How to Get a Re-Entry Permit in Thailand (Without Accidentally Cancelling Your Visa)
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If you’re living in Thailand on a long-stay visa — whether it’s for education, retirement, or work — you might find yourself planning a short trip abroad. But here’s a crucial detail you can’t afford to miss:
If you leave Thailand without a re-entry permit, your visa will be canceled — even if it’s still valid.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to get a re-entry permit in Thailand, whether at an international airport or at a local Thai immigration office. We’ll cover what it is, why it matters, and how to avoid the common mistake of letting your visa become void just because you didn’t know the rules.
What Is a Re-Entry Permit?
A Thailand re-entry permit is an official endorsement issued by Thai immigration that allows you to leave and re-enter the country without losing your current visa.
Without it, your permission to stay is automatically voided when you exit Thailand. This applies to nearly all Thai visas, including ED visas, tourist visas, and single-entry visas. That means your visa is canceled by default, unless you’ve secured a re-entry permit before leaving.
In simple terms, if you plan to leave and return, you need a re-entry permit — or risk starting the visa process all over again.
If you are staying long-term, you’ll also want to understand how 90-day reporting works in Thailand to stay compliant with immigration requirements.
Types of Re-Entry Permits in Thailand
There are two main types of re-entry permits you can apply for, depending on your travel plans and visa validity:
- Single-Entry Re-Entry Permit – 1,000 THB
Allows you to leave Thailand and return once while maintaining your visa status. - Multiple-Entry Re-Entry Permit – 3,800 THB
Allows you to re-enter the country multiple times during the duration that the visa is valid. Ideal for frequent travelers.
Both permits are issued by Thai immigration and stamped into your passport by an immigration officer.
Where to Apply: Immigration Office or Airport?
You can apply for a Thailand re-entry permit at two places:
1. Local Thai Immigration Office
Perfect for those who want to plan ahead. You can visit your local immigration bureau a few days before your trip to complete the process.
What to bring:
- Your passport
- A completed TM8 form
- One passport-sized photo (4×6 cm)
- A photocopy of your passport info page and visa page
- Cash payment (see above for fee breakdown)
The immigration officer will stamp your permit, and you’re good to go.
Time needed: Around 30–60 minutes, depending on queues.
Planning to stay in Thailand for several months or more? You might also find our tips helpful on opening a Thai bank account as a foreigner.
2. International Airport on the Day of Departure
Yes, you can apply for a re-entry permit at the airport — even just before your flight. This is convenient if your plans change last minute or you forget to apply earlier.
Both Suvarnabhumi (BKK) and Don Mueang (DMK) have dedicated counters that issue single or multiple re-entry permits on the day of departure. These desks are located inside the departure zone, just after you pass through the immigration checkpoint.
Open 24 hours a day, including weekends and holidays.
Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
Where to go: After check-in, go through security and passport control. You’ll find the re-entry permit counter inside the immigration area. Ask staff if unsure — they’ll direct you to the right place.
The re-entry permit counter is located just past the immigration checkpoint
What you’ll need:
- Passport
- Completed TM8 form
- Passport-sized photo (or take one onsite)
- Cash:
- 1,000 THB (single-entry with photo)
- 1,200 THB (single-entry, photo taken onsite)
- 3,800 THB (multiple-entry)
- 4,000 THB (multiple-entry, photo taken onsite)
About 15 minutes
Don Mueang Airport (DMK)
Where to go: Similar process. After check-in and immigration, ask for the Immigration Office near the Overstay Payment Desk. This is where re-entry permits are handled.
The re-entry permit service is available at DMK after passport control
Same fees, same documents.
Open 24/7.
Make sure you clearly say you’re applying for a re-entry permit, not overstay resolution — same office, different service.
Why Most Visas Are Single-Entry
Many Thai visas issued by an embassy or consulate are single-entry by default. Even if you’re approved for 3, 6, or 12 months, leaving the country voids the visa unless you’ve got a re-entry permit.
This is a common mistake for travelers who think the visa duration means they can come and go freely.
❌ Wrong: “I have a 6-month visa, so I can fly home and return.”
✅ Right: “I have a 6-month visa, so I need a re-entry permit to leave and return without losing it.”
What Happens If You Leave Thailand Without a Re-Entry Permit?
If you leave Thailand without a re-entry permit, your visa is canceled the moment you depart. It doesn’t matter how long it was supposed to last.
You’d need to apply for a brand-new visa outside the country — starting from zero. You may also lose your permission to stay, depending on your visa type and history.
GEOS Can Help
At GEOS Thailand, we support our students at every step:
- We remind you when it’s time to apply
- We help complete your TM8 form
- We provide document copies and photos
- We’ll even accompany you to the immigration office if needed
We also support 90-day reporting, bank account setup, and more.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Risk It
Getting a re-entry permit allows you to leave Thailand and return without drama. Whether you’re going home for a few weeks or hopping to another ASEAN country, it’s a small task that protects your stay.
Apply early, bring your documents, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your visa validity is secure.
Need help applying for a re-entry permit?
Join the GEOS community today for practical support, clear guidance, and a school that goes the extra mile for its students.
Contact us or visit our school in Bangkok today.
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