If you're enjoying your trip and want to stay in Thailand longer, the good news is — you can! Thailand visa extensions are usually simple if you follow the right steps. In this Thailand visa guide, you'll find everything you need to know—visa types, how to apply, required documents, and where to go.
Before you can apply for a Thailand visa extension, it's important to understand which visa you hold. Here are the main types of Thai visas:
Visa type | Purpose | Stay duration |
Tourist Visa (TR) | For leisure, sightseeing, family visits, short training courses | 60 days + 30-day extension |
Visa Exemption | For passport holders from certain countries (no visa required) | 30 days + 30-day extension |
Non-Immigrant Visa (B, ED, O, etc.) | For work, business, education, volunteering, retirement | 90 days, renewable |
Visa on Arrival | For eligible nationalities staying up to 15 days | 15 days, usually not extendable |
LTR & SMART Visas | Long-term residency, remote work, investment, high-skilled professionals | Up to 10 years |
DTV (Destination Thailand Visa) | For digital nomads, freelancers, and cultural visitors | 180 days per visit, valid for 5 years |
Knowing your visa type helps determine if and how you can extend your stay.
Most travelers in Thailand can apply for an extension. This includes:
Tourist visa holders (TR)
People entering under visa exemption
Visitors on non-immigrant visas (e.g., students, retirees, volunteers, etc.)
To apply for a Thailand visa extension, prepare these Thai visa requirements:
Passport (valid)
TM.7 form (visa extension application)
Passport photo (4x6 cm)
Photocopies of:
Passport data page
Thai visa (if applicable)
Entry stamp and TM6 card (if applicable)
Proof of address (hotel confirmation, lease, etc.)
1,900 Baht in cash
You can apply at any Thai immigration office. Here are some main locations:
City | Immigration office |
Bangkok | Chaeng Watthana Government Complex |
Chiang Mai | Sanambin Road, Suthep |
Phuket | Phuket Road, Talad Yai |
Pattaya | Jomtien Beach Road |
Always check your local office's website or call ahead, as requirements can vary slightly.
Step | What to do |
1. Visit the office early | Go early to avoid long waits. |
2. Submit documents | TM.7 form, passport, photos, and required copies. |
3. Pay the fee | 1,900 Thai Baht (cash only). |
4. Wait for processing | Most extensions are approved within a few hours. |
After extending your visa, it’s very important to update or resubmit your Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC). This card records your entry and stay details and is required for proper immigration tracking.
Why it's important:
Keeps your immigration status current
Helps avoid confusion during police checks or airport departures
Required when applying for other services (SIM cards, bank accounts, etc.)
Need to update your Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)? Follow these quick steps:
Go to the TDAC portal and select “Update Arrival Card.”
Enter your TDAC number, passport number, date of birth, and nationality.
Make your changes (note: name, DOB, nationality, and passport number can’t be edited).
Resubmit the form and save the updated confirmation with the new QR code.
Use the latest version when arriving in Thailand.
Overstaying is a serious offense in Thailand. Penalties include:
500 Baht per day fine, up to 20,000 Baht
Risk of blacklisting, deportation or even jail
Stay on the safe side by applying for your extension before your current visa expires.
If you plan to leave Thailand and come back during your extended stay, you’ll need a re-entry permit to keep your visa valid. You can get this at:
Immigration offices
International airports (before departure)
Thailand visa extensions are easy if you:
Know your visa type
Gather the right documents
Pay the fee
Visit the nearest immigration office
Update your TDAC after extending
By staying organized and prepared, you can enjoy more of Thailand’s beautiful beaches, delicious food, and rich culture—stress-free and fully legal.
About the author
Eray is a seasoned writer and passionate traveler who has explored over 20 countries. With firsthand experience navigating visas and international travel, and a proven track record with reputable platforms like Dataconomy and Softonic, Eray now makes it easier for travelers to achieve their travel goals.
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