Thailand debuts online system for foreigners for extended stay

BANGKOK – In a groundbreaking move, the Thai Immigration Bureau has officially introduced an innovative online platform for foreigners to notify the bureau of their intention to stay for over 90 days in the country.

The “90 Days Online Notification Project” was launched in a ceremony presided over by National Police Chief Pol Lt-General Ittipol Ittisarnronnachai and eliminates the need for foreigners to inform immigration officials in person about their current status or rely on third parties for notification.

From now on, foreigners planning to stay in Thailand for more than 90 days can conveniently notify the bureau 15 days in advance by filling in information online at the website (www.immigration.go.th).

The online service is in line with Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin’s policy to enhance the influx of foreign tourists and businessmen into the country.

Initially applicable to investors with sponsorship from the Board of Investment, the online notification service aims to provide added convenience for foreigners intending to extend their stay beyond the usual 90 days for other visa categories also.

During the initial phase, the service will be applicable to designated areas, including Bangkok under the jurisdiction of the First Immigration Division, and places such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Samut Prakan, Nonthaburi, Surat Thani, and Chonburi. This stepwise implementation ensures a smooth integration of the online platform.

The authorities had earlier introduced the “e-Extension” service, enabling foreigners to extend their visas online, and further reinforcing the bureau’s dedication to modernizing immigration procedures.

These initiatives collectively reflect Thailand’s proactive approach to embracing digital solutions, offering foreigners user-friendly options for visa-related processes in the evolving landscape of global mobility.

Thailand, located in Southeast Asia, boasts a population of approximately 69 million people. Its economy, characterized by tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture, ranks among the largest in the region. Known for its cultural richness and diverse landscapes, Thailand remains a significant player in the global economy.