Getting to Chaeng Wattana Immigration: A Breeze on Bangkok’s Public Transport!

Long gone are the days when a taxi was the only way to the far-flung Immigration Office at Chaengwattana. For us “aliens,” the inevitable trip is now so much easier thanks to Bangkok’s expanding public transport network! This guide breaks down the most efficient route. Coming from the MRT Blue Line, you’ll need two train changes to reach your destination: the SRT Dark Red Line Commuter train and the MRT Pink Line. The entire one-way journey, including train waits and shuttle bus rides, takes approximately one hour and costs about 41 baht from MRT Bang Sue.

Here is your step-by-step guide to a seamless journey.

1. From MRT Bang Sue to SRT Laksi Station

Your trip begins at Bang Sue Grand Station (Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal).

• To the Red Line: After exiting MRT Bang Sue, take Exit 3B and follow the “To Red Line” signs. Keep an eye out for the escalator; depending on where you exit, you may need to walk a bit further past the first staircase.
• Buy your ticket: Purchase an SRT Dark Red Line ticket/token (20 baht) to RN06 Laksi Station.
  • Note: Your MRT/Rabbit card won’t work here, as the SRT Red Line is a separate system operated by the State Railway of Thailand.
• Platform & Schedule: Go to Platform 3 in the direction of Rangsit.
  • Trains depart every 10 minutes during peak hours (7:00-8:50 AM, 5:00-7:30 PM) and every 15 minutes during off-peak hours.
• Travel Time: It’s a quick 15-20 minute ride from Bang Sue to Laksi.
  • Pro Tip: There are luggage racks above the seats, which is convenient if you’re coming from or going to Don Mueang Airport.

2. Laksi Interchange to MRT Pink Line

Once you arrive at SRT Laksi Station, you’ll transfer to the new Pink Line.

• Connecting Walkway: Take Exit 7. You will see a long, covered walkway that also links to the Laksi IT Mall. This walkway leads you directly to a staircase or elevator down to the Pink Line station. It’s approximately a 5-minute walk.
• Pink Line Ticket: The Rabbit card works here, or you can buy a token for 21 baht to PK12 Government Complex Station.
• Platform & Schedule: Head to Platform 2 towards the Nonthaburi Civic Center direction.
  • The Pink Line operates frequently, with trains every 5 minutes during peak hours and every 10 minutes during off-peak hours.

3. Final Approach to the Immigration Building

You’re almost there! This last leg is where a good tip can save you time and hassle.

• Exit Government Complex Station: Take Exit 3.
• The Best Route: The most direct and convenient way is to take the free shuttle bus from the station’s entrance directly to Building B. This route involves a short walk with minimal sun exposure and leads straight to a descending escalator—much better than the longer walk from Building A!
• Alternative Route via Building A (Less Recommended): On my first visit, I was advised to take the sky bridge to Building A. This involves a longer walk and a security check (staff allowed me to pass with just a bag screening for the shuttle). After security, you’ll need to go straight, turn left, and take an escalator down to Gate 6 to catch the shuttle bus.

Shuttle Bus Schedule & Details

• Frequency:
  • Peak Hours (6:00-9:00 AM / 3:30-6:30 PM): Every 8-10 minutes
  • Off-Peak (9:00-11:00 AM / 1:00-3:00 PM): Every 30 minutes
  • Lunch (11:00 AM-1:00 PM): Every 15-20 minutes
• Bus Stops: The bus ride takes about 10 minutes, first stopping at the BTS station/main entrance, then continuing to Building B.
• Arrival at Building B: The shuttle bus drops you off at Gate 4. You’ll need to walk to the other end of the building, as the Immigration Office is closer to Gate 2 (South Zone). Upon entering, remember to hand in your passport for a registration stamp.
• Song Taew: During my visits, I also saw song taews (also free!) operating on the route, so this may be another option depending on the time of day.

Key Details for Immigration Division 1

For your reference, here is the full address and location information.

Thai Address: ด่านตรวจคนเข้าเมือง ศูนย์ราชการแจ้งวัฒนะ อาคารรัฐประศาสนภักดี (อาคาร B) ชั้น 2/3 (โซนภาคใต้) 120 ม.3 แจ้งวัฒนะ ซอย 7 ทุ่งสองห้อง เขตหลักสี่ กรุงเทพฯ 10210

English Address: Immigration Division 1, The Government Complex Commemorating His Majesty, Ratthaprasasanabhakti Building (B Building), Floor 2 (South Zone) or Floor 3 (South Zone) for Residence and 90-Day Notification, 120 Moo 3, Chaengwattana Road (Soi 7), Thung Song Hong, Laksi, Bangkok, 10210