I’m in a desperate dilemma. Maybe I’ll be ok, but there’s potential of significant harm.
My trip to Thailand was cut short by progressive agitation of my lung injury, the final part due to vibrations of a bus. I’ve been recuperating in a great place in Ao Nang, where healing’s been steady but slow. It’s been 32 days and I’m still not safe for traveling.
My 60-day visa runs out March 16, and to extend I must go to an immigration office 30 minutes away. But car vibrations are bad for me. I could avoid that by sending them a Thai medical certification, but for that I’d need to go the local hospital – 7 minutes by car, not as bad. But there’s nothing doctors can do to confirm my condition; tests will show normal. All a Thai doctor can do is listen to my American doctor, who doesn’t know much though he’d probably write a letter. Without a letter, the Thai hospital won’t grant the certification (and might not even with a letter). I have until Monday (March 17) to get to this done.
The consequences of overstaying my visa are harsh. First, there are fees and bans; the latter would be terrible as I’m considering making Thailand a winter home. Far worse, if found, I’d probably face forced deportment, which could be a potential health catastrophe.
So my dilemma is I'm now forced to take serious risks with my health, likely to some level of injury degrading my quality of life temporarily, and possibly permanently and critically. Ironically, this might land me in the same predicament as earlier, needing more time to recover, but with no option to extend and having to leave the country, at greater risk.
I estimate I could probably make either trip (hospital or immigration office) without major problems. But it’s hard to say.
* One exchange with the US consulate sounds promising, but there's more to work out.
* I've heard of a visa agent, so you don't have to go in. Is this an option?
I welcome your ideas here. Thanks for reading.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The individual is facing a health dilemma as their 60-day visa in Thailand is set to expire. They are recuperating from a lung injury and cannot travel due to their condition, but must either go to an immigration office or obtain a medical certification from a local hospital to extend their visa. The community provides varied advice, suggesting the use of a visa agent, obtaining medical documentation, or even considering alternative transportation methods to reach necessary appointments. Concerns about overstaying the visa and the potential consequences of fines and deportation are central to their concern.
