What are the updates on Thailand's visa extensions and the implications for expats during COVID-19?

Apr 8, 2020
5 years ago
Roger ********
ORIGINAL POSTER
3,039
views
22
likes
72
all likes
32
replies
2
images
18
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai government has extended the stay for foreigners who entered the country with visas, visa on arrival, or through visa waiver programs from March 26 to April 30. Additionally, the 90-day reporting requirement is suspended until April 30. However, there is confusion among expats regarding how these changes will affect long-term extensions, such as for retirees and spouses of Thai citizens. Questions have been raised about whether individuals need to visit immigration for renewals and what the processes or fees might entail. Some commenters express concern over the bureaucratic handling of these measures and the need for clearer communication from authorities.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Peter *********
What form of visa is a APEC card? Any advice would be appreciated
Dominique **********
Happy that the Thailand immigration are making an effort in the right direction! Not easy for anyone here and they are doing a great job. Let’s be supportive when everywhere anywhere is a shit show
Niamh *********
lets be realistic....its only until 30 April- 3 weeks!! If that still stands as is - on the 1st of may there will be thousands and thousands of foreigners back at the immigration offices.....
Paolo ***********
I believe visa exempt are also covered. I think it covers VoA, Tourist Visas, Visa Exempt, and Visa Waiver people
Paolo ***********
Well for sure it's not the blanket amnesty that is needed. But it's a start.
Joe ***********
March 26. What is Magic about March 26? How about Feb 26?

How about Non Imm O&B Visa Multi-Entry? What about MULTI-ENTRY Tourist Visas - METV?
Joe ***********
On the surface this is nothing but a Bait & Switch
David **********
Does this avoid the need to go to immigration to renew a visa exemption?
David **********
I've decided not to go and looks like maybe I can't leave Ao Nang now anyway. Have to hope they put timely plans in place before the 30th gets here.
Lance *********
David I too have to get myself figured out by Friday...
Paolo ***********
I believe you are good, but am not an authority on it
Paolo ***********
For those who fit the parameters yes. All will be extended until April 30. Another act will be needed before April 30 to extend everyone until May 30th if it comes to that. baby steps
Joe ***********
What will be the fees? What will be the bureaucratic process when it all rolls out?
Joe ***********
Nearly there For What? More Immigration Bureaucracy? 30 days - - Really - Wow how generous of them.
La ***********
According to the announcement published , foreigners who entered the kingdom with visas, visa on arrival, or through visa waiver programs will be granted an extended stay from March 26 to April 30.

The 90-day reporting is also suspended until April 30. Those who entered Thailand by border permits are allowed to stay in the country until the border checkpoints are reopened.
David **********
@Tee *******
do we have to go to immigration to get this?
Steven ***************
@Tee *******
. What about those on long term extensions? Who entered on a re entry permit. Eg retirees, spouses of thais?

Needs more clarity.
Steven ***************
Devil is in the details.. tourist visa holders whose visas expire after 26 March. Dont get too excited. Even US embassy has posted something about it.
Kev **********
Let’s hope whatever it is ther is some clear definitive answers because in ther last articles it was clear as mud
Henry *********
Any indication if this will apply to Work/Marriage/Retirement extensions?
Jonas *********
What does this mean?
Peter *********
Richard you rock dude
Laura-Boat ***************
@Michael **************
I agree with you, what foolishness it is to irritate governments. Let's all put up and shut the fuck up, starting now. Make the world a better place with our complicit silence. After you, though. It was your idea.
Peter *********
@Michael **************
@Michael **************
πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚πŸ˜‚ I'm trying to chat with my family and all I fucking see you your stupid bullshit on my comments - go fuck yourself and stop trolling me, leave me the fuck alone and get a fucking life bro - if you have an issue raise it with him and stop fucking trolling me and harassing me - for fuck sake grow up man - love you, bye
Peter *********
@Michael **************
thank you for your opinion - like I said take this issue up with him not me - πŸ™‚
Peter *********
@Michael **************
glad to see the report, glad it helps many people - maybe you should raise this issue with him not me!
Peter *********
@Michael **************
I don't know who you are all I know is Richards feeds etc etc etc - take care man
Michael ***************
@Peter ********
RIGHT! The Thai government is very pleased with him. You will all now wait longer to get an answer because of him.

They should "lock him up" or do like the pinoys "just shoot him"

Keep eating the BS sandwiches.
Calandra ***********
Great! Thanks for update
Andrew ****
Andrew ****
Andrew ****
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members Β· 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else