Despite Russia banning Facebook in the country just two days ago, the Russian Consulate in Phuket posted on its Facebook page yesterday to announce that Russian citizens there can stay one month longer than the original date on their visa. To do this, they must go to Phuket immigration with their original letter from the consulate, their passport, and a document confirming where they live in Phuket.
This afternoon, the consulate will send letters to Phuket immigration requesting the extension. Reception will be on a first-come, first-serve basis. Phuket immigration has so far not made any announcements about extensions for Russians, or Ukrainians. The consulate’s Facebook post stressed that the extension for Russians is mainly for those who are stranded due to canceled flights.
“P.S, Please note that the issuance of letters is primarily intended for citizens who are ‘stuck’ on the island due to canceled flights, and whose visa/stamp expires in the coming days”.
The consulate said it will inform Russians about the date of the next reception on this issue.
In December, Russians made up Phuket’s biggest tourist demographic, with over 17,000 coming that month. They have been a major component of Phuket’s tourism since pre-Covid days.
SOURCE: The Phuket News