Staying in Chiang Mai for several months brings a rhythm of study, work, and travel that many long-term visitors enjoy. Alongside the comfort of everyday life comes the responsibility of keeping immigration records up to date. Thailand requires residents and visa holders to report their addresses and continued presence through two key procedures: TM30 notification and 90-day reporting. Although these forms may seem complicated at first, they are simple once understood and ensure that your stay remains completely legal and stress-free.
Understanding TM30 and 90-Day Reports
đź“‹
The TM30 system records where a foreigner lives in Thailand. It helps immigration keep track of residential addresses for visitors holding tourist, education, retirement, or business visas. The 90-day report, meanwhile, confirms that a foreigner who remains in Thailand has not changed location or left the country without re-entry. Both processes are administrative rather than restrictive, and completing them correctly saves time later when extending or converting visas.
What Is the TM30 Form?
đźŹ
TM30 stands for “Notification of Residence for Aliens.” It must be filed whenever a foreigner arrives at a new address. The form includes passport details, visa type, and the exact location of accommodation. In Chiang Mai, hotels and guesthouses automatically submit this information to immigration. However, those living in apartments, rented houses, or private condos must ensure that either the landlord or the tenant submits it within twenty-four hours of arrival. The process can be done at the Chiang Mai Immigration Office near Promenada Mall, through the official website, or via the TM30 mobile app.
Who Should File the TM30
đź§ľ
Technically, the responsibility lies with the property owner. Yet in many cases, especially with private rentals, foreigners handle it themselves to avoid delays. If you rent through an agent, ask whether the TM30 has been submitted. When unsure, visit immigration with a printed copy of your rental contract, passport photo page, visa page, and departure card (TM6) to verify. The officers can confirm or re-register your address in minutes. Keeping the TM30 receipt stapled into your passport is recommended because you will need it for visa extensions and 90-day reports.
How to Submit the TM30
đź’»
There are three convenient ways to file the TM30:
1. In person
Visit Chiang Mai Immigration behind Promenada Mall. Bring passport copies, rental contract, and your landlord’s ID copy or house registration (Tabien Baan).
2. Online
Register for an account at https://tm30.immigration.go.th. Upload digital copies of documents and wait for approval. The system often confirms within one business day.
3. Mobile app
Available for Android and iOS under “Section 38 Notification.” It allows updates and downloads of receipts directly on your phone.
Whether online or at the counter, always print or screenshot the confirmation showing your latest address and date of submission.
90-Day Reporting Explained
🗓️
Any foreigner staying in Thailand longer than ninety consecutive days must confirm their address every ninety days from their latest arrival or last report. The countdown restarts each time you leave and re-enter the country. In Chiang Mai, reports can be made fifteen days before or seven days after the due date without penalty. Late submissions may result in a small fine. Keeping reminders in your calendar ensures that the process stays routine rather than stressful.
Ways to File the 90-Day Report
đź“®
1. In person
Visit Chiang Mai Immigration with your passport, previous TM30 receipt, and completed TM47 form. The process usually takes less than fifteen minutes if done in the morning.
2. Online
Submit through https://www.immigration.go.th. The site accepts reports between fifteen and seven days before the due date. Approval messages appear within a few days.
3. By mail
Less common but still valid. Send the TM47 form, passport copy, and stamped self-addressed envelope to the Chiang Mai Immigration Office at least one week before your due date. A new receipt will be mailed back to you.
Once accepted, immigration issues a small slip noting your next reporting date. Keep it inside your passport as proof of compliance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
⚠️
- Forgetting to renew the TM30 after returning from another province or country. Each re-entry requires a new address update.
- Missing the ninety-day window. Add a digital calendar alert or paper note inside your passport.
- Assuming landlords always handle it. Many do not, especially with short-term leases.
- Not printing confirmations. Having a paper copy simplifies future extensions or visa changes.
Following these small habits ensures smooth communication with immigration officers and saves time.
Practical Tips for Long-Stay Visitors
đź’ˇ
Keep digital and printed copies of all immigration documents in one folder. Many residents label it with their passport number and renewal dates. If you plan to move apartments or travel frequently, choose accommodations familiar with foreign reporting so paperwork stays up to date.
Using a local SIM with unlimited data allows quick access to the immigration apps, and staying informed through community groups like “Chiang Mai Digital Nomads” or “Chiang Mai Visa & Immigration Forum” on Facebook helps you catch small rule changes early.
Support from Stay in CNX
🤝
Stay in CNX assists newcomers and long-term residents with Education Visa applications, TM30 filings, and 90-day reports. Our local partners handle document preparation, translations, and direct submissions at Chiang Mai Immigration, saving you hours of waiting. Whether you are studying Thai, working remotely, or setting up a business, we can help keep your paperwork organized so you can focus on daily life.
✨ Visa & Stay Support with Stay in CNX
✔️ TM30 and 90-day report guidance with local experts
✔️ Assistance for Education Visas and document preparation
✔️ Friendly step-by-step help in English and Thai
Keep your stay legal and simple!
Contact Stay in CNX for reliable visa and immigration support in Chiang Mai.


