If you're planning to visit Chaengwattana Immigration Division One in Bangkok for visa extensions, work permits, or other immigration services, be prepared for a day-long experience. The process can be time-consuming and, at times, a bit chaotic. However, with some careful planning and a little patience, you can make it through the day without too much stress. In this blog post, we'll walk you through everything you need to know—from the best time to arrive to the tips for surviving the crowds, as well as where to get your necessary documents.
1. Arrive Early: Get a Pre-Entry Ticket
If you’ve been to Chaengwattana Immigration before, you’ll know that it’s best to arrive early in the morning to get the process started as soon as possible. The earlier you arrive, the better your chances of finishing early in the day and avoiding the afternoon crowds.
- Best Time to Arrive: Aim to get to the immigration office by 7:00 AM. This may seem early, but it’s your best chance of avoiding long lines later on.
- Pre-Entry Ticket: Upon arrival, you’ll need to queue for a pre-entry ticket. This ticket is necessary to get your number for the service counters. You’ll find the ticket counter near the entrance, and it usually opens as early as 7:30 AM.
Don’t forget that you can’t just walk in without first getting your number, so arriving early to get this ticket will save you a lot of headaches later. As soon as you get your ticket, you can sit down and relax while waiting for your number to be called.
2. The Informal Queue: Get Ready to Wait
Once you have your pre-entry ticket, you’ll probably end up waiting a while—often over an hour or more—before your number is called. While waiting, you might see people standing near the counters or sitting in the hallway, trying to informally "queue-jump." While this may feel frustrating, try to stay calm and follow the rules.
- Wait for Your Number: Immigration staff will call your number on the overhead screens or through loudspeakers. It’s important to stay near your area so you don’t miss your turn. Be sure to listen carefully, as the announcements can be hard to understand if you’re not prepared.
- Informal Queueing: While it’s best to follow the official system, sometimes people do cut in line. If you find this happening, try to stay patient. After all, everyone is there for the same reason, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the crowds.
3. Mid-Morning Madness: Document Submission
By 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM, the office starts to get crowded, and the lines at the counters get longer. If you're applying for visa extensions, re-entry permits, or other services, you’ll need to submit your documents to the appropriate counters.
- Be Prepared with Documents: Make sure you have all your necessary documents ready before you get called up to the counter. For example, you may need:
- Your passport (with at least 6 months validity)
- A completed visa application form (which can usually be downloaded from the immigration website)
- Passport-sized photos (2 or 3 depending on the service)
- A copy of your passport page with your visa and immigration stamps
- A copy of your bank statement (sometimes required to prove financial stability, especially for extensions)
- A lease agreement or utility bill for proof of residence
If you’re unsure about what specific documents are needed for your service, check ahead online or ask the staff when you arrive to avoid unnecessary delays.
4. The Lunch Break: A Mandatory Pause
Around 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, expect a lunch break at the immigration office. The staff will take their break, and many counters will be closed during this time. If you’re in the middle of your submission or waiting for a decision, this can be incredibly frustrating. But it’s an unavoidable part of the process.
- What to Do During Lunch: You can either wait in the lobby or take the opportunity to grab a bite. There are a few food stalls outside the building that sell cheap, quick meals like rice and curry, noodle soups, and Thai snacks. Don’t expect any gourmet meals, but it’s a nice break from the wait.
- Don't Leave During Lunch: Even though it might seem like a good time to run errands, don’t leave the immigration office during lunch break, as you may miss your number being called when the staff returns.
5. Document Copies and Bank Statements
Before heading to Chaengwattana Immigration, it’s important to know that document copying and bank statement printing are essential steps, and they’re not provided on-site. This means you’ll need to find nearby services to take care of these tasks.
- Document Copies: There are copy shops just outside the immigration complex where you can make copies of your passport, visa, and other documents. The cost is usually around 2 to 5 THB per page.
- Bank Statements: If you need to submit a bank statement (especially if you’re applying for a visa extension), you can get one from nearby banks or ATM machines. Many expats prefer to print out their recent bank statements at a nearby ATM or at a bank branch.
Don’t forget that these services often involve a small fee, so bring some extra cash with you to cover the costs.
6. Afternoon Doldrums: Final Submission and Wait
Once the staff returns from lunch around 1:00 PM, the lines start moving again, but it can still take some time. By this point, you’ll have either submitted your documents or you’ll be waiting for your visa extension, re-entry permit, or other immigration request to be processed.
- Wait for the Decision: Depending on your application, you may have to wait anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours to hear back from the immigration officers. Keep an eye on the screen or listen for your number to be called.
- Waiting Time: Some applications are processed quickly, while others may take longer, especially if there are issues or missing documents. Stay patient and prepared to wait until your number is called.
7. The End of the Day: Collect Your Documents
Once your application is processed, you’ll be called to the counter to collect your documents and receipt. This marks the end of your visit to Chaengwattana Immigration. The time now will likely be late afternoon, and you’ve probably spent 4 to 5 hours at the office (if not more).
- Check Your Documents: Before leaving, make sure everything is in order, including the stamp in your passport, your receipt, and any other forms. If something seems wrong, don’t hesitate to ask the officer to fix it before you leave.
Conclusion: A Long Day, But Worth It
Visiting the Chaengwattana Immigration Division One is not for the faint of heart—it’s a long, sometimes frustrating process, but if you’re prepared and know what to expect, you can survive the day with minimal stress. Arriving early, getting your pre-entry ticket, staying patient during informal queues, taking breaks during the lunch hour, and knowing where to get document copies will help you navigate the experience more smoothly.
While the process may take a full day, it’s all part of the immigration journey in Thailand. Just remember to bring snacks, water, and plenty of patience, and before you know it, you’ll be out the door with your visa or permit in hand!