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Why is the visa application process in Thailand taking so long?
visa applicationwaiting timesThailand immigrationNON-O visaexpat experiencesChiang Mai immigrationsurin immigrationburirum immigration
Mar 2, 2018
8 years ago
Brad ********
ORIGINAL POSTERBeen here 4 hours and still waiting for my new visa
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.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
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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...)
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
Paul **********
Yes had one bad experience with Bangkok immigration
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?
Brad ********
ORIGINAL POSTERI 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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Stefan **************
It's really not that bad
Ray ***********
This time
David *************
Hahaha
Brad ********
ORIGINAL POSTERI wish the immigration office was located next to the beach.
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
James **********
Everything and Everyone must stop for lunch. It's quite ridiculous. Why lunches can't be 'staggered', I will never know.
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
Alan *******
I expect to be waiting 3 weeks for mine, so don't complain yet.
Valère *************************
Great choice guys. Friday and a day after a holiday. Just saying!
Steve *******
Oh yeah, extention at CW? Are they back from lunch?
Brad ********
ORIGINAL POSTERYep right
Richard ***********
Holiday yesterday
Richard ***********
BKK Imm my guess...
Steve *******
Where? Which consulate?
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 :)
Richard ***********
I have been there 6 and got told to come back..
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Richard ***********
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