Can I get a COVID extension in Thailand if I can't return to China but have a US passport?

Nov 24, 2021
3 years ago
Tony *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello all!

This is regarding the covid extension and my situation. I am from the US but I have lived in China for the last 10 years. Because of this, I essentially do not have what we would call a "home" back in the US. So I am wondering if I can say I cannot go back to China (even though I am a US passport holder) because the borders are closed? Or would I have to go by the passport I have?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The original post discusses the possibility of receiving a COVID-related extension to stay in Thailand, given that the poster, a US passport holder living in China, cannot return there due to border closures. Community comments suggest that one could apply for an extension by presenting documents such as an embassy statement regarding return policies, proof of local employment, and supporting residency evidence. It's noted that different immigration offices may have varying requirements, and caution is advised when communicating reasons for extension requests.
Benjamin ******
I'm shutting this down since this is getting derailed.

1. Different immigration office have different requirements to get the 60 day extension of stay based on unable to travel due to COVID-19. See
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for my COVID-19 FAQ including the requirements.
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6 for my COVID-19 FAQ including the requirements.

2. The OP has a USA Passport. I know Americans are allowed to return to the USA.

3. Take Wannikea Wanblee's advice above and give as little answers as possible to the immigration officer when asked why you want to stay.

Have a Plan B, just in case you're verbally rejected.

Good luck.
Brian ********
That's what I did. You need a letter from your employer in China stating you can't return.
Wayne **********
Then why ask this group if you have been told the answer by immigration. Do what they are asking of you. Simple.
Benjamin ******
@Brian *******
Which immigration office was that?
Brian ********
Tod *********
@Raymond *****
I think it's totally gonna be up to the immigration office and officer. BUT believe me you CAN leave the country if push comes to shove so that's not even a debatable issue. Now you might not be able to go where you want to but leaving isn't the problem.
Tod *********
Get your copies, your TM7 filled out, have your TM30 (proof of where you're staying) and the 1900baht for the extension READY when you show up in front of the officer. Being prepared is most of it.
Eduard *******
The regulations says either the country stated by passport or residency. The challenge in a case you describe is living long term in a foreign country but most likely do not possess legal status of residency in that country. If that applies to you you'll need to find a way to proof with papers that your life is centered around the country your residing in, even you don't have legal residency. With a documented local work permit and the visa matching that, it should be feasible. Translation provided. If you lack those, you need to find other ways to proof it. Embassy might help (not likely), bank accounts, rental contracts, electric bills etc can help. Being prepared and bring a stack of papers can help to convince an immigration officer, just be prepared if you encounter is first denial and go on and try again.
Benjamin ******
@Eduard ******
lt depends on the passport he entered Thailand on. IF he entered on an American passport, he can (legally) return to America, and his visa status to China will have no influence on his right to stay in Thailand.
Tod *********
@Eduard ******
i do not believe there is any regulation about that at all. I think if they deny your extension you just have to leave and you don't have to go back to your country of passport origin OR a country you used to live in. You just have to leave thailand period. They don't care in the least where you go
Lloyd ********
@Eduard ******
Where is this regulation that you mention?
Wannikea *********
Id just ask for the extension and not say a word unless you are asked, then answer short sentence.
Tod *********
@Wannikea ********
excellent advice. the answer is to follow the KISS adage (Keep It, SUPER Simple) don't go overboard with your answers. WAIT to be asked a question before you answer. Just show up, sit down, hand over your passport, SIGNED copies, TM7 application and 1900baht all at once as if you're already confident you'll get the extension.
Wang ****
May I know who is eligible for 90 days covid extension? Is it for certain countries only ?
Wannikea *********
@Wangmo *******
it's only 60 days, eligibility is at the discretion of the immigration officer
James ********
You can try to explain your situation if asked by Thai Immigration as to why you cannot return to ...China.
Benjamin ******
I'm assuming you entered Thailand on an USA passport. IF the immigration office asks for proof, you would use ONE of the following three documents:

A letter from your embassy saying you can not return, OR;

A print out from your embassy website saying they don’t issue the letters, OR;

A print out of a letter from the embassy saying they don't issue those letters.

The US Embassy has a notice on their website saying they do not issue the letters. You would submit a screenshot of that as proof, if requested.
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