Yes, you can extend your Thai tourist visa pretty easily if you plan it right. I did this last year in Chiang Mai, and here’s what you should know:
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✅ How Long Can You Extend?
Most tourist visas (including visa-on-arrival or 60-day tourist visas) can be extended by 30 days at a local immigration office.
Fee: 1,900 THB (cash only).
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✅ Where & How to Apply
Go to the nearest Immigration Office (Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, etc.).
Documents needed:
✔ Passport with valid visa
✔ TM.7 application form (available at the office)
✔ 1 passport photo (they usually have photo booths there)
✔ Photocopies of passport ID page, visa page, and entry stamp
Fill out the form, attach your photo, pay the fee.
They’ll give you a receipt and usually process it the same day or next day.
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✅ What to Expect at Immigration
In tourist-heavy cities, it can be crowded. Get there early (8:30 am) to avoid queues.
Dress decently; some offices don’t allow shorts or sleeveless tops.
Staff are generally polite, but no nonsense if your paperwork is incomplete.
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✅ Common Issues
Overstay fines: If you overstay before applying, you’ll pay 500 THB per day (up to 20,000 THB). Don’t let it get that far.
Cash only: No cards accepted for the 1,900 THB fee.
Busy periods: Around holidays, offices are packed – plan a few days before your visa expiry.
Proof of funds/flight: Rarely asked, but it’s good to have a return ticket screenshot and some cash in case.
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✅ Extra Tip
If you think you’ll stay longer than 30 extra days, you’ll need a visa run (cross to a neighboring country and re-enter), but rules can change, so always check the latest updates before doing that.
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Bottom line: The extension process is simple, but don’t wait till the last day, and carry photocopies and a pen to save time.
