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What are the current border run requirements from Chiang Mai to Laos for visa extensions?

Border Runs Visa Rules Chiang Mai Chiang Saen Chiang Khong Laos Visa Extension Thai Visa System Expats in Thailand

Aug 26, 2024

10 months ago

JD ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Anyone planning border run this week from CM? Im told that rules Changed this weekend and now need to stay overnight in Laos, which border is best/easiest?

I’m due by Friday, but probably go Thurs. anyone else maybe travel together as always easier & safer👍🏼

came in on 30 day + 1extension, but have not gotten a 60 day… over 1 yr. Since I’ve been here… exploring DTV but need more time…

Please be respectful

Advice/ suggestions please 🙏🏼

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TLDR : Answer Summary

Recent changes in rules require that travelers crossing from Thailand into Laos must now stay overnight, with different requirements for various borders: Chiang Saen requires a one-night stay, while Chiang Khong requires two nights. There are calls for better clarity and simplification of the Thai visa system, as current regulations are often seen as complex and difficult to navigate.

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William ******

The whole Thai Visa system is a complex, complicated mixed up mess.

Even the Thai immigration system don’t understand their own rules, conditions & complex variations.

So difficult to comply without doing wrong.

They desperately need to simplify & condense their Visa issues/requirements so entrants can understand & progress without committing immigration offences.

A total mix mash of complex complicated immigration- Visa issues.

it all needs sorting out so everyone including the Thai officials

Understands a much more simplified version of the Country’s Visa requirements.

10 months ago

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

The most recent reports if that Chiang Saen (you take a boat across to Laos) is requiring you to stay one night, while Chiang Khong is requiring 2 nights. There say it's orders from higher up so Chiang Saen may change to 2 days as well if that's the case.

Chiang Khong is very easy to reach by bus but Chiang Saen is harder to get to.

10 months ago

Rob *******

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

I posted this last week but it was deleted for some reason ?

10 months ago

JD ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

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

thank you yeah not really feeling boat as heard few mixed stories like having to pay a lot more to driver as he knows you have no choice & only way to cross thete

10 months ago

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JD ********

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What are the current requirements and experiences for crossing from Thailand to Laos at Chiang Khong?

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