Answered2 years ago

How many times can I use border visa exemption and extensions in Thailand?

Thai visa rules Visa exemption 30-day extension Border run Immigration policies Visa entries per year

Oliver ********

asked Jul 2, 2024

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How many times can you do the process of border visa exemption, 30 day extension, border run. 

I had 1 visit with just the first 30 day exemption in Feb, now I have been in Thailand a second time for 60 days with an exemption flr the first 30 and an extension for another 30. 

If I go to Laos and come back can I do this 60 day process again? 

And if after that I do another border run, will they let me back in?

Answer summary

The Thai visa exemption allows two free land entries per calendar year. While you can perform border runs and apply for extensions, relying on this method for long-term residency is discouraged. After two land entries, you may be subject to entry refusal, especially if you attempt additional border runs.

7 repliesnewest first

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Bart **************

You can't stay forever on visa exemption and extensions. A third such entry might still work, but don't make yourself dependent on exceeding that. You could try, but be prepared to be refused entry.

Also, there's a limit of two land border entries on exemption per calendar year.

2 years ago

Tod *********

You aren't gonna live here on free entry and 30 day extensions if that's what you're objective is

You're allowed TWO free entries by land in a calendar year, so as long as you haven't used the the free land entries you're good to enter by land

2 years ago

Oliver ********

@Tod ********

I have entered by air twice so far, so as long as I enter by land next time it should be ok?

2 years ago

Tod *********

@Oliver *******

yep, shouldn't have much of an issue (as long as you don't pick a bad land border to enter at)

You mention you're going to Lao and coming back so you'll be fine, all the Lao borders open to foreigners are okay to get out/back in at

2 years ago

Oliver ********

@Tod ********

thanks mate, I appreciate your help!

2 years ago

Tod *********

@Oliver *******

no issue at all bouncing out and back at Chiang Khong/Huay Xai, and you won't have a problem getting the 30 day extension on that stamp at the immigration office where you stay for 1900baht

2 years ago

Oliver ********

@Tod ********

thanks mate. I’m going out and back in at Friendship Gate 4 at the North by Chiang Rai.

Do you think a 30 day extension will be ok after that or will it be time to get a visa then?

2 years ago