Visa & Immigration

Thailand Re-Entry Permit: Stay Valid While Abroad

Re-entry permits (TM.13) explained: single vs multiple, when you need one before leaving Thailand, fees, and interaction with visa extensions and 90-day reporting.

By Sarah Chen

2 min read

Airplane wing above clouds on a long-haul flight to Thailand

If you hold a visa extension or long-stay permission in Thailand and plan to leave temporarily, you may need a re-entry permit (TM.13) to preserve your current status. Leaving without one can void an extension — you return as a new entrant with whatever stamp the officer grants.

When you need a re-entry permit

Apply before departure if you have:

  • An in-country extension you want to keep
  • Non-Immigrant status extended beyond a single entry stamp
  • Plans to return before extension expiry

You typically do not need TM.13 for a pure tourist exemption or single-entry TR where you intend to abandon the stay — but you lose remaining days.

Single vs multiple re-entry

TypeUse caseValidity
Single re-entryOne trip abroad and backOne use before extension expiry
Multiple re-entryFrequent travelMultiple uses before expiry
TM.13 fees (guideline)
ItemAmountNotes
Single re-entry1,000THBCash at Immigration
Multiple re-entry3,800THBCash at Immigration

How to apply

  1. 1

    Confirm extension validity

    Re-entry is pointless if your extension expires while you are abroad.

  2. 2

    Visit Immigration before departure

    Bring passport, extension stamp, photos, and fee. Same-day sticker is common.

  3. 3

    Check the re-entry stamp

    Verify single vs multiple and expiry alignment with your extension.

  4. 4

    Return before extension ends

    Late return without valid extension triggers overstay — see overstay guide.

Info

TM.13 preserves visa status — it does not replace TM.47 90-day reporting. Understand how short trips interact with reporting: 90-day guide.

Common mistakes

  • Flying out on extension without TM.13 and expecting the extension to survive
  • Buying multiple re-entry but extension expires on next trip
  • Confusing re-entry with visa exemption at the border on return
  • Missing 90-day deadline while abroad because reminders tracked visa only

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply at the airport?
Some airports operate re-entry counters — confirm hours. Do not rely on last-minute without checking.

Does re-entry reset 90-day reporting?
Rules depend on whether you re-enter under the permit vs new entry treatment. Ask your Immigration office if unsure.

LTR holders — still need TM.13?
Many LTR files include re-entry privileges — verify your qualification letter.

What if my extension expires while overseas?
You need a new visa or entry category — TM.13 cannot extend an expired permission.

Related: Non-B work visa guide · LTR guide.

What to do next

  1. Extension task guideTM.7 paperwork, fees, and immigration office checklists.
  2. Visa eligibility checkerWhich visa route fits your nationality, stay length, and purpose.
  3. Visa type referenceWho each stay permission is for, typical fees, and official sources.
  4. Record your stamp datesCount remaining days and 90-day reports from the dates in your passport.
  5. Expiry calculatorCount remaining days from the date written in your passport.