Can I apply for a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa from London before traveling to Thailand, and what are the benefits?

Back to back visa exempt attempts are dangerous. If you get the 60 day visa exempt stamp and extend by a further 30 days at the Immigration office, Immigration class you as a tourist. If you then attempt to enter again on a visa exempt stamp, Immigration rightly consider that after on 90 day stay in the country that you are no longer a tourist but that you are attempting to live long term in the country. While there is no legal limit to the number of Visa exempt entries, once the Immigration officer believes that you are no longer visiting the country as a tourist he will deny you entry. 3. If you have already stayed for 90 days on a visa exempt entry, then in future to guarantee entry into Thailand, you need to obtain a long term visa suitable to the reason for your stay.

You are not eligible for visa on arrival, you are eligible for visa exempt. Visa exempt gives 60 days and is not any visa at all. It can be extended one time for an additional 30 days. If you leave and return, you might be able to get an additional 60 days, but many people are encountering issues doing exactly this. They are getting pulled out of line while trying to enter and being interrogated about why they are back so soon and why they don't have a visa. Now that visa exempt is 60 days and people can make it up to 90 days, immigration feels as though trying to leave and return immediately after that is abusing the system and that a tourist doesn't spend that much time in the country.

If you want to do it, you are better off using a border bounce agency who for a fee will drive you to the border and make sure you get out and back in without any issues or question.

The benefits is that you will have possibility to enter Thailand and get stamped in for 60 days each time within a 180 days periode and you’re (theoretically) able to stay for up to 270 days in Thailand. 60 days visa exemption entries has become more strict and after you’ve maximised one or two you risk to get questioned and/or denied entry.

Thailand offers a variety of visa options, catering to different purposes of stay. Here's a breakdown of some of the most common types:

* Tourist Visa:

* This is for those visiting Thailand for leisure.

* The duration of stay varies depending on your nationality.

* There are tourist visas that can be obtained from Thai embassies/consulates, and also "visa on arrival" for eligible nationalities.

* Starting July 15, 2024, U.S. citizens are entitled to receive a 60-day visa upon entry to the Kingdom of Thailand for the purpose of tourism, business engagements, and urgent or ad-hoc work. This visa category can be extended for another period not exceeding 30 days.

* Visa on Arrival:

* Available to citizens of certain countries.

* Allows a short stay for tourism purposes.

* The length of stay is typically limited.

* Non-Immigrant Visas:

* These are for those who intend to stay in Thailand for longer periods for specific purposes. This category includes:

* Business Visa: For those conducting business or working in Thailand.

* Education Visa: For students enrolled in educational institutions in Thailand.

* Marriage Visa: For those married to a Thai national.

* Retirement Visa: For retirees meeting specific financial requirements.

* SMART Visa: For highly skilled professionals, investors, executives, and startups in targeted industries.

* Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa:

* This visa is designed to attract high-potential foreigners to live and invest in Thailand.

* Thai Elite Visa:

* This is a long-term visa program that offers various privileges to its members.

* Destination Thailand Visa (DTV):

* Starting July 15, 2024, a new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is available for foreign remote workers, digital nomads, and freelancers. This visa category allows U.S citizens to stay in Thailand for up to 180 days per visit, with a total validity of five years.

It's important to note:

* Visa requirements and regulations can change, so it's always best to check with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.

* Websites like those of the Thai Embassy and reputable legal firms specializing in Thai immigration law (like Siam Legal) are valuable resources.

I hope this helps.