What are the rules for applying for a 30-day extension on a 60-day visa exemption in Thailand?

Question

Arriving shortly in Thailand, using 60 day visa exemption.

Is there ANY hard and fast rule as to how early into that period you can apply for a 30 day extension??

The www is littered with contradictory opinions, ranging from "immediately after arrival" (albeit NOT at the airport) through to "a few days before the 60 days are up"... and almost everything else in between.

Is it simply a mess... at the discretion of the Officer in front of you... or is there a RULE?

Ask Thailand · Answer

The rules for applying for a 30-day extension on a 60-day visa exemption in Thailand vary by local immigration office. While there is no official written rule, most offices appear to allow applications about 7 to 30 days before the initial visa expires, but it is recommended to visit closer to the expiration date (such as 7 to 15 days remaining) to avoid any issues. Individual experiences suggest that some offices are stricter than others, so it's advisable to check with the specific office you will be using.

William ************* · Answer

I went when I got there. Immigration told me come back when have 15 days left on the 60 days so 45 days in country is a good rule of thumb

Andrew ******* · Answer

I advise to use an agent to do it for you, cost in Pattaya is 4k baht including the 1900 baht extension fee, also the agent will know the time to apply

Darren ******* · Answer

Depends on the office but I'd go 2 weeks before your 60 days is up for your 30 day extension or visa hop somewhere for a couple days

Glenn ********* · Answer

Many thanks, all.  Does anyone happen to know what the policy is in Hua Hin... and in Kantang (Trang Province)?

Baz ********* · Answer

It seems to depend on the local policies at each immigration office..

But many seem to recommend you go around 7 days before your initial 60 days expires

David *********** · Answer

In jomtien they say at 7 days left. Just did one

Colin ******* · Answer

Prachin buri 30 days I turned up 3 days early and was sent away

Henrik ***** · Answer

The Immigration Officer told me: “If you go to early it shows that you have been dishonest when entering on visa excempt, and never have intended to leave Thailand again within 60 days.

Go in the last week, when you have had many great experiences, and simply must stay extend your stay.”

David *********** · Answer

My immigration office 7 days.

Stuart ********* · Answer

There’s mixed comments on the web because it’s dependent on the immigration office you use. Some allow 45 days prior. Most 30 days and some not until the last 7 days.

There is no written rule. You ask your immigration office what their policy is.

You cannot get an extension at an airport on arrival. You use a local immigration office to do so.

What are the rules for applying for a 30-day extension on a 60-day visa exemption in Thailand?

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