How can I extend my stay in Thailand for 3 months without risking issues with immigration?

Question

Hey guys, I’m currently in Thailand and trying to figure out how to stay longer—around 3 months or more.

I’d like to avoid those land border runs (I really don’t trust those mini-vans 😅), but I’m trying to plan things out properly.

Here’s my situation so far:

- June 2 to July 10, 2024: I stayed in Thailand earlier this year (used the 45-day visa exemption + 30-day extension).

- December 9, 2024, to February 7, 2025: I’m currently here again (planning to use the 60-day visa exemption + 30-day extension).

I'm from Portugal, Europe..if that matters.

In February 2025, I’m thinking about leaving by plane for a week, go to China for a few days, and then flying back to Thailand.

My goal is to get another visa exemption for another 2-3 months.

I know it’s ultimately up to the immigration officer, but how strict are they considering the days I spent here the last year, idk if the 180 days reset on 31 December or something.

Would this work, or should I look into another solution? Train, if there's an option?

I’m planning to get an DTV/ED in June 2025, so I just need to figure out how to handle my stays until then.

Thanks for any tips or experience you can share!

Ask Thailand · Answer

A user seeks advice on extending their stay in Thailand for 3 months while avoiding land border runs. They outline their previous stays using visa exemptions and extensions, and consider a brief trip to China to reset their stay. Comments suggest there is no strict 180-day rule, but caution is advised, as immigration may scrutinize their frequent entries. Recommendations include using services for air border runs or bouncing between borders to manage entry without drawing attention.

Adam ***** · Answer

If you truly want to do a safe air border bounce, pay for the safe entry services

Paul ******* · Answer

I've flown in 5 times this year. Longest stay was 45 days.  Not once was i questioned by immigration.   Always flew in and out of Suvarnabhumi.

Tod ********* · Answer

There is no 180 day rule so lets get that right out of the way

With your previous entry/stay history you are clearly in the demographic of people who could get pulled aside and questioned flying back in (especially seeing as just being in China for a few days or out of the country for a week)

you won't be fooling any immigration officer and they'll know you're just doing that to get another 60 day free stamp entry.

I'd say IF all you're wanting is another free stamp entry that you use a service to bounce you out and back by land. <- The services have it set up with the border they bounce at so their clients get out and back without issue

How can I extend my stay in Thailand for 3 months without risking issues with immigration?

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