My DTV Visa Extension Got Approved
I just got my DTV visa extended for another 6 months *inside Thailand* at Chiang Mai Immigration.
Yes, it was successful — but the process was tiring, and mentally draining.
Let me say this upfront:
If you have the option to do a border bounce or a short trip to a nearby country, I strongly recommend that route. It’s far smoother and less stressful.
But if you’re someone who *has* to extend inside Thailand — or is just curious about how it works — here’s my experience.
## Document Checklist (based on my case):
You’ll need a solid stack of documents prepared in advance:
* Passport bio page copy
* Visa sticker page copy (*or eVisa printout*)
* Latest visa stamp copy
* 90-day report copy
* TM30 printout
* TM7 Visa Extension Form
* Bank Certificate
* Bank Statement (500K must be deposited 1 month ahead)
* Updated bank passbook (with transactions up to application date)
* House rental contract
* Rent transfer receipts (Your name and Renter name should be on those)
* Employment contract
* Company registration (of your employer)
* Employment certificate with most recent date
* Acknowledgement of penalties for visa overstay
* Resume / CV (for Workcation category)
* Proof of remote work (past and present projects, screenshots, links, etc.)
## Step-by-Step Process at Chiang Mai Immigration:
1. Start by getting a queue ticket for a document check outside the immigration building.
2. When the officer sees it’s a DTV case, you’ll usually be asked to consult with a specific officer since this category is still relatively new.
You won’t meet them right away — they’ll give you a time to return.
3. When it’s your turn, answer their questions clearly. If they feel your documents aren’t enough, they’ll let you know what’s missing and ask you to return the next day.
4. The next day, you go through the same document check process outside.
5. If your paperwork is complete, they’ll give you a new queue number and send you *inside*.
At this point, you’re moving in the right direction.
6. Present your full set of documents at the counter. When they see the visa type, you might hear:
**“Oh, DTV.”
**Pay the 1,900 baht fee.
Then wait again while the officer verifies your file. Sometimes, they may still request more supporting documents depending on your case.
7. If your name is called for a photo, that’s a good sign your extension is being approved.
8. Lastly, wait to be called again to receive your passport back with the new stamp.
✅ Done. DTV visa extension inside Thailand, approved.
##
The process can be far more complex than I said here and can be physically and mentally exhausting, especially when you’re not 100% sure what to expect.
I had to go back and forth over two days, and prepare a large stack of documents — many of which took time to gather. I had to talk a lot, clarify things over and over . It was a learning experience, but honestly one I don’t plan to repeat.
For anyone who still wants to try extending inside Thailand, I hope this post helps you prepare.
P.S. Luckily, I got the 6-month stamp straight away rather than the usual 'under consideration' stamp.
