Do I need to file a new TM30 when returning to Thailand after traveling abroad?

May 3, 2018
6 years ago
Alan *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
When returning to a long-term home in Thailand after visiting another country, do you need to file a new TM30, or update an old one?

IT DEPENDS. There has been a lot of discussion about this. In Bangkok, no; in Phuket, definitely yes. In Chiang Mai… nobody seemed to know for sure.

I finally have good information on this, because I was paying an agent to renew my visa and asked her. She says you don’t have to report for 2 months. That’s a lot of latitude—chances are you’ll be reporting for some other reason before that time is up.

So that’s the current rule in Chiang Mai. Ask again next month, maybe it will be different. :-D
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TLDR : Answer Summary
When returning to Thailand after traveling abroad, whether you need to file a new TM30 depends on the location. In Bangkok, it is not required, while in Phuket, it definitely is. In Chiang Mai, the rule is less clear, with one source stating you do not need to report for 2 months after returning. The topic is subject to change, and local enforcement can vary.
Bernd ***********
I will try with my landlord to register TM30 online. Will try to open an account here :
***********************************


Will see if it works.
Roger *******
David Broadfoot thanks alot, i will try that next time.
Roger *******
Ok thanks
Bernd ***********
@Roger ******
As I said before, I will try with my landlord and will see the outcome. I don't use any friends ID as I need the house owner
Roger *******
Bernd Moonfruit David Broadfoot I stay in my condo and report to Chaeng wattana with a tm30 each time i enter Thailand, there were 300 people before me last time😕 I have a Thai ID number. Can i register and report online next time insted of going to immigration?
Bernd ***********
David Broadfoot What can I/we do with that account? Only TM30 ? I'm still waiting my landlord appears so we can try. Only a Thai can apply as a Thai ID number is necessary.
Alan *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
!!!!???? Everyone has a different opinion, but this agent deals with the immigration office every day. I think she knows how they actually work it. If I hear anything different tomorrow, when I pick up my new visa, I will let you know. 😂
Alan *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
In a nutshell, that’s why an agent might be worth the money for some of us
Tod *********
@Al**
just an anecdotal tale. Agents out at the immigration office in Bangkok can take people apply for a 90 day Non-O visa, apply for a yearly extension AND get a re-entry permit ALL issued on the same exact day. All the person has to do is show up an get their photo taken.

When I accompany people to do the same thing it takes 3 visits to the immigration office (apply, wait two weeks get the visa, wait 2 months go apply for the extension and re-entry permit) and it involves waiting in queues for 3 different sections :O :/
Alan *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
—that would explain a lot!
Tod *********
also remember something. What is policy for agents (that grease the wheel at the immigration office to push paper for people and get extensions) is NOT necessarily what the policy is for rank and file people tryin' to color inside the lines.
Mary ********
I have heard you have to report if you leave CM province for more than 24 hours! Have they backed off on that?
Tod *********
They changed their mind about requiring TM.30's for just out of province travel, it's only when you come back from out of the country now
Robert *******
No, you don't have to report that you leave. You report when you arrive within 24 hours if you stay on a private address.
Ah *****
Following
Robert *******
I did hear from friends in Chang Mai that living there long term on Extensions of Stay, having the yellow house book as proof of address than Immigration do not enforce the TM 30 after short stay abroad. It makes it confusion.
Tod *********
I think your 'agent' is a little (or a LOT :O) out of touch with how the TM.30 is currently being enforced in Chiang Mai.

People were being told that IF they were on a long term extension (90 days at a time for ED people or a year at a time for others) and returned from out of the country they DID have to go to the immigration office and get their TM.30 receipt stamped with the new date.
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