What is the minimum duration required outside Thailand after three visa runs to avoid reentry issues?

Visa Runs Thai Immigration Reentry Rules NON-O Visa Visa Regulations Tourist Visa METV (Multi-Entry Tourist Visa)

Sep 11, 2023

a year ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

If you already made 3 visa runs (outbid Thailand and return same day) what is the minimum duration (how many days) you need to stay out of Thailand so you won’t have an issue on reentry?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

After making three visa runs (leaving Thailand and returning on the same day), the general consensus among commenters suggests that staying outside Thailand for 1-2 months may reduce the risk of questioning by immigration upon reentry. It's crucial to have proof of onward travel, evidence of sufficient funds, and a credible explanation for prolonged stay in Thailand to avoid complications, as each immigration officer has discretion over reentry decisions.

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Mitchell *******

Those same day returns will be jumping out!

a year ago

Mark *************************

To simply answer the question, 1-2 months will be best or until the permitted time in the other country is about to end. That will make you look more like a 'tourist', because that is what most tourists do.

a year ago

Rob **********

As people have stated previously on your posts, apply for the correct visa to remain here, you have been here for a long time, immigration know you are not a tourist, it’s really quite simple.

a year ago

Roberto *********

You'll probably be questioned by immigration so have a damn good story as to why you need to stay in the country for long periods as a tourist. Your best bet might be to return to your home country and get a METV. This will give you a potential nine months in the country and will not set off so many alarm bells with immigration. However, if you have extensive recent history you could well be denied this visa

a year ago

John **********

It will be totally up to the immigration officer you stand in front of. There's no magic formula

a year ago

Daniel *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@John *********

I heard somewhere that if it is more then 48 hours it is not considered a visa run anymore

a year ago

Steve ********

@Daniel ********

There's no magic number or formula. If immigration believe you are working illegally in the country they could well deny you entry. You'd be advised to have a good reason for needing to be in the country for a long period on tourism-based entries.

a year ago

John **********

@Daniel ********

it's entries that count. If you have been inside Thailand for a long time spending a few days out of the country is of no consequence

a year ago

Rene ******

@Daniel ********

border bounce you mean.

I heard stories that even a week isn't enough if you did them a lot 🤷‍♂️

a year ago

Reply to

Rene ******

Jon **********

Would recommend having flight out of Thailand already booked and printed, evidence of funds, good cover story and should be fine.

a year ago

Frank **********

Looking at your past post. You have had numerous visas and extensions, border runs etc. You will probably be questioned by immigration the next time you try to cross the border.

a year ago

Daniel *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Frank *********

that is why I try to figure out how long I should wait for reentry

a year ago

Paul *******

@Daniel ********

maybe just fly back into Thailand

a year ago

Bob **********

@Daniel ********