Is my 46-day trip to Thailand acceptable under the 45-day visa on arrival rule for US citizens?

Nov 8, 2022
2 years ago
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello all!

I'll be flying out to Thailand in less than a month and have a few questions in regards to the updated 45 visa on arrival for US citizens.

My trip to Thailand is exactly 45 days long - arriving (as of today) 7/12 @ 13:15 and departing 21/1 @ 23:15.

Is this acceptable and within the rules of the new 45 day protocol? Am I required to fill out any further paperwork as it toes the deadline?

Also, in the case that my flight home were to be delayed, what would I be required to do to ensure I am following the law?

Thank so much. I really appreciate all your help. ๐Ÿ˜Œ
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is planning a 46-day trip to Thailand and is concerned about Visa on Arrival rules for US citizens. Multiple comments clarify that the arrival date counts as Day 1, leading to a 46-day total. Thus, the user will technically overstay by one day, which could result in a minor fine when leaving. Suggestions include applying for a 30-day extension if necessary.
Ellie *******
@Jamie **************
, Your plan may or may not work, it's a 46 days trip, not 45 days as the arrival day is day 1.

Even if your flight is on schedule, you will be on one day overstay (a fine would be waived for leaving within 24hrs) or need to apply for a tourism extension if you don't want to get an overstay stamp.
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ellie ******
thank you for your comment! Could you advise the best and quickest way I could apply for an extension? As I am already a day over, it may just be a good idea to apply just in case there is a flight issue when I'm leaving that would push me further over that line. I would rather avoid that stamp. Haha! ๐Ÿ˜Œ
Ellie *******
@Jamie **************
, You need to go to the local immigration office once you arrive in Thailand to apply for an extension based on tourism purpose. Detailed information about tourism extension has been provided by James above with that sheet. You can forget about the TM6 arrival/departure card you wouldn't get one unless the government issues a new announcement.

But, IMHO, the best and cheapest way to extend your stay is a Single Entry Tourist Visa, not an extension. SETV fee is cheaper than an extension inside Thailand, and you don't have to spend half to one day to visit the immigration office, because you will be stamped for 60 days when you enter Thailand. You have to apply now where you are, though. If you are still in the US, you can apply online.
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ellie ******
thank you! The SETV is what I was thinking of. I think it'll be much easier if I can get it all sorted before hand. What is the offical website for applying?
Ellie *******
@Ja***
, this is the official site. You need to check the requirements on the website of the exact embassy/consulate where you are going to apply for the SETV.

****************************
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ellie ******
thank you so much for clarifying this for me. I know that many phoney pages popped up during my old ThaiPass research. ๐Ÿ˜Œ

I will get some photos taken today and get my application going. Many thanks to everyone for helping this confused gal. ๐Ÿ™๐Ÿผ
Angelo ***********
@Jamie **************
There is not "best" or "quickest" way. There is only one way. You go to the immigration office, have your Departure Card if you have one, 2 pass photos, TM30 (your registration of stay), if you live private, copy of passport of the owner + copy (or original) house book, and be ready to pay 1900 TBH. Best is - if you life in a privat place - if the owner comes with you.
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
James ********
IF you need to get the 30 day extension of stay as your plans change...
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@James *******
saved! Thank you!
James ********
Your count of the 45 days stay in Thailand is CLOSE but as you have stated, you are ONE day OVERSTAY.

The day you arrive into Thailand is counted as Day #1. So you have showed a 46 day stay in Thailand.

That is NOT a major problem ... BUT you will be stamped OVERSTAY one day with a fine of 500 Thai baht waived by Thai immigration officer on departure from Thailand.

FYI...

As you are ENTERING Thailand VISA EXEMPT..you are STAMPED in for 45 days... Plus if you want to, you can get a 30 Day extension of stay at local Thai immigration office for 1900 Thai baht.
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@James *******
I had confused myself. This was booked before they'd updated the VoA. I would apply for extension before leaving, yes?
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you SO much! You have helped me so much! I will be prepared in the case of unforeseen issues. ๐Ÿ˜Š
James ********
@Jamie **************
BEST Wishes for your safe travels and Enjoy your Holidays...

Comments Closed
James ********
@Jamie **************
Jamie Lynn Buckner if only One Day... not a problem... Read my reply.

BUT IF MORE than One Day..

***BEFORE YOU GO ON OVERSTAY...***

go to the Thai immigration office and apply for the 30 days extension of stay...1900 Thai baht.
Jamie ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@James *******
ah! Thank you!
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