TM8 Re-Entry Permit Guide – Keep Your Thai Visa Active When You Travel Abroad

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Planning to leave Thailand on a long-stay visa? Don’t forget the TM8 entry permit, it protects your visa from cancellation when you return. Once you are ready to come back, the Thailand digital arrival card and TDAC insurance make the re-entry permit process fast and smooth. Both are essential for health and free travel.

re entry permit

What is the TM8 entry permit?

The TM 8 Re-entry Permit is an official document issued by the Thai Immigration Bureau. It allows foreign nationals holding certain types of visas to leave Thailand temporarily without invalidating their current visa status. Without this permit, your visa may be considered void upon departure, requiring a new visa application for reentry.

Who needs a Re-Entry permit?

 You need to apply for a rent repermit if:

  • You hold a single-entry visa (e.g., non-immigrant B, O, ED, OA, OX, retirement, marriage, or visa-dependent visas) and plan to leave Thailand temporarily.
  • Your visa does not include multiple entry privileges

Exceptions:

Travellers under the visa exemption scheme or those with a tourist visa typically do not require a re-entry permit, as these visas expire upon exit. Similarly, holders of multiple-entry visas are exempt from this requirement.

Types of Re-Entry permits

1. Single re-entry permit

  • Fee: 1000 THB
  • Validity: Allows one exit and one re-entry during the visa’s validity period.
  • Best for: Travellers planning a single-shot trip abroad.

2. Multiple re-entry permit

  • Fee: 3800 THB
  • Validity: Allows unlimited exits and re-entries during the visa’s validity period.
  • Best for: Frequent travelers, business professionals, or those with flexible schedules.

Required documents for Re-Entry Permit

To apply for a reentry permit, repair the following:

  •  Completed the TM8 form
  •  Valid passport: with at least 6 months validity and the current visa page.
  •  Photocopies of the passport page:
  1.  Personal information page
  2.  Visa page
  3.  Latest Thai entry stamp
  4.  Extension of stay stamp (if applicable)
  • Passport-size photograph: 4 X 6 CM, taken within the last 6 months.
  • Departure card TDAC: the original and a copy
  • Application fee: in cash (Thai baht)

 Ensure all photocopies are signed and certified as true copies.

Where and how to Apply TM8?

You can apply for a reentry TM8 permit at:

1. Local Thai immigration office

  •  Operating hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., excluding public holidays
  •  processing time: TYPICALLY same-day service
  •  Recommendation: apply a few days before your intended departure to avoid last-minute issues.

2. International Airport in Thailand

  •  Available at major airports like Suvarnabhumi Bhoomi and Don Mueang
  •  Location: Re-entry permit counters before immigration and security clearance
  •  Operating hours: 24/7 service
  •  Processing time: usually 15 to 30 minutes, but it is advisable to arrive at least 3 hours before your flight.

Consequences of not having a re-entry permit

 Leaving Thailand without a valid re-entry permit will result in:

  •  automatic cancellation of your visa, even if it is still valid.
  • Requirement to apply for a new Visa: from a Thai Embassy or consulate abroad before re-entry
  • Potential loss of progress towards visa extensions, permanent residency, or work permits.

Important: Always verify your visa conditions before travelling to ensure compliance with the immigration laws.

Smoothly entry with TDAC – Next step after tm8

 After securing your TM8 re-entry permit, the Thailand digital arrival card becomes your gateway for Hazel’s hassle-free return, whether you are returning from a short trip or an extended stay abroad. Completing the TDAC form online saves time at immigration and avoids last-minute paperwork stress.

Quick tips for TDAC after TM8

1. Submit TDSC at least 72 hours before arrival

 Avoid delay by filling out your TDSC form a day before or 3 days before your flight back to Thailand; it gives immigration enough time to process your details

2. Double-check passport and flight details

Mistakes in your TDAC form, like passport number or arrival flight, can lead to problems at entry. Always review your info before a meeting.

FAQs About Re-Entry Permit

TM8 is for existing Thailand, while TDAC is required for entry in Thailand each time

You can submit the m 8 at your local immigration office or at the airport before departure

No, TM8 is only required if you have a single-entry Visa and want to keep your stay valid after leaving Thailand.

Conclusion

Having both TM8 and TDAC in order ensures a smooth travel experience in and out of Thailand, as travel rules evolve. Staying updated and prepared with these essential documents saves time and avoids stress at immigration. Always submit TDAC early to enjoy a hassle-free trip.

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