Do Thai immigration officers always require proof of onward travel for visa exempt entries?

A recent experience shared by a traveler from the USA highlights that Thai immigration officials can request proof of onward travel, even for visa-exempt visitors. The traveler reported being asked for a flight confirmation upon entering Thailand, contrary to the common belief that such checks are typically conducted only by airlines. Many commenters echoed this sentiment, noting variability in questions asked by immigration, often dependent on the traveler's entry history and stamps in the passport. Some shared that they had been asked for onward tickets in prior visits, suggesting that those with multiple entries or specific travel patterns may be more likely to face scrutiny. Overall, the discussion emphasizes the unpredictability of immigration checks and the importance of having onward travel documentation to avoid potential issues.