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What are the requirements and tips for extending a 180-day visa in Chiang Mai, Thailand?

Mar 17, 2025
19 days ago
George ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
180 day extension chiang mai…

I have the 500k needed, but at least some of it is in a savings account

Does this make a difference? When I first applied, savings accounts weren’t allowed. But it says on the website they’re okay?!

Also… how much in advance should I apply for the extension? I’ve got about two weeks until it runs out. Wondering whether I should go get it sorted now or wait until later…
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user inquires about extending their 180-day visa in Chiang Mai with funds partially held in a savings account while seeking clarification on the application timing. Comments suggest that having the funds in a savings account is generally acceptable, emphasizing the importance of consolidating funds for easier documentation. It's advised to apply as soon as possible, ideally 30 to 45 days before the current visa expires, to allow time for processing and to accommodate any potential issues.
Biff *******
Go to the immigration office and get them to tell you exactly what they’ll accept. Take your documents with you and ask them. They won’t bite you. Well, maybe just a little bite 😃
Tim *****
Just do a border hop... Take a weekend trip out of the country and save yourself the headache imho
George ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tim ****
but, if i can just go down the immigration centre and get it done in 2 hours...
David ***********
@George *****
Or so you think…
Tod *********
@George *****
report back on how it goes for you (y)
Tod *********
you can apply for a new extension when you have 45 days or less left on your current stamp

You don't lose any time applying early, the ADD the new 180 days to your current expiration date

GO as soon as you can get the documentation together because if they deny you then you still have time to make a plan to bounce out/back and get a new free 180 day entry stamp
George ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
ok, brilliant. appreciate the advice. I have about 400k in regular current accounts, and then can make up the rest with money in a fixed savings account which is due to expire in a couple of months. Based on your experience, do you think this is going to be a problem?
Tod *********
@George *****
you'll find out when you show up at the Chiang Mai immigration office by the airport to apply

So few people actually get the extensions on DTV's that there's not enough first hand experiences out there
George ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
ok fair enough. i'll remember to leave a post after, in case people find it useful. You mentioned the office by the airport... I was going to go to the one up at central festival mall. is there any particular reason i should avoid that one? or did you just mention the one by the airport because that's the main one most people go to
Tod *********
@George *****
they only do extensions for free stamps and tourist visas and while you have a Destination Thailand Visa (which is just a glorified tourist visa 😮 😛) I doubt seriously that it would be processed there

but

you're out nothing by showing up and asking them
Greg ********
Give them a call and ask when you can extend the DTV. I had my agent call last week to see when a Retirement Visa could be renewed. I knew it was 90 days before in Jomtien but needed to know about CM. She got the answer right away.
Ian **********
Although some offices vary you can apply 30 days before your visa expires
Wannikea *********
Really suggest you consolidate the funds into one account. Or at least have your funding proof presentable with ease. Funding was always acceptable in a savings account, it just couldn't be in a fixed term type deposit that wasnt immediately accessable. Also suggest you try to extend sooner rather than later, so that if it goes sideways you can switch to plan B border bounce.
Roxana ******
George ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Wannikea ********
ahhh, ok. do you still can't show funds in a fixed savings account? even if it's due to expire soon?
John **********