What is the process for renewing a Special Tourist Visa (STV) in Thailand, based on personal experiences?

Question

Just wanted to share my experience with STV renewal process, as I couldn't find much before we completed it.

We are based in Chiang Mai and the renewal was super easy. Unlike rumours flying around, it was not difficult at all. We needed to have:
* TM 2 and 3 - Acknowledgement of understanding overstay rules and renewal process (available at immigration office)
* TM 7 - Application for renewal (available at immigration office). Including passport size photo.
* TM 30 - Showing where we have been staying in Thailand (available at immigration office, if the hotel/accom has filed it)
* Photocopy of passport, visa and TM 6 (departure card)
* Proof of accommodation (in our case I just printed off the AirBNB booking)
* Letter from ASQ confirming we completed quarantine

We did not have to show proof of health insurance (although we have it). Staff were super helpful!

There have been a lot of negative posts about this visa, but for us the process has been pretty easy, right from the initial application. It has been a great visa option for those people like us who wanted to stay in Thailand for a longer period (up to 9 months).

Ask Thailand · Answer

A user shared their positive experience with the STV renewal process in Chiang Mai, highlighting that it was straightforward and easier than expected. Required documents included TM 2 and 3 forms, TM 7 application, TM 30 declaration, passport copies, proof of accommodation, and a letter from ASQ confirming quarantine completion. They noted that health insurance proof was not requested. Comments emphasize that experiences may vary by immigration office and caution that many require health insurance and proof of lodging.

Tod ********* · Answer

ATTENTION ANYONE ON A SPECIAL TOURIST VISA the O/P's experience was at the Chiang Mai immigration office AND your experience at a different office may indeed vary (greatly) always check with the office you're using for what is required for extension.

Tod ********* · Answer

glad it worked out for you. There are OVER 70 immigration offices in the country so what you experienced in Chiang Mai doesn't really mean anything other than at the C/M office this is how that particular officer handled it

MOST offices require proof of insurance for the next 90 days you're getting the extension for AND proof of lodging for the next 90 days too.

That you didn't need it was good, but not enough to make me think no one needs it ;)

Again glad that visa worked out for you, it's a TERRIBLE visa to have, the hoops you jump thru to get it, the requirements insurance wise, etc to get it extended and the fact you can't go to any other visa type from it inside the country make it a near worthless visa to have IF you're going to stay here long term.

Now on the other hand IF you wanna come here, be a tourist and "tour" for 9 months and then go back to where ever you came from, it could be a good visa.

Thanx for the update. (y)

What is the process for renewing a Special Tourist Visa (STV) in Thailand, based on personal experiences?

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