Is it easy to get a Covid extension for my visa in Thailand if my home country still requires quarantine?

June 5, 2021
3 years ago
Derek *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Is it easy to get a Covid extension from immigration? I mean, if your home country still requires quarantine, is that good enough reason for being "unable to return home"? (I'm here on the 45 day visa exempt + 30 day extension but hoping to wait until Canada gets rid of the quarantine requirement before going back).

A recent article says "Extensions are granted based on the applicant being unable to return home due to COVID-19, the lack of flights to their home country or that the applicant has a letter from their embassy requesting permission to remain in Thailand."
1,296
views
2
likes
35
all likes
18
replies
0
images
10
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
Obtaining a Covid extension for your visa in Thailand is generally regarded as straightforward. However, specific requirements and ease of approval can vary by immigration office location. While quarantines in your home country can be relevant, they may not be considered a sufficient reason to justify the extension. To apply, applicants typically need to provide documentation such as a passport copy, a filled application form, proof of local residency registration, and relevant fees (1,900 baht). Reports indicate that most applicants successfully secure extensions without major issues, as long as they adhere to the necessary paperwork.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
John ********
Difficult to get but let me know
Todd *********
The Covid extension should be no issue at all. And you sure don’t want to head back to Canada. Nightmare of a place to live sometimes
Ezmerelda ********
@Todd ********
Canada.....so high on self esteem, so low on substance. From this side of the planet Canada looks and sounds like a shithole country.
Todd *********
@Ezmerelda *******
there is the unfortunate marriage of the first 2 points present there lol... Not sure i would jump to label it a 'shithole country' at all. It definitely has some terrific qualities. And some real challenges at present. And it's cold as hell lol. But i think each person should visit and make up their own open mind. Some will love it. Others will be far less enthused.
Derek *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Todd ********
true, I haven't lived there since 1997 (Europe 1997-2019) but the only reason to go would be to visit my parents and because my time is up in Thailand (unless I get the extension).
Todd *********
@De***
I’m with ya man! The time will come again for a visit, but that’s enough. Stuart’s post above details the possible requirement, but as he said, some places less onerous. Good luck. Really should be no issue at all. And u have some time to sort it out.
Derek *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Todd ********
thank you! 🙏🏻 😊
Joe ***********
what you don t want to pay for your 3 day stay in a covid hotel in canada 3000 cad haha
Carrie ******
@Joe **********
what a fuckn joke that is
Joe ***********
@Carrie *****
the real joke is it a 5000 dollar fine for not hotel stay
Carrie ******
@Joe **********
oooof did they up it?! I thought 800. Screw that noise. And the tax payers pay for refuges free quarantine. Ohhh Canada.
Derek *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Joe **********
plus another 14 day quarantine is required at “home” on top of that (I don’t have a residence in Canada and can’t stay with family)
Stuart *********
Like everywhere it depends on the office you use. Most give the extension without issue, as long as you have the correct paperwork. Here’s a list of what Phuket requires.

A copy of your passport data page (signed),

A passport photo,

Proof of filing a TM30,

A copy of your departure card (TM6) (signed)

A copy of your latest entry stamp (signed)

A copy of any previous Covid extension stamps (signed) (Phuket requires this other offices may not)

In Phuket they require the copies to be in portrait not landscape. This means the top of your passport aligns along the shorter side of the A4. Except for the Data Page where most passports are “sideways”

(Other offices may not be as pedantic)

A filled out TM7 (application form for extensions) - the form doesn’t have a space for your email or phone number but just write it on the back (page 2).

A filled out STM2 (acknowledgement that you understand the rules for overstaying)

A filled out “I don’t want to leave because of Covid form” - I have no idea if it has an official name or number.

And 1,900 baht.

The forms are available at your local office. Most have places on site or nearby that can do the copies and photos.
Derek *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Stuart ********
Thank you, I'm in Hua Hin so I'll check the local requirements.
Lisa ********************
Pretty easy to get now
Darren *******
Not a valid reason but the extension is, generally speaking, easy to get. There have been the odd reports of immigration making it difficult by asking for additional information but I can't remember reading about anyone being rejected for the extension.
Derek *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Darren ******
thank you, maybe I could have phrased my question better, as I've heard that they're giving the extension to many people, even though practically anybody can get home these days (albeit some require quarantine). In practice, maybe it's only Australians who can't go back yet(?)
Greg *********
Nope, not a valid reason.
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else