Should I apply for a 60-day tourist visa and leave for Laos to prove my exit, or show my return flight to Dublin for 90 days?

@Thomas *******

I assume you mean the TDAC. The Thailand Digital Arrival Card. I did that within the 3 days prior to my arrival. Iy is easy to do. That is not related to a visa or visa exemption. Yes I agree it is a bit confusing with all the different visas. But once you find the visa that suits your circumstances, it should be easier. My point was it was clear to immigration that I intended to stay 90 days, which was greater than my 60 day visa exemption stamp, but I was not questioned about my intentions regarding extension of this period up to 90 days.

@Thomas *******

what e visa card ?are you confused with the TDAC ? It's just an online thing you do 3days or less prior to arrival. Nothing confusing about it.

@Doug ******

a real (!) ONWARD TRAVEL PROOF: a one-way ticket out of Thailand within the first 60 days, by Air Asia from Hat Yai to Kuala Lumpur. Can be found for $36

@Doug ******

if he flies with Thai Airways or Emirates without a visa, they allow a return flight that is within 90 days

@Thomas *******

anyone telling you that visa exempt is only for 30 days has not been to Thailand lately. It is currently still 60 days. Enjoy your stay.

@Thomas *******

and even if you only want to stay for 90 days maximum, and don't plan to re-enter Thailand after a first stint abroad, you can do so on a 60-days single entry tourist visa. For the single entry, the visa fee is much less than for the multi entry.

@Thomas *******

there was talk about reducing the visa-exempt stay permit from 60 days back to 30 days, but it never happened. What started on May 1st was the requirement to fill out the online TDAC form (Thailand Digital Arrival Card). Right now you still are stamped in visa-exempt for 60 days, and can buy a 30-days extension on Immigration for 1900.- THB

@Thomas *******

definitely get 60 days arriving with no visa. And can extend 1 time for an additional 30 days