What are my options for extending my stay in Thailand after testing positive for COVID while on a 30-day visa?

Oct 15, 2022
2 years ago
Steve *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
I have been in Thailand 30 days on a 30 day visa which expires on Monday, with my flight home on Monday. I have just tested positive for COVID and have travel insurance which covers changing the flight if testing positive. However my 30 day visa expires. I feel ok and do not want to go to hospital, but can't get a visa extension if I have to quarantine here. What are my options?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A user in Thailand on a 30-day visa that is about to expire has tested positive for COVID-19 and is seeking advice on options for extending their stay while managing their health situation. Several commenters suggest applying for a visa extension at immigration, considering to apply as soon as possible, and mention the possibility of overstay fines as a last resort. It's emphasized that wearing a mask and being responsible in public is important, as well as the importance of obtaining proper documentation to avoid complications with immigration.
Steve *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks to those who helped and offered suggestions. I think the one person who replied asking why get a test should be kicked and banned from here, as that is not what this group is for. It's for visa advice and I did not ask whether I should test. There are plenty of other groups for COVID debate and I do not care what you think or will be fueling your desire to start a arguement. I have done what I believe is right, and I have read in other Thai forums and groups many unvaccinated people are now travelling, which I personally find slightly concerning. I think we can all agree it's a nasty disease that can kill.
Lynnette *******
@Steve ******
well said. Hope you get things sorted.
Jo **********
you are no longer required to isolate with Covid in Thailand
Scot *******
@Jo *********
- your comment is valid, and common sense isn't really that common.
Lynnette *******
@Jo *********
may not be officially required to quarantine but its commonsense to do do. If you are a responsible person, of course.
Jo **********
@Lynnette ******
i was not making any moral statements or judgements. simply stating the situation as it exists. in this individuals case he could face serious problems if he stays here beyond his regulated time.
Lynnette *******
@Jo *********
he's been given advice in obtaining an extension. Which is what he should do. NOT get on a plane whilst infected with covid. Both for his own wellbeing and others.
Jo **********
@Lynnette ******
agree. a plane is very confined space
Brandon ************
Here's my suggestion:

Make an appointment for IT Square Laksi on Monday (assuming you're in Bangkok). That way you can be in and out as fast as possible. I show they have 3 appointments left as I'm making this comment.

Wear a mask obviously, but don't mention Covid. The goal is to get what you need done while being as considerate as possible.

I'd probably take a motorbike to the immigration office if possible just to limit exposure to anyone else, but a taxi with windows down might work too.

I don't want to post the link so as to limit those 3 appointments disappearing, but it's easy enough to find if you google, or you can message me and I'll send it to you.
Steve *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
Thank you for very helpful reply. I am in Bangkok. Do you have a link to the site? I found a booking site, but it is showing no appointments left for tomorrow.
Brandon ************
@Steve ******
Damn. It used my local time zone when I checked so it was actually showing me appointments for Tuesday when I clicked on Monday 🙁

I still think going may be your only option, but I'm not sure how busy it is at different times of day. It's actually a very very bad day to need to go after a 4 day weekend.

Technically, though not recommended, you could make a Tuesday appointment and just pay the 500 baht overstay fine and then extend, but I wouldn't want an overstay stamp in my passport.
John *******
What's covid look like a local wear a mask go in immigration get 30 day extension 1900baht all done
Steve *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@John ******
I have been wearing a mask like locals, except when eating and drinking and when far away from people when outside., as the heat and humidity here can get a bit much for someone not used to it.
John *******
@Steve ******
thats good mate get that extension done I'll be back there again smiling in about 3 weeks time just planning it now stay safe enjoy
Hovvard ******
Why even get a test?
Steve *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Hovvard *****
Because out in the open people are less likely to catch it. When you are stuck inside a small metal tube with recycled air for 14 hours with possible elderly and venerable people that you could infect, that is not a good idea. Plus my Travel Insurance covers this, so I just have to pay for food that my girlfriend I am staying with can go out and buy from 7-11 cheaply.
Lynnette *******
@Hovvard *****
because he's a responsible person. He knows there may be people he could come in contact with who will be at risk if infected. It's called being a good human being. Not an arsehole.
Hovvard ******
@Lynnette ******
you just want to feel special. I didnt say one word about you. You are making judgements and blanket statements about me over my comment that covid has indeed played out. If you are so worried about it dont go traveling, go back to England and isolate for the rest of your life, "arsehole."
Hovvard ******
@Lynnette ******
covid has played out. Time to move on with life.
Lynnette *******
@Hovvard *****
people are dying. So when its your family you can move on and step over them. Others actually care about people lives. You may not. But at least the public now know how thoughtless and uncaring you are. One to avoid!
Alistair **********
Maybe try messaging a visa agent to see if they can get you a 30 day tourist extension.
Lynnette *******
You'll probably be past infectious stage after 5 days. Meanwhile, do the right thing and dont infect other, some who may get very sick.
Brandon ************
There are no 30 day visas. I assume you entered visa exempt meaning no visa at all. Your only options are to go to immigration and apply for the regular 30 day extension, leave the country, or go on overstay.
Carsten ************
@Brandon ***********
he is not allowed to go out while positive
Brandon ************
@Carsten ***********
there are no more covid restrictions in Thailand. I gave the list of options. That's what he has to choose from.
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