Many visitors and expats in Thailand don’t realise that leaving the country without a re-entry permit can cancel their visa. Whether you’re on a tourist visa, marriage visa, or retirement visa – if you leave without the correct permission, your visa will be void.
What Is a Re-Entry Permit?
A re-entry permit allows you to leave Thailand temporarily without losing your current visa or extension of stay. It’s not a visa – it’s permission to exit and re-enter while keeping your existing visa active. You can learn more directly from the Thai Immigration Bureau.
Who Needs One?
You need a re-entry permit if you’re staying in Thailand on:
- A tourist visa with a visa extension
- A Non-Immigrant visa (O, ED, B, etc.)
- A retirement or marriage visa
If you leave without one, your visa is cancelled when you exit Thailand, and you’ll have to start the application process again. Visit our Thai visa extensions page to avoid this mistake.
Types of Re-Entry Permits
- Single Re-Entry Permit: One-time use. Valid for a single exit and return.
- Multiple Re-Entry Permit: Allows you to leave and return as many times as you want while your visa is valid.
Where to Get One
You can get a re-entry permit at:
- Your local immigration office (e.g., Pattaya Immigration)
- Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport (before departure)
Make sure to allow time before your flight – queues at the airport immigration desks can be long.
What You’ll Need
- Your original passport
- TM.8 re-entry permit application form
- Recent passport photo
- Photocopy of passport bio page and current visa
- Payment: 1,000 baht (single), 3,800 baht (multiple)
Pro Tip:
Even if you’re only going for a weekend trip to Laos or Malaysia, you’ll still need a permit. Don’t risk your long-stay visa.
Need Help with Thai Visas or Passport Services?
We assist with:
- Thai visa extensions
- British passport renewals
- UK visa services for Thai nationals
Contact us today or explore more insights on our Thailand Essentials blog.
