I got a new passport genuinely on that basis after a bag was stolen. I was in Spain at the time and no-one asked for a police report. A passport (UK) can be renewed any time after its issue. Any remaining time is added to the new passport up to a maximum of 9 months.

You can get a new passport on the basis that the old/current one has been lost/stolen and thus obviate the need to show the 'old' one. The downside, at least for the UK, is that you have to have it re-issued after a year. This is painless and can be done at any UK consulate.

@David *******

well the rules aren't that difficult. It's pretty straightforward. We're guests (paying guests) and just need to abide by a few rules. I manage fine with an METV.

3 months for renewal.

I can't see there's a problem...

Yes. Just make sure you get a 60 day 'admitted until...

Your local Spanish Thai consulate should be able to help. Buena s uerte...

@Lee ************

To clarify. A 6 month METV can be used for 8 months. The visitors starts 'ticking' The day you get it and thus if you get it today (5th June UK) it would expire 5th December. If you arrive back in Thailand just before it expires (say Dec 3rd - allow for contingency) you will then get a further 60 days taking you legitimately way beyond the expiry date which can then be further extended by visiting immigration and paying the 1900 THB fee. A ticket returning beyond the expiry date is within the terms if the visa. Hull are exceptionally helpful. Check the website and do as suggested: scan and email all the docs and they'll let you know in advance of any issues.

Bon voyage!

Lee Anne, you can extend the 60 day by 30 by going to a Thai immigration office.

Tod, This has to be, by far, the most clear explanation yet of the subject. Thank you again for the contributions you make and for your patience in dealing with many of the more dumb questions that are too frequently posted.