How long can I extend my visa exempt stay in Thailand and what reasons are acceptable for the extension?

Question

Hi, we picked up forms from Samui Immigratuon this morning to extend our stay in Thailand. We are heading back over this afternoon but wondered how many days to put in the extension section. I’ve read some conflicting advice about this, some say it’s 30 days (we came on visa exempt 45 days) however some say you can extend for 60 days due to the current situation? In the reason for extension is it acceptable to say that due to the UK adding Thailand to the red list we want to stay longer?

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user inquired about the duration for extending their visa exempt stay in Thailand, as they received mixed information about possibly being able to extend for 30 or 60 days. From the comments, it was clarified that a first extension of a visa exempt entry typically grants an additional 30 days. However, under the COVID-19 hardship extension, it may be possible to apply for a 60-day extension, provided the application occurs within 45 days of the current stamp's expiration. The reason for the extension is generally flexible, and stating it relates to COVID-19 or a desire to extend the holiday is advised.

Donna ************ · Answer

Thank you everyone ❤️ 30 day extension complete. Your advice is appreciated !

Steve ******* · Answer

30 days extention to a visa exempt entry unless you have Thai dependent relatives then it's 60 days.

Marguyvin ********** · Answer

If it's your first extension since you arrived, then you get 30 days as a standard extension. Then you may attempt to apply for a 60-day covid hardship extension up to 45 days before your new extension stamp expires (if the government has not ended covid extension program by the time you apply). Just write reason: Covid-19

Stuart ********* · Answer

They usually don’t worry too much about the reason. Just say you want to extend your holiday here.

Stuart ********* · Answer

If it’s your first extension off a exempt entry then you’d get 30 days added to your existing stamp. Some offices will allow you to apply for the Covid extension without getting the “regular” extension first, but usually it’ll be 60 days from when you apply - not added on to your existing stamp because you’re “changing the reason” for an extension.

How long can I extend my visa exempt stay in Thailand and what reasons are acceptable for the extension?

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