Can I extend my STV for another 3 months despite the program ending in September 2022?

STV Visa Thailand Visa Rules Visa Extension Immigration Border Run Pattaya Visa Office Visa Expiry Expat Life in Thailand

Aug 29, 2022

2 years ago

Dan *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hey all, I'm here on the STV and my first 3 months coming to an end this Monday, 5th of September. I'll be heading to Pattaya to extend on that date. I realise they mentioned ending the STV at the end of September 2022. 

Am I still good to extended the next 3 months? (And the following 3 months - being a total of nine months in the end)

Thanks

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The original poster (OP) is currently on a Special Tourist Visa (STV) with its first 3-month period ending soon. They are unsure if they can extend their visa for another 3 months given the program's impending termination at the end of September 2022. Commenters indicate mixed experiences with extensions, noting that while some have successfully received extensions, others faced limitations based on specific immigration office policies. It appears that a last extension may depend on the individual office handling the application. The OP also inquires about options after the STV expires, confirming that a border run to obtain a new visa is necessary as conversions within Thailand are not permitted.

Dan *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I see, thanks. In terms of a border run, I'm based near to Pattaya. What is the best approach for achieving a border run? Apply for a visa first / do all the online information. Then go stay in Laos or Cambodia for a couple of nights? Haven't done a border run before, any advice would be most welcome!

2 years ago

Donna *******

@Dan ********

ive been looking into border cross also, we have been looking at Ho Chi Minh apply for 60 day visa and return. You need to book an appointment online for HCM and allow at least 3 - 5 days for visa process.

We are also looking at Bali for a few months and then return to Thailand.

I'm only looking at flights not land crossings.

2 years ago

Dan *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Donna ******

Thank you for the advice :)

2 years ago

Reply to

Dan *********

Donna *******

Samui immigration just gave me 90 day STV extension up to 25th Nov

2 years ago

Dan *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thank you all for the advice. Fingers crossed I guess... When my STV does end at some point, is my only option to fly back to the UK and return to Thailand on a new Visa? Is there an option for me to get a new visa while here or a border run somehwere?

2 years ago

Jasmine ********

@Dan ********

were you able to get a 90 day extension? Our first 3 months is coming to an end soon so hoping also to still get 2 more extensions also.

2 years ago

Jasmine ********

Awesome! Thanks for answering. Do you feel like you’ll get your next and final extension also?

2 years ago

Dan *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Jasmine *******

I think it will be also be fine

2 years ago

Reply to

Dan *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Jasmine *******

Hi, yes, was able to extend with no issues

2 years ago

Reply to

Dan *********

Kool *******

@Dan ********

now that the 60 day covid extensions have ended, you must leave, and come back,as one of the stipulations of the visa was that you can not convert to another type of visa inside Thailand.

2 years ago

Donna *******

@Dan ********

you will need to do a boarder run and come back in on a new visa, you can not convert STV to another visa within Thailand

2 years ago

Reply to

Donna *******

Jasmine ********

@Dan ********

Someone got an extension of 3 months 1.5 weeks ago and I arrived on it for the first time last week and was given 3 months and plan to try and get an extension regardless of whether it ends or not at the end of September. So just try and don’t let negative reports put you off, I’m glad I still got the STV.

2 years ago

Andy *******

It's up to the particular Office. There is usually an announcement closer to program expiration. Nobody knows but last year when the program was expiring they had planned to ensure STV folks get their 270 days so I would think you'll be fine but once again, nobody knows.

2 years ago

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

The consulate really shouldn't have even sold you the STV knowing it was ending.

You should be able to get one more extension, but there have been reports of some offices only adding time until September 30th, and not giving the full 90 day extension. The only way to know what the office you are using will do is to apply.

You will not be able to get another extension after this one, since the program is ending.

2 years ago

Reply to

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

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What is the status of the Special Tourist Visa (STV) in Thailand after 30 September 2022?

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