What is the maximum amount of time I can spend in Thailand within a year using tourist visas or visa-free entry?

Question

Hi
I have a question about the maximum total time within a year one can spend in Thailand using either 2 month tourist visas or visa free entry stamps or a combination of the two as I come and go to Thailand and would like to spend  5-6 months in a year using the above entries
Thanks Andy

Ask Thailand · Answer

There is no fixed limit on how many days you can stay in Thailand with tourist visas or visa-free entry stamps; however, immigration officers have discretion over entries. Typically, travelers can manage multiple entries per year, but land border entries for visa-exempt entry are limited to twice annually. For longer stays, obtaining a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) before arriving is recommended, potentially allowing up to 9 months in Thailand with proper planning.

Stuart ********* · Answer

There is no specific set number of days you can stay in Thailand. There is a rule that you can only use land border entries on a visa exempt entry twice in a calendar year, but no rule using tourist visas or exempt entries by air.

Entry is up to the discretion of the immigration officer you hand your passport to on arrival. They make the decision of whether you are allowed to enter or not. Some people get away with 12 entries per year (as they are overseas workers or the like) some get questioned after two entries. There isn’t a limit until the officer decides that there is and denies you entry. Usually if there was an issue with your entry history they would pull you aside and say something like “this is the last time you can do this entry scheme” rather than flat out deny you entry but the latter could be the case. It’s their call.

James ******** · Answer

If you want to come to Thailand... and stay longer... suggest you get the METV multiple entry tourist visa in your home country before you fly to Thailand. It's ONLY available in your home country. With planning it can get you up to 9 months stay in Thailand with a few simple LAND BORDER BOUNCE entries.

Use the search 🔍 tool top of the forum page...

ENTER... METV

CLICK on it and all posts about it will pop up to read.