Normally I submit my TM7 the first week of November and pick up my extension (get the stamp) the first week of December. However I will be traveling out of the country this year from mid November to mid-December.

Can I submit my TM7 earlier (more that 30 days remaining on my stay) ??

If so, would I "reset" my original permitted-to-stay date?

What happens if I just lapse my extension and wait until I return (on a tourist Visa) --- would I "break-the-cycle" ... any downsides ?

Thanks for your answers.

NG

There is no downside unless you expect to apply for PR where three years on extensions of stay are required. But it would help to return with a non immigrant O visa entry as conversion inside Thailand will cost 2,000 baht anyhow.

You can ask about doing early but with the 30 day under review you seem to have it may not be possible. But worth asking.

Thank you for that #3. I was not aware of the 2000 Baht conversion-to-Non-O option.

I read in another thread (regarding slary documentation) that a 12-month extension could be extended an additional 60 days (or 2 months?) under certain circumstances.

Would I qualify? If so, could I get the 60-day extension, then walk over to the next counter to get a travel document (1,900 Baht) ?

NG

To visit Thai wife or child a 60 day extension can be granted but to start a new one year extension of stay a non immigrant visa entry is required.