Just my input given that no two pieces of advice seem to be the same. Arrived BKK yesterday. Average wait, maybe 25 minutes, but everyone marshalled into lines efficiently. Travelling with my partner (English female) and staying in Thailand for six weeks.both of us fingerprinted and photographed (standard) not a single question asked about return tickets, accommodation or anything. The guy didn’t speak at all to me. My UK passport had two stamps in and out of Thailand this year, my partners had one. My passport has probably 20 in and out stamps over an 8 year period with good gaps between. No issues at all and given 60 day Visa exempt. Conversely the guy at the booth next to me (older English guy in flip flops and shorts) was grilled. Where you staying, how long, why you come here again etc, while flicking through his passport. His answer was ‘I love your country and ok I have a few visa exempt stamps this year but I love Thailand’, going to Samui, staying 2 weeks and so on. Asked for proof of accommodation for 14 days but he didn’t have it. Didn’t wash with the IO, who called her supervisor who then led him away saying ‘don’t worry’. He got in as I saw him on the other side but it’s definitely tougher than it used to be, long story short the general consensus here is bang on, look like you’re trying to live here on visa exempts and they are looking at you carefully. In and out three or even four times a year regardless of stay but lengthy gaps in between you’re fine. I know I’m here on a long holiday, and the authorities needed no convincing but the other guy was clearly bucking the system and they were on him. They ain’t daft, if you know you’re trying it on, they probably do too.
TLDR : Answer Summary
The experience at Thai immigration can vary significantly; some travelers report a smooth entry process with minimal questioning, while others face scrutiny. A recent arrival described their experience where they were fingerprinted and photographed without inquiries about their return tickets or accommodations, contrasting sharply with an older traveler who faced intense questioning about his stay and travel intentions. Comments indicate that consistent entries on visa exemptions may draw attention, reinforcing the idea that authorities are wary of those attempting to 'play the system.' Proper dress and respectful behavior toward officials are advised to ease the process.
