Regional immigration guide
Koh Samui & Surat Thani immigration guide
Koh Samui immigration guidance covering island jurisdiction, ferry and weather planning, accommodation records, visas and work-authorisation considerations.
Written by the Thai Legal & Immigration legal team · Last reviewed · Editorial policy
An island immigration appointment needs a transport plan as well as a document checklist. For Koh Samui and neighbouring islands, ferry schedules, weather disruption and the location of the responsible counter can turn a missing document into an additional day of travel.
Which immigration office handles this area?
Surat Thani Immigration — Koh Samui office, Mae Nam area
The Koh Samui office is the relevant starting point for Samui residents. Surat Thani also has mainland and other island service arrangements; residents of Koh Phangan or Koh Tao should confirm their own designated filing location rather than assume Samui is always required.
Local communities and common visa routes
Samui attracts hospitality operators, wellness-sector workers, international families, remote professionals and retirees. DTV, family, retirement and Non-B routes can be relevant, but visitor status alone does not authorise local work.
Practical points before you file
- If an inter-island or mainland journey is necessary, allow a weather buffer and check return connections before selecting an appointment.
- Keep legible copies of passport pages, residence evidence and supporting papers available before leaving your island.
- Moving between resorts or longer-term rentals can affect accommodation records. Ask who has submitted the TM.30 notification and retain the relevant evidence.
How we serve Koh Samui & Surat Thani
We serve this area through field representatives coordinated from our Bangkok Head Office. We do not maintain a local office here. Document review can begin remotely; any local attendance or representation is agreed after checking the procedure. Applicants may still need to attend immigration personally.
Requirements and service locations can change. Decisions remain with the relevant authorities.
Planning an immigration case in Koh Samui & Surat Thani?
Get a Free Preliminary Eligibility Review from our licensed team.
Relevant service guides
Frequently asked questions
Must every Surat Thani island resident travel to Samui?
Does ferry disruption automatically extend my permitted stay?
Can I help run a retreat on visitor status?
Sources & references
Start with a Free Initial Case Assessment
Share your goal and documents. A licensed coordinator reviews eligibility and replies with next steps and a formal quotation.