Answered8 years ago

What are the current rules for obtaining a SETV visa from Singapore while having already spent time in Thailand?

SETV Visa Thai Visa Rules Thailand Immigration Visa Application from Singapore Visa Regulations Visa Extension

Sean ********

asked Dec 19, 2018

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Hey guys just scanning this forum for some updated info, and found a few things related but was hoping for any further advice. I was just emailing back n forth with the Thai consulate in Singapore as my family is looking to obtain a SETV there. We are currently in Thailand on a SETV and we just did our 30-day extension to give us our full 90 days. However, the consulate is advising me that we won't be allowed back in or approved for another SETV visa as we are only allowed 90 days within a 6 month period. Tod Daniels and a few others have mentioned this is an old rule that is no longer enforced...but it still leaves us feeling a bit uneasy. Is this a risky move or just continue with the visa application and fingers crossed when we re-enter the Kingdom?  Thanks in advance guys!

Answer summary

The user seeks advice on obtaining a Second Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV) while currently in Thailand on a SETV. They mention conflicting information from the Thai consulate in Singapore regarding a supposed rule limiting them to 90 days in Thailand within a 6-month period. Responses suggest considering other consulates, like Vientiane, as visa issuance rules may vary, and emphasize that individuals may face challenges primarily if they have a history of overstaying or frequent visa renewals. They should prepare the necessary documentation, such as proof of funds, accommodation, and onward travel, to mitigate potential issues.

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Ivan ************

I'd suggest you pick another consulate. Consulates are free to make up their own criteria regarding who they issue visas to, so it is very possible that Singapore is applying this rule. This does not make it a general rule about SETV eligibility, it just means it is a rule applied by the Singapore consulate.

Other consulates are not. Vientiane would be a good choice and unlikely to present issues if you only have 1 visa in your passport thus far.

8 years ago

Sean ********

@Ivan ***********

well they're more or less saying "it will depend with our immigration to allow or not allow foreigner to enter the kingdom even with a visa that has been issued by us or another thai embassy around the world" I believe they will issue the visa it's a warning saying the thai officials won't stamp us back in upon our arrival. Either way we are looking into other options as Singapore seems to be a unsound choice.

8 years ago

Ivan ************

If they are telling you that they would refuse your application I don't know why you'd want to go there. It seems to be taking unnecessary risk. If you go to Vientiane and you have only one visa so far, you will get it there no issues, honestly.

8 years ago

Sean ********

@Ivan ***********

true. I guess having Singapore arranging things online before hand would eliminate an unnecessary trip?

8 years ago

Robert *******

We see indeed reports of people being denied. There is no rule that you are only allowed to be 90 days within 6 months in Thailand. Most people who get questions and get denied are people with a longer history of staying inside Thailand using Tourist Visa and Visa Exempts back to back, we do not know the criteria or how long that history must be. The Immigration Officer is allowed to ask the questions: Proof of 20.000 Thb (40.000 Thb for family) or equivalent currency in CASH, proof of accommodation and proof of onward travel. If this is the second SETV (and no other history of staying inside Thailand) and you take the 3 proofs with you I do not see a problem to enter Thailand.

8 years ago

Sean ********

@Leo ****

cheers this is promising to hear it's an outdated rule!

8 years ago

Ian ***************

The "90 days within a 6 month period" is indeed an old rule years ago which was temporarily applied to visa-exempt entries (not tourist visas) and soon after dropped. Unfortunately there are still "official" websites and consular staff expressing this outdated policy.

8 years ago

Sean ********

@Robert ******

haha agreed!

8 years ago

Robert *******

With 35 million arrivals a year and a few hundred who gets denied, I wish the lottery had the same chances to win.

8 years ago

Sean ********

Okay, thanks

@Robert ******

seems like it could be a lottery. There is always that chance it won't be approved. Thanks for the quick response appreciate it!