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Should I book my return flight for 60 or 90 days in Thailand?

Thailand Visa Tourist Visa Travel Planning Onward Flight Requirement Visa Extension

Colin ********

OP

asked Jan 12, 2026

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Thanks guys for allowing me to join the group 

I visit Thailand every year for 30days 

This time im planning on coming for the full 60 with the intention of extending to 90 once im there 

My question 

When im booking a flight do I book the return flight for the 60 days or can I book it for the 90 period 

Thanks

Answer summary

The discussion revolves around the best practice for booking return flights when planning a trip to Thailand, especially when the intention is to extend a stay from 60 days to 90 days. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding airline policies regarding proof of onward travel and suggest options such as booking a flexible return flight or a cheaper regional exit flight to circumvent potential issues with immigration and airlines.

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Mitchell *******

Mitchell *******

Ya, usually the length of time your INITIAL entry is (60 days for tourist and exempt). Your least hassle bet is to book a changeable flight, OR book your return flight when you want, but book a cheaper regional flight for day 58 etc, which you can cancel or "ignore" once you get your extension.

1

Colin ********

Colin ********

OP

Thanks for the quick responses guys

At least it has given me avenues to explore

0

Wales *******

Wales *******

I went to London with cheap throw away ticket on goggle not checked with airline or customs

0

Martyn *******

Martyn *******

I book a flexible return flight so can change once and if I am granted the extra days. Most airlines will refuse you boarding unless you have some confirmation of an exit within the exemption period as they have some responsibility. Btw I usually fly Qatar as they are comfortable with a short stopover and re arranging a flight with them is usually easy and cost effective for me

3

Martyn *******

Martyn *******

Well it’s a risk that the person and airline takes. I am just stating what I do, I’m in Thailand right now and was asked on arrival for proof of my return flight as I hadn’t filled that in on my tdac. The rules as far as I know haven’t changed but it appears enforcement of them has and with a more strict regime comes issues if you are not allowed entry

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Nongnuch ********

Nongnuch ********

the departure field on the TDAC is not mandatory, you can leave it empty. So the reason you was asked for a return ticket must have been something else, just give it a thought as you are the one who knows your previous entry history

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Martyn *******

Martyn *******

@Nongnuch *******

I m just giving you the benefit of my recent ecperience

0

Alan **********

Alan **********

"Most"(?) Are you sure ? You mention Qatar. I flew Qatar to Thailand this past November. The agent at check-in noted my return flight was 90 days away.

I told her I was getting a 30-day extension in Thailand. She took the issue to her supervisor, came back, and continued the check-in.

On ARRIVAL in Thailand, the immigration agent never mentioned it.

This is ONE anecdotal experience, but I wouldn't state "most" airlines would allow it.

0

Michael ********

Michael ********

I've booked twice 90 days but got a tourist e-visa before leaving. Just make sure after around 30+ days to go to immigration and apply for the 30 day extension. Haven't had a problem, from USA. But my last arrival was the day they decided to strictly enforce the tourist visa laws. They also told me next time I have to apply for a non o visa

1

Alan **********

Alan **********

@Michael *******

It should be noted that the time to apply for the extension depends on the IO you go to. Jomtien, for example, doesn't want you coming in until the week OF your 60 days expiring.

Other IOs around Thailand apparently will take you earlier.

1

Michael ********

Michael ********

@Alan *********

yes, Pathum Thani told me to come 45 days to a week before my 60 days is up. This is only my second 90 day tourist trip and they told me next time to get a non o visa. I booked for 150 days hoping to do a trip to Cambodia, but all that changed. Now I have to fly out apply for non o wait then hopefully return 🤦

2

Brandon ************

Brandon ************

Immigration is not who you need to worry about. It's most often airlines that will ask to see proof of onward travel if you are flying without a visa. So you need to find out what your airline's policy, if they might request it, and if they request it whether they want to see within 60 days, or within 90 days.

6

Colin *******

Colin *******

@Brandon ***********

I believe a printed itinerary is acceptable. Also you can book a bus ticket to a town just the other side of a border, even if it is just from a thai town close to the border to the closest town on the other side. You can use the ticket or not, but they are usually cheap.

1

Colin ********

Colin ********

OP

@Brandon ***********

thank you Brandon

0

Nongnuch ********

Nongnuch ********

which airline are you using? EMIRATES will let you board without a visa, if your return flight with them is within 90 days. They have posted this info on their website

1

Colin ********

Colin ********

OP

@Nongnuch *******

i havnt booked as yet because I wanted to get this info

I live in Australia normally fly Singapore

0

Stuart ***********

Stuart ***********

It doesn't have to be a return flight, you can book the cheapest ticket to a neighbouring country like Vietnam within the 60 days or even a ticket where you can cancel free (there are some companies that offer these for a few ££, I don't know what they are called).

0

Carsten ************

Carsten ************

@Stuart **********

Onward Ticket - Quick, Valid & Affordable | Get in 2 Min

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