Can I transition from an ED visa to back-to-back Visa on Arrival (VOA) entries in Thailand without issues?

ED Visa Visa on Arrival VOA Thailand immigration visa rules Mae Sai border crossing tourist visa regulations

May 14, 2018

7 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

I will be completing my first year on an ED visa next month. I've lived in Thailand over 10 years, and had business visas and also done land crossings or flown in for VOAs in the past - i.e., my passport shows I've been around a while. So I'm wondering if anyone's been on an ED visa and then dropped down to a VOA by land crossing for a couple months of back to back 30-day stamps successfully? I'd be going to Mae Sai in N Thailand for my exit and re-entry, and I wonder if I'd get hassled about not technically being a tourist. I can very easily re-up my ED visa for another year right away, but I would prefer delaying it, and just getting a couple back-to-back VOAs before starting the proper visa cycle again. I think technically it should be allowable, so I'm curious - has anyone done this recently?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user seeks advice on transitioning from an ED visa to back-to-back Visa on Arrival (VOA) entries in Thailand after a year. They have extensive experience living in Thailand and inquire about potential difficulties at the Mae Sai border crossing and the legality of their plan. Responses indicate that while it is theoretically possible, there are limitations on the number of 30-day visa-exempt entries by land per calendar year. Concerns include the country of origin for visa regulations.

Tod *********

remember you can only get TWO 30 day visa exempt entries by land in a calendar year no matter what border you're crossing.

7 years ago

Duncan *******

It shouldnt be a drama- Mae Sai have a reasonable reputation. Worse case they wont let you leave if they wont give you one.

7 years ago

Shahin **********

I think he's referring to a 30 day visa exempt stamp.

7 years ago

Aaron ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Dun***

- there's a reason I'm an asker vs an advice giver....

7 years ago

Duncan *******

If he cant tell the difference after 10 years..... :)

7 years ago

Reply to

Duncan *******

Robert *******

It all depends on the country of origin of your passport. a Visa On Arrival is only for listed countries and cost 2.000 Thb on entry and you only get 15 days of stay on it.

7 years ago

Reply to

Robert *******

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