Just finished submitting my application at Chiang Mai immigration for a COVID-19 extension. In the (seemingly unlikely) event that anyone else needs to do this, here is my experience and recommendations for a smooth(er) process. Note that I am Canadian, my girlfriend is American, and we both have letters from our embassy.
1. You need the following documents:
- TM7 Application for Extension of Stay
- Letter from your Embassy indicating you cannot travel due to COVID-19 (I recommend printing this using a color printer)
- STM2 Acknowledgment of Terms and Conditions for Permit of Temporary Stay
- Acknowledgment of Penalties for Visa Overstay
- Copy of Passport Photo Page
- Copy of TM6 Departure Card
- Copy of Passport page with current visa
- Copy of Passport page(s) with any extension stamps (if applicable)
- Passport Photos (4x6 inches)
2. You need to fill out every document with BLUE ink. This is important! Make sure you fill it out with BLUE ink.
3. Your TM7 document should ADDITIONALLY list your EMAIL and your PHONE NUMBER on the back. There is no specific spot for this so you must include it yourself. Staple your passport photo to the back of your TM7 documents on the photo section
4. You need 2 copies of EVERY document listed above. You may use a photocopier (and thus not have blue ink) for these.
5. EVERY PAGE (and I mean every single page, for the copies, and the originals) must have your signature in BLUE ink. For the case of the original documents, if they are initially signed in blue ink, this is sufficient. For the case of the copies, these MUST be signed in BLUE ink separately.
6. Separate the documents into 2 distinct sets with each set having one of each of the documents. In other words, separate them so you have a set of originals, and a set of copies.
7. Show up early, get your number, and sit down. There will be MULTIPLE document checks (some by volunteers, some by immigration people). These checks, and the instructions from volunteers and immigration people are not always consistent or clear. Make sure you are explicitly told your documents are good and that you should go to the secondary area to have your photo taken.
8. Once your photo has been taken, leave the immigration office and return at 4PM (which I still need to do later today).
Overall, with some misunderstandings and frustration, it took us about 3 hours from arriving to leaving. Best of luck
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user shares their experience with the COVID-19 visa extension application process in Chiang Mai, highlighting essential documents required, the importance of using blue ink on all forms, and recommendations for organization and timing when visiting the immigration office. Key documents include the TM7 application, embassy letters, and various passport copies. Comments from others provide clarifications and address common concerns about requirements and procedures.
