and updates about CHANG MAI Immigration Office
from Mike Gaudet.
Absolutely CRAZY Monday at Chiang Mai Immigration. Enlightening, though. Here's some things I've learned. Long Post. Sorry.
On to business.
Unlike the common SNAFU this morning (Sorry about that), I have VERIFIED that the Promenada location of CM Immigration will close WEDNESDAY, MARCH 25th. All immigration business for Chiang Mai will transition to the airport location. They have set up tents and seating for people. Go there tomorrow, but prep for Wednesday business to be at the airport location.
In regards to the memo I sent out with paragraph 3 authority to grant TOURIST VISA extensions by the immigration officer.... It comes with conditions. The applicant, if on their SECOND TOURIST EXTENSION, and UNABLE TO GET THE CONSULATE LETTER, must FIRST apply for the 7-day emergency extension (1900 THB) by submitting a TM-7, 2 COPIES of their visa, Passport page, and TM-6, AND a written statement as to why they need the extension (some people use the bottom of the TM-7, but I've heard of written statements being required as well) and then, with the ORIGINAL COPY of their consulate letter, can apply for 30-day extension at the tent area next to the Laos/Myanmar visa service center. Bring cash and patience. If you bring a COPY, you may get rejected.
If you have a Consulate letter, first, then bring 2 copies of your passport, visa stamp, ORIGINAL consulate/embassy letter, and TM-6 departure card and fill out the TM-7 form and two acknowledgement forms (STM-2 Acknowledgement of overstay Penalties and Acknowledgement of Visa Extension Reason) to the airport location. Proceed straight to the brown tent area by the Laos/Myanmar visa service center. Bring 1900 THB, a blue pen, and something cold to drink.
Long-stay visas....you poor guys. Lemme see...If you are used to leaving the country and coming back to renew a 90-day visa stamp, I have terrible news for you all: You must bring all your requisite paperwork to support the visa in which you are living under to the office in order to extend the visa IN-COUNTRY.
Other countries like UK, Australia, Canada, Germany that have embassies shut down....before you come to immigration, write a statement as to why you need an extension, but INCLUDE THE FACT THAT YOUR EMBASSY IS SHUT DOWN IN THAILAND!
Look, I'm there to answer questions, help with paperwork, facilitate communication with the immigration officers, and make sure you have all the requisite forms, pictures, etc. As I get info, I try and pass it on. Please, if you come in, don't take out frustrations f the process n the officers. I can tell you that each and every one of them would let you stay in the country for free if they could. Be reasonable, calm, and respectful when you come in.
Know that I am praying and hoping the best for you all.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The Chiang Mai Immigration Office at Promenada will close on March 25, 2020, with all services moving to the airport location. For those on a second tourist extension without a consulate letter, a 7-day emergency extension application is required with specific documentation. Long-stay visa applicants need to present substantial paperwork for in-country extensions. Comments from community members clarify information regarding embassy letters and provide additional insights on the process.
