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Why is the visa application process in Thailand taking so long?

visa application waiting times Thailand immigration NON-O visa expat experiences Chiang Mai immigration surin immigration burirum immigration

Mar 2, 2018

7 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Been here 4 hours and still waiting for my new visa

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The original poster expresses frustration over waiting for their visa for four hours, prompting a discussion about long waiting times at immigration offices in Thailand. Other commentators share their own experiences with lengthy waits, particularly during busy periods like holidays, and suggest humorous or pragmatic solutions to the situation. Multiple comments highlight the tendency for immigration staff to take long lunch breaks, further exacerbating delays. Overall, the post reflects common challenges faced by expats navigating the Thai immigration system.

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Pascal **************

you are not alone... i waited today 8h in Chiang Mai... (yes, i know it was the wrong day... but no other option...)

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Paul **********

There were horrendous ques during the Chinese New Year, but on the whole I've found Surin immigration before and Burirum immigration now very helpful clearing the waiting room before they headed off to lunch

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Paul **********

Yes had one bad experience with Bangkok immigration

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Steve *******

Yeah, Surin/Buriram are nothing like Bangkok

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Steve *******

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Jason ***********

Surely you can pay someone to wait for you?

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Brad ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I forgot about the 5 hour wait now as I have a cold Chang beer in my hand.

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David *************

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David *************

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Ray ***********

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Stefan **************

It's really not that bad

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Ray ***********

This time

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David *************

Hahaha

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Brad ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I wish the immigration office was located next to the beach.

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Steve *******

It is in Jomtiem. Well pretty close

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Steve *******

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David *************

Welcome to THAILAND wait wait and wait more

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James **********

Everything and Everyone must stop for lunch. It's quite ridiculous. Why lunches can't be 'staggered', I will never know.

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Steve *******

Welcome to the world. Have a great time whilst you're here!

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Steve *******

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Colin **********

Its not a record lol

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Alan *******

I expect to be waiting 3 weeks for mine, so don't complain yet.

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Valère *************************

Great choice guys. Friday and a day after a holiday. Just saying!

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Steve *******

Oh yeah, extention at CW? Are they back from lunch?

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Brad ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Yep right

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Richard ***********

Holiday yesterday

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Richard ***********

BKK Imm my guess...

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Steve *******

Where? Which consulate?

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Jonathan *******

The joys of going on a Friday and the day after a holiday. Unfortunately there is nothing that can be done to speed it up. Sure you will get it soon tho :)

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Richard ***********

I have been there 6 and got told to come back..

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Richard ***********

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