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Can I activate a METV with a border run after entering Thailand on a visa-exempt entry?

METV Visa Exempt Thailand Immigration Visa Regulations Border Run Long-term Stay Visa Types

Sep 2, 2025

13 days ago

Mischa *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Is it possible to activate a METV with a border run after arriving on a visa exempt?

The case is basically that the METV is applied for but might not get issued in time. Can you fly in on visa exempt and then a week later when the evisa METV gets emailed, do a border run and then get in on that METV?

A friend plans to stay around 6 Months in Thailand and I heard if only on visa exempt, it's more difficult to stay that long, because of rejections at border runs without real visas.

Side info: he's from germany, not been in Thailand over 1 year.

Kind regards

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Yes, it is possible to activate a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) after arriving in Thailand on a visa-exempt entry. If your friend's METV is not issued in time, they can enter on a visa-exempt stamp, which grants 60 days plus a possible 30-day extension. After obtaining the METV, they can perform a border run to activate it, presenting the METV upon re-entry. However, it's advised to clarify with the airline regarding the exit flight requirement and consider using a border run service for assistance.

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Peter **********

He has to clear up with his airline if he hasn't a flight out of Thailand in time when he try to do boarding without a visa

13 days ago

Tod *********

Should have no issue at all activating an METV by bouncing out and back at a land border and presenting that PDF print out of the visa when they stamp back in

13 days ago

James ********

It could be possible.

BUT if your friend really is Only going to be in Thailand for 6 months...

Entering Thailand Visa EXEMPT entry will get 60 days STAMP on arrival Plus one 30 day extension of stay from local Thai Immigration office for 1900 Thai baht.

Use an experienced border run service company to get a NEW Visa Exempt Entry STAMP with same day return.

13 days ago

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James ********

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Can I apply for a Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa in Thailand while on an exemption visa?

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