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Can I do a one-day border run to Laos from Thailand on an ED visa?

Border Run Thailand Immigration ED Visa Visa Extension Nong Kai Laos Visa Visa on Arrival Expat Advice

Jul 26, 2025

7 days ago

Farang ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Border run Nong Kai Laos.

I never been there before. 

Can I just stay and leave in 1 day?

(Few years ago I did this in Cambodia It took me 20 minutes)

Right now I am on a ED visa (15 months total) and it expires 29 July. 

Someone who is sure about this?

And maybe some other advice for me if I am going there?

(Dutch paspoort holder)

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user seeks clarification on whether they can complete a border run from Nong Kai to Laos and back in one day while on an education (ED) visa, which expires soon. Several community members suggest that while they have successfully done quick border runs, recent experiences indicate that immigration procedures have become stricter. They advise the user to potentially use a visa run agency for efficiency and safety. Additionally, the user is advised to cancel their ED visa at the immigration office prior to leaving Thailand, as failure to do so could lead to complications at the border. Users also share that a visa on arrival in Laos can be arranged, although time restrictions might apply depending on the entry point.

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Sean **********

Got hauled aside 3 weeks ago when entering Thailand. They went through passport and noticed that I had done a “border run” last winter. Delayed me for 90 minutes, lectured me, and told me to not do border runs anymore. My best advice is to leave for a few days, then come back.

5 days ago

Robert *********

I would go to immigration office they can be very helpful during difficult times .

You may get an extension

6 days ago

Farang ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Robert ********

It was my plan to go today. But ofcourse they not open on Saturday i just forgot.. I will go Monday to the immigration here.

6 days ago

Petri ********

@Farang *****

Monday is king's birthday. Offices are closed.

6 days ago

Reply to

Petri ********

Brandon ************

First of all, if you're currently on an Education extension, you need to cancel that at the immigration office that issued it. If you don't cancel it, there's a chance they won't even let you leave at that border because you're legally required to cancel it, per the documents you signed when you obtained it.

Second of all, if you're entering Thailand visa exempt, without a visa, you'll need to stay 1-2 nights in Laos. It depends on how they feel at the border that day. But the days of leaving and returning immediately are over at Nong Khai and many other Laos borders. The only way to do that is with an agent.