90-Day Reporting. For foreign nationals staying in Thailand on a long-term visa, 90-day reporting is a critical legal requirement. This process ensures that the Thai immigration authorities are updated on a foreigner’s current location every 90 days. Failing to comply can result in fines and potential complications with visa renewals or re-entry permits. This article provides an in-depth look at the 90-day reporting process, including who must report, the various reporting methods, and key considerations for compliance.

1. Who Must Do 90-Day Reporting?

Foreign nationals who hold any type of long-term visa (such as a Non-Immigrant Visa, Business Visa, Retirement Visa, or Marriage Visa) and have been staying in Thailand for more than 90 consecutive days are required to file a 90-day report. It’s important to note that the 90-day reporting requirement applies regardless of whether a foreigner has left Thailand and re-entered the country.

a) Exemptions

Tourists on short-term visas or individuals staying less than 90 days do not need to file a report. Additionally, if you leave Thailand before the 90-day period expires and return, the counting resets, and the reporting must be done 90 days after re-entry.

2. Methods of Filing 90-Day Reports

There are several ways to file your 90-day report, allowing flexibility for those who may be traveling or not able to visit an immigration office in person:

a) In-Person Reporting

The most traditional method is visiting the local immigration office where your residence is registered. This requires presenting your passport, departure card (TM6), and a completed TM47 form. Make sure to visit the correct office based on your location, as this can vary across Thailand’s provinces.

b) Online Reporting

The online reporting system allows foreign nationals to submit their 90-day report through the Thai Immigration Bureau website. Online reports must be submitted 7 to 15 days before the reporting deadline. While this method is convenient, the system can be prone to technical issues, and not all foreigners have success with online submissions.

c) Reporting by Mail

Mail reporting is another option, but it must be completed 7 to 15 days before the due date. You must send the completed TM47 form, copies of your passport information page, visa page, latest entry stamp, and departure card (TM6) along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the relevant immigration office.

d) Reporting Through a Representative

If you are unable to visit the immigration office in person, a representative can file the report on your behalf. The representative needs to have a copy of your passport and signed power of attorney.

3. What Happens If You Miss the Reporting Deadline?

If you fail to file your 90-day report on time, there are penalties involved:

• Fines: A late submission incurs a fine of THB 2,000. If you are caught without having reported, the fine may increase to THB 5,000.
• Re-entry Permits and Visa Extensions: Non-compliance can also complicate visa renewals or re-entry permit applications. Keeping up with your 90-day reports is essential to maintain good standing with Thai immigration.

4. Extensions of Stay and New 90-Day Periods

When you extend your stay (such as renewing your visa or applying for a visa extension), the 90-day reporting timeline restarts. For example, if you receive an extension on a retirement visa or a business visa, your next report will be due 90 days after the date of approval.

a) Re-entry After Leaving Thailand

If you leave Thailand during your stay and re-enter, the 90-day counting period resets, and you must file a new report 90 days after your re-entry date.

5. Practical Considerations for 90-Day Reporting

a) Holiday and Weekend Considerations

If your 90-day reporting date falls on a public holiday or weekend, you should file the report on the next working day without penalty. However, it’s best to plan ahead to avoid unnecessary delays, especially during high-traffic periods at immigration offices.

b) Residence Address Changes

If you move to a new residence during your stay in Thailand, you must inform immigration authorities by filing a TM30 form within 24 hours. Once the TM30 is submitted, your new residence will be the address you provide for future 90-day reports.

c) Record Keeping

Keep copies of all 90-day reports and documentation, as immigration officials may request them during visa extensions or other interactions with immigration authorities.

Conclusion

The 90-day reporting requirement in Thailand is a critical responsibility for long-term foreign residents. While the process may seem cumbersome, especially for new expatriates, Thailand’s immigration system provides multiple methods for compliance, including online, mail, and in-person submissions. Understanding the requirements, staying on top of deadlines, and maintaining proper documentation ensures a smooth and compliant stay in Thailand, avoiding fines or legal complications. Working with immigration services or legal professionals may also help streamline the process for newcomers or those unfamiliar with Thai regulations.