Duratum

Guides · Thailand

Travel visa renewal in Thailand

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with Immigration Bureau (สำนักงานตรวจคนเข้าเมือง).

Extending a Thai travel visa usually involves applying for an extension of stay at an immigration office before the current visa's authorized period expires. This is generally not a 'renewal' but an extension of the stay permitted by the existing visa.

Your timing

It is generally advisable to apply for an extension of stay well in advance of the current visa's expiration date. This allows time to gather required documents, complete the application, and account for potential waiting times at immigration offices. Most applicants begin this process at least a week or two before their permitted stay ends.

Start 14 days ahead

This lead time accounts for potential processing times, appointment availability (if applicable), and travel to an immigration office before the current visa's validity period runs out.

The process

  1. 1Confirm eligibility for an extension based on the specific visa type and current immigration regulations.
  2. 2Gather all necessary documents, which typically include the passport, a copy of the passport's biodata page and current visa stamp, a completed application form, and a recent photograph.
  3. 3Visit a local Immigration Office in Thailand. Walk-in applications are common, but some offices might offer appointment systems.
  4. 4Submit the application and required documents to an immigration officer.
  5. 5Pay the applicable extension fee.
  6. 6Attend a short interview, if required, and wait for the application to be processed.
  7. 7Receive the passport back with the extension stamp, if approved.

What to bring

  • Original passport with at least six months validity remaining and at least two blank pages.
  • Copy of passport biodata page.
  • Copy of existing visa page/arrival stamp.
  • Completed application form (Form TM.7 - Application for Extension of Temporary Stay in the Kingdom).
  • One recent passport-sized photograph (usually 4x6 cm).
  • Proof of sufficient funds (the amount can vary depending on visa type and current regulations).
  • Proof of accommodation in Thailand.
  • Departure card (TM.6, though this is being phased out for some arrivals).
  • Any other documents specific to the type of visa being extended (e.g., marriage certificate for spouse visas, work permit for business visas).

Who handles it

Immigration Bureau (สำนักงานตรวจคนเข้าเมือง)

https://www.immigration.go.th/

The standard fee for an extension of stay is typically 1,900 Thai Baht (THB) for most visa types, but this should be confirmed with the Immigration Bureau or the specific immigration office as fees can change and vary by visa category.

What commonly goes wrong

  • Applying for an extension after the current authorized stay has expired can result in overstay penalties and legal issues.
  • Ensuring the passport has sufficient validity (usually at least 6 months) and blank pages is crucial.
  • Required documents and specific eligibility criteria for extensions can vary depending on the original visa type (e.g., tourist visa, non-immigrant visa) and nationality; it is important to confirm these details.
  • Processing times can vary between different immigration offices and at different times of the year, so it's best to apply early.

Sources

Other documents in Thailand

Travel visa renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

Don't rely on remembering

Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.

Track my Travel visa