Can I go to Thailand for 30 days without a visa and then get a 60 day tourist visa in Thailand?
Yes, it is possible for travelers to visit Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days. Visitors from many countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and most of Europe, are allowed to enter Thailand for tourism purposes without a visa and stay for a maximum of 30 days. This is known as the visa exemption rule.
However, if you wish to extend your stay in Thailand beyond the initial 30 days, you have a couple of options. One option is to visit a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling to Thailand and apply for a 60-day tourist visa. This will allow you to stay in the country for up to 60 days from the day of your arrival.
Another option is to apply for a visa extension while you are already in Thailand. You can visit the nearest immigration office, usually located in major cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket, and apply for an extension of your stay. The visa extension will grant you an additional 30 days, bringing your total stay to 60 days.
It’s important to note that visa regulations can change, so it’s always a good idea to check with the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or visit the official website of the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the most up-to-date information.
FAQs
1. Can I enter Thailand without a visa?
Yes, visitors from many countries can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days for tourism purposes.
2. How can I stay in Thailand for more than 30 days?
To stay in Thailand for more than 30 days, you can either apply for a 60-day tourist visa before traveling to Thailand or apply for a visa extension while you are already in the country.
3. Can I apply for a visa extension in any city in Thailand?
Visa extensions can be applied for at the nearest immigration office, usually located in major cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Phuket.
4. How long does it take to get a 60-day tourist visa?
The processing time for a 60-day tourist visa varies depending on the embassy or consulate, but it typically takes a few business days.
5. What documents are required for a visa extension?
Typically, you will need your passport, a completed visa extension application form, a passport-sized photograph, and the required fee.
6. Can I work or study while on a 60-day tourist visa?
No, a 60-day tourist visa is for tourism purposes only and does not allow for work or study. If you plan to work or study in Thailand, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa.
7. Is it possible to extend my stay in Thailand beyond 60 days?
Yes, it is possible to apply for another visa extension while you are already in Thailand if you wish to stay longer than 60 days.
8. Are there any restrictions or limitations on the number of visa extensions I can get?
There are no specific restrictions on the number of visa extensions you can get, but it is generally advised to consult with the immigration authorities for guidance.
9. Do I need to show proof of onward travel when entering Thailand without a visa?
In some cases, you may be required to show proof of onward travel when entering Thailand without a visa. It is recommended to have a return or onward ticket to avoid any potential issues.
10. Can I apply for a visa extension online?
Currently, visa extensions cannot be done online and must be done in person at the immigration office.
11. What happens if I overstay my visa in Thailand?
Overstaying your visa in Thailand can result in fines and penalties. The longer you overstay, the higher the fine and the potential consequences.
12. Can I apply for a visa extension on the day my visa expires?
It is advised to apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires to avoid any complications or potential issues. It’s always best to visit the immigration office a few days in advance.
