Can I use the 30-day visa waiver for extended stays in Thailand on a 3 weeks on/3 weeks off work schedule?

Visa Waiver Thai Immigration Visa Rules 30-Day Visa Exemption Multi Entry Tourist Visa FIFO (Fly In Fly Out) Work Schedule

Dec 16, 2018

6 years ago

Winston *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi there, i work for in gas and oil and plan to fly out of thailand 3 weeks on 3weeks off. Any advice on if the thai immigration will be cool with me using 30 day visa wavier over an extended period of time? Been doing it in bali for 15 years no problem but heard thailand is different. Many thanks.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The poster is inquiring about the use of Thailand's 30-day visa waiver in relation to their work schedule, which involves flying in and out for three weeks at a time. Several commenters provide insights and advice, highlighting that while technically there is no limit on visa exempt entries when arriving by air, frequent travelers (six or more entries) may attract scrutiny from immigration officers. Suggestions include obtaining a Multi-Entry Tourist Visa for fewer issues and ensuring to have necessary documentation (proof of accommodation, onward travel, and sufficient funds) ready upon entry.

Stéfan ********

An other option is to simply alternate between countries. I have a few friends in your position and the more strict behaviour in regards to the visa exempt entries made them experience (and enjoy) other countries in the region.

6 years ago

Michiel *******

I know a guy who did same between ofshore work .Went ok for a while. Until he was refused last year at swampy and trouble started . Better safe then sorry .

6 years ago

Robert *******

Sorry Peter A. S. Moelgaard we are here on this page to give correct information. Not based on some underbelly feelings or based on I have about 50 incoming flights or I live in Thailand so I know. This is not a competition. I deleted your story, just because you can not back up the claim.

6 years ago

Peter *******************

@Robert ******

duly noted Sir !

6 years ago

Robert *******

Not a privilege, the burden of being a MOD. Trying to keep this page filled with correct information.

6 years ago

Peter *******************

@Robert ******

the privilege of being an admin, no sweat from my side, it saul goodman... 🙂

6 years ago

Reply to

Peter *******************

keep flying and you wont have a problem, but dont mix in land crossings and dont do in-country extensions, that will terminate your plan quicker than you can recite the name of Bangkok... just keep flying and your fine...

6 years ago

Peter *******************

Disclaimer: admin pointed out, this opinion is unverified and should be taken as nothing else than an opinion...

6 years ago

Reply to

Peter *******************

Liam *****

You could get a Multi entry tourist visa from your home country, Australia or another country if you legally live there, which gives you unlimited entries over a 6 month (+60 days) period. While you could still be asked for 3 proofs on arrival, it might be a less hassle way to go

6 years ago

Yvonne *********

Indeed they ask questions, my son is on FIFO two/1 roster, and has had the third degree. Finally got Non O in Australia.

6 years ago

Winston *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Cheers will do thanks for the tip.

6 years ago

Robert *******

Thailand is indeed different than Bali. There is official no limit of using the Visa Exempt Entry if coming to Thailand by air. But there are reports that if you have 6 or more Visa Exempts Entries in your passport the Immigration Officer might start asking questions why you do not get a proper visa. Make sure you have with your the 3 proofs: 20.000 Thb or equivalent currency in cash, proof of accommodation and proof of onward travel. Maybe also good idea of proof of your work schedule to show that you use Thailand only as a place to relax.

6 years ago

Reply to

Robert *******

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Will I face issues returning to Thailand after multiple short stays with visa exempt entries?

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