Answered9 years ago

Can I extend my stay in Thailand by crossing into Laos and returning on a tourist visa?

Tourist Visa Visa Extension Border Crossing Thailand Immigration Savannakhet Mukdahan

Eric ********

asked Apr 4, 2018

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My tourist visa (30day + already expanded 30days) is valid until May 5th. But I would to stay to May 16th. 

To get a new visa (15 days enough) is it possible to walk to Lao (Savannaket) and go back to Thailand (Mukdahan) or is it better to leave Thailand by airplane for 1 or 2 days and come back?

Or do you have any other advices? 

Thank you in advance!

Answer summary

The individual seeks to extend their stay in Thailand beyond their current tourist visa's expiration by considering a border crossing to Laos and returning, or by flying out. Comments advise that they can obtain a 30-day visa exempt entry at the Mukdahan/Savannakhet border if not previously used, but it must be done via transport as walking is not allowed. Additionally, it's noted that the specific 15-day visa exempt entries by land no longer exist, and travelers are limited to two 30-day entries per year by land.

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Steve *******

You certainly can get a 30 day visa exempt stamp at the Mukdahan/Savannakhet border crossing providing you havent had 2 already by land this year. You cannot walk across the friendship bridge, you need to go by some form of transport, bus, car etc.

9 years ago

Eric ********

ok, helpfully information ... thank you Steve!

9 years ago

Tod *********

There is no 15 day visa exempt entries by land any more. It went back to 30 days on Dec 31, 2016.

You can go to the closest border, stamp out of thailand, stamp in&out of another country and stamp back into thailand to get a 30 day visa exempt entry. BUT remember you can only get TWO 30 day visa exempt entries by land crossings in a year.

9 years ago

Mallory **************

And also remember it is $1,050 dollars to simply enter Laos as well. If you are close to Burma, I would advise going there

9 years ago

Eric ********

Helpfully Info - Thank you Tod!

9 years ago