Do I have to go to immigration on the exact date my 30-day under consideration period ends to get my marriage extension in Thailand?

Hello,

First time post here, but have been following this group for awhile. Thanks to the moderators for all they do.

I recently arrived in Thailand and have a non-Immigrant O visa based on being married to a Thai and was stamped in for 90 days until November 27. I understand I will go to Chiang Mai immigration toward the end of that period and apply for a 1 year extension of stay. When I go to immigration in November they will give me a 30 day “under consideration” period that will go until December 27 (I think). Do I have to go to immigration on exactly that day (Dec 27) to get my passport stamped for 1 year? What if I want to travel domestically and am away from home?

A friend said I have to go on that day (or at least my passport does). This would limit the ability to travel around the holidays. He also said this predicament would continue every year, meaning no travel internationally during holidays in future years. I think I could do the 60 day extension based on visiting family and this would push my yearly cycle into the new year. That seems like a good idea to me. Thoughts?

Thanks,

Bryan