How can I extend my 30-day visa exemption in Thailand and when is the best time to apply?

April 10, 2023
a year ago
Wo **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
If I arrive in Thailand from Australia on a 30 day visa exemption and want to extend my stay an extra 30 days, is the 30 day extension from the date you attend the immigration office or 30 days from the expiration date of the visa exemption? Ie Can I attend immigration a week prior and stoll get 60 days total or will they just give me 30 days from attendance date, meaning I shouldn't attend immigration until the last day of my visa exemption?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
If you arrive in Thailand on a 30-day visa exemption from Australia and wish to extend your stay by an additional 30 days, you can apply for the extension at the immigration office up to 30 days before your current visa exemption expires. The extension will be added to your existing stamp, totalizing 60 days from your arrival. It is recommended to visit the immigration office around 2 weeks before your visa exemption's expiration date for the best experience, particularly in regions with stricter guidelines like Koh Samui.
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Brian *********
Date of expiration, I did it 3 weeks ago BUT don’t go to the immigration until 2 weeks from the date your supposed to leave. I was early and sent away !
Wo **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks for that. I'll be in Koh Samui. So if I go a week prior it should be all good then?
Wo **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks for the advice everyone. Much appreciated 🙏
Brian *********
@Wo *************
yes. I got there at 8am. Doors open at 8.30 make sure you have all your paperwork in order, I’d go 2 weeks before your leaving date just incase you haven’t got the paperwork correct, there’s ladies at a desk to check all is ok BEFORE your given a ticket there is also a photo copping shop at the immigration, good luck
Wo **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brian ********
Thanks man. Much appreciated.
Brian *********
Ok. Noted !
Stuart *********
@Brian ********
Samui are anal about time prior as are Jomtiem. All other offices allow 30 or even 45 days prior for exempt or tourist extensions.
Brian *********
@Stuart ********
I got my 30 day extension no problem
Alistair **********
@Brian ********
he's not saying that you didn't get your 30 day stamp. But that the 14 day requirement before applying is only for Koh Samui immigration (Jomtien also has a shorter time limit). 30 days left on your stamp is the standard in Thailand, Bangkok allows 45 days.
Graham ******
@Brian ********
Which Immigration Office?
Brian *********
@Graham *****
from where your staying. I’m on koh Samui, the immigration office was 10 mins drive. Got there early before they opened
Phil ********
Phil ********
They add it, total 60 days

You can go straightaway, no delay. 🙃

Only ONE 30 day extension possible, then you must leave LOS

IF in Bangkok:

IT Square Laksi, 3rd floor for visa exempt entry stamp extension

Or any immigration office where you are staying

you need to bring:

** your passport (Duh) 🙄

*passport size photo

*signed in blue ink copy of passport information page

*signed in blue ink copy of entry stamp

* print out copy of visa (if applicable)

* 1,900 baht

* infinite patience with a smile

(photo and copy services available there)

Your hotel or residence should have filed your TM 30 get screenshot or printout

#go early in the morning

# fill in 3 forms available at the office

# your address & local phone number

# don't wear a tank top or flip flops / shorts (though some do-- 555

smile for their web cam 😁
Stuart *********
They add on the days to your existing stamp. Most offices allow you to apply up to 30 days prior.
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