Answered8 years ago

What are the limits on METVs and visa exempt entries for Thailand, and should I consider a Retirement Visa?

Visa Exempt METV Retirement Visa Non-Immigrant O-A Visa Visa Regulations Entry Requirements

Hugh ********

asked Jun 11, 2018

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G'day All,

Im wondering if anyone knows if there is a limit on the number of METVs I can get. I work FIFO offshore and my 2nd visa is due to expire in August so I will get one more trip out of it then it's back to the Consulate in Perth for another one before I get back in September.

Another question if anyone can help. Because I'm never in Thailand for more than 3 weeks at a time, would I be pushing my luck in coming back in September then November under the 30 day visa exempt. I'm led to believe you get 2 of the visa exempt stays per year.

One last question. Would I be better off applying for a Retirement Visa and if so, what's the process for converting my METV to RV.

 I dont want to be seen to be abusing the system and denied entry as I've got my next stage of a dental procedure in September.

Any knowledge on this would be great.

Cheers

Answer summary

The discussion highlights concerns regarding the limits on Multiple Entry Tourist Visas (METV) and visa exempt entries for expats working FIFO offshore in Thailand. Users confirm there are no official limits on the number of METVs that can be obtained and discuss the flexibility of the visa exempt entries, especially for those who enter Thailand multiple times within the calendar year. There is also advice on considering a Retirement Visa for those over 50, which provides greater ease of entry and longer stays compared to the current visa options.

12 repliesnewest first

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Stephen *******

There's no limit on visa exempt entries either. You don't need a visa if you are in for less than 30 days and out for say, 30 days. You are a tourist. I have a friend who came every other month for years with no problem.

8 years ago

Michael ********

LOL.....and so many do exactly that... ;)

8 years ago

Stephen *******

He's flying in. He's a tourist. He's not working. Just don't put on your Facebook page you "live" in Thailand.

8 years ago

Michael ********

Nope no limit.....'officially'.....until an Immigration Officer has a bad day and pulls you up on it. Also I recommend staying away from Female agents.

8 years ago

Robert *******

Be aware there is a limit for many countries of 2 Visa Exempt Entries by land border a calendar year.

8 years ago

Hugh ********

Cheers for the feedback. Clears things right up.

8 years ago

George *******

Hugh Jorgan?! Really? 😂😂😂😂😂

8 years ago

Hugh ********

Yep. Unfortunately My ex wife stalked me for 6 years so using my real name caused me untold grief so Hugh it is just for shits and giggles.

8 years ago

Jeremy ********

As of now there is no limit on the back to back 6 month METV

8 years ago

Robert *******

There is no official limit on using METV. The 2 Visa Exempt Entry a calendar year are only if you enter by using land borders. If you're over 50 years of age, look into the possibility to apply at the consulate or embassy in Perth for the Non Immigrant O-A visa. This visa is multiple entry and give you during the validity of the visa 1 year of stay on each entry. If you enter Thailand just before the last day of this visa you still get 1 year of stay, buy a multiple entry permit and you can use this visa for almost two years.

8 years ago

Roger *********

If you over 50 go the retirement route; it makes life so much easier. Come and go as much as you want, no questions at the border/airport. Just have to be here once a year to get an extension after the first 2 years (or just under).

8 years ago

Hugh ********

Many thanks

@Robert ******

I'll look into in when I get back to Perth.

8 years ago