Some of you members (new or not so) may wonder why us mods or others are pedantic about terminology when referring to visas or entry in to Thailand. Many people are confused and mix up terms like “visa” and “extension of stay” or “visa on arrival”, “visa exempt” and “visa waiver” - to name a few.
The reason we are pedantic is that the correct answer to a question can differ wildly depending on the correct term being used.
One example is a question asking “where can I extend my tourist visa in Bangkok”. If they had a tourist visa it would be at the main government complex in Chaengwattana. If they had a visa exempt entry (which some assume is a tourist visa) it would be IT Square Laksi Plaza. Imagine being told to go to one only to find out you need to go to the other after waiting for perhaps hours in a queue.
Another example is “do I need to cancel my visa when leaving Thailand”. The answer is if they are on their initial visa from entry then they can’t cancel it anyway and it will just expire when they leave. However the majority are actually asking “do I need to cancel my extension of stay before I leave”. The answer to that is yes. [edited for clarity - if on an education or business extension] If they ever try to return and get another extension of stay for that reason then it’s a minefield of problems that could occur if they haven’t cancelled their previous one.
Many other instances of needing the correct terminology to give correct answers. So if one of us seems stupidly pedantic in asking for such then please understand that we’re only trying to give you the best answers we can by knowing your exact circumstances.
TLDR : Answer Summary
This discussion sheds light on the importance of using correct terminology when discussing Thai visas and immigration matters, emphasizing how misunderstandings can lead to significant issues for expats. For example, the location for visa extensions varies based on whether one has a tourist visa or visa-exempt entry. The conversation also highlights the distinction between visa types, including 'visa cancellation' requirements before leaving Thailand, with comments reflecting on the clarity and helpfulness provided within the community.
