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Is it problematic to enter Laos and return to Thailand by land during a visa exemption period?

Thai Visa Regulations Visa Exemption Nong Khai Border Crossing Laos Travel Travel Tips for Expats Isan Region Travel

Apr 30, 2026

21 hours ago

Ian *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

i saw a comment recently from one of the admin here that its currently under scrutiny people crossing back into TH from Laos on the Nong Khai border by land. 

I am going to Isan probably in June, fresh passport and probably for around 18 night total in TH so ill just enter on visa exemption. Is it such a big issue to enter Laos and return for a few days over land with no previous issues of visa extensions or land crossings,and is any other border perhaps easier like nakhon phanom which id prefer over Nong Khai .Its not the end of the world if i cant go To Laos but its always interested me to go there.

Gf is Thai citizen from Udon Thani.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The discussion revolves around concerns about crossing overland from Thailand to Laos and returning, particularly at the Nong Khai border, amid reported scrutiny of such entries. A user plans to enter Thailand under a visa exemption for 18 nights and is considering traveling to Laos. They question the implications of this border crossing and whether it's advisable, given the current situation. A comment reassures them that, given their short stay in Laos and lack of a residency history in Thailand, they likely won't face problems at the border.

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Tod *********

While no one on this group can say for sure what the officer at passport control will do when you stamp back in given what you outlined I would say you shouldn't have any issue getting out/back at the Nong Khai border..

You don't have a history of 'living here' on free stamp, your planned travel time is not that long (you said only about 18 days), you're staying in Lao a few days and you'll have proof you're leaving the thailand should you be asked when you come back.

21 hours ago

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Tod *********

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What was the experience of crossing the Nong Khai land border into Thailand for visa-exempt entry?

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