What to Do If You Fly to Thailand with a Single-Entry Visa but Later Need a Multiple-Entry Visa

Thailand is a dream destination for travelers with its vibrant culture, historic temples, and stunning landscapes. However, travel plans can change, and sometimes you may realize after arriving that a single-entry visa isn’t sufficient, especially if you’re planning to travel to neighboring countries and return to Thailand.

This guide provides a detailed explanation of your options if you need a multiple-entry visa after arriving with a single-entry visa, including the processes both inside immigration (at the airport) and outside immigration (at local Immigration Offices and embassies). It also covers practical tips to ensure you navigate this scenario smoothly.

Understanding the Difference Between Single-Entry and Multiple-Entry Visas

Single-Entry Visa:

• Allows one-time entry into Thailand.
• Once you exit the country, the visa becomes invalid, even if unused days remain.
• Typically valid for a 60-day stay, which can be extended by 30 days within Thailand.

Multiple-Entry Visa:

• Permits unlimited entries into Thailand during its validity period, usually six months.
• Ideal for travelers planning frequent trips to neighboring countries like Cambodia, Laos, or Malaysia.
• Each entry grants up to 60 days of stay, which can also be extended by 30 days.

If your travel plans change, knowing how to transition from a single-entry visa to a more flexible option is essential to avoid disruptions.

Can You Convert a Single-Entry Visa to a Multiple-Entry Visa?

No, Thailand does not allow you to convert a single-entry visa into a multiple-entry visa while inside the country. However, there are several ways to address this situation:

1. Obtain a Re-Entry Permit: This allows you to leave Thailand and re-enter on your existing single-entry visa without invalidating it.
2. Apply for a Multiple-Entry Visa: You can visit a Thai embassy or consulate in a neighboring country to apply for a new multiple-entry visa.
3. Extend Your Current Stay: If leaving the country isn’t an immediate option, you can apply for a visa extension within Thailand.

Option 1: Obtaining a Re-Entry Permit Thailand (Inside Immigration at the Airport)

A Re-Entry Permit is a practical solution if you want to leave Thailand temporarily and return without invalidating your current visa. This is especially useful for travelers who only need one or two trips outside the country during their stay.

Who Can Apply for a Re-Entry Permit?

Anyone holding a valid visa (single-entry or otherwise) can apply for a re-entry permit. This option is accessible at major airports like Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport.

Steps to Apply for a Re-Entry Permit at the Airport

1. Locate the Immigration Office:
   • Most international airports in Thailand have designated counters or offices for re-entry permits near the departure area or immigration counters.
   • Ask airport staff or look for signs.
2. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Passport: Must be valid for at least six months with a blank page.
   • Arrival Card (TM.6): Ensure it is filled out and attached to your passport.
   • Application Form: Available at the Immigration Office.
   • Photograph: A passport-sized photo (4×6 cm).
   • Re-Entry Fee: Approximately 1,000 THB for a single re-entry permit or 3,800 THB for a multiple re-entry permit.
3. Submit Your Application:
   • Present your documents to the Immigration Officer and pay the fee (cash is typically preferred).
   • Ensure all forms are filled out accurately to avoid delays.
4. Processing Time:
   • Typically completed within 30 minutes to 1 hour.
5. Collect Your Permit:
   • Once approved, your passport will be stamped with the re-entry permit, allowing you to exit and re-enter Thailand without invalidating your visa.

Option 2: Applying for a Re-Entry Permit Outside Immigration

If you don’t apply for a re-entry permit at the airport, you can still obtain one at any local Immigration Office within Thailand.

Steps to Apply at a District Immigration Office

1. Find the Nearest Immigration Office:
   • Offices are located in cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya.
2. Prepare Required Documents:
   • The same as those required at the airport (passport, arrival card, application form, photo, and fee).
3. Submit Your Application:
   • Visit the Immigration Office and present your documents.
4. Processing Time:
   • Expect processing to take between 30 minutes and 2 hours.

Option 3: Applying for a Multiple-Entry Visa Outside Thailand

If your travel plans involve multiple entries into Thailand, obtaining a multiple-entry visa is the most suitable option. However, this cannot be done inside Thailand and requires visiting a Thai embassy or consulate in a neighboring country.

Steps to Apply for a Multiple-Entry Visa at a Thai Embassy or Consulate

1. Travel to a Neighboring Country:
   • Popular destinations for visa runs include Laos, Malaysia, and Cambodia.
2. Research the Embassy Requirements:
   • Thai embassies and consulates may have slightly different requirements. Check their websites or contact them directly.
3. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Passport: Valid for at least six months.
   • Visa Application Form: Downloadable from the embassy’s website or available at the embassy.
   • Photographs: Two passport-sized photos (4×6 cm).
   • Proof of Financial Means: Bank statement showing at least 200,000 THB for a multiple-entry visa.
   • Proof of Accommodation: Hotel bookings or a rental agreement in Thailand.
   • Flight Tickets: Indicating planned entry and exit from Thailand.
   • Visa Fee: Varies but is generally around 5,000 THB.
4. Submit Your Application:
   • Present your documents to the visa officer.
5. Processing Time:
   • Typically takes 2–3 business days.
6. Re-Enter Thailand:
   • Your multiple-entry visa allows unlimited entries during its validity, with each stay up to 60 days.

Option 4: Extending Your Stay with a Single-Entry Visa Inside Thailand

If leaving the country isn’t feasible, extending your single-entry visa within Thailand is an alternative. This option grants an additional 30 days of stay.

Steps to Extend Your Single-Entry Visa

1. Visit a Local Immigration Office:
   • Offices are located throughout Thailand in major cities.
2. Prepare Required Documents:
   • Passport: Valid for at least six months.
   • Arrival Card (TM.6): Attached to your passport.
   • Visa Extension Form (TM.7): Available at the Immigration Office or online.
   • Photograph: Passport-sized photo (4×6 cm).
   • Proof of Financial Means: Bank statement or cash showing at least 20,000 THB.
   • Extension Fee: Around 1,900 THB.
3. Submit Your Application:
   • Present your documents to the Immigration Officer.
4. Processing Time:
   • Usually takes 30 minutes to 2 hours.
5. Receive Your Extension:
   • The extension grants an additional 30 days from the current visa expiration date.

Contact Information for Thai Immigration Offices

If you have any questions or need assistance regarding your visa, re-entry permit, or extension process, Thai Immigration Offices can provide official guidance. Here’s how to get in touch with key offices across the country:

Thai Immigration Bureau (Head Office – Bangkok)

• Address: Government Complex Building B, Chaeng Watthana Road, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210, Thailand
• Phone: +66 2141 9889
• Website: www.immigration.go.th
• Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on public holidays)

Major Immigration Offices in Thailand

1. Chiang Mai Immigration Office
   • Address: Promenada Mall, Building A, 2nd Floor, Tha Sala Subdistrict, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, 50000
   • Phone: +66 5326 7509
   • Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on public holidays)
2. Phuket Immigration Office
   • Address: 482 Phuket Road, Talad Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket, 83000
   • Phone: +66 7622 1715 / +66 7621 1304
   • Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on public holidays)
3. Pattaya Immigration Office
   • Address: Moo 12, Bang Lamung District, Chonburi, 20150
   • Phone: +66 3825 3347
   • Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on public holidays)
4. Krabi Immigration Office
   • Address: 4034 Petchkasem Road, Nuea Klong District, Krabi, 81130
   • Phone: +66 7565 1064
   • Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (Closed on public holidays)

Airport Immigration Offices

1. Suvarnabhumi Airport Immigration Office
   • Located near Immigration counters in the arrival hall.
   • Contact Number: +66 2132 1100
2. Don Mueang Airport Immigration Office
   • Located near Immigration counters in the arrival hall.
   • Contact Number: +66 2535 1254

When to Contact Thai Immigration

• For questions about re-entry permits, visa extensions, or required documents.
• To check the status of your visa or extension application.
• For clarification on policies regarding overstays or changes in visa type.

For updated contact details or additional locations, visit the Thai Immigration Bureau official website.

Key Tips and Considerations

1. Plan Ahead:
   • Ensure you understand visa requirements before traveling. If you anticipate multiple entries, apply for a multiple-entry visa before your trip.
2. Avoid Overstaying:
   • Overstaying your visa results in fines (500 THB per day) and potential bans on re-entry.
3. Carry Cash:
   • Immigration Offices and re-entry permit counters often prefer cash payments.
4. Be Polite:
   • Treat Immigration Officers with respect for a smoother process.
5. Track Deadlines:
   • Apply for extensions or re-entry permits before your visa expires to avoid complications.

Discovering that a single-entry visa doesn’t meet your travel needs can be frustrating, but Thailand offers practical solutions. Whether through a re-entry permit, an extension, or a new multiple-entry visa, you can manage your travel plans with ease. By understanding the processes and preparing thoroughly, you can continue enjoying the beauty and culture of Thailand without disruption. Safe travels!