Do I need to book a return trip to re-enter Thailand after staying in Laos?

Question

I have been in Thailand for 90 days. I arrived in Thailand on November 25, 2024. I had not applied for a visa, but was granted a stay of 60 days. I have also not booked a return trip. On January 27, 2025, I was granted a 30-day extension. On February 25, 2025, I checked out of Thailand in Nong Khai and entered Laos. I plan to stay there for a week before returning to Thailand.

I read on the Thai-E Visa Office website that I do not need to apply for a visa if I am only going to stay for 60 days. But I have to fill out some forms online. This website is somewhat confusing. The form asks me to define which visa I am applying for. Which conflicts with - not needing a visa. Has anyone done this "gymnastics" and can guide me? And... do I have to book a trip out?

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user originally entered Thailand on a non-visa exemption, receiving a 60-day stay, followed by a 30-day extension. They plan to return to Thailand from Laos without booking a return ticket. Comments clarify that if the user is eligible for a Visa Exempt Entry, they will not need to apply for a visa upon re-entering Thailand by land. It is essential to be prepared to meet potential border immigration requirements, which may include proof of accommodation, funds, and an exit ticket, if questioned.

Gregor ********** · Answer

[mention redacted]  Well, if you will be allowed a second visa-exempt entry, after you maxxed out your last one with a 30-days extension, is totally up to the decision of the Immigration officer at the border

If – only if! - you get pulled aside, he will ask you some questions, like what you are doing in Thailand

For this, you should be prepared to show the famous three proofs:

*** a ticket out of Thailand within the next 60 days

*** a booked accommodation for the next few nights

*** cash worth 20,000 THB in Thai Baht or equivalent in another main currency

Biff ******* · Answer

When you read the part on the eVisa website that you do not need a visa, that was the point where you stop needing to use that site. Where it further asks you to select which visa you're applying for is another hint that you don't need to use the site any more.

When you first arrived in Thailand you did not have a visa and were granted a stay of 60 days. That will be what happens the next time you arrive without a visa. It's going to be the same.

Graham ****** · Answer

If you got a 60 day Visa Exempt entry last time you will get the same, do nothing, no Visa needed.

James ******** · Answer

IF you are eligible for a Visa Exempt Entry, there's NO need to get a Thai tourist visa.

Simply return to Thailand by land border crossing and get a NEW 60 days STAMP on arrival.

Then as before, you can get a 30 day extension of stay at your local Thai Immigration office for 1900 Thai baht.

No Return ticket is required by LAND BORDER CROSSING.

Do I need to book a return trip to re-enter Thailand after staying in Laos?

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