Answered4 years ago
Is it easier to extend a 30/45 day visa exemption in Bangkok or Ko Samui, and how does the timing of the extension affect the validity?
Does anyone with experience of extending a 30/45 day visa exemption stamp know whether it’s easier/quicker to do it in Bangkok or Ko Samui?
Does it matter when during the initial period you get the extension? Do they add the 30 days to the original validity date or from the date of the extension application?
Does it matter when during the initial period you get the extension? Do they add the 30 days to the original validity date or from the date of the extension application?
Answer summary
When considering the extension of a 30/45 day visa exemption stamp, many users express that the process is generally straightforward in both Bangkok and Ko Samui. However, based on user experiences, Bangkok may offer quicker processing times, typically around 30 minutes if visited early in the day. The extension is added to the existing visa validity date, regardless of when during the initial period you apply. It's recommended to visit the immigration office where your TM30 was filed, and the choice between Bangkok or Ko Samui should depend on your proximity to these offices.
25 repliesnewest first
Click comment and we will ask for your email, then OTP, then name.
Robert ************
Extending a Visa Exempt or Tourist Visa is a simple non-problematic process, easily done at any Immig. Office with TM7 App., payment of 1900 Baht Fee, and attaching copies of PP and all relevant stamps, (and copy of TM30 receipt at certain offices).
Robert ************
@Mark ******
Nothing to do with Malaysia or Singapore. But, a TM30 is technically by Thai Immig. Law, for everyone to report their place of residence w/i 24hrs of arrival. (Actually, the Law supposedly requires your Landlord or Hotel to do it, but the Foreigner is the one who suffers if not done -- small fine, and problems at Immig. if apply for Extension). It can be done online, or at your Local Immig. Office. If you are moving around, yes it can be problematic. But, at least do your first on arrival.
Mark *******
OP@Robert ***********
TM30? We’ve been on the road for months at this stage - Thailand Malaysia and Singapore, not a mention of a TM30 so far. What is a TM30 receipt?
Bernard *****
They add to your original whatever the day you go during the 45 first days
Mark *******
OP@Ber****
thank youAlistair **********
Don't know about Samui, but Bangkok is very quick, about 30mins in and out. But only if you go early in the morning (say before 9:30-10am) and don't go first day after a long weekend, or it could be many hours.
Mark *******
OP@Alistair *********
Thank you! 🙂Brandon ************
In Bangkok and Chiang Mai you can get an extension when you have 45 days left, at most other offices it's when you have 30 days or less left.
The time will be added to the end so no reason to wait until the last minute.
You need to go wherever your last TM30 was filed which each hotel should be filing when you checkin. Where you go is really up to you and I'd say depends on how near you'll be to the immigration office at each place.
In Bangkok you'd go to IT Square LakSi for visa exempt extension.
The time will be added to the end so no reason to wait until the last minute.
You need to go wherever your last TM30 was filed which each hotel should be filing when you checkin. Where you go is really up to you and I'd say depends on how near you'll be to the immigration office at each place.
In Bangkok you'd go to IT Square LakSi for visa exempt extension.
Mark *******
OPThank you
@Alis****
Mark *******
OPThank you
@Rob***
Robert ************
@Alistair *********
If you say so. 😂Alistair **********
@Robert ***********
unclear because your post made no sense and implied he couldn't apply with 45 days and that he could apply whenever, mixing 30 and 45 day exemption periods. That's what was confusing.Unless Brandon edited it, the way it's stated now makes complete sense.
Robert ************
@Alistair *********
I never said it was not "relevant". Indeed, that was my point, that OP's original inquiry was 2-part, Timing and Where. Again, I thought answer with regard to "Timing" was unclear, and Mark's latest question again shows it was. Agree to disagree! And, at least, I provided OP with contact info. for Ko Somui Immig. Office, so he can actually get the right answer.Alistair **********
@Robert ***********
his latest question showed it was 100% relevant and beneficial to state when you can apply for an extension. I'd say the commentary is what has made it more confusing.Robert ************
@Mark ******
You should check with Samui Immig. Office, whether their requirement is 30 or 45 days. SAMUI IMMIGRATION OFFICEตม.จว.สุราษฎร์ธานี เกาะสมุย
333 Maenam Road, Soi 1 Moo 1,
Tambon Maenam, Amphoe Koh Samui,
Suratthani
*****
Tel. 077 4234 401E-mail:
*********************
Robert ************
@Alistair *********
I understand that, just thought and still do that his answer was not clear and confusing with respect to someone on Visa Exempt/Tourist -- as Mark's latest question shows.Alistair **********
@Mark ******
there was a report last year of the 30 day requirement in Samui. So you'd probably have to wait till you have less than 30 days left on your entry stamp before they let you apply there.Mark *******
OP@Alistair *********
So does that mean we not able to arrive in Ko Samui with a fresh 45 day stamp and apply for an extension within the first week?Alistair **********
@Robert ***********
most immigration offices require 30 days or less on your current visa or stamp to apply. Brandon was pointing out that Bangkok has a 45 day requirement instead. So you could land, be stamped in for 45 days and go straight to immigration and get an extension, where as most other offices you'd have to wait 15 days before applying.Robert ************
@Stuart ********
You are right about the fee; was thinking of fee for converting to Non-O. And you are also right that only some offices (e.g. CM) require TM 30. Made appropriate corrections to my Post. But, don't agree about your co-Moderator's original advice, which at a minimum was unclear/confusing regarding the "Timing" aspect, for someone seeking Extension from Visa Exempt. And, that was ***
of the OP's question(s). Nevertheless, I also agree, the wording of my criticism was inappropriately harsh. So for that I apologize to @Brandon ***********
.
Stuart *********
@Robert ***********
Except that the information you’ve provided is incorrect. All visa extensions are 1,900 baht regardless of the length of time of the extension. Not all offices require a TM30 for short term extensions. Phuket doesn’t Bangkok generally doesn’t, but Chiang Mai does.
Before berating a moderator who gave correct info perhaps you should be clear on your own facts first.
Robert ************
Wasn't commenting on the "Where" part of your posted advice, only the "When". Pray tell, if OP is on a
*****
Visa Exempt, how could he apply with 45 (or 30 days) left? If, what you meant was, he could apply anytime, why didn't you just say that? That would have been far more clear, wouldn't you agree? ("wtf"). 🙂 P.S. And, see my final Post, with helpful detailed advice to OP on how to get Extension. 👍Brandon ************
@Robert ***********
wtf are you on about? I literally told the OP where to go for visa exempt. Maybe you should take your own advice and read firstStuart *********
They add the days on to your existing stamp.
Can’t comment on Bangkok vs Koh Samui. Not used either.
Can’t comment on Bangkok vs Koh Samui. Not used either.
Mark *******
OPThanks
@Stu***
Activity
6 joined6
people
Related
25What is the website for 90-day reporting for a one-year extension in Thailand?
753232mo
What are the new visa rules for Thailand effective September 15, 2026?
29.7k2014822mo
What are the implications of the visa exemption change from 60 days back to 30 days for tourists in Thailand?
8.3k82495mo
What should I do about my visa overstay in Thailand due to my cancelled flight?
23.1k1793108mo
How early can I apply for an extension on my 60-day visa in Thailand?
6k48729mo
Can I extend my stay in Thailand beyond my visa exemption without visiting immigration?
2.3k18192y
Is it possible to re-enter Thailand via the Cambodia border and obtain another two-month visa after multiple exits?
1.5k11112y
Is applying for a single entry visa online before entering Thailand the best option for a 90-day stay?
2.4k20122y
Can I extend my stay in Thailand multiple times with short-term visas after marriage?
3k29113y
What are the visa options for an Australian staying in Thailand for two months before heading to Vietnam?
1.8k6293y
Do I need to apply for a 60-day visa for my stay in Thailand or can I just use the visa exemption?
1.2k4183y
What are the visa options for a 45-day stay in Thailand for travelers from the US and Switzerland?
1.3k8103y
What visa should I apply for to stay in Thailand for 60 days after entering on a British passport?
1.3k7103y
What are some ways to extend my stay in Thailand beyond a 30-day visa extension?
3.6k27354y
Can I extend my visa while in isolation after testing positive in Thailand?
1.6k10165y
What is the best visa for a 2-month tourism stay in Thailand, and how can I extend it if desired?
41335y
What are the application procedures and reporting requirements for a Thai Spouse Visa extension?
635236y
What is the process to extend a visa at Chiang Mai Immigration?
1k1196y
Can I get another 30-day visa extension by crossing to Cambodia after my initial visa and extension in Thailand?
1.1k657y
What options do I have to extend my visa for another 30 days after an extension at Chaeng Wattana?
1.1k848y
What happens if my friend overstays his visa in Thailand by 1 day and requests a denied extension?
1.7k13118y
How many times can I enter Thailand on a 30-day tourist visa?
2.1k1998y
How long is a standard tourist visa for Thailand?
1.8k14118y
Can I enter Thailand overland with a German passport for the third time within four months?
1.5k11118y
Can Laos passport holders extend their 30-day stay in Thailand for another 30 days?
1.1k839y
Resources
Need help with your Thai visa?
#1 visa agent · 4,000+ reviews · 100,000+ expats served