Answered3 years ago

What are the differences between the eExtension program and booking an appointment for visa extensions in Thailand?

Visa Extensions Immigration Thailand eExtension Program VFS Global Appointment Booking Thailand Visa Rules

Tod *********

asked May 30, 2023

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ATTENTION Members 

When you go to the immigration website there are two choices you can choose for your extensions and there seems to be some confusion about what one is which and how they work. 

One is the eExtension program run by VFS Global where you can apply online for some types of extensions. You upload your documents, you pay a premium fee from 500 to 5000baht depending on how fast of service you want and then get an approval.. 

Keep in mind this is NOT an online extension :O It is an online extension APPROVAL only :/ You still have to GO to the immigration office at Chaengwattana Floor 2, above the main immigration office to the eExtension office to turn in your documents (yes the originals of the ones you uploaded) and to get the extension sticker stuck in. (NOTE if you use the eExtension program even if you have a 30 day visa exempt entry you still go to Chaengwattana Floor 2 above the main immigration office for the 30 day extension, you do not go to IT Square at Laksi Plaza)   

You can ONLY use this eExtension service in Bangkok right now and only for certain extensions :/ 

This is the eExtension link 

[members only]/ 

The other choice you can do is to just book an appointment time to show up FOR your extension (works for EVERY immigration office in the country).

Booking an appointment to show up is free, and you print the email confirmation out and show up about 15 minutes before your scheduled appt with the form filled out, the appropriate copies, photos, required documents etc and you jump the queue..        

This is the appointment link for Bangkok 

[members only]

If you want to use it for another area in the country go to the main immigration office page and click online appt 

[members only]/

Answer summary

The conversation clarifies the two methods available for visa extensions in Thailand. The eExtension program, operated by VFS Global, allows users to apply online and pay a fee for extension approval, but requires a visit to the immigration office to submit original documents. In contrast, booking an appointment for extensions at any immigration office is free and requires prior preparation of documents. Users shared experiences emphasizing the importance of being well-prepared for appointments to avoid delays.

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Cliff *********

Succinct and informative as always. Kap!

3 years ago

Tod *********

One thing I will point out about making an appt for your extension (NOT the eExtension) is;

At least in Bangkok, when you show up for it you need to have your your ducks in a row and quacking in time as far as the documentation required.

They do NOT cut you much slack if you show up unprepared for what ever extension you made an appt for. 🙁

So figure it out before you go, whether that means looking on the interweb, asking here or a group related to where you live for the requirements of the extension you're applying for before you go, DO IT..

I've seen them tell people you are not ready at your time, so now you have to get a queue and wait with everyone else 😮 ..

Most of those appts are booked in 15 minute increments so get your act together BEFORE you show up 😛

3 years ago

Sylvia ********

Great information

3 years ago

Mel *******

@Sylvia *******

Yes but this relates to only Bangkok. I'll have to get my issue sorted in Pattaya somehow.

3 years ago

Sylvia ********

@Mel ******

can make an appointment in pattaya, not a big issue just loose 3 or 4 hrs of one day, get passport back same day if attend in the morning

3 years ago

Tod *********

here's the fee schedule for the eExtension process thru VFS Global. As you see it's a sliding scale depending on how fast you want your extension approved..

3 years ago

Saffy *************

@Tod ********

That looks like a great option to prepare everything and then appt at Immigration. Do you know if the paperwork is checked & approved online ie before your appt? Thanks

3 years ago

Tod *********

@Saffy ************

it's an expensive option for just a few of the visa extension categories and I don't know anyone who used it other than tourists on visa exempt or tourist visas.

I think it's much ado about nothing and that it's better to just make an appointment and show up 10 minutes early for it rather than pay the 500, 1000 or 1500 eExtension fee 😕

3 years ago

Vitaly ********

@Tod ********

for those who have unconditional love for hassle and wasted time. Best service ever, I wonder why they charge so little

3 years ago

Tod *********

@Vitaly *******

if you have your ducks in a row, are ready to go, just booking a free appt and showing up at the right counter at the right time seems a LOT better.

BUT

to each their own.

3 years ago