Phuket launches online visa extension system for tourists

Phuket, one of Thailand‘s most popular tourist destinations, has launched an online visa extension system for foreigners who wish to stay longer in the country.

The “e-Extension” system, announced by the Immigration Bureau on Tuesday, allows tourists to apply for extensions to their stay via the internet, without having to visit the immigration office in person.

The system is available for foreigners who hold one of 12 types of visas, including tourist visas, non-immigrant visas, and retirement visas.

According to the Immigration Bureau, the online system will provide convenience, speed, safety, and efficiency for tourists, as well as reduce the workload and congestion at the immigration office.

Tourists who want to use the online system need to register on the website, submit the required documents, and make an appointment before bringing their passport to the immigration office to receive the visa extension stamp.

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The online system is part of the Immigration Bureau‘s efforts to simplify its operations and provide a seamless experience for tourists, especially during the upcoming New Year holidays.

The Immigration Bureau also said that it has prepared to facilitate the influx of tourists expected to arrive in Phuket, which is the main tourist area in the upper southern region of Thailand.

Phuket is one of the pilot provinces for the “Phuket Sandbox” scheme, which allows fully vaccinated foreign visitors to enter the island without quarantine, as long as they stay in Phuket for at least 14 days before traveling to other parts of the country.

The scheme, which started on July 1, 2022, has attracted more than 100,000 tourists to Phuket, generating over 5 billion baht (US$150 million) in revenue for the local economy.

The Immigration Bureau said that it will continue to work closely with other agencies and the private sector to support the tourism industry and ensure the safety and security of tourists and locals.