Answered5 days ago

Can I enter Thailand on a visa exemption before my re-entry non-O visa expires and still apply for a one-year extension?

Non-O Visa Visa Extension Re-entry Permit Thailand Immigration Visa Exemption

Richard ************

asked Oct 22, 2026

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I have a non O visa. Single entry.  I bought a re-entry once already. And that one is used now. 

I can apply for an 1 year non O visa extension about 30 days before my re-entry non O visa expires. For me that is 7 December. 

My Question:

May I come into Thailand next time (before December) on a visa exception, and then apply for my one year extension of my non O?

Or do I have to do this on an other re-entry non O visa?

Answer summary

The user inquires if they can enter Thailand using a visa exemption prior to their non-O visa's re-entry expiration and still apply for a one-year extension. Community responses clarify that to maintain non-O visa status for an extension, the user cannot enter on a visa exemption, as this would change their status to that of a tourist. They would need another re-entry permit to preserve their eligibility for an extension.

6 repliesnewest first

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Graham ******

You either complete your extension and get a re-entry permit or you start again with a new Non-O

5 days ago

Richard ************

Graham Seal I was afraid of that. But no problem. I will get another re-entry

5 days ago

John **********

Having a re-entry permit just keeps your current stay alive when you leave and return, it doesn't add anything to it. If you want to keep your status alive so you can apply for that extension you need another re-entry permit. Once you have the extension you can buy a multiple re-entry permit so you can come and go as much as you want for the duration of the extension

5 days ago

Richard ************

@John *********

thank you! Just wanted to see if I could come in on a visa exception to organize this. (I am Dutch, wanted to save the 1500 for a re-entry. I know it’s 1000 but not on koh Chang)

I will get my re-entry and apply for my extension and multi entry next month

5 days ago

John **********

@Richard ***********

if you're flying out you can get it at the main airports

5 days ago

Brandon ************

You can only apply for the extension from the visa. If you leave and return with visa exempt, you'll just be a tourist and only eligible to apply for a tourist visa. You might be able to apply for a conversion to non-O visa from your immigration office if you already have the required funds in a Thai bank account, but that is up to the immigration office to decide.

5 days ago