Comprehensive Guide to Thai Immigration Forms Everything You Need to Know
Thailand, known for its vibrant culture, stunning beaches, and bustling cities, attracts millions of visitors and expatriates each year. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-term resident, navigating the various Thai immigration forms is a necessary part of your journey. Understanding these forms can make your entry, stay, and exit from Thailand much smoother. This guide provides an in-depth look at the most common Thai immigration forms, helping you stay compliant with Thai immigration laws.
TM6 (Arrival/Departure Card)
Overview
The TM6 form, also known as the Arrival/Departure Card, is one of the first documents you’ll encounter when entering Thailand. Every foreigner must fill out this form, which is divided into two sections: arrival and departure.
Detailed Instructions
- Arrival Section: You will fill out this part upon arriving in Thailand. It requires personal information such as your name, passport number, flight number, and address in Thailand.
- Departure Section: This part must be completed as well, and it will be retained in your passport until you leave the country.
Make sure to fill out both sections accurately. If you have a visa, provide the visa number; if you have a re-entry permit, include that number. For those entering on a visa exemption stamp, you can leave the visa number blank. Always provide a contact number and the address where you will stay in Thailand.
Tips
- Advance Preparation: Fill out the form before landing to avoid delays.
- Storage: Keep the departure section safe, as it is required for extending your stay or changing your visa status.
Lost TM6 Card
If you lose your TM6 card, report to the local immigration office to obtain a replacement. This card is essential for visa extensions and other immigration processes within Thailand.
TM88 (Application for Visa on Arrival)
Overview
The TM88 form is for foreigners eligible for a visa on arrival, which grants a 15-day stay in Thailand.
Eligibility and Process
- Eligibility: Check the list of eligible countries on the Thai embassy website.
- Form Availability: The form can be downloaded online or obtained at visa on arrival kiosks at the airport. There is also a Chinese version available for Chinese nationals.
Important Information
- Address in Thailand: You must provide your address in Thailand when filling out this form.
- Fee Waiver: Currently, the fee for the visa on arrival is waived until April 30, 2020. Check the Thai embassy website for updates on fee waivers.
TM86 (Application for Change of Visa)
Overview
Foreigners on a tourist visa (TR) who wish to change their visa status to a non-immigrant visa can use the TM86 form.
Application Process
- Eligibility: You must have at least 15 days remaining on your current permit to stay.
- Fee: The application fee is 2,000 THB.
This form is commonly used for changing to a non-immigrant visa based on reasons such as having a Thai spouse or retirement.
TM87 (Application for Visa)
Overview
The TM87 form allows foreigners on a visa exemption (30 days) to apply for a non-immigrant visa within Thailand.
Eligibility and Application
- Visa Types: Applicable for non-immigrant B, O, ED, and F categories.
- Eligibility: You must have at least 15 days remaining on your current permit to stay.
- Fee: The application fee is 2,000 THB.
This form is particularly useful for those who find employment during their stay or for those above 50 years old or married to a Thai national.
TM7 (Application for Extension of Temporary Stay in the Kingdom)
Overview
The TM7 form is widely used for extending your stay in Thailand, whether for short-term or long-term extensions.
Application Process
- Extensions: You can request extensions of 7, 30, 60, 90, or 365 days depending on your purpose.
- Fee: The fee for extensions is 1,900 THB regardless of the length.
This form is essential for those extending a non-immigrant B visa for employment or a non-immigrant O visa for marriage or retirement.
TM8 (Application for Re-Entry Permit into the Kingdom)
Overview
The TM8 form is necessary for foreigners with a single entry visa who wish to leave and re-enter Thailand on the same visa.
Application Process
- Re-Entry Permit Types: Single re-entry permit costs 1,000 THB, and multiple re-entry permits cost 3,800 THB.
- Where to Apply: This form can be filed at the local immigration office or at the international airport in Bangkok before departure.
Obtaining a re-entry permit is crucial to avoid voiding your current permit to stay.
TM47 (Form for Alien to Notify of Staying Longer than 90 days)
Overview
Foreigners on an extension-of-stay visa must report their current residential address every 90 days using the TM47 form.
Reporting Process
- Methods: You can report in person, by mail, or through an agent with a Power of Attorney.
- Exemption: If you leave Thailand before the 90-day reporting date, you don’t need to report. The new 90-day period starts upon re-entry.
Failure to report on time may result in a 2,000 THB penalty, but the reporting itself is free of charge.
TM30 (Notification Form for House Master, or Owner of the Residence where Aliens have stayed)
Overview
The TM30 form is for landlords or house owners to report foreigners staying in their property within 24 hours of their arrival.
Filing Process
- Methods: Filing can be done via a mobile app, online, or in person.
- Requirement: This form is mandatory for all property owners hosting foreigners.
TM28 (Forms for Aliens to Notify their Change of Address in a Province)
Overview
The TM28 form is used when a foreigner moves from one province to another within Thailand.
Filing Process
- Timing: This form must be filed within 24 hours of moving.
- Combination with TM30: File the TM28 together with the TM30 in your new province.
There is no fee for filing the TM28, but failure to do so may result in penalties during visa renewals.
Conclusion
Navigating Thai immigration forms can be complex, but understanding each form’s purpose and requirements can simplify the process. Whether you are entering Thailand, extending your stay, or changing your visa status, being prepared with the correct information and forms will ensure a smooth experience. Always stay updated with the latest regulations and consult the Thai immigration office or embassy for any specific concerns.
By providing detailed and accurate information, you can ensure compliance with Thai immigration laws and enjoy your time in this beautiful country without any hassle. For assistance with your visa needs contact us we are more than happy to help.
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