Hi there. Hoping to get some advice. Can’t seem to locate the answer online.
USA citizens with USA passports looking to stay in Thailand for 4 months. We are going to be in Auckland, New Zealand and wanted to apply there for the METV. So we can stay for 60 days, add 30, leave and then come back for the remainder.
The question is, how long do we need to stay in Auckland for them to provide us the visa? Do they turn it around in a day or two?
Lastly question, is there any issue with being a US citizen, applying for the visa in NZ?
Thank you so much.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A USA citizen looking to stay in Thailand for four months can apply for a 6-month METV at the Thai consulate in Auckland, New Zealand. The application process typically takes about 3-5 business days. You do not need to be a resident of New Zealand to apply, but you will need to provide proof of funds, such as a bank statement showing at least 9000 NZD. The consulate has been noted to have an efficient process, including accepting email inquiries. It is also suggested that travelers inquire about any specific requirements regarding bank documents when applying.
Went to Auckland embassy and it was such an easy process. They emailed us the form to fill out before your visit.
We brought cash of $50 NZD per application. We we're a little stressed as we only had 4 business days to get it all done. They say it takes 3-5 days. We turned the application in last Friday, they approved us on this Thursday.
We did provide a bank statement (not certified) and they asked us about onward travel. Since we didn't know exactly when we were leaving Thailand, they accepted an email saying we haven't decided yet when we are leaving, but it will be before our Visa ends. That was acceptable to them.
We just got here early this morning into BKK. All was good!
Also since we verified assets with the visa they said we didn't need to bring physical cash with us. That worked.
we decided to do the SETV For 60 days and extend for 30 to give us 90 days. We will go to Cambodia and Vietnam for the remainder of our time before we head home.
The Auckland thai consulate doesn't have a website BUT the one in Wellington does and it shows that you don't need to be a resident of NZ to apply for a 6 month METV, just a copy of the NZ visa or entry stamp.
Wellington does have a requirement that you have your bank documents stamped and signed by your bank (I dunno if Auckland does or not) and you need to show a balance of 9000 NZD for 6 months worth of statements.
definitely report back and let us know how it goes
I have applied in Auckland as a British citizen and a friend with a german passport was also successful. The turnaround time is not quick...4 or 5 days
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