Can I enter Thailand with a re-entry permit and switch to a tourist visa upon arrival?

Jun 30, 2022
2 years ago
Hi

I have a non-o visa. the extension will expire october 1st. i have a re-entry permit.

i am currently abroad and will return to thailand on september 26th. i don't want to extend my visa anymore.

can i come in with my re-entry permit and then change my visa to be a tourist visa or do i have to enter with a tourist visa in the first place? if as tourist should i apply for one abroad or visa on arrival?

thanks for your advice in advance
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is currently abroad with a non-O visa that expires on October 1 and has a re-entry permit. They plan to return to Thailand on September 26 and seek guidance on whether they can enter Thailand with their re-entry permit and later change to a tourist visa. Responses indicate that once they enter with a re-entry permit, they cannot simply switch to a tourist visa and suggest obtaining a new tourist visa before returning to Thailand.
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James ********
Suggest that you delay your return UNTIL AFTER OCTOBER 1.

Then enter Thailand with a New tourist visa or visa exempt.

Key to this is the question...

Just how long are you going to stay in Thailand this time?
James ********
IF only 3 weeks... enter after October 1 .. Visa exempt on arrival. Gives you 30 days stamped stay in Thailand.
James ********
Safe travels and Enjoy your trip to Thailand.

Comments Closed.
James ********
Be sure to have a airline ticket departing Thailand within the 30 days to show airline staff at check-in and on arrival if asked for it.
Renate *******************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@James *******
great thanks!
Renate *******************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Tod *********
nope you can't come in on the re-entry permit and the extension valid until Oct 1st and convert to anything. You either get another year extension or you're done.

You COULD get a tourist visa before you come back and then when you show up make SURE that you get stamped in on it and not the old re-entry permit for the 60 days a tourist visa allows
Renate *******************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Tod ********
better get a tourist visa in my country instead visa on arrival right?
Tod *********
follow Jame's advice, if you're only comin' here for 3 weeks doesn't make sense to get a tourist visa before you come. Make your trip here AFTER that current extension/re-entry permit expire and you'll be fine and get in on a 30 day visa exempt entry.
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