E-Extension - Working/Valid?

[aldriglikvid]

Hi, 

 

I stumbled upon Thailand's main immigration website which in turn had a banner for "E-Extension" at https://thaiextension.vfsevisa.com/

 

This seems extremely convenient, and my gut feeling is then that this doesn't work. Any knowledge here? 

 

[Salerno]

Looks like an interesting first step. But, for now, applicant must have address in Bangkok only and must get sticker visa in Bangkok and you need to go to the IO to get a sticker after application approved.

 

Would be nice if they're trialing it for future country roll out.

 

[Caldera]

It's too convoluted, as you still need to attend immigration to get your passport stamped after "online approval".

 

If they had the good sense to open a service window at a BTS station in Central Bangkok specifically for this purpose, it wouldn't be too bad, but still having to venture out to Chaeng Watthana is a deal-breaker in my book. I've often spent more time traveling to and fro than at the immigration office. 

[Celsius]

Thanks for that. Something to look forward to

[treetops]

The site previously excluded use by those on retirement extensions but I don't see that exclusion anymore.  Either I missed it or it's moved forward recently.

[Salerno]

On 2/3/2023 at 5:35 PM, Salerno said:

Would be nice if they're trialling it for future country roll out.

^ that is the plan from the looks of it.

 

There where actually media reports when it was initiated. One being https://thepattayanews.com/2022/11/09/thai-immigration-bureau-launches-online-visa-extension-starting-in-bangkok/ and a couple from another Pattaya based "news" outlet that can't be linked or quoted on here.

 

One article that can't be linked offered a reason for extension based on retirement being excluded. Quite farcical; the issue most have trouble with - local IOs interpreting the rules as they see fit - seems to be why they are excluded instead of using an online system as a way to enforce the actual rules consistently ????‍♂️