Visa extension requirements in Thailand: a comprehensive guide

Requirements for visa extension in Thailand

Visa extension requirements in Thailand

Extending a visa in Thailand can be a crucial necessity for foreigners who wish to prolong their stay, whether for tourism, work, retirement, or other purposes. The Thai immigration system, governed by the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979), allows for a range of visa extensions depending on the type of visa initially issued and the individual’s reasons for staying longer in the country. However, the visa extension process is complex and highly regulated, with strict requirements for visa extension in Thailand and conditions that must be fulfilled.

At Benoit & Partners, we provide expert guidance to help you navigate the visa extension requirements in Thailand. Whether you are extending a tourist visa, retirement visa, work visa, or another visa category, our team is here to assist you at every stage of the process. We specialize in clarifying the legal conditions, required documents, and procedural steps to ensure your visa extension is handled smoothly and in full compliance with Thai immigration regulations. With our support, you can secure your legal stay in Thailand with confidence and peace of mind.

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Table of Contents

Visa types and general requirements for extensions

Tourist Visa (TR Visa)

A Tourist Visa (TR Visa) is initially issued for a stay of up to 60 days, and immigration authorities can extend it for an additional 30 days. The extension remains relatively simple, but applicants must still submit specific documents and meet the required conditions.

  • Eligibility: Holders of the TR Visa can apply for an extension to prolong their travel in Thailand.
  • Required documents:
    • A valid passport with at least six months remaining.
    • A completed TM.7 form.
    • Passport-sized photo.
    • Copy of the current visa and entry stamp.
    • Proof of financial means: at least 20,000 THB for individuals or 40,000 THB for families.
    • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or rental agreement).
  • Procedure: The application must be submitted at the local Immigration Office, and typically, a 30-day extension is granted.

Non-Immigrant Visas

The Non-Immigrant Visa category includes several subtypes, each with distinct requirements for visa extension. The most common subtypes include:

a) Non-O Visa (Dependent Visa)

The Non-O Visa is often issued to dependents of Thai nationals or foreigners legally residing in Thailand.

  • Eligibility: Spouses, children, and dependents of Thai nationals or foreign employees can apply for an extension.
  • Required documents:
    • Marriage or birth certificates.
    • Proof of financial means (at least 40,000 THB per month).
    • Completed **TM.7** form.
    • Proof of residence (rental agreement or property ownership).
  • Procedure: Applications for a one-year extension can be submitted to the Immigration Office.

b) Non-B Visa (Business Visa)

The Non-B Visa is granted to foreigners who work in Thailand or engage in business activities. Immigration authorities base visa extensions on the individual’s employment or business status. Under Immigration Bureau Order No. 327/2557, officers assess Non-B visa extension requests and require proof of genuine business activity and tax compliance.

  • Eligibility: Foreigners employed by Thai companies or who own businesses in Thailand.
  • Required documents:
    • Valid work permit.
    • Letter from the employer confirming employment.
    • Company registration documents, including tax returns and financial statements.
  • Procedure: Extensions are typically granted for one year, provided all documentation is in order.

c) Non-ED Visa (Education Visa)

For students enrolled in accredited educational institutions, the Non-ED Visa allows an initial stay of 90 days, and immigration authorities can grant extensions for the duration of the course. Language students must attend at least 15 hours of in-person classes per week and must demonstrate academic progress every 90 days to renew the visa.

  • Eligibility: Students enrolled in schools, universities, or language programs.
  • Documents Required:
    • Letter from the educational institution confirming enrollment.
    • Passport with six months’ validity.
    • Completed TM.7 form.
  • Procedure: Extensions are granted for up to 90 days, and students must report to Immigration every 90 days for further extensions.

d) Non-O-A Visa (Retirement Visa)

The Non-O-A Visa is issued to retirees over 50 who wish to reside in Thailand long-term. It offers an initial stay of one year, renewable annually.

  • Eligibility: Foreign retirees aged 50 or above who meet financial criteria.
  • Required documents:
    • Proof of income (monthly income of at least 65,000 THB or 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account).
    • Health insurance with minimum coverage as required by Thai law.
    • Police clearance and medical certificates.
  • Procedure: Extensions are granted for one year, subject to meeting financial and insurance requirements.

Destination Thailand Visa (DTV Visa)

  • Introduction to the DTV Visa

The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is a new visa designed to cater to digital nomads and professionals working in fields related to digital tourism. This visa supports Thailand’s digital economy by allowing individuals to legally work remotely while residing in the country. The DTV is part of Thailand’s post-pandemic strategy to attract foreign professionals and boost tourism.

  •  Extension procedure

Immigration authorities grant DTV visa extensions in one-year increments, provided the individual continues to meet the eligibility criteria. Applicants must provide proof of ongoing employment in a digital or tourism-related role.

  • Procedure: The application for extension must be filed at the local Immigration Office before the initial visa expires. The fee for extension is 1,900 THB.
  • Reporting requirements: As with other long-term visas, DTV visa holders must report their address to the Immigration Office every 90 days.

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Special circumstances and other visa extensions

  • COVID-19 visa extensions

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai government allowed temporary visa extensions for foreigners who could not leave due to travel restrictions. Authorities granted these extensions on a discretionary basis for 30-day periods, depending on the circumstances.

  • Medical treatment visa extension

Foreigners undergoing long-term medical treatment can apply for visa extensions based on the duration of their medical care.

  • Eligibility: Patients receiving long-term treatment at accredited Thai hospitals.
  • Required documents:
    • Letter from the hospital outlining the treatment plan.
    • Proof of ability to pay medical expenses.
    • Completed TM.7 form.
  • Procedure: Extensions are typically granted for 30-90 days.

Penalties for overstaying and non-compliance

Overstaying a visa in Thailand can result in significant penalties. The fine for overstaying is 500 THB per day, up to a maximum of 20,000 THB. Long-term overstayers may face deportation and bann from re-entering Thailand.

In cases of visa fraud or work without the proper visa, authorities may bring criminal charges against foreigners, deport them, and potentially ban them from re-entering Thailand for up to 10 years.

Conclusion

Visa extension requirements in Thailand vary significantly depending on the type of visa you hold. Tourists, retirees, digital nomads, and business professionals must each follow a specific set of legal requirements, submit designated documents, and complete defined procedures. You must comply with Thai immigration laws and apply for extensions well before the visa expires to avoid penalties or deportation.

Recent developments, including the introduction of the DTV, reflect Thailand’s adaptive immigration policies aimed at attracting global professionals. However, you must understand the complexities of the immigration system and maintain full compliance to ensure a smooth and extended stay in the Kingdom of Thailand.

If you need further information, you may schedule an appointment with one of our lawyers.

FAQ

As of 2025, visa extensions must be filed in person at the local Immigration Bureau, except for specific e-Visa holders who entered under the online system and can therefore do it online.

You may apply up to 45 days before your visa expires. Early application ensures time to gather missing documents if needed.

While rules are national, implementation can vary by immigration office, especially in high-tourist provinces like Chiang Mai, Phuket, or Bangkok. Always check locally.

No. Once your visa has expired, you are considered to be overstaying under Thai immigration law. You cannot apply for an extension retroactively. Instead, you must report to the Immigration Bureau and face the financial and, potentially, penal consequences.

Overstaying a visa in Thailand leads to strict penalties under Thai immigration law. The fine is 500 THB per day, with a maximum fine of 20,000 THB regardless of the length of the overstay. In addition to financial penalties, overstayers may face criminal charges and blacklisting bans from re-entering Thailand, depending on the duration of the overstay:

  • Overstay of more than 90 days : 1-year ban

  • Overstay of more than 1 year: 3-year ban

  • Overstay of more than 3 years: 5-year ban

  • Overstay of more than 5 years: 10-year ban

Only in the case of a medical emergency with a medical certificate from a government or accredited hospital can overstays be deemed acceptable. The decision rests with immigration authorities on a case-by-case basis.