Can I use multiple visa exemptions for my family to stay in Thailand for 100 days instead of getting a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa?

Visa Exemption Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV)Onward Travel Requirements Visa Extensions Thailand Immigration Rules

Sep 29, 2022

2 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

My family and I (two adults, five kids) are USA passport holders and will be in Thailand for 100 days from Nov 3 to Feb 9. We're planning to fly to Laos for a 4-day trip somewhere in the middle, though I have not booked tickets to Laos. I was thinking to get a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV), but I'm considering options since the METV costs $200 x 7 people = $1,400.

Can I arrive on a 45 day Visa Exemption, extend by 30 days for 1,900 baht each, then fly to Laos for 4 days, and then fly back to Thailand and get another 45 day Visa Exemption? That would make my total cost only $350 instead of $1,400. Does that work?

Also, how should I show proof of onward travel?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A family of USA passport holders plans to stay in Thailand for 100 days and is considering using the Visa Exemption scheme instead of applying for a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV). They propose to enter Thailand on a 45-day Visa Exemption, extend for an additional 30 days, then travel to Laos before returning for another Visa Exemption. Comments suggest that this plan is viable and advise contacting airlines regarding proof of onward travel.

James ********

I have placed the TOPICS about your options on your post.

CLICK on each one and all posts from others posts relating their experiences will pop up to read.

2 years ago

James ********

Suggest you save even more money by doing a simple land border crossing into Laos across the Friendship bridge from Nong Khai and return the same day.

NO need to fly to Savannakhet.

2 years ago

Tod *********

Visa exempt entry is totally a workable plan

Whether you have to show proof of onward travel with your air carrier to fly to thailand without a visa is between you and them SO contact them and ask. Worst case make a booking you can cancel 45 days out to some place and show that as proof of onward travel when you check in if it's required. They aren't gonna take your word for it that you're gonna cross by land into Lao as onward travel

Highly unlikely you will be asked for it at passport control when you arrive. Wouldn't even worry about that at all

2 years ago

Chris *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Tod ********

Excellent, thank you so much! I'll stick with that plan and skip the METV. I appreciate the help!

2 years ago

Reply to

Chris *******

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