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Do I Have to Apply for My METV Last Minute to Maximize My Stay in Thailand?

Visa Application METV Travel Tips

Feb 19, 2020

5 years ago

Lauren ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Im American. do i have to wait until the last possible day to get an METV? I read that it starts the clock as soon as you are approved for one. So if i’m leaving on March 31st should I wait to apply for one a week before I leave so I can still have a full 60 days when I arrive in Thailand? 

If I am not approved for an METV before I leave can i acquire an SETV on time?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

An American expat inquired about the best timing to apply for a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) to maximize their stay in Thailand. It was clarified that the METV validity period starts as soon as it is approved and stamped in the passport. Experts recommended applying about a month before travel to avoid any issues with documentation and ensure a timely approval. If not approved in time, an option to apply for a Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) was also suggested.

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James ********

You have good advice...make application by mail one month before...or walk in at LA Thai Consulate

Submit morning first day pick up afternoon second day. No appointment needed. If denied METV can request Single Tourist Visa.

Very friendly Consulate.

Commenting closed.

5 years ago

Tod *********

You are confused with how long the VISA is valid for (which in the case of a 6 month METV multi-entry tourist visa is 6 months) AND how long you will get stamped in ON the visa which is always 60 days.

5 years ago

Tod *********

Even if you exit/re-enter the country on the very last day the VISA is valid for you would still get stamped in for 60 days like everyone does on a tourist visa.

5 years ago

Reply to

Tod *********

Gregor **********

when issued there is a stamp with the METV saying how long it is "to be used until" date, and this usually is three months from the date of issue. . . . Once you ENTER Thailand, you will get the first 60 days "admitted until" triangular stamp

5 years ago

Gregor **********

oh, okay! I didn't know that

5 years ago

Tod *********

BUT the 6 months that the VISA is valid for starts on the date they stamp it IN to the passport. NOT the date they enter thailand, that's what they're asking..

5 years ago

Reply to

Tod *********

Okay, the 6 mont METV does start the second it's put into your passport <- meaning don't apply for it MONTHS before you're coming here, BUT also don't foolishly hold out until just before you leave to apply in case you don't have all the requirements

I'd say apply about a month before you come here, and you should be fine

5 years ago

James ********

And where are you making application for the METV?

What is your nationality?

5 years ago

Lauren ******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@James *******

American at the LA Thai Embassy

5 years ago

Reply to

Lauren ******

Thai Visa Advice