What are the current rules for border bounces to extend stay in Thailand?

Question

**What are the current rules on getting extra time in Thailand by doing a Laos/Myanmar border bounce** ie used to just walk out of Thailand and walk back only took about 30-45 min to get processed **BUT when getting my family visa in Chiang Rai (prior to that had my tourist visa and its extension) the immigration officer told me now need to stay out of Thailand for 2 nights before I can return**.

Appreciated if someone could let me know the current amount of time I need to stay out - I preferred the in/out but if needed will book a hotel. All the best.

Ask Thailand · Answer

The current rules for obtaining extra time in Thailand by doing a border bounce, particularly to Laos or Myanmar, have tightened. It is commonly suggested that travelers need to stay out of Thailand for at least 2 nights, particularly when leaving via the Chiang Khong border. While some travelers report varying experiences, it ultimately depends on the discretion of the immigration officer at the border. Using a visa run company may facilitate same-day returns for an additional fee, but there are no guarantees. Additionally, recent reports suggest increased scrutiny on visa-exempt entries, particularly from regions like Myanmar due to unrest.

Jack ***** · Answer

Crossed over into Laos from the Chiang Saen Io... stayed one night at the SV hotel.. walking distance from Laos IO... next day I returned to Laos IO to return.. the IO man said "tomorrow"... I held up my left hand with my wedding ring and said "today" he stamped me out... Yes ... this is not a guaranty for everyone... most likely I just got lucky with IO man...Empathy

Pietro ************* · Answer

Go to Kiang Khong.. upon exiting the Thai customs will tell you to stay in Laos at least 2 nights... the Laos customs will give you a permit which costs 40 dollars or euros, (bring a photo). Outside the customs there are taxis that take you to Bokeo City for 100 baht, there are many hotels and restaurants there.. Go back after the second night.. bring cash, plane ticket and address of residence in Thailand, the Thai customs will give you another 60 days... I just did this trip 10 days ago...

Phil ****** · Answer

[mention redacted] no rules as its up to immi and they are cracking down atm on Visa Exempt entries. Always remember to have the 3 things required for immi and always say you are a tourist NOTliving with your partner.

Now Myanmar closed to farangs due to unrest. Laos is ok but maybe a night or 2 might be required. Try look for a visa agency as might be a lot better

Mikkel ******* · Answer

Myanmar/Burma is closed by land from Thailand at the moment. Several Laos borders with Thailand demand that you stay 2 nights before going back. The only way to go around that for sure is to use an agent that will take you there and back the same day.

Duncan ******* · Answer

It's a rule specific to Chiang Khong. However. If you use a visa run company, they can organize same day return for a special processing fee.

John ********** · Answer

There are no rules for getting extra time in Thailand it will be up to the immigration officer on your return if they let you in or not. But yes you will need to spend a couple of nights in Laos.

What are the current rules for border bounces to extend stay in Thailand?

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