Is it a problem to enter Thailand on a one-way ticket with a 30-day visa on arrival?

March 5, 2020
5 years ago
Hew **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi there, hoping someone can give me some advice please.

I am planning a trip to Thailand later this month, I usually go for a month, getting a 30 day visa on arrival with my flight back booked for 30 or 29 days later.

For this trip, I may stay out a little bit longer, but I don't want to commit to an exact date...

So, my question is, will it be a problem if I arrive on a one-way ticket? (Travelling with KLM from Scotland via Amsterdam)

I will likely go to Penang or Langkawi before the 30 days are up, stay there for a bit then come back in again by air.

Thank you :)
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The post discusses concerns about traveling to Thailand on a one-way ticket with the intention of using a 30-day visa on arrival. It highlights potential issues with airline policies regarding onward travel documentation and the possibility of being questioned at the airline check-in and at immigration.
Martin *******
The handling agents for KLM in Glasgow are particular Nasties with regard to the "30 day" issue. I was almost denied boarding once until I pointed out that my trip WAS exactly 30 days as I didn't arrive until "tomorrow"
James ********
I doubt that KLM will allow you to board the plane without you showing an ongoing or return ticket booked.
Tod *********
You'll have far more issues checking in with the airline you're comin' here on a visa exempt entry (with no visa in your passport) than you will once you get here stamping in at passport control.

Some airlines let you sign a waiver stating you are flying on a one way ticket with NO visa and if you're denied you pay your own way back.

SO check with your air carrier
Robert *******
Depending on your history of living or staying in Thailand.

With a one way ticket and no onward travel, you also may face some problem with the airline company. Check with them it they allow you to board
Hew **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you Robert, I shall do that.
RJ ********
Your place of origin will give you a hassle, more then likely. Book a cheap ticket air plane, bus or train out of Thailand before your 30 day visa exempt is up.

Have it all booked before you go to board the flight out of your place of origin. I can almost guarantee they are going to ask about it. You’ll need that information for your Immigration card (TM6) you’ll fill out before you land.
William ********
I myself have flown back in to Thailand maybe 6 or more times in the last few years. Never booked any outward journeys for these purposes.
William ********
Also, I have never done this book a departure before arriving thing.

Been in and out over last few years.

Many people come on a tourist visa, not expecting to stay longer than thier holiday but do.. then they just go and get stamped at immigration for another 30 days.

It's a formality rarely checked imo
Hew **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you!

No idea what a TM30 is!

I'll get a ticket out to somewhere else before the 30 days -likely Krabi to Penang or something.
Tod *********
Okay, lets NOT have this turn into a mindless TM30 b/s thread okay?
Robert *******
I guess you mix up some documents, a TM30 for address registration is filled in by a land or house owner or hotel manager within 24 hours after your arrival at that address.
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