Do I need a return or ongoing flight when I enter Thailand on a tourist visa?

When entering Thailand on a tourist visa, it is officially required to have proof of onward travel. However, experiences vary significantly; many travelers report that immigration seldom asks for it, while airlines may enforce this requirement more strictly before boarding. Some users suggest it's safer to purchase a cheap onward ticket, as travelers have faced denial of entry without one in certain instances. Ultimately, the necessity of a return flight can depend on the airline's policy, rather than immigration policies. Officially, and particularly from certain countries, proof of onward travel is a standard requirement.