I usually visit Thailand 3 times per year for a week with visa exemption.

Currently taking a work break and have been here for three weeks and now would like to stay for total six weeks to mid December, but also come back in late January for a month.

An extension to current 30 days is simplest for current stay, but would it impact likelihood to get back in January next year.

Alternatively I could leave before 30 days for a week and return on visa exemption for a week.

Not sure which option will create less attention when I return in January.

The 30 day extension would be better than leaving and re-entering the country for a new 30 days.

Back to back visa exempt entries look bad.

When you stay in a Hotel / guesthouse, they will take care that a current TM30 has been filed (stating that you - a foreigner - is staying at their place).  So in that case, no problem at all.

However, if you stay at a friend's place or in a condo that you rent, you might be queried for it by the provincial Immigration Office where you are applying for an extension of stay.

Might - as TM30 compliance is not enforced at all provincial IOs (some do / some don't).

Thank you both for your quick replies.

 

I have been staying in the same Samui hotel for 9 nights and can check they have completed the TM30.

 

For the other option, would a week away in Bali before returning on visa exempt be less problematic?