Can I extend my 30-day exemption stay in Chiang Mai at Central Festival, and when is the best time to do it?

Nov 29, 2023
a year ago
James **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
US passport here 30 days exempt in Chiang Mai. I want to extend my stay at the Central Festival office. My hotel says I should wait until later on in my 30, but would like to do it ASAP. Thanks
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A US passport holder can extend their 30-day exempt stay in Chiang Mai anytime during the first 30 days. It's recommended to do so at the Central Festival office. However, avoid visiting on Mondays and Fridays, as these are the busiest days. Additionally, ensure that a TM30 address registration is on file with Thai Immigration before applying for the extension, and be prepared to pay around 1900 Thai baht for the extension.
Michael *******
There is an office in Central Festival?
Steven ***********
@Michael ******
, no, sorry, this is Chiang Mai I'm talking about, as per the original post.
Steven ***********
@Michael ******
, yes at the back on the 2nd floor. It worked pretty smoothly when I went for my extension, and I'm told it's generally not as busy or as stressful as the office near the airport.

I went at 1pm and I was there for 2 hours 45 mins in total. I'm told that if.you go at 8am / 8.30am (even before it opens), you may get everything done in 60-90 minutes.
Michael *******
@Steven **********
thank you but since you mention airport, I guess I. Should ask, you are speaking of the central festival in Pattaya correct.? The only Central Festival I know of
James **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks for the info. I was wondering if there are any problem days . How are the days before and after a holiday?
Tod *********
@James *********
mondays/fridays and the day they reopen right after a holiday closure are busy,
Brandon ************
James ********
You can do it anytime during the first 30 days. Avoid Monday and Friday as they are the busiest days. Be sure to have a TM30 address registration on file with Thai Immigration.

THESE are the common found requirements for the 30 days extension of stay at your local Thai Immigration office for 1900 Thai baht.
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