Just an update on TM30. First time I heard about reporting a stay away from normal residence must have been 10 years ago ,so off I go to the local police Stn to report I've been staying in Chiang Mai, they looked aft me as if I was a nut case so I explained that I'd heard that I must report to police on return, they knew absolutely nothing about it . No more heard of this until last year and I followed what was happening on here. I returned to the uk this year so on returning to Thailand I reported to the local police who took my details and filled out the appropriate forms online giving me a paper to take to immigration on my 90 check. (Imm office 100 km away). Just returned from 90 day check and a chat with immigration officer who informed me that if I stay in a hotel etc I don't have to report I'm there or report when I return to my normal address and if I leave the country I've no need to report on returning if it is my normal address in Thailand. The only peculiar thing that came out was if you stay in a private residence (i.e. Stay with friends or family) they are responsible for informing immigration of your stay same as the hotels are, but who will know. The paper I got on reporting to police was not needed so I still have it. I think this confirms that it's down to you to find out what is required at the office you use. Gook luck
TLDR : Answer Summary
The author shares their recent experience regarding the TM30 reporting requirement for expats in Thailand. They visited the local police station in Chiang Mai to report their stay, but found that local officers were unaware of the requirement. Upon returning to Thailand after a trip to the UK, they learned from an immigration officer that reporting is not necessary when staying in hotels or returning to a normal address. However, if staying in a private residence, the host is responsible for reporting to immigration. The author emphasizes the importance of checking requirements at the specific immigration office.
