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Should I get a tourist visa or extend my stay in Thailand without a visa?

Tourist Visa Visa Application Thailand Immigration COVID-19 Regulations Visa Extensions Thailand Visa Rules

Dec 2, 2021

3 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello all, long time no travel to Thailand! I'm coming back in January for tourism purposes, and I'm trying to maximize my time in Thailand. I have already booked 90 day COVID insurance coverage, the one day required hotel / testing package (I'm fully vaccinated coming from the US). Would it be easier to come with no visa and just extend 2 times for a 3 month stay, or should I apply for a tourist visa? Are there any additional requirements I'm missing with the new regulations? Thank you so much for your help. Ideally I'd like to spend 6-9 months in Thailand next year, and then return to the US. Cheers!

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The original poster (OP) is seeking advice on whether to arrive in Thailand without a visa and extend their stay or apply for a tourist visa since they plan to stay for 6-9 months. They have already arranged COVID insurance and a hotel package. Comments from the community suggest applying for a multiple-entry tourist visa (METV) or the special tourist visa (STV) for a longer stay, as relying solely on extensions may not meet the desired duration. It is important to check for additional requirements related to COVID-19 regulations and the current visa policies.

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James ********

I believe the OP has his options.

We wish him success in returning to Thailand.

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Bobby ********

Are you over 50? Good options available if you are. 6-9 months is a doddle.

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Axel ********

Watch out that the airline let you boarding

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Kathy ********************

I have been caught twice at the gate with that issue LOL

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Kathy ********************

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Graham ******

Visa exempt 30 day entry stamp can only be extended once for 30 days so you'll need a TR60 visa and one 30 day extension

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James ********

Looks to me that you have put the cart in front of the horse.

You have booked Test n Go hotel and insurance before you have the correct visa for your desired stay of 6-7 months in Thailand.

Suggest you look getting either the multiple entry tourist visa or STV special tourist visa then make your bookings.

METV may work as Cambodia is and possibly Laos is said to be opening for visitors.

The STV can provide up to 270 days in Thailand.

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Peter *********

... and the E-Visa equivalent mentions 'single entry' but that's it. Anyways I have a 'non O' now but in the UK awaiting my booster. Thank you and keep up the good work. It is much appreciated.

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Peter *********

Yes, I got a bit stranded in Thailand. Due to leave April 1st(yes) (my METV had expired March 18th) and my 'stamp' April 2nd BA cancelled my flight(s) Friday 27th Mar 2022 so I had to really shift gear and get the 90 day and the non-O based on retirement. I renewed just before I left and it's good until July 25th and I have a re-entry permit. I plan to return early January or post booster whichever is earlier.

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James ********

@Peter ********

what Non O do you have now ?

Is it still valid with reentry permit?

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James ********

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Peter *********

James, Are 6 month METVs still issued?

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James ********

@Peter ********

@Raimund ************

??? METV at UK as visa choice.

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James ********

@Peter ********

yes...and key to using it will be the ability to leave and reenter.

With COVID its a calculated gamble. But Cambodia has opened up by air only and with Cambodian visa required to enter...pass to leave and Thailand pass to reenter Thailand.

With Nong Khai possibly reopening to Laos...December 24

Watch for details. Just announced. Still will need Thailand Pass to reenter Thailand.

Of course all requires full COVID vaccination.

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Peter *********

I am (was?) a serial user of them obtained in the now departed Hull Consulate but the London Embassy does not mention them. I know they became somewhat redundant at the peak of the lockdown and border closures but they don't seem to have reappeared.

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Monti ********

@Peter ********

Honorary consulates are no longer allowed to issue visas. Visas are issued by embassies and consulates only now. Most countries you must use the new eVisa system. That is why Hull is not mentioned.

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Peter *********

Hull just plain closed down.

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James ********

@Peter ********

look/select Tourist Visa...then choose either single.or multiple ???

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Peter *********

James, If you select Tourist Visa (max 60) it elicits a page advertising a concert at the V&A on December 5th! (and other stuff?

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James ********

@Peter ********

that site is jumbled...😲

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James ********

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John ********

You have visa exempt 30 plus 30 extension

Or

60 tourist v plus 30 extension

Go for the tourist visa in home country for 90 days total 60+30

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John ********

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