In the present study, the estimation method of expansion amount for subsea pipeline is proposed, which could be applied to design a robust structure for the production of oil and gas from the offshore well. This study begins with a general discussion of estimation method for subsea pipeline in terms of previously developed terminologies by literature review. The production fluid from offshore well is normally caused by physical deformation of subsea structures, e.g., expansion and contraction, during the process of transportation due to the effect of high pressure and high temperature. In severe cases, vertical and lateral buckling occurs and it causes the significant negative impact on the structural safety which is associated with on-bottom stability, free-span, structural collapse and many others. In addition, it may give effect on the production rate regarding to flowassurance,wax, hydrate, and many others. Therefore, the applicable diagram with efficient procedure, called standard dimensionless ration (SDR) versus virtual anchor length (LA) diagram, is proposed for the estimation of subsea pipeline expansion based on applied reliable scenarios. Based on user guideline, the offshore pipeline structural designer could assume reliable amount of subsea pipeline expansion and the obtained results will be useful for the installation, design, and maintenance of subsea pipeline, as well. © 2016 Taylor & Francis Group, London.