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What is the difference in extension periods for visa exempt and visa on arrival in Thailand for American citizens?

Visa Extension Visa Exempt Visa on Arrival Thailand Immigration American Citizens Visa Regulations

Sep 5, 2023

a year ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hey guys! I’m in Thailand on a visa on arrival. I’m an American citizen. I read somewhere that I can extend my stay for 7 days, other places say 30 days. Is the difference due to arriving by land or by air? Can someone please clarify for me. Thanks a bunch

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TLDR : Answer Summary

An American citizen on a visa on arrival cannot extend their stay. They are in Thailand under 'visa exempt' status, which allows for a one-time extension of 30 days at a local immigration office. Comments clarify that the confusion arises from terminology, with the official guidelines stating that while visa runs by air are technically unlimited, excessive use could raise suspicions with immigration authorities. During peak seasons or busy periods, seeking extensions can become complicated.

Dave ******

If your going to stay more than 30 days, get a 60 day tourist visa from the Thai embassy nearest you in the US before you come. Going to immigration in Thailand for an extension is a pain, especially if your coming high season, Nov-March, it will be very crowded.

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Luis *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

thanks man. I wish I would’ve know this before coming. I am already in Bangkok. My question is. As an American citizen. How long can I do on visa runs by air using visa exempt?

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Dave ******

Officially, visa runs by air are unlimited. But if you do too many the Immigration officer can suspect you of working and deny entry. The first 6 months should be no problem though.

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Brandon ************

until they don't let you anymore. There's no other answer than that as it's at the discretion of the immigration officer you're standing in front of. After 2-3 you're likely to face issues.

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Luis *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

question boss man. If I want to stay longer after immigration start asking questions what is a good excuse to give them? Also, how long would I have to wait to come back and start doing visa runs again? If I go to Vietnam and get a tourist visa would that help?

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Brandon ************

It might help, it might not. Excuses are not likely to help you though. If they start asking questions they want you to get a long term visa or leave Thailand for 6+ months

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Luis *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

okay thank you

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Luis *******

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Sri ***

U can do 30 days extension, always cross verify from Govt official sites

Official info website

*******************************************************************

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Luis *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

thank you for for the info.

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Luis *******

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Brandon ************

You're not going to find the correct answer unless you use the correct term. You aren't here on Visa on Arrival which gives 15 days and cannot be extended and only has an option for a 7 day "extension denied" stamp.

You're here on "visa exempt" which means no visa at all. This can be extended one time for an additional 30 days at your local immigration office. The attached photo has the most common requirements but they will vary from office to office.

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Luis *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

Tony Cabello thank you so much brother! I apologize for my wrong terminology

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Luis *******

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Tony *********

Depends on the country where you are from ?

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Luis *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

American passport

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Tony *********

American is 30 day extension after your first 30 day visa exemption

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Luis *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

thank you so much brother! I apologize for my wrong terminology

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Luis *******

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