What should I do if I'm about to overstay my tourist visa in Thailand as an Ethiopian passport holder?

Nov 19, 2022
2 years ago
Jimmy ***************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Dear members. It's likely that we (Ethiopian passport) will overstay our tourist visa for 4 days. Instead of going thru all the hassles of trying to extend at the immigration office, I read online that you could just pay a fine of 500 bahts per day for overstaying. If it's true, it seems like the later option (paying) is much easier. Would appreciate any feedback. Thank you!
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation discusses the implications of overstaying a tourist visa in Thailand for Ethiopian passport holders. While paying a fine of 500 baht per day is an option, community members strongly advise against overstaying due to the risks of arrest and deportation, as well as future travel difficulties due to an overstay stamp in the passport. They recommend applying for a visa extension at the immigration office, which costs 1,900 baht and can prevent serious repercussions. Overall, the community emphasizes the importance of staying within legal limits to ensure a positive travel experience.
James ********
I received this message from the OP...

"This is Jimmy with question about overstay with Ethiopian passport. I just want to thank you for taking the time out and providing such useful information. We appreciate it."

My reply...

" I hope you found it helpful. Take care and thank you for coming to Thailand."
Kevin ***********
Cheaper to extend.
James ********
Thanks Members for your comments.

The OP asked for your thoughts on his question.

I believe that he has heard you.

Hopefully he does not go on OVERSTAY.

AND completes his holidays in Thailand with happy memories.

Comments Closed
James ********
IF you entered Thailand with a passport of Ethiopia, and were granted VOA Visa on Arrival status. Due to the current VOA rules... RECEIVED 30 days stay vs the prior 15 days. Suggest you abide by the rules of your Entry into Thailand.
Stuart *********
@James *******
didn’t see a mention of VOA. They mentioned a tourist visa.
James ********
@Stuart ********
that may be possible too. BUT I noted that Ethopia is one of the VOA countries. Thank you.
Stuart *********
@James *******
it is indeed is. And if they entered that way and mistakenly thought they had a tourist visa then they couldn’t get an extension off that. But they could still apply for an extension to get a 7 days to leave dodge stamp. Still better than an overstay in most peoples eyes.
Tony *******
Can you just pay a fine, yes it’s 500 baht per day. But if you get caught, it’s lock up and deportation with a stamp in ur passport. Not worth the risk
James ********
Enough said...

I hope you have enjoyed your visit to Thailand...

Let it end with happy memories.
Stephen *********
Pay for an extension. Its the same price essentially. Not really a big deal.
Stuart *********
Overstay is 500 baht per day if you get to the airport. 2,000 baht in your case.

An extension is 1,900 baht. There might be hassles getting an extension but they will pale in to insignificance if you were to be stopped (at a police check point for example) and found to be on overstay prior to getting to the airport.

Always best to stay within the law and don’t overstay.
James ********
Alistair **********
Easier yes, but if you get stopped by police you'll get arrested and deported.
James ********
NEVER ... NEVER... NEVER PLAN TO OVERSTAY !!!

Go to local Thai immigration office and apply for an extension of stay... Do it in the last few days of your current stamped in expiration date. The fee is 1,900 Thai baht.

Even if you're not eligible for an extension of stay... Apply for it AND if denied you will get the 7 day STAMP to leave Thailand.

AND... Not only will Thai immigration officers see your OVERSTAY STAMP in your passport whenever you want to come back to Thailand...

OTHER COUNTRIES you wish to visit will also see the OVERSTAY STAMP in your passport and deny you a visa or entry.
Chris **********
@James *******
do they charge for the 7 day leniency?
James ********
@Chris *********
1900 Thai baht and STARTS from date of application.
Cole ***********
@James *******
Excellent advice! Ethiopian passports are limited already, do not give people a reason to say no.
Jason ***********
Just don’t get caught before getting to the airport, it’s an automatic ban if they catch you first.
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