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Can I re-enter Thailand for another 30 days after a visa-exempt stay and extend it for an additional 30 days?

Jan 6, 2024
2 years ago
Lay *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Visa Question: I have a passport from the USA. I flew into BKK, from the U.S, on December 4th, and got a 30 days Visa on arrival. Flew out of BKK to Siem Reap Cambodia on January 3rd. If I take a BUS back to Bangkok on January 18th, can I get a 30 days stamp, plus do a another 30 days extension for a total of 60 days this time?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A US passport holder who entered Thailand on a visa-exempt basis can return after leaving and receive another 30-day stamp, plus extend it for an additional 30 days. However, it's important to note that entry without a visa by land is limited to twice per calendar year, while air entry does not have a written limit. To stay in Thailand longer, the individual could make multiple trips out of the country, ideally by air, to avoid complications.
Lay *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
thanks. So, I can take a flight out every 60 days, stay out of Thailand for about 5 days, and return to Thailand? I know you said there's no limit, but can I safely do this for about three times. For a total of 180 days? I'm trying to figure out if I should get a condo in Bangkok for six months.
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Brandon ************
@Lay ******
You'd be better off doing it by air 1-2 times and then using an agency to do land border runs. Using the agency ensures there are no issues on exiting and returning. After 2 times doing it you might run into issues returning.
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Brandon ************
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Bobby *********
Yes you can
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Kool *******
You are following a pattern of a normal tourist. You won't have any problem.
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Brandon ************
You did not get visa on arrival. You got visa exempt. Each and every time you enter Thailand you will receive a brand new 30 day visa exempt stamp which is eligible for one 30-day extension each time as well. Please note that you can only enter via land border without a visa (visa exempt) 2 times per calendar year. There is no written limit for how many times you can arrive by air.
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Ali ********
@Bra****
(sorry I’m just curious) I thought there was a limit of 6 times per year by air?
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Stuart *********
@Ali *******
Nope. Some immigration officers may spout that as a rule but it doesn’t exist.

If ever questioned on it then ask for a supervisor. Probably won’t help as they are looking for ways to deny you entry, but they certainly won’t be able to show you the law.
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Stuart *********
The same as some officers will state that you can only stay 180 days in total in Thailand on tourist or exempt entries. It’s not the case. There isn’t a set limit, but it is up to the immigration officer to permit you entry. If you have the 3 “proofs” of accommodation, cash and a ticket out it severely limits their ability to refuse you entry - but it’s no guarantee.
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Ali ********
@Stu***
Thanks very much! I got close last year and worried for nothing it seems.
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Ali ********
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Lyndon ************
Yes
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Lyndon ************
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