Answereda year ago

What are recent experiences extending a visa at immigration in Chiang Mai?

Chiang Mai Visa Extension Immigration Thailand Visa Rules DTV Expat Experiences

Anonymous *************

asked Jul 19, 2025

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Any recent experiences here from Chiang Mai of extending visa at immigration? I understand its easier to leave and enter but curious if things have changed to plan accordingly for next extension. Thank you. 🙏

Answer summary

Recent experiences regarding visa extension in Chiang Mai indicate that there are no significant changes to the procedures. Most expats report that leaving the country for a border run remains the easiest option. Specific reports mention that while some extensions can be granted, they are subject to strict requirements, such as having sufficient funds. The Chiang Mai Immigration Office, noted for its helpful staff, has been positively reviewed for providing assistance to expats.

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Wannikea *********

Nothing has changed. And no matter how you dice it you're going to have to leave the country at least once a year anyway, so plan your bounces.

a year ago

Greg ********

Recent report from Airport Immigration Office (not actually at the airport) is they had one officer specialising in the DTV. Only heard 2 reports of extension. One was refused as did not have the 500k. The other successful and the immigration officer who knows the DTV helped. Not many immigration offices get kudos in expat groups but Chiang Mai Immigration does. They have graduate trainees and student helpers who go out of their way to help. One expat last week reported 2 of them escorting him to his car with umbrellas last week in the rain :-) :-)

a year ago

Anonymous *************

@Greg *******

Thank you Greg. I conclude from this that it makes little sense to try extending at the immigration even if one has all docs etc. ?

a year ago

Greg ********

Anonymous participant The person who got approved said they were helpful. If it was me I would go over and ask one of the service staff who are about and ask exactly what is required. I asked about something different and they were very helpful and gave me a step by step guide for what I needed. They are very helpful. Definately very different to any other immigration office I have dealt with. Costs nothing to ask.

a year ago

Andi ***********

NO reported changes a border run is way easier.

a year ago

James ********

@Andi **********

just be sure the border chosen will stamp in a DTV Visa holder and whether you need to stay outside of Thailand one or two days before reentry.

That's why I recommend the use of an experienced border run service company with a same day return.

Or fly out with return a same day. Be careful of Chiang Mai Thai Immigration Officers at the Airport. They're questioning DTV Visa arrivals. Suggest you carry with you the documents used to get the DTV visa.

a year ago

Andi ***********

@James *******

Good tips.

a year ago