Can I apply for a Thai visa while entering Thailand on visa exemption?

Visa Exemption Visa Application Process Thailand Visa DTV Visa Entering Thailand Visa Approval Risks Expats in Thailand

Oct 8, 2024

8 days ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Entering Thailand during the application process?

I am outside of Thailand right now but will enter Thailand soon (on visa exemption). Can I apply now although I will most probably be inside Thailand at the time the embassy in this other country would approve it or do I need to stay outside Thailand during the whole process?

Thanks!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The original poster asks whether they can apply for a Thai visa while entering the country on a visa exemption, as they will likely be inside Thailand when the embassy approves their application. Several commenters provide mixed advice: some confirm it is possible to apply while physically in Thailand, but caution that doing so may risk rejection of the visa due to being inside the country during processing. There's also mention of practical steps, like needing to leave Thailand to activate the visa post-approval.

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Paul *******

If for whatever reason you must leave Vietnam (although I think you should be able to seek an extension of stay) then go to Cambodia or Laos and wait there. Do NOT enter Thailand until the visa has been approved. Perhaps wait at the Thai border in Koh Kong, Vientiane or Savannakhet if you must, so you can immediately enter Thailand once the approval letter has come through.

7 days ago

Ros ************

Yes you can only but for activate the visa you supposed to go out and come in again

7 days ago

Luit *****************

@Ros ***********

Of course it is possible for him to apply, but there is a risk it will be rejected, because you should not be in Thailand during the processing of the application.

The visa will be active from the moment of approval, that has nothing to do with the moment you get in, but of course you have to get a stamp first to have the right to stay for 180 days.

7 days ago

Ros ************

@Luit ****************

I answered from personally experience and I did it when I’ve been in Thailand and it was improved and I already activated it

7 days ago

Luit *****************

@Ros ***********

the fact that in your case they did not actually check you were in Thailand, is no guarantee they always will skip this check, so telling the topicstarter het can do this is not without risk.

7 days ago

Petio ********

@Luit ****************

do you think that getting rejected once for being in Thailand during application will reduce the chances of approval on a subsequent application from outside the country?

5 days ago

Luit *****************

@Petio *******

No idea if it will reduce chances, but rejected means loosing your money.

5 days ago

Reply to

Luit *****************

Henrik *****

Evaluate the costs of extending your present stay in Vietnam, until you get the DTV, with the option to have to go 1 more time outside Thailand to apply for DTV.