Visa Rules Change Frequently
Quick Answer
What is the Thailand Re-Entry Permit Guide?
Preserves your non-immigrant visa extension when you leave Thailand. Single (฿1,000) or multiple (฿3,800).
When you hold a long-stay visa extension (retirement, education, business, DTV extension), that permission-to-stay is tied to a single continuous stay in Thailand. If you leave the country without a re-entry permit, your extension is cancelled the moment you cross the border — even if you are only leaving for a weekend trip. Re-entry permits are the mechanism that preserves your current visa status while you travel abroad.
There are two types: a single re-entry permit (฿1,000) that lets you leave and return once, and a multiple re-entry permit (฿3,800) that allows unlimited departures and returns within your current permission-to-stay period. Both are obtained from the immigration office or, more conveniently, at the airport immigration counter on the day of departure.
Required Documents
| Document | Required |
|---|---|
| Passport (original) | |
| TM.8 re-entry permit application form | |
| One passport photo (4×6 cm) | |
| Copy of current visa/extension stamp | |
| Re-entry permit fee in cash |
Fees
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Single re-entry permit | ฿1,000 |
| Multiple re-entry permit | ฿3,800 |
Step-by-Step Process
Decide: single or multiple re-entry permit
If you plan one trip abroad before your next extension, a single permit (฿1,000) is sufficient. If you will be travelling multiple times within your current stay, a multiple permit (฿3,800) saves money and hassle.
Option A: Apply at immigration office before departure
Visit your local immigration office with TM.8 form, passport, photo, and fee. This can be done any time before you depart.
Option B: Apply at airport departure hall
Look for the Thai Immigration re-entry permit counter in the departure area before passport control. Most major international airports (Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket, Chiang Mai) have a counter. Complete TM.8, hand over your passport, pay, and receive the permit sticker in your passport.
Depart and return
On return to Thailand, present your passport at immigration. The officer will check the re-entry permit and your current extension stamp and re-admit you under the same status.
Expert Tips
- Multiple re-entry permits are excellent value if you travel to neighbouring countries regularly — the ฿3,800 is far cheaper than re-applying for a new visa each time.
- If you forget to get a re-entry permit before leaving, your extension will be cancelled and you will need to apply for a new visa. This is one of the most painful and preventable immigration mistakes.
- Some people choose to apply at the airport departure counter on the day of travel. This is convenient but can be stressful if queues are long — always allow extra time.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting entirely to get a re-entry permit before a short trip abroad, losing months or years of accumulated visa status.
- Getting a single re-entry permit when planning two international trips — the second trip cancels the extension.
- Not realising the re-entry permit is tied to the current extension period, not a general travel right.
Important Warnings
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Visa Guides
Thailand Visa Extension Guide
How to extend any Thailand visa or stamp at immigration — step-by-step process and tips.
Thailand Retirement Visa (Non-OA / Non-OX)
The standard long-stay option for retirees 50+ — one-year renewable with financial requirements.
90-Day Reporting Guide (TM.47)
All long-term visa holders must report their address to Thai immigration every 90 days.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
Thailand's dedicated digital nomad visa — 180 days per entry, 5-year validity, multiple entries.
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Visa & Legal Specialist · Phuket · 15+ years in Thailand
Tom is a former immigration consultant who has helped over 2,000 foreigners navigate Thailand's visa system. Based in Phuket since 2011, he maintains direct relationships with Thai immigration offices and stays current on policy changes. He writes ThailandKnowledge's visa guides, nationality-specific entry requirements, and long-stay documentation guides.
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