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

Thailand Visa Visa Exempt Visa Extension Thai Immigration US Passport Holder Tourist Visa Rules Land Border Entry Air Entry Visa Policy

Jan 6, 2024

a year 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.

a year ago

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.

a year ago

Reply to

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

Bobby *********

Yes you can

a year ago

Kool *******

You are following a pattern of a normal tourist. You won't have any problem.

a year ago

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.

a year ago

Ali ********

@Bra****

(sorry I’m just curious) I thought there was a limit of 6 times per year by air?

a year ago

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.

a year ago

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.

a year ago

Ali ********

@Stu***

Thanks very much! I got close last year and worried for nothing it seems.

a year ago

Reply to

Ali ********

Lyndon ************

Yes

a year ago

Reply to

Lyndon ************