Can I apply for a 30-day tourism extension in Thailand while I wait to apply for a marriage-based visa?

Thailand Visa Visa Extension Marriage Visa Non-O Visa Visa Exempt TM.7 Application Immigration Rules

Dec 24, 2024

2 days ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

I have been living in the far north of Chiang Mai province for a few years now on extensions based on marriage to a Thai but now I am here on a visa exempt. I will apply for a new visa based on marriage to a Thai next month after I have the required funds in my bank account. In the meantime, I need an extension because my visa exempt will expire next week, before I have the funds in my account for the new visa application.

Will immigration balk if I apply for a 30 day, so-called "tourism" extension? If not, what should I put as the reason for staying on the TM.7 application? A quick look through my passport makes it obvious I am not here as a tourist.

I ask because my wife is 6-months pregnant and prefers not to make the trip to the city this time - she would need to be present if I was applying 60 day extension based on visiting Thai family.

I guess another option would be a border bounce via Chiang Khong/Huay Xai. Are they currently requiring an overnight stay (or longer?) in Laos?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A resident of Chiang Mai province on a visa exempt seeks advice on applying for a 30-day tourism extension while awaiting the funds for a marriage visa application. The individual is concerned about the immigration authorities' reception of their application for an extension given their long-term residency status and current visa situation. Another option considered is a border bounce to Laos, where questions about the duration of required stays are raised.

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Tod *********

You're far from the first person who 'lost' their marriage visa/extension, entered visa exempt and then took a 30 day tourism extension on that to buy time to get the funds together and in order so they can apply for a new 90 day Non-O.

So if you can get your ducks in a row in on the 30 day tourism extension go take it. Then apply for the 90 day Non-O visa after that

As far as bouncing out and back at the lao border, you stay out as long as the officer stamping you out of the country says you stay out (one to two nights are being reported) and you show proof you're leaving the country in 60 days when you stamp back in <- that is also being reported

2 days ago

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Tod *********

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