Laos, but was given a 'visit family' non o visa. Can I apply for a work permit on this visa, and if not how can I extend this visa for 60 days or possibly one year?

Yes you can get a work permit and work.

You can apply for a 60 day extension to visit your wife.

You can get a one year extension of stay based upon marriage. You will need 400k baht in the bank or proof of 40k baht income. If you have a work permit and working you can use your income to prove the 40k baht by showing tax payments.

Thanks Ubon Joe - what documents do I need to do a 60 day extension? Also, does it make a difference that the immigration officer rote (in Thai) 'visit family' on the visa? It's my first time to have this.

Your wife will need to go to with you to immigration when you apply for the extension. You will need your marriage certificate and a copy, copies of your wife's house book and ID card.

You may also need proof of residence if not living where your wife's house book is for.

What is on your visa will not matter.

When you apply for the work permit your marriage certificate needs to be attached.

Thanks Ubon Joe

Note that Phuket Labour will not issue a Work Permit against the 60 day 'visiting family' extension, even if it follows on from a 90 day non immigrant 'B' Visa entry.