Immigration Bureau Division 1 in Bangkok has provided a mobile off-site service for foreigners who wish to apply for visa extensions for a temporary stay in Thailand and for permission to return to the Kingdom.
The off-site service officially started operation yesterday, September 12, from 9:00 AM onwards at schools and hospitals to facilitate a group of foreign teachers, students and their followers, and those who are unable to visit the Immigration on weekdays to apply for an extended short stay after their visas had already expired from July 31.
According to the authorities, the service would be operated around Bangkok on weekends and during public holidays only.
Police Major General Piti Nitinontaset, Superintendent of Immigration Bureau Division 1, told the press that the mobile service is not only to facilitate the foreigners, it is also to reduce the risk of the spread of Covid-19 and to promote and strengthen the collaboration between the Immigration Bureau and related public departments.
The strict health measurements, including temperature check and social distancing, are also required throughout the procedure. All visitors must wear face masks at all times for the health and safety of visitors and officers.
The Superintendent told reporters: “The visa service outside office hours is a solution to help foreigners who are working or staying in the country but could not find the time to contact the Immigration on the working hours.”
“It is also a good measure to avoid congestion within the Immigration Office which could help prevent the spread of COVID-19. It also promotes and strengthens the relationship between Immigration departments and related public agencies such as schools and hospitals.”
Further details on locations provided for the remote visa services can be found on the Royal Thai Immigration website or by phoning immigration for assistance, the Superintendent added.
