Answered5 years ago

Is it possible to extend a Special Tourist Visa (STV) in Thailand, and when should I apply for the extension?

Special Tourist Visa Visa Extension Thailand Immigration Ko Phangan Immigration Office Visa Documents Health Insurance

George ******

asked Apr 14, 2022

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Hello, I currently am in Thailand on a Special Touist Visa which allows me 3 months and expires on the 29th May.

Currently I’m in Ko Phangan and was wondering wether it’s worth me going to their immigration office to ask for it to be extended another 90 days.

Are they likely to extend at this time or do I need to wait closer until my visa expires?

I read that the special tourist visa, once granted can be extended up too a maximum of 270 days.

Answer summary

A user currently in Thailand on a Special Tourist Visa (STV) is seeking advice on whether to request an extension before the visa expires on May 29. The conversation reveals that while STV holders can extend their visa for another 90 days (with a potential total stay of up to 270 days), the application for extension is generally recommended to be made when 30 days or less are remaining. Users also mention that the Koh Phangan immigration office may not handle STV extensions and suggest checking with main offices in Samui or Surathani. Additionally, it's important to provide proof of health insurance and accommodation for the extension. There is uncertainty regarding the future of the STV program, with discussions surrounding deadlines and how extensions will be managed.

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Bryan *******

I believe someone on here told me that even though the STV advertises up to 270 days, as it stands now, your STV will end on September 30th this year even if you haven't maxed out the 270 days. Someone with more knowledge please correct me if I'm wrong.

5 years ago

Eakkawee **********

@Bryan ******

not really possible to know how immigration will deal with extensions for this visa in September. We don’t even know if the program will be extended. Right now at a minimum it’s a viable option for around a six month stay whether you’re currently in the country or planning to buy one in your home country and travel here.

5 years ago

Shaughn ***********

I'm not sure what will happen if you go in for an extension with more than 30 days remaining on the visa.

5 years ago

Shaughn ***********

Going on what happened last year before they extended the program, 30 September would be the last day you can get your last extension. People entering Thailand after the end of this month on this visa may not be able to get full 270 days as this date nears closer. People who entered this month will need to apply early for their 2nd extension.

5 years ago

Robert *******

@Bryan ******

There is a difference between the valid until or use before date on the visa itself, which indicates you have to use this visa to enter Thailand to get a period of stay.

Using the visa on entry gives you maximum 90 days of stay, which can be extended twice at immigration with another maximum 90 days and three times 90 makes it maximum 270 days of stay inside Thailand.

5 years ago

Tod *********

dont forget the terms of extending that STV are that you show another 90 days worth of health insurance (like you had when you got the visa issued) AND proof of another 90 days of lodging too

5 years ago

Cole ***********

The deal with the STV is two 90 day extensions. You should be able to extend with the usual documents and 1900 baht. Make sure you do your TM47 and have your TM30.

5 years ago

George ******

@Cole **********

what’s a tm47 and tm30 ?

5 years ago

Ellie *******

@George *****

,

TM47 is the form number for 90days report.

TM30 is the form number for so-called address registration (NOTIFICATION FROM FOR HOUSE-MASTER, OWNER OR THE POSSESSOR OF THE RESIDENCE WHERE ALIEN HAS STAYED) that your landlord is supposed to submit and give you a receipt.

5 years ago

Ellie *******

Try to post in the groups in the south for better and quicker answers.

I think the Koh Phangan office accepts an extension application when your stamp remains 30days or less. I may be wrong.

You may also want to check if the Koh Phangan office handles STV extensions. Since it's a temporary office, not all immigration application is available there. You need to go to Samui or Surathani main office for long-term extensions, in-country visas, and some other applications. Sorry not sure how STV extension is categorized there.

5 years ago