Could I?

[notmyself]

Could I adopt a person with mental retardation and get some kind of visa on the back of it?

[ubonjoe]

Not that I am aware of.

Would this person be Thai or a foreigner? Any relationship to your family?

[notmyself]

Thai and no relation.

Couldn't I get some kind of visa on the basis of being a guardian?

[FritsSikkink]

You should ask an international adoption agency if you are qualified to adopt a person.

[ubonjoe]

No Thai visa or extension of stay rule uses the term guardian. Only parent is used. I think at times people should look up the definition of guardian ( http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/guardian ).

You might be able to get a non-o visa at an embassy or consulate in your home country based upon being the parent of a adopted Thai.child.

There is only one clause of the police order that allows an extension for being the parent of a Thai. It mentions adopted but is not clear that it would be granted. I suspect most immigration office would not allow an application. See clause 2.18 of Police Order 327/2557 basis for extension of stay and Immigration Bureau Order 138/2557 documents for extension of stay.

[KhunBENQ]

Thai and no relation.

Couldn't I get some kind of visa on the basis of being a guardian?

No.

That would be an idea of visa for "general support of a Thai person"

[Kitsune]

If he adopts a child, does not he automatically become his legal parent?

[ubonjoe]

If he adopts a child, does not he automatically become his legal parent?

Yes but only as an adopted parent which is not the same as being a parent by birth when it comes to visas, citizenship and etc.

[jacksam]

Guess adoption offer will be off the table now as does not provide visa. Geezus

[PattayaPhom]

As you said "I" not "we" I assume you are single, and male? If so you are not permitted to adopt a Thai child with special needs.