What are the options for extending a 30-day visa-free stay in Thailand for tourists?

Dec 13, 2021
3 years ago
Jorn ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
My Filipina gf and I have not seen each other since the pandemic locked the world down - so almost two years and still counting - as the Philippines has not let foreigners in, and as my country (Denmark) does not recognize love partners if you have been separated physically for a year or more (so no tourist visa for her).

However, it looks like we can both get into Thailand visa free on a 30 days "visa upon arrival". If so, we could either try to stay in Thailand (Phuket) until the Philippines ends the border closure, or use our joining in Thailand to get her a tourist visa to my country.

For any of that we might need more than 30 days in Thailand (Phuket): can any of you inform us about the options for extending a 30 days visa free stay, about how and where to get it done?

For our initial arrival we must have return tickets out of Thailand 30 days later, but must we also have that for an extension?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user inquired about options for extending a 30-day visa-free stay in Thailand due to the pandemic-related separation from their Filipina girlfriend. They confirmed that both can enter Thailand visa-free and need to explore the possibilities for extending their stay. Responses outlined the process for getting a 30-day extension, which includes the required documents and fees, and mentioned that a tourist visa valid for 60 days is also an option for entry. Comments emphasized the importance of checking with Phuket immigration for confirmation and details.
Benjamin ******
1. Your girlfriend can get a Tourist visa to Thailand, which is good for 60 days. Your country also sells tourist visas that are good for 60 days. I recommend the both of you to check into it at the respective Thai embassies.

2. When you arrive, you can each apply for a 30 day extension of stay based on tourism. Michael Synder says they only sell it at the one in Muang Phuket.

3. I expect the following documents are required for a 30 day extension of stay based on tourism:

1. Your passport and:

a. a copy of your data ("picture") page

b. a copy of your most recent visa (if you have one)

c. a copy of your most recent stamp

d. a copy of your departure card

2. A TM30, filed in the immigration office.

3. The forms (each immigration office may have different forms, and want to use their special forms). I believe the forms are on Phuket's immigration website, linked above.

4. 2x passport pictures

5. 1,900 THB.

For information about the TM30, read my "pinned" post, there's a link to the TM30 FAQ there.

>but must we also have that for an extension?

Not needed for the extension of stay.

I'm closing comments, if anyone wants commenting reopen, please send an admin/mod a message. Thank you.
Nigel **************
I think you can get a Tourist visa before arrival that gets u stamped in for 60 days. This can be extended in country once for 30 days. Sorry no idea about your gf's position.
Benjamin ******
>an any of you inform us about the options for extending a 30 days visa free stay, about how and where to get it done?

I believe there are three immigration offices in Phuket, and I believe all of them should issue the 30 day extension of stay based on tourism.

However, contact Phuket immigration to confirm:

Phuket Immigration Office Webpage:
********************************************


Phuket Immigration Office Facebook Page:
@https://web.facebook.*********************
To get an extension of stay, each person will need to submit the following:

1. Your passport and:

a. a copy of your data ("picture") page

b. a copy of your most recent visa (if you have one)

c. a copy of your most recent stamp

d. a copy of your departure card

2. A TM30, filed in the immigration office.

3. The forms (each immigration office may have different forms, and want to use their special forms)

4. 2x passport pictures

5. 1,900 THB processing fee.

You can only get ONE 30 day extension of stay based on tourism.

>but must we also have that for an extension?

No you do not
Michael ********
@Benjamin *****
they’ll need to go to main immigration in Phuket town for extension. For sure the one in Patong will not issue. I tried.
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