What visa do I need for a second Thailand visit after using the 30-day exemption?

Thailand Visa Rules Visa Exemptions Arrival in Thailand UK Passport Holder Visa Information Immigration Advice for Thailand Traveling in Southeast Asia Thailand Re-entry Rules

May 7, 2024

6 months ago

Richard **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello team <3

My Wife and I are intending to travel SE Asia (predominantly Thailand) as follows - Arrive Bangkok 17th May 2024

10 Days Thailand (Bangkok & North)

25 days Laos, Vietnam & Cambodia

25 Days Thailand (Bangkok & South)

I realise that UK travellers have a 30 day Visa exemption for Thailand.

Is there any advice on what type of Visa we require for the second step of 25 days? Or do I need a METV or similar?

Also, seeing as the 30 day exemption period would have expired by the time we re-enter Thailand by 5 days are there risks when trying to fly from Sieam Reap into Bangkok at this point, will we be refused entry?

I believe that UK ordinary passport holders can travel to Thailand without visa for no longer than 30 days (maximum 2 times/year) so am I covered for the second visit as things stand as this would equate to 2 x 30 day periods?

I've been researching for 1-2 days now and have brain ache, discovering this group has given me some hope.

1,386

views

likes

all likes

replies

images

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

The user plans a trip to Southeast Asia, primarily Thailand, and seeks advice on visa requirements for a 25-day return to Thailand after initially using a 30-day visa exemption. They are concerned about the validity of their visa exemption upon re-entering Thailand after visiting neighboring countries. Comments clarify that they can re-enter Thailand on a new 30-day visa exemption without any issues, provided they have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.

Bob ********

Easy to do, I use an app called TripIt to save all my travel in. On a couple of occasions where I have been asked for my onward plans I have used the app, as it details flights etc. also, just a hint. If you buy EVisas for Lao and Cambodia, make sure you print out copies as well, as a common con at customs is they will charge US$5 because "the machine is broken", and make sure you have your entry stamped in. I got caught leaving Cambodia because, while I had a Visa. They hadn't stamped me in. us$200 "fine" for being in the country illegally. One of the many cons by immigration to get bribes. Plus Cambodia only takes new US Noted. Get small denomination as they never have change!!!

Tarek **********

Tarek **********

Cliff *********

You are overthinking this.

Come in for 10 days and enjoy yourselves.

Go out .

Come back in for 25 days and enjoy Thailand even more.

There is no such thing as the limit you mentioned.

You will not look like you are trying to live in Thailand.

No worries.

Kap!

6 months ago

Richard **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Cliff ********

Thanks man, I just overcomplicated things out of nerves, all good now ;)

6 months ago

Dave *****************************

@Richard *********

I do not blame you. Of course you want to make sure you can travel stress free.

6 months ago

Reply to

Dave *****************************

Khun ***************

You will be fine. Just make sure you can prove your ongoing plans (with tickets) and have enough cash in the bank to stay. Normally no one will ask but they are cracking down a bit here.

6 months ago

Brandon ************

That's not how it works.

Your visa exempt entry becomes invalid the moment you leave Thailand. You wouldn't be able to return on that regardless.

Every time you enter you'll get a new 30 day visa exempt stamp.

You can only enter Thailand without a visa (visa exempt) at a land border 2 times per calendar year. By air there's no limit written into law.

6 months ago

Richard **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Brandon ***********

Thanks very much, looks like I'm covered then - 1st exemption covers the 10 days then expires - 2nd exemption covers the second entry for 25 days. Amazing and thanks for the advice, truly appreciated man 👏

6 months ago

Reply to

Richard **********

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

... members · 60% approval rate

The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.

Join the Group

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

View the Conversation

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

Is it possible to visit Thailand multiple times under the Visa Exemption Scheme for UK Nationals while initially obtaining a Tourist Visa?

53 comments