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Tag: Thailand visa extension

  • Thailand Visa Extension Guide: Fees, Process, and Common Mistakes

    Thailand Visa Extension Guide: Fees, Process, and Common Mistakes

    Many travelers arrive in Thailand planning to stay for a short holiday.
    But after a few days, they often want more time.

    Common reasons include:

    • Enjoying the beaches and islands
    • Visiting different cities
    • Waiting for a flight to another country
    • Spending time with friends or family

    If you are already in Thailand, you may ask:

    “Can I extend my stay?”
    “How much does it cost?”
    “What documents do I need?”

    This guide explains the Thailand visa extension process for 2025 in simple English.

    ⚠️ This article is informational only. Immigration officers make the final decision.

    1. Introduction

    Thailand is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia.
    Tourists often enter for:

    • 30 days (visa exemption)
    • 60 days (tourist visa)

    Sometimes travel plans change. Flights are delayed. You want to explore more.

    The good news is:

    ✔ In many cases, tourists can extend their stay.
    ✔ The process is usually simple if you prepare correctly.

    2. Can Tourists Extend Their Visa in Thailand?

    Yes, many tourist entries can be extended.

    The most common types that can usually be extended:

    • Visa Exemption (30 days entry)
    • Tourist Visa (60 days entry)

    General extension rule

    Most tourist entries can be extended:

    • One time
    • Usually for 30 more days

    📌 Extensions are not automatic. Approval depends on immigration officers.

    3. Where to Apply for a Thailand Visa Extension

    You must apply at a local immigration office in Thailand.

    Immigration offices are available in:

    • Bangkok
    • Chiang Mai
    • Phuket
    • Pattaya
    • Major cities and tourist areas

    All offices are managed by the
    สำนักงานตรวจคนเข้าเมือง

    You must apply:

    • Before your current stay expires
    • During office hours

    📌 Do not wait until the last day if possible.

    4. Thailand Visa Extension Fees (2025)

    Standard tourist extension fee

    As of 2025, the typical extension fee is:

    • 1,900 Thai Baht

    This fee usually applies to:

    • 30-day extension
    • Visa exemption extension
    • Tourist visa extension

    Important notes

    • Fee is usually paid in cash
    • Fee is normally non-refundable
    • Payment is made at immigration office

    📌 Fees may change in the future.

    5. Step-by-Step Visa Extension Process

    Below is a simple step-by-step guide.

    Step 1: Check Your Expiry Date

    Look at your passport stamp.

    Check:

    • Entry date
    • Allowed stay date

    📌 Do not confuse visa validity with stay permission.

    Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

    Make sure you have:

    • Passport
    • Photocopies
    • Passport photo

    Details listed in the next section.

    Step 3: Go to Immigration Office

    Arrive early if possible.

    At the office:

    • Take a queue number
    • Wait for your turn

    Step 4: Submit Your Application

    You will:

    • Fill out extension form
    • Submit documents
    • Pay the fee

    An officer will review your application.

    Step 5: Receive Extension Stamp

    If approved:

    • Immigration will stamp your passport
    • New stay date will be written

    Always check the new date before leaving.

    6. Documents Required for Thailand Visa Extension

    While requirements can vary slightly, most tourists need:

    Required documents

    • Passport (valid for entire stay)
    • Copy of passport information page
    • Copy of latest entry stamp page
    • Extension application form (TM7 form)
    • 4×6 cm passport photo
    • Extension fee (1,900 THB)

    Sometimes requested

    • Proof of accommodation
    • Return or onward ticket
    • Proof of funds (rare but possible)

    📌 Bring extra copies to avoid delays.

    7. How Long Does the Extension Take?

    In most cases:

    • Same-day processing
    • 30 minutes to several hours depending on location

    Busy offices (Bangkok, Phuket) may take longer.

    Factors that affect waiting time:

    • Number of applicants
    • Public holidays
    • Staff availability

    📌 Arrive early to avoid long lines.

    8. Common Mistakes Tourists Make

    Many extension problems are simple mistakes.

    Frequent errors

    • Waiting until the last day
    • Bringing no passport photo
    • Forgetting photocopies
    • Misunderstanding expiry date
    • Dressing inappropriately (some offices have dress rules)

    📌 Small mistakes can cause delays.

    9. What Happens If You Overstay Instead?

    Overstay means staying longer than allowed.

    Consequences include:

    • Daily fine per day overstayed
    • Fine paid at airport or immigration
    • Possible entry ban (long overstays)

    Even 1 day overstay counts.

    Long overstays may lead to:

    • Blacklisting
    • Future visa problems

    📌 Extending properly is much safer than overstaying.

    10. FAQ Section

    Q1: Can I extend more than once?

    Usually tourist extensions are limited to one extension. Check your visa type.

    Q2: Can someone apply for me?

    Generally, you must appear in person.

    Q3: What if my passport expires soon?

    Your passport should be valid for your entire stay. Renewal may be required first.

    Q4: Can I extend at any immigration office?

    Usually yes, but some offices only serve residents of certain provinces.

    Q5: Can I work during a tourist extension?

    No. Tourist visas and extensions do not allow work.

    Q6: What if my extension is refused?

    You may need to leave Thailand before your current stay expires.

    11. Disclaimer

    Immigration rules can change at any time.
    Extension approval depends on:

    • Immigration officers
    • Current policies
    • Your individual situation

    This article provides general information only and is not legal advice.

    Always check official immigration sources before applying.

    Final Note

    Extending your stay in Thailand is usually simple when:

    • You prepare early
    • You bring correct documents
    • You follow the process calmly

    With proper preparation, you can enjoy more time in Thailand without stress.

    Safe travels ✈️🌏