Thailand re-entry permit guide
A Thai re-entry permit preserves an eligible current permission to stay when you leave. It is not a new visa or an extension.
A re-entry permit can preserve an eligible current permission to stay when you leave Thailand. Without one, departure can end the permission you were relying on even though the date in your passport had not arrived.
It is not a new visa, does not add days and does not extend the underlying stay.
Rules checked: 3 September 2026. Immigration's published public-service process uses form TM.8 and lists 1,000 baht for a single re-entry permit and 3,800 baht for multiple re-entry permission.
Who should check
Check before travel if you are relying on:
- a single-entry Non-Immigrant stay
- an extension based on work, family, retirement or education
- another current permission that would end on departure without re-entry protection
Some multiple-entry visas and specialist programmes do not need a separate re-entry permit for entries made under their rules. Do not buy one merely because another long-stayer has one.
Single or multiple
A single re-entry permit covers one qualifying departure and return. A multiple permit can cover repeated travel while the underlying permission remains valid.
Neither option survives beyond the permission it protects. If the permitted-until date is near, paying for multiple re-entry does not create a longer stay.
How to apply
The published process requires TM.8, the passport or travel document and the relevant current immigration permission. The handling office may require a photograph, copies and additional local paperwork.
Apply through an Immigration office or an eligible airport service before departure. Airport desks, hours and cut-off arrangements can change, so do not make an airport counter your only plan without checking it first.
Check the stamp
After receiving the permit, check:
- whether it is single or multiple
- the expiry or protected-until date
- your name and passport details
- what to show on return
When you re-enter, show the permit and check the new entry stamp before leaving the checkpoint.
Common mistakes
- Buying re-entry permission after leaving Thailand.
- Assuming an extension includes it.
- Confusing multiple re-entry with an extension.
- Paying for multiple entries beyond the underlying permission date.
- Forgetting to show the permit when returning.
- Relying on an airport desk without checking that it is open for the flight.
Related guides
Official sources
Ask the responsible Immigration office about the application location and timing for your trip.