So I have been looking online and have a few questions about the following (traveling from the UK):
1. Visa Exemption Extension - so I can fly into Thailand and get the automatic 30 days on the proviso that I have a flight booked to leave Thailand within those 30 days. Yet I have read about a 30 day visa exemption extension costing 1900 baht. I am just wondering if it possible to declare the intention to get the visa exemption extension on arrival rather than booking a departing flight and then cancelling/re-booking it?
1. Regarding the visa exemption I have also read there are some restrictions if the destination for departing Thailand is a neighboring country. Not sure if these are myths but is it possible, for example, to fly from Thailand to Vietnam, stay for 3 days and then return to get another 30 day visa exemption. I have also read there is a limit to how many times someone can do this within a certain time period, is this true?
1. The METV criteria I have read seems to mention there needs to be some evidence of income, yet the METV does not give permission to work. Can someone explain how this works in reality, as I am not sure I am understanding correctly...
1. Also, does a SETV visa allow a return to Thailand if visiting a neighboring country? If not would a 30 day visa exemption be issued on arrival instead?
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user inquires about extending a visa exemption upon arrival in Thailand without booking a departing flight. They also seek clarification on traveling to neighboring countries and returning for another exemption, along with METV income requirements and the implications of a SETV visa regarding re-entry. Community members suggest alternatives like obtaining a tourist visa for longer stays and explain that the airline may require proof of onward travel if not on a tourist visa.
