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Should I opt for a visa exemption or a METV for my trip to Thailand?

METV visa exemption Thailand immigration visa types travel history UK to Thailand travel visa regulations

Dec 3, 2025

5 months ago

Alan *************

ORIGINAL POSTER

In a previous post of mine it was mentioned that getting a METV raises suspicions to the immigration officer if arriving before on visa exempt. Is that correct? Am I actually better coming again on a visa exemption? I thought with an METV it would be a breeze. Will be visiting from the UK , January -March (60 days) and May-July(60 days).

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The discussion revolves around the choice between using a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) or a visa exemption for traveling to Thailand. It highlights concerns about immigration scrutiny, especially for travelers with a history of frequent entries under visa exemptions. Users recommend obtaining the METV as it is specifically designed for frequent travelers, although they advise being cautious if arriving from areas with significant travel history, such as Europe or the US. Patterns of travel are scrutinized by immigration, and it may be safer to travel under the METV after having a break from Thailand.

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Marty *********

They are looking for patterns of travel and time in the country and if you spend time in your home country. I don't think anything will be reset on Jan 1. You might get in again but you would be much safer after February and getting a METV

5 months ago

Phil ******

@Alan ************

What's your Visa Exempt travel history?

5 months ago

Nitzan *****

Get the METV - this is what it was designed for.

5 months ago

John **********

You're better with the METV

5 months ago

Jordan *****

I would be weary of travelling to Thailand by plane from the US, or Europe if I already spent more than 3 months, because they could force you to fly back home at great cost and this after you have to wait in a nasty cell.

In this case I would go to Malaysia and try entering by land. I never had an issue entering by land and worse case scenario you walk back to Malaysia, or you could fly from KL to Bangkok and if they deny you, you can just fly back.

5 months ago

Alan *************

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Jordan ****

Would like to think they wouldn’t make you fly straight back home again if you have a visa.

5 months ago

Jordan *****

@Alan ************

try contacting those agencies that do the “pre screening” and “fast track” thing. I never used them personally, but they claim to know whether you will be allowed in or not and it’s worth it if you fly from far away

5 months ago

Reply to

Jordan *****

Gary ***********

Assuming you mean in new year them you should be fine on exempt

5 months ago

John **********

@Gary **********

new year makes zero difference

5 months ago

Gary ***********

@John *********