Thinking of staying in Thailand longer than 180 days on your Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)? You’re not alone. Whether you’re here for Muay Thai, digital nomad life, or just loving the lifestyle, here’s exactly how to extend your stay.
This updated guide covers both legal extension options and the most common workaround travelers are using to get another 180 days.
Option 1: Leave and Re-Enter (Visa Run Method)
The simplest and most stress-free way to get another 180 days on your DTV visa is to leave Thailand and re-enter. This is often referred to as a “visa run.”
How It Works:
- The DTV visa allows multiple entries over a 5-year validity period.
- Every entry allows you to stay for up to 180 days.
- By exiting and re-entering, you reset your stay clock without dealing with paperwork or immigration officers inside Thailand.
Why Travelers Prefer It:
- No paperwork
- No questions asked
- No financial proof or training records required
- Instant approval at the border
- This method resets your stay duration without visiting immigration.
How to do it:
- Travel to a neighboring country (e.g., Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia).
- Re-enter Thailand the same day or after a short stay.
- At immigration, you’ll be stamped back in for another 180 days.
- No need to show documents, no questioning, no forms.
Required Form for Re-Entry on a DTV Visa (Visa Run)
TDAC (Thailand Digital Arrival Card)
The TDAC is the new digital system used to record entry details for most international travelers arriving in Thailand. It collects essential information such as:
- Intended address in Thailand
- Passport information
- Flight or land entry details
- Purpose of visit (select “DTV visa”)
How to Complete the TDAC:
1. Online Submission: You can fill it in advance online via https://tdac.immigration.go.th.
2. At Entry Point: Some border crossings and airports may still provide kiosks or paper alternatives if the system is not yet fully digitized.
Option 2: Extend Your DTV Visa at a Thai Immigration Office (One-Time In-Country Extension)
If you don’t want to leave Thailand, you can apply for a one-time extension of 180 days at a Thai Immigration Office. This process requires a formal application and supporting documents, and the extension is granted at the discretion of the officer.
Required Immigration Forms
You must complete and submit all applicable forms from the list below:
- TM.7 – Application for extension of stay
- STM.2 – Acknowledgement of term and condition for permit of temporary stay in the kingdom of Thailand
- STM.9 – Acknowledgement of penalties for a visa overstay
- TM.30 – Address notification from landlord or host
- 90-Day Report – If you’ve been in Thailand over 90 consecutive days
Additional Required Documents
- Original Passport with valid DTV visa
- Photocopies of the passport (bio page, visa, last entry stamp)
- 1 Passport-sized photo
- Rental contract with your current address in Thailand
- Proof of financial means: Thai bank statement showing 500,000 THB or more consistently over the past 30 days. Statement must be up to date on the day of submission.
Fees
Visa extension application fee: 1,900 THB (payable in cash at immigration)
Where to Apply:
You must apply at the Thai Immigration Office responsible for your registered address. Major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket all have full-service immigration centers.
Timeline & Process
- Visit Immigration in person — arrive early.
- Submit all required forms and documents.
- Pay the fee.
- Answer any questions or provide additional info if asked.
- If approved, receive a new 180-day stamp in your passport.
Processing time usually same-day, though it may take up to 7 days depending on workload and location.
Important Reminders
- You can only extend once inside Thailand. After that, a visa run is required to start a new 180-day cycle.
- Bank statements must be recent and printed within 24–48 hours of submission, with 30 days of financial history.
- The DTV visa is multiple entry, so you do not need a re-entry permit to leave and come back within the visa’s validity.
- Extension is granted at the discretion of the immigration officer.
- You may be asked additional questions or for photos verifying your activity in Thailand (especially for training, digital nomad work, or wellness programs).
- Dress appropriately, be respectful, and bring copies of all documents.
Summary: Two Ways to Extend Your DTV Visa After 180 Days
| Method | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leave & Re-enter (Visa Run) | Exit Thailand and come back same day | No documents needed, fast, no questions asked | Requires travel |
| In-Country Immigration Extension | Apply at Thai immigration for 1-time extension | Stay in Thailand, no border run | Requires paperwork and in-person visit |
FAQ: DTV Extension in Thailand
Can I extend the DTV visa twice in a row?
No. You can only extend once inside Thailand. After that, you must exit and re-enter to reset the 180-day allowance.
Do I need a re-entry permit?
No. The DTV visa is multiple-entry, so as long as it’s still valid, you can leave and return freely.
Is it safer to do a visa run?
Yes, many travelers prefer this method. It’s predictable, requires no documentation, and resets your 180-day allowance immediately.
Why Choose Petchnumnoi Muay Thai Gym for Your DTV Visa?
- Official DTV Visa Sponsorship
Petchnumnoi Muay Thai Gym is an officially recognized provider for the DTV visa. Upon enrollment, you’ll receive all necessary documentation, including an acceptance letter, which is a critical component of your DTV visa application. This ensures a streamlined and hassle-free visa process.
2. Flexible Training Programs
Understanding that every individual’s schedule and commitment level varies, Petchnumnoi offers flexible training programs. Whether you’re a seasoned fighter or a beginner, you can tailor your training schedule to fit your needs without the pressure of mandatory daily sessions.
3. No Mandatory Training Requirements
While training is encouraged to enhance your Muay Thai skills and experience Thai culture, it’s not a strict requirement for maintaining your DTV visa status. This flexibility allows you to balance training with other activities or obligations during your stay.
4. Comprehensive Support and Documentation
Beyond the acceptance letter, Petchnumnoi provides additional support documents, such as the Certificate of Registration for the Boxing Camp Leader and Certification of Enrollment. These documents not only aid in your visa application but also affirm the gym’s credibility and commitment to its students.
Choosing Petchnumnoi Muay Thai Gym for your DTV visa not only simplifies the visa process but also offers a flexible and authentic training environment. Whether you’re looking to deepen your Muay Thai practice or simply enjoy an extended stay in Thailand, Petchnumnoi provides the support and experience to make your journey memorable. Our all-in-one DTV visa packages include full visa sponsorship, required documentation, and customizable training programs — making it easy to focus on your experience while we handle the details.