Can I extend a 45-day visa exemption in Thailand and transfer to a volunteer or education visa while in-country?

Visa Exemption Visa Extension Thailand Immigration Volunteer Visa ED Visa Travel Requirements Health Insurance PCR Test Requirements

Aug 16, 2021

3 years ago

Jason ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello, everyone, I have a few questions. 

Can someone arrive on a 45 day exemption, and then you can still get an extension at immigration? If so, is it only a one time, 30 day extension? 

Is it possible to transfer to a volunteer or ED visa while in-country without leaving?

Requirements to arrive on the exemption:

COE 

Health insurance that covers Covid---can this be travel insurance?

I think I read, a PCR test with 72 hours

Is there anything else required?

Thank you for any help!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user inquires about the possibility of extending a 45-day visa exemption in Thailand and transferring to a volunteer or education visa without leaving the country. They also seek clarification on the requirements needed for arrival under the exemption, such as the Certificate of Entry (COE), health insurance coverage for COVID-19, and a PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. A commenter confirms that only a single 30-day extension is permitted for visa-exempt entries.

Timmy ******

Yes, you are ONLY allowed one 30 Day Extension. I arrived Visa Exempt from USA. I did my ASQ in BKK and got my Extension at MTT immigration Office.

3 years ago

Jason ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Are you leaving after that, or transferring to a long-term visa?

3 years ago

Timmy ******

@Jason *******

Long term, Non-O Age (50+)

3 years ago

Jason ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Timmy *****

I got the rest correct?...COE, travel insurance covering Covid, PCR test within 72 hrs?...of course, the ASQ hotel booking.

3 years ago

Timmy ******

@Jason *******

What passport do you have? I ask because Thailand has a list of countries it allows to enter Visa Exempt. Your documents sound correct except make sure your PCR Test says "RT- PCR". That was a big deal at the time.

3 years ago

Jason ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Timmy *****

Does the quarantine have to be done in Bkk? I'm wondering if it can be done in Chiang Mai.

3 years ago

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

@Jason *******

there is no quarantine in Chiang Mai. You can either do AQ in Bangkok or Pattaya, or the Sandbox in Phuket if you're vaccinated and meet the other qualifications.

George *************

or ALQ in Phuket.

Timmy ******

As far as I know, Chiang Mai is not on the list. But there is a Thailand ASQ group you can join for more information. They also have "Sand Box" options like Phuket and Samui if you don't want to do ASQ. Good Luck.

3 years ago

Jason ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Timmy *****

Thanks for your help. I've got a USA passport...been to Thailand a few times already, but am looking to stay long term.

3 years ago

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Jason ********

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