Do I still need to apply for an METV with the new 60-day visa exempt entry for Thailand?

Visa exemption 60-day visa exempt entry METV Thailand visa rules Traveling in Thailand Tourist visa Visa for expats in Thailand

Jul 20, 2024

4 months ago

Zarene ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi sorry not sure if this has been answered!

Under the new 60 day visa exempt entry for tourists, is it still necessary to apply for an METV?

I was planning to use Thailand as a base from August-November, and during that time visit other countries in Asia every 4/5 weeks by AIR. I thought I’d need to get an METV originally, but am I right in assuming the new visa exemption doesn’t require it? 

Of course I understand it’ll still depend on the IO. 

thanks for any kind advise or suggestions.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The recent changes to Thailand's visa policies allow tourists from 93 countries to enter with a 60-day visa exemption, making the METV less necessary for many travelers. While the METV can still be considered, especially if planning extended stays or multiple trips, the new policies permit exiting and re-entering the country multiple times via air without the restrictions of past land border entries. Travelers are generally advised that a 4-month stay can be managed through the exemption with potential extensions.

Zarene ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

thanks for the prompt response and helpful advise everyone, this was super helpful

4 months ago

Tore *********

With the visas and exemptions, i think 4 months is fine with exemptions + extensions.

Consider DTV if you plan more trips next few years though.

4 months ago

Nicole ****************

It's my understanding that you can exit and re-enter unlimited times via air.

4 months ago

Henrik *****

As always it depends on the Immigration Officer in front of you.

If the Officer think you are trying to stay long time on short time / tourist visa, the officer may warn you or deni you entry.

4 months ago

Stuart *********

@Nicole ***************

With the new 60 day stamp it’s irrelevant via air, sea or land borders.

4 months ago

Reply to

Stuart *********

The 60 day SETV is really of no use to anyone from the 93 countries that can now get 60 day exempt stamps on entry.

The METV is possibly a viable visa to get (although expensive) but with the recent change that the new ผ.60 stamp is not subject to the two land border entries per calendar year rule, it certainly seems like its value is limited or not really necessary at all.

4 months ago

Reply to

Stuart *********

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Is it worth getting a METV now that Canadians can obtain a 60-day Visa Exemption for Thailand?

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