This anouncement is a complete new way of letting people stay who are unable to travel due to Covid.
It is not an extension of the ending maximum 60 day program.
So far we understand:
People entered Thailand with a visa on arrival can NOT apply for an Extension of Stay based on unable to travel due to covid.
People entered Thailand with a Non Immigrant Visa can NOT apply for an Extension of Stay based on unable to travel due to covid and must apply according the normal requirements for their stay and reason why the visa is issued.
People entered Thailand on a Tourist Visa must apply first for the normal 30 day Extension of Stay based on Tourism, after that they can apply for an Extension of Stay for no more than (EDIT) 60 days each time.
There is an extra warning:
2. Increasing strictness in considering permission to stay in the Kingdom to prevent aliens from using them as an opportunity to circumvent the reasons for applying to stay in the Kingdom without meeting the objectives of the immigration law. In this regard, the relevant laws, regulations, orders and guidelines shall be complied with. The agency inspects the notification of residence under section 38 of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 and checks to prevent illegal work without permission
There are still talks going on with Visa Experts and translators, but the general advice is for those who want to stay another 60 days in Thailand claiming they are unable to travel back home,
DO IT TODAY.
What this new program will offer for those who are already in Thailand using the Extension of Stay based on unable to travel is NOT mentioned. Be aware and make sure you have a plan B in place.
Please stay on topic and updates or corrections will be made if we found out the details in a better way.
Thanks for your patience.
TLDR : Answer Summary
A recent announcement details new regulations for visa extensions in Thailand related to COVID-19. Those with a visa on arrival or a non-immigrant visa cannot apply for extensions based solely on an inability to travel due to COVID. Tourist visa holders must first apply for a standard 30-day extension before being eligible for a further extension of up to 60 days. The memo emphasizes stricter enforcement of immigration laws to prevent misuse of extension reasons. Expats are advised to act quickly to ensure they can extend their stay before the current program ends.
