What challenges might I face with visa-exempt entry to Thailand based on previous entry history?

RESET ? there is no reset . . by TOD DANIELS

This is what the „Visa Guru“ of all Thailand related groups has posted today.

“ATTENTION ALL MEMBERS

"Reset" on 60 day visa exempt entries

Okay everyone, seeing as the New Year has rolled around and I've had a chance to contact several border bounce companies who take people to land borders for visa exempt entries, and as well have talked to a number of people denied entry at the airports flying back in, I thought it was about time for an update.

It would appear from the many many MANY people being denied entry flying in visa exempt that there was no reset for air entry Visa exempt stamps once the year rolled over.

In fact, what it actually looks like is – Thai Immigration officers at passport control will look at your previous entry/stay history and more importantly looking at the number of days spent in Thailand during the previous running year before your arrival.

Example you show up on January 8th they will look at all your entry/stay history until January 8th last year. 😮

There are reports that some officers are bandying about the number 150 days in country. If you have hit that number during the previous year, you will most likely will be denied entry coming in on a free stamp by air.

Note: this appears to be sporadic and does not happen all the time. Your experience might vary

Now for at least some good news:

It does appear that for visa exempt land entries the count did indeed "reset". People who have bounced out and back after the New Year were told they could get two free stamp (visa exempt) entries by land this year.

Also we are getting less and less reports of people being told they can only get a 7-Day extension on a visa exempt entry, and there are also reports that even from a visa exempt entry by land people were able to get a 30-day extension like normal

You might remember that there were postings saying visa exempt land entries could not be extended at all.

Some border bouncers are reporting that they were asked for proof of onward travel within 60 days and proof of funds 20k baht or the equivalent (in CASH), but again these are sporadic reports not consistent with any border crossing, or nationality.

Keep in mind people that at this time all the Cambodia/Thai land borders are still closed.

Also, the only Burma border with Thailand that's open for foreigners for out/back travel is the one at the Ranong pier with Kawthaung.

That's all I got people.. I wanted to wait until I had at least some idea of what's going on from a few different sources.

Best of luck with it, everyone a safe and healthy New Year as well”

Thank you for the update, Tod Daniels

No problem at all. Have your onward ticket in hand.

Better to travel from country around Thailand. If they decide to send you back will send you in Vietnam for example. If you fly from your home country have to pay return thicket to your country .

Honestly, it could go either way, is the cost really worth risking, to fly with the uncertainty? Just get a suitable visa.

Ive seen people getting kicked back for less. Really depends on the officer. Spend a little more on a fast track agent.

Why risk it. Get an appropriate visa for the purposes of your travel

You will certainly get pulled aside for interview, I suggest having a solid itinerary on paper for at least two weeks and return ticket booked, you can later cancel or re schedule.

All entries resetted with the new year.

There never was a rule about "how often you can enter" via air anyway.

So you are fine.

Hi

Can you please update us all with what happens.. I am in a similar situation but don't return until April so I think I should be fine but also looking at Non O.

I have a very similar situation and entering again on 20th Jan (but no extensions). All fingers and toes crossed.

My advice, have Baht 20,000 or equivalent currency in cash. Got pulled, IO wanted to see it.

They might want to know why you're spending so much time in Thailand. And is it tourism and holidays.

I think you will get in. I also think they will have a chat about the situation.

You spent 163 days in Thailand last year.

Your last stay in Thailand was 90 days and you just left about 2 weeks ago.

I'd say you are a fairly good candidate for getting pulled out of line and asked a few extra questions at the minimum.

I would make sure you have all 3 of the required proofs to enter as a tourist.