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Can I obtain a six-month METV Visa if I apply six months before my flight?

METV Visa Thailand Visa Application Visa Validity Visa Stamping Visa Extension Immigration Procedures Expat Visa Tips

Aug 2, 2018

6 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi, I am applying for a METV Visa 6 months before I leave here in the states. Problem is the application and other documents have to be mailed in about a month before I leave and hope I get the visa and passport back before my flight. The visa goes into effect as soon as they stamp it at the Thai embassy and by the time the mail gets it to me and the flight leaves I will only have five months or so left.  I wanted to stay for the six months but doesn't look like I can ???   Any experience with this ?   Thanks

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The METV visa (Multiple Entry Tourist Visa) allows for multiple entries into Thailand within a six-month period. However, the visa's validity starts upon stamping by the Thai embassy. The applicant faces a timing issue due to mail delays, impacting the ability to maximize the six-month stay. Comments suggest that while each entry offers 60 days, the applicant can perform border runs to extend their stay, but any time lost before the first entry will reduce the overall time in Thailand.

Biff *******

Each entry will give you 60 days. Before the 'use by' date (the last day the visa is valid for) you can exit and re-enter Thailand for your last 60 day entry. This entry can then be extended at an immigration office inside the country for an additional 30 days.

You will, however, lose the time between the issue date and your first entry.

So, let's assume that you lose a week in that way. You will still be able to get the 6 months you want by carefully calculating when you do your border crossings.

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Roger *********

Not sure that is right. Thought you can enter anytime within 3 months of visa issue, and then your six month starts at the point of entry. May well be wrong though.

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Robert *******

Indeed,

@Roger ********

this information is not correct.

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Charlotte *******

The SETV gives you 3 months to use it. The METV clock starts ticking on the date of issue unfortunately.

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Joe ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I was hoping it starts on arrival but the embassy said it starts when stamped. I hope I am wrong .

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Joe ********

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