Today while trying to get a tourist visa extension I was told I needed to bring with me the copy of my original eVisa letter.
Of course they told me this after I waited around for 2 hours. I think the lady was being difficult because of my visa history, or perhaps I was feeling sorry for myself. She made some comment, I couldn't make out, about "you stay long time in Thailand". Those of us who do many visas maybe the new step-child.
If you're trying to get a visa extension (or any other immigration business) I recommend bring ALL possible paperwork, flights, hotels, etc. Nothing is too ridiculous, apparently.
On the plus side, I was able to do the TM30 like 5 weeks after arriving to Pattaya. I don't full understand how all of this works. When I rented my long-term room I paid somebody there 200 baht, they filled out some paperwork on line printed, copied my passport. I thought I had completed the TM30, but it turns out I also had to give some paperwork to immigration. I gave them that paperwork today (5 weeks later) and they were cool with it.
TLDR : Answer Summary
In a recent experience obtaining a tourist visa extension in Thailand, the individual was informed after waiting for two hours that they needed to provide a copy of their original eVisa letter. This highlights the importance of bringing all possible documentation when dealing with immigration matters. Other commenters shared similar experiences, indicating that the requirement to show the eVisa printout is common. They recommended being polite at immigration offices, as experiences may vary significantly from one location to another.
