How to manage visa runs and extensions in Thailand

You can either extend your current entry by 30 days at a local Thai Immigration Office for 1,900 THB or cross an international border and re-enter to trigger a new visa-exempt period. If doing a border run, ensure you have flight proof of onward travel as airlines often check this before boarding.

1. Choose your method. Decide between an official 30-day extension at an immigration office or a border run. Extensions are cheaper and less exhausting, but you are limited to one per entry.
2. Visit an Immigration Office for an extension. Locate the nearest office (e.g., Bangkok’s Chaengwattana or Chiang Mai’s Promenada). Bring your passport, a 4x6cm photo, a copy of your passport ID page and arrival card, and 1,900 THB in cash.
3. Execute a border run. If you must leave, use reputable land border crossings like Poipet (Cambodia) or Sadao (Malaysia). Return via air if possible to avoid 'land border crossing' quotas which currently limit you to two per calendar year.
4. Prepare proof of onward travel. If re-entering by air, immigration may demand a flight out of Thailand within 30 days. Use a site like onwardticket.com if you don't have firm plans yet.

Can I do border runs indefinitely?

No. Immigration officers are increasingly strict. Do not rely on border runs as a long-term strategy for living in Thailand.

Do I need to pay for the extension in US dollars?

No, Thai Immigration only accepts Thai Baht in cash.