Should I get a METV for my future trips to Thailand after multiple visa-exempt entries?

Question

I have been to Thailand 3 times in 2025 without any issues, my sons dad lives in Thailand and I go for him to visit his dad.

I have entered on visa exempt every time and been fine.

However I am worried if I plan a future trip, I haven’t ever overstayed, I haven’t ever extended the visa and I have always returned back to the UK.

There have been months between each visit, and we are genuine tourists never doing “border runs”

Is it worth just getting a METV to save the worry? Or will we be fine?

We will have enough funds, a return ticket and letter from dad explaining the trips

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user has traveled to Thailand multiple times using a visa exemption without any issues and is considering whether to apply for a Multi-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) to ease future visits. Contributors generally reassure the user that as long as they maintain a genuine tourist status, have sufficient funds, a return ticket, and the necessary paperwork, they should not face any problems. They also advise that the main concern arises for those who frequently overstay or do border runs. The consensus is that a METV may not be necessary unless the user plans longer stays or is concerned about entry regulations.

Dave ********* · Answer

From everything  ive seen everyone  having issues  has been either  doing boarder runs. getting  extentions .or in some way gaming the system.  Ordinary  people  doing less than 60 days in Thailand  with  required  cash and accommodation and return  flights  book have zero issues

Cathryn ***** · Answer

No need. Your a tourist

Ian ********** · Answer

There have been many reports of multiple short entries without issue. They are clamping down on people using visa-exempt entries to stay in Thailand long-term. There is a guideline of 150 days max visa-exempt per year. Avoid Phuket, as they have become rather more strict than other entry points.

Ben ******* · Answer

No problems at all. Going by what you have said. They are after the people trying to scam the system with border runs.

Jay ***** · Answer

Like why not just get a TV and but your mind at rest. If you are extending every time I would be concerned if not then I wouldn’t worry too much.

Wannikea ********* · Answer

You have the history of a genuine tourist, you all have no issues whatsoever.

Peter ********* · Answer

I am in a similar position although I’ve had one visa extension by going to immigration and paying the 1900 bhat. I’ve done everything legally, no border runs, no overstays  but like you I’m considering the multi entry tourist visa to save hassle. Besides I do want to stay short time in a couple of neighbouring countries so METV should work for me.

Duncan ******* · Answer

If you're only coming for a week or two at a time, no problems in returning again. It only becomes a problem if you're in Thailand for much longer stays.

Michael ******* · Answer

You are fine, don't worry

Kate ******* · Answer

I think it depends on your total amount of time stayed in the last 12 months. If it’s less than 3 months in total, I wouldn’t even worry about it at all but if it’s more than that, you might want to consider a visa just to be on the safe side.

Hannah ******* · Answer

Thanks all I am less worried now.

Should I get a METV for my future trips to Thailand after multiple visa-exempt entries?

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