Thailand's Immigration Act requires all foreigners holding a temporary stay permit to report their residential address to the Thai Immigration Bureau every 90 days, with non-compliance resulting in fines starting at 2,000 baht and rising to 5,000 baht for arrested offenders.
Legal Basis and Requirements
Under Section 37(5) of the Immigration Act B.E. 2522, any foreigner who has been in Thailand for more than 90 consecutive days must notify authorities of their place of residence. According to the Thai Immigration Bureau, this is not an extension of stay nor does it affect the permitted duration of stay; it is solely a residential address notification to keep immigration informed of where foreign nationals are living. The rule applies as soon as a foreigner crosses the 90-day threshold, and the 90-day count resets each time they leave and re-enter Thailand.
Four Ways to File the 90-Day Report
The Immigration Bureau outlines four methods for completing the report. The most direct method is attending an immigration office in person. Those who cannot go themselves may authorize another individual to submit documents on their behalf. Alternatively, foreigners can send their notification by registered mail, provided it is posted at least 15 days before the deadline. An online reporting system is available for those preferring a digital route, subject to additional terms and eligibility.
Required Documents and Office Locations
For in-person submission, documents required include a valid passport, a departure immigration form (TM.6), a completed and signed TM.47 form, and any previous 90-day notification slip if available. Foreigners based in Bangkok can submit at the Residence Notification Office in the Government Complex on Chaeng Wattana Road, Lak Si District. A separate service center at Chamchuri Square in Pathumwan is available for employees of companies with registered capital of at least 30 million baht. Outside Bangkok, reports are submitted at the nearest immigration checkpoint to the foreigner's residence.
Penalties for Late or Missed Reports
The system allows flexibility: foreigners may report up to 15 days before or up to 7 days after the due date without penalty. Once that window closes, the fine is 2,000 baht and the individual must appear in person to pay. Those arrested for any reason while overdue on their report face a steeper penalty of 5,000 baht. Notably, every departure from Thailand resets the 90-day count entirely, meaning the clock starts anew upon re-entry, regardless of previous days counted.
Broader Context and Updates
Thailand updated its visa on arrival policy in July 2024, granting access to nationals of 31 countries for tourism, including only three African nations. Each visit is capped at 15 days with specific conditions. The 90-day reporting rule remains a key obligation for all long-term foreign residents, and immigration authorities actively enforce it. Foreigners are advised to maintain accurate records and submit reports promptly to avoid fines and legal complications.
