Answered8 years ago

Is it better to extend a visa exempt stay in Thailand instead of flying abroad?

Visa Extension Visa Exempt Thailand Immigration Non-immigrant Visa O Visa Policies Extending Stay in Thailand

asked May 8, 2018

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Hi, I’m here visa exempt (Philippines) until the 21st of May. Is it better to get an extension from Cheangwattana instead of flying abroad to save money? Is there a limit to the number of times one can get this extension? Is there a downside to getting a 30-day extension instead of flying to somewhere else? 

I’ll be in Bangkok until 1st week of June. Rest of June, will stay abroad. Come back and stay in Bangkok and finish my work in July (visa exempt) and August (Visa exempt extension) then leave Bangkok for good.

Background: I have a history of having non-immigrant O visa (volunteer). I’m now on my 2nd visa exempt entry, zero extensions this year. I just wanna know if this setup will give me problems at the immigration.

Answer summary

The poster is currently in Thailand on a visa-exempt entry from the Philippines and is considering whether to get a 30-day extension or fly abroad to save money. They inquire about the limitations on extensions, the implications of getting an extension on their immigration record, and whether they will face potential issues with their immigration status given their history of visa usage. The comments clarify that the extension does not count against visa-exempt entries, so they should not face problems extending their stay.

8 repliesnewest first

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Tod *********

I agree with

@Al**

you shouldn't have any problem getting a 30 day extension

Extensions DO NOT count as anything but an extension you have to ENTER the country on a visa exempt entry to have it count

8 years ago

KC ********

Are these the only requirements when applying for a visa extension?

Copies of Passport, latest Entry stamp and latest TM Card (Embarkation Card).

8 years ago

Tod *********

@Kri***

you should just to be prepared in case you're questioned.

8 years ago

KC ********

Okay great thank you! So whenever I fly from abroad, do I need to always be prepared to have a story as to why I’ve been staying here in Bangkok? And I assume I need 20k baht, proof of onward travel and proof of accommodation too?

8 years ago

KC ********

Does the extension count as another visa exempt? In which case, I’ll get a red flag from the immigration after around 6 visa exempt entries I believe ?

8 years ago

Alan *******

You will be fine with an extension, it doesn’t count against you.

8 years ago