How far in advance can I obtain a 6-month METV from the UK?

Thailand Visa METV 6-Month Visa Visa Application Process Travel Timing Consulate Instructions

Jun 18, 2019

6 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Does anybody know how far in advance of coming to the Kingdom I can obtain a 6 metv from the UK?  To clarify, could I obtain the visa in the UK at the start of January, travel a bit in Jan, Feb, March, April, and return to CM in May? (4 months post-dated)? 🤔 Thankyou.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Users discussed the optimal timing for applying for a 6-month Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) from the UK, noting that it is recommended not to apply more than 3 months before travel. The validity of the visa starts immediately upon approval, hence applying closer to your travel date is advised to maximize its usage. The visa allows unlimited 60-day entries into Thailand within its validity period.

Tod *********

@Prete **********

I mean you need to GO to the website, read how they do it now and follow their instructions.. ;)

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6 years ago

Pete *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

Superb, thanks Tod 👍🏻

6 years ago

Reply to

Pete *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks for your help ladies and gents. Seems logical to book a flight well in advance to get the best rates for flights. Maybe apply for the visa seven days before the flight? Any idea of how long the process for application takes?

6 years ago

Pete *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

I'm not sure I fully understand what you mean Tod. Online booking for visa? Do you mean you do the application online and then send the docs to them (passport etc)

6 years ago

Tod *********

the thai consulate in London went to online booking for visas now and then you can either post it to them OR set up a time to get it inked into your passport.

I would say get the process going about 30 days before your flight so you have time to get the application in, get approved, and make a plan to get the visa inked into your passport.

6 years ago

Reply to

Tod *********

@Prete **********

there is NO advantage getting a 6 month METV too early before your trip here because the 6 month validity starts to wind down the second the visa is stamped into your passport.

It's good for unlimited 60 day entries to thailand for the validity of the visa (6 months from the date they issue it)

6 years ago

Charlotte ********

I believe a METV starts running from the moment you get it in your passport, so if you want to get as much out of those six months as possible, you should get it close to your departure. The 6 months does not start from the day you enter the country, only a 60 day period (like when you have a SETV, that you must enter within 3 months.

6 years ago

Ron *******

They say not too apply any longer than 3 months before you travel. You will also need confirmed air tickets to apply

6 years ago

Reply to

Ron *******

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