Thailand: Phuket introduces online visa extension system for tourists

Phuket, is one of the most frequented tourist destinations in Thailand, and has been a favourite among the Indian travellers too. Now, as per the latest development, it has simplified the visa process for foreigners by introducing an online visa extension system. As per the reports, Immigration Bureau Commissioner Pol Lt Gen Itthiphon Itthisanronnachai disclosed that foreigners residing in Phuket under any of the 12 specified visa types can now use an online platform to apply for visa extensions.

This initiative is part of Lt Gen Itthiphon's broader mission to simplify the Immigration Bureau's operations and provide a seamless experience for tourists during the upcoming New Year holidays. The primary objective is to streamline the immigration process, making it both efficient and easily accessible.
Phuket, being a key tourist destination in the upper southern region, has been a priority of the government. Policies facilitating movement, such as visa waivers for tourists from China and India to Thailand, have already been implemented and are proving to be highly productive, as indicated by tourist statistics.

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In December, Phuket Airport saw a substantial influx of tourists from Russia, averaging an impressive 3,600 arrivals daily. China, the United Kingdom, and India closely followed, with daily averages of 1,500, 780, and 720 visitors, respectively. Reportedly, the inflow of tourist through the airport for the month is projected to reach an impressive 350,000.

The newly introduced online visa extension system, known as 'E-Extension,' aims to simplify the extension process for the 12 specified visa categories. Tourists will now be able to submit documents and schedule appointments online, and subsequently receive a physical stamp to extend their visas, reports added.

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The E-Extension Visa Service is currently operational at Immigration Bureau 1 in Bangkok and Immigration Offices in populous locations like Chonburi, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. However, specific details regarding the E-Extension service for foreigners in Phuket are yet to be officially disclosed on the Phuket Immigration website.

Lt Gen Itthiphon is scheduled to meet with local immigration officers to address potential issues, gather feedback, and consider necessary changes.

Reports further add that Thailand is on track to reach pre-pandemic levels in tourism numbers, with approximately 24.5 million visitors in 2023. Despite meeting the government's goal for the year, this figure remains below the record of 40 million visitors recorded in 2019.