Do I need to show bank statements or have 30,000 baht for a visa run to Laos?

Sep 2, 2017
7 years ago
Richard *****
ORIGINAL POSTER
Have a Visa Run Coming up to Laos, someone mentioned I need to show bank statements or have 30k baht on me.. Seems strange just wanted to check here if anyone has had this needed?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The necessity of showing bank statements or carrying 30,000 baht during a visa run to Laos varies based on the border crossing and individual experiences. Many travelers at the Nong Khai border reported not being asked for proof of funds. However, some advise being prepared as immigration officials technically can require 20,000 baht in cash or equivalent when entering Thailand. Vientiane's consulate has fewer requirements compared to others, but caution is advised since regulations can change.
Jim *******
I often wonder if immigration read these comments, and then think of tightening things up so as to equalise?
Tod *********
Nong Khai is a pretty lax border crossing as far as asking for proof of funds.
James **********
Nobody ever so much as looked at me at the consulate or border crossing at NK a couple weeks ago. I was not doing the same visa as you and had 20k for show if asked, but nobody said a word. I lurked about near the windows and didn't see anyone else from any nation or visa type asked.
Ron *******
People need to be aware and be prepared, that what happened last week or yesterday has no bearing on what may be asked and required today or tomorrow.

The rules are there to be enforced at anytime they choose to do it.

Anybody travelling with the intent to buy a visa or an out/in for a visa exempt cannot be surprised when they get a refusal if they don't have cash and bank statements at hand anymore.
Tod *********
Okay, I made a post about the financial requirements which you can be asked to show when you stamp into the country.

The money you may be asked to show stamping into the country has NOTHING to do with the financial requirements you may be asked to show at thai consulates to get visas from them.

FYI: More and more thai consulates are requiring some or all of the '3--proof-ofz' to issue tourist visas

-proof of 20K baht in a bank account

-proof of onward travel within 60-90 days

-proof of a hotel booking or confirmed lodging

Right now, the thai consulate in Vientiane is the ONLY one around that requires NONE of those things I mentioned and the border at Nong Khai is NOT asking for proof of funds when stamping into tthailand
Oscar ******************
The only thing you have to do in Vientiane Thai Consulate is to write the apply, two photos and 1000 baht, no questions. I did a lot of times, last one month ago. I had with me 20.000 baht to cross Nong Khai border, just in case I have to show money. No questions again, just stamp and welcome to Thailand.
Robert *******
You apply for a Visa at a Consulate or Embassey, both part of Minister of Foreign affairs. Immigration Officers at checkpoints are part of the Royal Thai Immigration Police a total different ministry. As said it is not enforced many times but they could ask, so better be prepared than sorry.
Robert *******
Wrong, to cross the border you officially need to show cash or cheques. It is rearly enforced but it is the law.
Robert *******
If you want to entry with a Visa the law state that you need 20.000 Thb (or equivilant in other currency) to show in cash or travellar cheque. Accept it and be prepared or take the risk.
Jim *******
No body knows if the IO at the border will ask so why not save yourself worries and have it?
Ted *******
The heavy weights will be along soon, their advice imo is always spot on and invaluable
Mark *******
Technically the immigration officials at the border can request you have 20K with you when you enter the country again. But I've personally never heard of that happening at the land border from Laos. It has happened to people flying into BKK and DMK though.
Simon ********
I was there yesterday and it wasnt mentioned
Ted *******
Ok that will get you the answers you require, I could give my input but better from others who know this stuff inside out
Richard *****
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ted ******
Single Entry Tourist Visa
Richard *****
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Ted ******
going to consulate in Vientiane
Ted *******
Also what type of visa if going to an embassy
Ted *******
I think you have to clarify what you mean by visa run, I won't know the answer but those that will, will want to know if you are going to an embassy or just a border bounce
Tero ************
As far as i know savannakhet wants extra proof like this, Vientiane not
Graham *********
someone will come along soon with the correct details
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