What is the best visa option for a USA passport holder planning to stay in Thailand for 90 days with side trips?

Nov 17, 2017
7 years ago
I am a USA passport holder coming in January, I want to stay 90 days with a couple of side trips while I'm there out of the country. I have my return ticket (90 days). I see 2 VISA's offered at the consulate here, a 60 day single entry and a 90 day multiple entry, but the 90 day requires you have multiple entries showing on your tickets. What is the best VISA to get to begin my trip? One from the consulate here or just arrive and do trips out when needed? Thanks for any help here!
842
views
1
likes
13
all likes
8
replies
0
images
4
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
A USA passport holder planning to stay in Thailand for 90 days can choose between a 60-day single entry visa, which is extendable for an additional 30 days for 1900 baht, or a 90-day multiple entry visa that requires proof of multiple entries. Given the intention to take side trips, using the visa exempt entry could be advantageous, allowing entrance-exit as many times as desired for 30 days at a time, but typically limited to 2 times per calendar year for land borders. It's advisable to consult the specific consulate for the most accurate and personalized guidance.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
  • Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
  • For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
  • Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
  • Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
เดวิด **********
Hi Carole, I moved here from Vegas (Green Valley). My original visa was the 6 month multiple entry I got from the Thai Consulate in Los Angeles (
*****************************************
). They make regular trips to Vegas as well, usually to one of the Temples in NLV. I was not asked to show any financial or flight info for the application but I did have it ready.

As was mentioned earlier, you can do visa exempt arrivals. Or add a re-entry permit to a single Entry visa.

In the end though, if you have a question about what you see on the application...call the consulate and ask their rules. They vary from place to place and tend to change. The LA consulate staff are nice and speak English. There is also a honorary consulate in Portland staffed by Americans that is super easy to work with.

Save travels!
Jason ******
If you are not staying longer than 30 days you don't need to apply for any Visa. Just arrive in and out of Thailand as many time you want by air, its unlimited. land border 2 per calendar year.
Joe ***********
I failed to mention that also after 5 or so Extensions to Exempt Entries or combined with Extensions to Tourist Visa entries, Thai Immigration may deny another 30 day Extension - giving you a denial and 7 days to leave Thailand based on belief that you are working illegally.
Carole ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
ok all very helpful,thanks for the clarification.
Joe ***********
Yes and each 30 Day Exemption can be Extended 30 days at Immigration for 1900 baht. Total = 60. There is no official limit to Air Entry Exemptions But at some point in a year's time - maybe 5 or so they may cut you off
Carole ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
So if I fly out and back in I can get a 30 day exemption each time?
Carole ****************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you!
Joe ***********
The 90 day visa you see is likely a non immigrant visa - not used for touring. A 60 day standard single tourist visa can be easily extended for 30 days at a Thai immigration office in numerous places throughout the country for 1900 baht. This would give you 90 days.
Thai Visa Advice
... members · 40% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice group is a specialized Q&A forum for visa-related topics in Thailand, ensuring detailed responses.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice