30-Day Visa Extension procedures in Thailand are generally orderly, but they can appear somewhat confusing due to the lack of adequate information on the internet. If you have researched like me and haven’t found clear information, I recommend reading this article to avoid unexpected situations. Here is a detailed guide on my visa extension experience:
Documents You Need to Prepare Before Going
For the visa extension procedure, you need to bring the following documents and materials:
1. Passport and Copies: A copy of your passport’s personal information page and the Thailand entry stamp page.
2. Passport Photo: One passport-sized photo (4x6 cm).
3. Cash: 1900 baht in cash for the payment.
4. Pen: For filling out the forms.
5. Forms to Fill Out:
• Application for Extension of Temporary Stay in the Kingdom (TM. 7)
• Permit of Temporary Stay in the Kingdom of Thailand
• The Acknowledgement of Penalties for a Visa Overstay
The Correct Place
Online information might suggest that you first go to Immigration Division 1. However, for short-term visas, the correct place is the immigration office at IT Square Lak Si shopping mall.
• Address: IT Square Lak Si, Bangkok
• Working Hours: Monday - Friday, 08:30 - 16:30 (lunch break from 12:00 - 13:00)
Process and Experiences
1. Going to the Wrong Place:
First, I went to the address indicated online, Immigration Division 1. However, the officers there informed me that short-term visa extensions are now processed at IT Square Lak Si. This incorrect information cost me about 30-40 minutes.
To get from Asok to IT Square Lak Si, you first need to take the BTS line, then get off at Wat Phra Sri Mahattat station, and transfer to the Pink Line, then get off at Lak Si station. From there, follow the Red Line and it takes about 5 minutes to reach the mall via the pedestrian bridge.
The entire journey from Asok BTS station takes about 75-85 minutes. If you take a Grab taxi, the duration and cost will vary depending on the time and weather, but it takes about 30 minutes and costs around 250 baht.
2. Finding the Correct Place:
When I arrived at IT Square Lak Si, it took me some time to find where the immigration procedures were carried out. After walking around the mall for a bit, I discovered they are conducted on the top floor.
3. Preparing the Necessary Documents:
When you arrive there, you first need to have the following documents ready:
• Passport and the necessary copies (if you can’t find a place to make copies, there are places on the same floor that make copies for a total of 4 baht).
• Passport photo.
• 1900 baht in cash.
• Pen.
4. Filling Out the Forms:
At the immigration office, you first need to fill out three forms:
• Application for Extension of Temporary Stay in the Kingdom (TM. 7)
• Permit of Temporary Stay in the Kingdom of Thailand
• The Acknowledgement of Penalties for a Visa Overstay
When filling out these forms, you can follow the instructions on the tables. This information will help you fill out the forms correctly.
5. Getting a Queue Number:
After filling out the forms, queue up to have your forms checked and get a queue number. No questions are asked at this stage; they just check the forms and ask for your signature.
6. Waiting for the Processing:
After receiving your queue number, go to the waiting area and wait for your number to be called. In my experience, it was quite crowded and I had to wait about 1.5 hours. People are let in in groups, and when it is your turn, you go to the corresponding counter.
7. Payment and Photo:
At the counter, you pay the 1900 baht and the officer asks you to look at the camera to take your photo. After these procedures are completed, you need to wait again for your visa to be stamped in your passport.
8. Collecting Your Passport:
Passports are distributed in groups. When your number is called, you go and collect your passport. They show you the updated visa page and return the passport to you.
Recommendations
• Go Early: Remember that the immigration office is closed during the lunch break from 12:00 to 13:00. Therefore, it is advisable to go early in the morning to expedite your procedures.
• Have All Documents Ready: Avoid going with incomplete documents; this could delay your procedures.
This guide will help you make your visa extension process in Thailand smooth. My experience shows that unexpected difficulties may arise, but with the right information, everything becomes easier.
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