Is a multiple entry tourist visa a better option for returning to Thailand after a long stay?

@Henry *********

A tourist visa can always help to some extent, as it gives a slightly higher level of confidence for entry, but it does not guarantee entry. It can, however, make things smoother when you start approaching the upper end of what is normally accepted. In your case, two visa exempt stays without extension (around 119 days total) combined with a long stay outside Thailand would very likely also have allowed another visa exempt entry. Beyond that point, though, it would have become pure gambling without a visa, which is why an METV would have been the best solution from the outset, and essentially what the IO was trying to convey.

@Henry *********

that should be okay, less than 150 days per rolling one year and time abroad indicate that you are a "real" tourist. And regarding what the Immigration officer said, I would take it with a grain of salt. This is only a proposal from one officer. Many other officers may not share this view. We never know

@Area ************

there are no rules that say how often or for how long you can enter Thailand on a visa exemption. There are only guidelines that say you cannot misuse touristic entries for a longstay within one year. It is left to the individual discretion of the Immigration officer you are facing

@Greg **********

i was around 165 when they stamped me another 60. Were quite agressive but i was with m'y thai gf and i have m'y business overseas. Just spoke next time get a visa (tourist). So are there rules or grey profiles questionings ?