This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

Do I need to show an onward flight ticket when entering Thailand for 4 months with a return ticket?

Sep 11, 2025
3 days ago
Peter *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Please advise: We have a return flight ticket for 4 months in Thailand. When we travel into the country, do we need to have documentation that we are leaving Thailand within 60 days, so maybe buy a return ticket to Laos or Vietnam (3-4 days) in advance?
861
views
0
likes
17
all likes
12
replies
0
images
9
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
When entering Thailand on a visa-exempt status or a tourist visa (both valid for 60 days), it's generally advisable to have an onward ticket, as the airline may require it to ensure compliance with immigration laws. The Thai authorities may not actively check for your return ticket, but they can ask about it. If you're entering on a Non-O visa, you are not required to show onward travel documentation. It is also suggested to confirm with your airline about their policies, as these can vary. Some travelers recommend purchasing a cheap onward ticket if needed, but remember that regulations can change, so it's best to check closer to your travel date.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
Henrik *****
You should have consulted the Thai Embassy before buying the ticket, you may get in trouble, if trying to stay more than 60 + 30 days visa exempt.
Dean *******
It changes every week in Thailand.. so the week before you plan on going contact a local travel agent or website! That’s a reason I will never return after visiting for many yrs
Henrik *****
It does not change every week in Thailand, last change was
****
2024.

And the rule that you have to have a ticket out of Thailand, within the allowed days of the visascheme you enter on, is of far older date.

Those who use the Thai Embassy website to check visa requirements, will get the present rules.

Just don’t listen to rumors from other, not trustworthy websites.
Bent *************
Depends on your airline, ask them.
Robert *********
You require a ticket out if Thailand before the end of your first visa .

It's the airline that checks in departure ,maybe ,maybe not
Niall *******
Go to
*********************


You can book an onward ticket for a few dollars.

Not a genuine ticket but accepted by immigration and initial airline.
Graham ******
Your plan will work with your onward ticket and you should have no Immigration issues unless you have a recent history of Visa Exempt entries especially if you took the 30 day extension.
Lynnette *******
@Graham *****
they are staying 4 months. . The airline may not accept that as proof of leaving within permitted exempt stay duration, which is 60 days.
Chuck **********
Graham ******
@Lynnette ******
the planned onward flight to Laos would be good not the return
Lynnette *******
@Graham *****
yes, of course an onward ticket would work.
Graeme ******
If you are entering thailand on visa exempt, 60 days or a tourist visa 60 days then normally it is your flight ✈️ conpany that want to see an onward ticket flight or train etc. Out of thailand as its there responsibility if the thai authorities dont allow you to enter to return you to your departing country. So suggest you check with the flight company. The thai authorities dont normally look to see your return ticket although can ask if they want to. If you arrive on a non O visa then you dont need to show onward travel as its deemed a long term visa rather than a tourist visa
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else