Can I extend my 30-day visa exemption in Thailand as an Indian national?

Apr 15, 2024
7 months ago
Pragun ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I am an Indian, currently residing in US, and planning to visit Thailand in April. I know Indians have a 30-day visa exemption currently. I want to know can that be extended? If I want to be there for 37 days, what should I do? Request immigration officer?

Also, I will be staying in a monastery for 30 days. Do I need to book return ticket in advance of 30 days from the date of arrival in Thailand? Also, do I need to show the immigration officer anything about my stay?

Your advice is greatly appreciated ๐Ÿ™
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TLDR : Answer Summary
An Indian national currently residing in the US is inquiring about the possibility of extending the 30-day visa exemption for a trip to Thailand. It is suggested that while some immigration offices may allow a 30-day extension under certain conditions, it is generally recommended to apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa in advance to facilitate a stay longer than 30 days. Additionally, it is noted that a return ticket may not be mandatory at immigration but could be required by the airline during check-in.
Ah ********************
****************************


Maybe you can check the visa you need and apply in advance for 37 days stay.
Pragun ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ah *******************
how long it takes from date of application to get the visa if I apply online ? for Indians ?
Ellie *******
@Pragun *******
, check the website of the exact embassy/consulate where you applied, depending on the address of your residence, each has a different processing time.
Ellie *******
[Editted]

Unfortunately, the policy for tourism extension on temporary visa-exempt entry for Indian nationals varies by immigration office. Some issue 30-day extensions with conditions. some do as normal exempt entry, but some don't issue tourism extensions to those temporary exempt entries.

Anyway, if you want to stay more than 30 days 29 nights, you better to apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa where you are now before you head to Thailand. It'd reduce hassles.

IF you are entering on a visa-exempt, the Thai immigration officer might not ask for a return ticket, but your air carrier would ask for an outbound ticket to let you check-in. Check with your airline as this part is out of the scope of this group.
Pragun ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ellie ******
thank you so much for your answer. Do you know if I am required to show where I will be staying (hotel booking or something to anyone) ? Also, do you know if I am going to Suvarnabhumi Airport (bankok), does this immigration office give extension ?
Ellie *******
@Pragun *******
, You will go to the immigration office at IT Square Laksi Plaza if you enter on visa-exempt entry. You cannot get any extension at airports. You have to have a TM30 receipt of your address in Bangkok. You also need an outbound ticket to apply for a 30-day tourism extension, in addition to general requirements.
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