Why is it advised not to use a 7-day extension on an ED visa in Thailand?

Question

Hello, I've a question about a case with ED visa that was commented earlier by Robert Lagas but futher commenting was closed:

"There is no 7 day extension available in Thailand...I would advice leave the country after these 360 days for a short holiday..."

Robert, is there any specific reason why you adviced to not use 7 day extension even if it's technically not extension? 
I will have the same case in several months and I wouldn't like to stay in Laos 7 days unless it affects somehow my chances to enter Thailand. Thank you!

Ask Thailand · Answer

The discussion centers around the utilization of a 7-day extension for an Education (ED) visa in Thailand. Robert Lagas advises against relying on such an extension, emphasizing that the ED visa is meant for study rather than prolonged residency. After 360 days in Thailand, he suggests leaving the country instead of risking a denied stamp by trying to stay for an extra week. Users discuss concerns about applying for a new ED visa in Vientiane or Savannakhet, with caution advised due to changing visa policies and potential complications related to linked passports.

Eugene ***** · Answer

Ok, I have some time until May so will try to find the best and less-risky way. Just don't want to leave my family here in Thailand for 7 days so trying to find some workarounds. Thank you for your responses!

Robert ******* · Answer

Why take the risk to get denied. Wait the few days.

Eugene ***** · Answer

Maybe it makes sense to try Vientiane with new passport in 360 days and if they denied I could wait 7 days there and apply with the same documents? I don't know whether it's possible or if they denied then new documents are required

Robert ******* · Answer

What I think is irrelevant. What the employee who put the ED visa in your passport thinks is something I can not tell you. The Boss of Immigration said they are linking Thai Consulates and Embassies to the Immigration Database, which one is linked or even if they are linked or it was just talking to the press I also do not know.

Eugene ***** · Answer

Thanks for your response, Robert. I see what you mean... Do you think if I fly out with an old passport and show a completely new in Vientiane it will not help to get the visa 7 days earlier? I know about linked passports but maybe it is still not available in the embassies outside Thailand.

My school recommends Vientiane or Savannakhet only for getting ED visa and all our students go there. In terms of Savannakhet as far as I heard from other people, after consul was replaced a couple of years ago it becomes harder to get any kind of visas there so I wouldn't risk even if I do everything legally and have all required documents.

(I have about 4 or 5 back-to-back 1-year ED visas in total)

Robert ******* · Answer

Simply said, after your 360 days in Thailand, go for example to Savannakhet and apply for a new ED visa with document from your school. Or KL, Penang, Singapore, HCMC etc etc.

Robert ******* · Answer

No special reason. But let's face it open and clear, the ED visa is to study and not to stay unlimited times in Thailand. You reached the end of the time in Thailand. so why you prefer a denied stamp into your passport for an extra 7 days in Thailand in stead of 7 days in another country just because you want to apply for a second Non Immigrant ED visa in Vientiane. There are much more Thai Consulates who provide this visa without the 1 year restriction.

Why is it advised not to use a 7-day extension on an ED visa in Thailand?

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