Thailand announces online visa extension for tourists in Phuket

PHUKET – As Thailand gears up for the New Year festivities, the immigration authorities have introduced an online visa extension service for tourists arriving at Phuket, one of the country’s premier destinations.

Dubbed ‘E-Extension,’ this service aims to streamline the visa extension process across 12 specific visa categories and as per the official announcement, tourists can now submit their documents and schedule an appointment prior to presenting their passport for an extension stamp, facilitating a smoother visa extension procedure.

The service is presently operational at Immigration Bureau 1 in Bangkok, as well as at Immigration Offices located in Chonburi, Phuket, and Chiang Mai. However, the availability of this service within Phuket city itself has yet to be confirmed.

Amid the anticipation of a surge in tourist arrivals, Pol Lt Gen Itthiphon Itthisanronnachai, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, conducted inspection at various sections of Phuket Airport. The inspection aimed to assess the facility’s readiness to accommodate a potentially substantial influx of tourists during this period.

Phuket, a captivating island situated in the Andaman Sea, attracts globetrotters with its breathtaking blend of tropical allure and rich cultural tapestry. Recognized for its unspoiled beaches, crystalline waters, and verdant landscapes, Phuket remains a sought-after destination offering an extensive array of attractions.

Thailand serves as an attractive destination for explorers and the country welcomed a record 40 million tourists in 2019 before the pandemic brought travel to a standstill. The government is trying to recover the figures but the 2023 numbers are not that impressive though still above 2 million.