Medical Extension

[ehgnyc]

Vichaiyut Hospital has been my healthcare provider for the past 3 years. I had a full physical there 2 weeks ago and have 3 conditions that warrant ongoing monitoring and treatment. I have medical certificates to that effect. I also have a hefty bill of 27,000 baht.

 

I have lived in Asian countries for 10 years and all my healthcare has been in Bangkok. If I have to leave Thailand it will be back to Cambodia where I was living before the pandemic, where adequate care for my conditions cannot be found.

 

I approached an agent, who was recommended to me, to ask them to walk this through immigration for me. Instead, they wanted to charge me 28,000 baht for a 3 month extension without using my documentation. Before I approach Samui immigration with this matter, can anybody give me any advice on how to handle it? Should I try to make an appointment? What, besides all the medical documentation, should I bring with me?

 

Thanks very much.

[ubonjoe]

Not sure what Samui immigration want for a extension for medical treatment. No appointment is needed to apply.

Does you medical certificates state you cannot travel?

A extension medical can be issued up to 90 days. Immigration might only issue one for 30 days each time you apply.

What is your current permit to stay based upon? When does it end?

[ehgnyc]

I was here on a 30 day visa exempt and since have been getting by on amnesty and an embassy letter extension. I am legal until Nov 30. No, my certificates don't say I cannot travel. According to the immigration site, however, ongoing treatment is supposed to be a valid reason. The one thing I have in my favor here is I can be completely honest. My reason for staying here to begin with, rather than running for the border before it closed, is because this is where my healthcare is. I can prove that even when living in Cambodia I came several times for the weekend to see doctors. Don't know if that will count for anything, but I can try. Otherwise, I'll try to get the 60 day extension? Thank you!

[DrJack54]

OP, I was under the impression that ongoing 60 day extensions are available due to Covid situation. In some offices (MTT one example) folk have been signing affidavit regarding covid and obtain 60 day extension.

[ubonjoe]

I am not sure you certificates will be accepted since ongoing medical care means frequent visits to the hospital. In your case that would require frequent trips to Bangkok to visit the hospital or doctor.

Applying for the 60 day extension mentioned might be your option at this time.

If 50 or over you might want to consider applying for a 90 day non immigrant visa (category O) entry at immigration and then a one year extension based upon retirement. You would need 800k baht in a Thai bank or proof of 65k baht income.

[ehgnyc]

I have written to the hospital and asked if they could supply a letter as to why my conditions are an "impediment to travel." If not, I will follow one of your other suggestions. Thank you.