How to Get a Re-Entry Permit at Suvarnabhumi Airport (For Non-B Visa Holders)

Leaving Thailand temporarily while holding a Non-Immigrant B (Business) Visa? Whether it’s for a quick business trip or a well-earned holiday, there’s one crucial step you must not overlook before you depart:

You must obtain a re-entry permit to preserve your visa status.

Failure to do so will result in your visa becoming automatically void the moment you leave the Kingdom, which means you’d have to endure the cumbersome and time-consuming process of starting the entire visa and work permit application from scratch. This involves reapplying for a new Non-Immigrant B Visa from outside Thailand, obtaining a new work permit, and potentially facing delays in your business activities. Fortunately, Thailand makes it relatively convenient to apply for a re-entry permit directly at Suvarnabhumi Airport. This convenience is a significant relief, as long as you are well-prepared and know exactly where to go and what documents to bring with you. The process is streamlined to ensure that travelers can secure their re-entry permit without unnecessary hassle, allowing them to focus on their travel plans with peace of mind.

Where Is the Re-Entry Permit Office Located?

The re-entry permit counter at Suvarnabhumi Airport is situated in the Departures Hall, before you pass through immigration.

• Location: Level 4, Departures Hall, Zone 2–3, near Row M

• Landmark: Near the Thai Airways check-in counters

• Hours: Open 24 hours, 7 days a week

Look for signs that say “Immigration – Re-Entry Permit.” If unsure, ask any airport staff to direct you to the counter.

It’s extremely important to note: you must obtain your re-entry permit before passing through passport control. This step is crucial because once you’re past Immigration, it’s too late to secure the permit, and you will not be able to return to Thailand under your current visa status without going through the entire application process again. This means that if you forget to get the re-entry permit and proceed through passport control, you will face significant inconvenience and potential disruption to your travel plans. Therefore, it is essential to prioritize obtaining the re-entry permit as part of your pre-departure checklist to ensure a smooth and hassle-free return to Thailand.

Required Documents

Before heading to the counter, make sure you prepare the following documents:

1. Original Passport – with your current Non-B visa and valid entry stamp.

2. TM.6 Departure Card – still required unless otherwise instructed.

3. Photocopy of Passport ID Page

4. Photocopy of Current Visa Page

5. 1 Passport-Sized Photo (4x6 cm) – some officers may take your photo digitally, but it’s better to have one ready.

6. Completed TM.8 Form – available at the counter or downloadable online.

7. Application Fee in Thai Baht (cash only)

Photocopy and photo services are available at the airport, providing a convenient option for travelers who may have forgotten to prepare these items beforehand. However, it's important to be aware that the lines for these services can be quite long, especially during peak travel times, which could lead to significant waiting periods. Additionally, the prices for these services at the airport tend to be higher than what you might find elsewhere, adding an extra cost to your travel expenses. To avoid these potential inconveniences and save both time and money, it is highly advisable to prepare all necessary photocopies and passport-sized photos in advance. By doing so, you can ensure a smoother and more efficient experience at the airport, allowing you to focus on your travel plans without unnecessary stress or delays.

Re-Entry Permit Fees

When considering your travel plans during the validity of your visa, you have two distinct options for re-entry permits, each tailored to different travel needs and frequencies:

• Single Re-Entry Permit: Priced at 1,000 THB, this option is ideal for those who anticipate leaving and returning to Thailand just once during their visa's validity period. It is a straightforward and cost-effective choice for travelers who have a single trip planned outside the country, ensuring that their visa status remains intact upon their return without the need for additional paperwork or fees.

• Multiple Re-Entry Permit: Available for 3,800 THB, this permit is designed for individuals who expect to travel in and out of Thailand multiple times. It offers the flexibility to enter and exit the country as often as needed without the hassle of applying for a new permit each time. This option is particularly beneficial for business travelers or those with frequent international commitments, as it not only saves money in the long run but also significantly reduces the administrative burden. With a multiple re-entry permit, you can focus on your business or leisure activities with the assurance that your visa status is secure, allowing for seamless travel and uninterrupted business operations.

If you’ll be travelling in and out of Thailand more than once during your stay, the multiple re-entry permit is far more cost-effective because it allows you to enter and exit the country as many times as needed without having to apply for a new permit each time. This not only saves you money in the long run but also significantly reduces the hassle and time spent on administrative tasks. With a multiple re-entry permit, you can focus more on your business or leisure activities without the constant worry of visa compliance every time you plan a trip. Additionally, it provides peace of mind knowing that your visa status remains intact, allowing for seamless travel plans and uninterrupted business operations.

How Long Does It Take?

Processing time is typically quite fast:

• 5–15 minutes during quiet periods

• 30–45 minutes or longer during holidays and peak travel hours

Plan to arrive at the airport with extra time to spare—don’t rely on last-minute applications if you have a tight flight schedule.

Why You Shouldn’t Risk Skipping This

For those on a Non-B visa, skipping the re-entry permit before travel has serious consequences. Your current visa will be automatically cancelled, and upon re-entering Thailand, you’ll be treated as a tourist unless you go through the entire Non-B visa process again—which includes reapplying for a visa from outside Thailand, work permit re-issuance, and 90-day reporting reset.

This can delay your business operations, jeopardize your work status, and incur unnecessary costs.

Professional Help for Visa Compliance

If you’re unsure about any part of the process or want support for future travel planning, Thai-Co.com offers comprehensive and tailored assistance to meet your specific needs. Our services include:

• Visa extensions and renewals: We guide you through the often complex and bureaucratic process of extending or renewing your visa, ensuring that all paperwork is correctly completed and submitted on time, so you can continue your stay in Thailand without any legal issues.

• Re-entry permits and 90-day reports: Our team helps you navigate the requirements for obtaining re-entry permits, which are crucial for maintaining your visa status when traveling in and out of Thailand. We also assist with the mandatory 90-day reporting, ensuring you remain compliant with Thai immigration laws.

• Work permits and company incorporation: Whether you are an entrepreneur looking to establish a new business or an employee needing a work permit, we provide expert advice and support. We handle the intricacies of work permit applications and guide you through the process of incorporating a company in Thailand, making it as seamless as possible.

• Full HR and accounting packages for business owners: For business owners, we offer a range of human resources and accounting services designed to streamline your operations. From payroll management to tax compliance, our packages are crafted to support your business's growth and efficiency, allowing you to focus on what you do best.

Our team specializes in simplifying business life for expats and entrepreneurs in Thailand, providing peace of mind and expert guidance every step of the way.

Our team specializes in simplifying business life for expats and entrepreneurs in Thailand.

Get in Touch

For hassle-free assistance with visas, re-entry permits, or business support:

• WhatsApp: +66 97 170 9226

• Website: www.thai-co.com

• Accessible, Affordable, Effective Business Support

Final Tip:

Always double-check your documents and allow for extra time at the airport. A small delay could mean a big immigration headache later.

Safe travels!