What do I need to know about applying for a METV and booking flights to Thailand?

Question

Hello all,

I plan on applying for the METV. I was thinking of going the DTV route but the changes that takes place this week would leave my confirmation in doubt.

Anyway, I plan on getting there sometime in November.

Apparently, the visa timeframe begins the day of issue. I would rather book a flight now since the fares are already going up but that would leave me well short of the time I wanted to spend in Thailand.

I think I could get an extension on the last 60 day span but not really sure.

Or would it be possible to leave after that time and reenter using a visa exempt or just a straight visa?

I'm a bit nervous about the whole thing and recent changes since I spent about 100 days there between November and March of 2025 so, even if approved, I will fly into a different Asian country on my way from the US.

Thanks for any insight.

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user is seeking advice on applying for a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) and concerns about booking flights to Thailand. They are considering booking a flight soon due to rising costs but are uncertain about the visa timing and possible extensions for their stay. Several comments clarify that the visa timeframe begins upon issuance, but the stay duration begins with entry into Thailand. They emphasize the importance of checking local visa processing times and the requirement for a flight proof when applying for the METV.

Bob ********** · Answer

If done right you can extend each 60 day stay and get almost 9 months out of it just timing

Bob ****** · Answer

As stated by others, you don't have to apply for Visa before you get flight as you need flight to get Visa. The METV is effective the day it is issued; however, you actually have 9 months that you can stay if you time everything correctly.

I've heard that some Consulates will not issue the METV until close to your travel dates, but I would allow at least a month before travel to apply. So if you apply early October, you could enter in November and stay until June or July (exiting/returning as necessary during that period).

John ********* · Answer

You need proof of a flight to apply for the METV

Steve ******* · Answer

The visa time frame starts the day the visa is issued but the time the visa allows you to stay in Thailand starts the day you enter Thailand

Lola ******* · Answer

Check your specific Thai ministry  location based on where you live to see how long visa processing is taking and keep an eye on it. I looked generally and ended up having to rebook my flights for a later time bc my specific ministry has a longer processing time. I would have been automatically denied 😕. Have safe travels and enjoy!!

Henrik **** · Answer

On a DTV you get 180 days whenever you enter. The DTV is valid for 5 years, so you basically have 5 years to enter on the DTV, and even if you enter Thailand (for the last time) the day before expiry date, you will get 180 days stay permit.

Steve****** · Answer

To be honest, I don't understand your post.You can book your flight and apply for the visa later. Why does all that shorten your time in Thailand?

If you are eligible for the METV, you will certainly receive it. Ultimately, as always, the question rests with the immigration officer at the airport.

Brandon ************ · Answer

What is stopping you from booking a flight now?  Go ahead and book whatever flight you want.  You can apply for your visa when the timing is more correct.

What do I need to know about applying for a METV and booking flights to Thailand?

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