Answereda year ago
Why did the immigration officer at Suvarnabhumi airport deny me entry despite my valid travel history?
THIM and TDAC notice
Need a clearer THIM and TDAC explanation? Read the THIM guide on thim.in.th.
Land of smiles? Not at BKK Suvarnabhumi airport.
History;
2023- 1 x visit of 28 days and 1 visit on VISA for 56 days.
2024- 2 visits of 29 days
2025- decide to travel around Asia for 6 months. Arrive BKK 28/1. 2 months visa exempt and 1 month extension. Visited many cities and places. Then flew to Cambodia and Vietnam for 2 months as never been before.
25/6 - fly back to BKK. TDAC all completed, flight to Europe on 22 July, so less than 1 month.
Immigration woman told me I will not be allowed entry. I asked why not, she said you've just done a border bounce and you're not a tourist! ( border bounce for 2 months lol)
No. No entry. So she called a supervisor, who saw my visas etc for cambodia and Vietnam. Showed him a list of cities and places i had visited, and my return flight to Europe. He asked why i had extended before and i told him honestly, i was going to visit the south chumphon and Hat Yai. He agreed that I was a tourist, and told the woman immigration officer to let me in. He then left.
Her face was like thunder, you could see the anger in her face.
As she returned my passport she said, you're not allowed in Thailand again without a visa!
I know it's IO decision, but with my history and never a border bounce, I find her attitude and decision harsh? Any views welcomed , especially as the amount of people who abuse the V.E and border bounce regularly. Maybe it's these abusers, ruining it for genuine travellers
History;
2023- 1 x visit of 28 days and 1 visit on VISA for 56 days.
2024- 2 visits of 29 days
2025- decide to travel around Asia for 6 months. Arrive BKK 28/1. 2 months visa exempt and 1 month extension. Visited many cities and places. Then flew to Cambodia and Vietnam for 2 months as never been before.
25/6 - fly back to BKK. TDAC all completed, flight to Europe on 22 July, so less than 1 month.
Immigration woman told me I will not be allowed entry. I asked why not, she said you've just done a border bounce and you're not a tourist! ( border bounce for 2 months lol)
No. No entry. So she called a supervisor, who saw my visas etc for cambodia and Vietnam. Showed him a list of cities and places i had visited, and my return flight to Europe. He asked why i had extended before and i told him honestly, i was going to visit the south chumphon and Hat Yai. He agreed that I was a tourist, and told the woman immigration officer to let me in. He then left.
Her face was like thunder, you could see the anger in her face.
As she returned my passport she said, you're not allowed in Thailand again without a visa!
I know it's IO decision, but with my history and never a border bounce, I find her attitude and decision harsh? Any views welcomed , especially as the amount of people who abuse the V.E and border bounce regularly. Maybe it's these abusers, ruining it for genuine travellers
Answer summary
The original poster recounts a troubling experience at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport when attempting to re-enter Thailand after traveling to Cambodia and Vietnam. Despite presenting a history of travel as a tourist and providing necessary documentation, the immigration officer initially denied entry, citing suspicions about the length of stay and the legitimacy of tourist status. After being referred to a supervisor, entry was granted, but not without harsh words from the immigration officer. The post reflects frustrations with immigration practices and fears of being flagged for future visits, alongside a broader discussion about the perception of tourists who utilize visa exemptions and border crossings.
208 repliesnewest first
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Michael ********
I only wish that the whole of Europe and especially the UK was as vigilant as Thailand was on immigration issues !!!
Dave **********
OP@Michael *******
bit different..I didn't enter one rubber dingy with 80 other illegal immigrants
Terary **********
It's one person man.
David ********
It was a female IO who asked me lots of questions last year, made me feel uneasy about choosing thailand as my favourite holiday destination. I could easily just go to benidorm every few months without having to endure the long flight. But why should I have to stop going to the land of smiles, I love the food, the people, the islands and Bangkok. I'm retired and don't fancy drinking myself to death in Spain or rotting in a retirement home in southport. Perhaps this female immigration officer is racist or after promotion.
Sarahh ******
Some of the attitudes on this post are gross. I'd be upset too, you spend good money and planning to travel and visit places, so when you're treated that way it's incredibly off putting.
I came to Thailand for the first time this January on a DTV visa with accomocation booked, and the immigration officer still tried to deny me and my fiance entry and we had all the paperwork and proof.
The biggest issue I see here isn't that she was suspicious which sure is her job, but it's that she told you that you're not allowed to come back without a visa...?? Like why because you're enjoying this phase of your life bouncing around SE Asia??
When people are used to being oppressed they see others freedom as suspicious rather than questioning the lack of freedom they have in their own lives...
I came to Thailand for the first time this January on a DTV visa with accomocation booked, and the immigration officer still tried to deny me and my fiance entry and we had all the paperwork and proof.
The biggest issue I see here isn't that she was suspicious which sure is her job, but it's that she told you that you're not allowed to come back without a visa...?? Like why because you're enjoying this phase of your life bouncing around SE Asia??
When people are used to being oppressed they see others freedom as suspicious rather than questioning the lack of freedom they have in their own lives...
James **************
Your last sentence says it all. She had no grounds to do that, but she can because....
Bobby *********
I feel like I know exactly which lady this was. She’s really a ray of sunshine isn’t she 😂
Dave **********
OP@Bobby ********
was talking to French guy who used same lane as me. His first time in Thailand for 2 years, and she gave him a hard time to. Last time I'll ever use an unpredictable female IO.
Daisy ********
I think there is no revenue from visa exempt entry, so it's in their interest to occasionally deny people when they have grounds to do so. Word of denials spreads..this encourages the use of vip services through agents at airports.
If they really cared about stopping abusers then why not stop the border bounce van business? Those people are way more clearly abusing than the people arriving at the airport after months out of Thailand. Well, because that generates revenue too..
If they really cared about stopping abusers then why not stop the border bounce van business? Those people are way more clearly abusing than the people arriving at the airport after months out of Thailand. Well, because that generates revenue too..
Dave **********
OP@Daisy *******
exactly. Corruption concerning the border bounce companies. But as you say, it lines pockets.
Jj ****
Economy isn't good, tourist number down massively, don't get it
Nigel ***********
If I was the officer in charge, anyone staying as a actually tourist ,normal stays 4 to 6 weeks, due to the facts they dont have enough holiday entitlement to stay longer, so it's fair for the officer to dig deeper on this, unfortunately many people lap top boys work while here so stay here a long time . Correct visa please people
Dave **********
OP@Nigel **********
and if you're retired but still live in Europe.? Everyone's situation is different.Nigel ***********
@Dave *********
fair enough if u are retired. But many people are not ,so the official is doing her job,even when she wrong in your case,I guess thats why we need supervisors at the gates so ensure the officials are correctly interpreting the rules regarding entry.
Russ **********
… what a jealous little ba ba babor biache she exposed herself to be!
Jj ****
Thats why there is the "green corridor"
Dave **********
OP@Jj ***
you mean corrupt corridor.Jj ****
@Dave *********
🤷je ne sais pas
Neil ********
Just make sure you have a visa that will suit your trip next time just in case.
Don’t forget they like our money but they don’t want you in Thailand
Don’t forget they like our money but they don’t want you in Thailand
Det *******
A entry denial should not be the decision of one person.
John **********
Another story regarding the infamous dragons of Suvarnabhumi, moral is- avoid female IO’s at passport control
David **********
Fly into Chiang Mai next time...
Dave **********
OP@David *********
can't from SaigonDavid **********
@Dave *********
Saign-laos -CM
Paula *********************
What happened to the welcoming smile from back in the years? Nowadays most immigration offices won't even return your greetings, let alone give you a smile. Very sad indeed!
Donald ******
Get used to it!
Peter *******
Luck of the draw - I think you got the same b****h that called a super on me as well, now I also am marked, No visa, no entry. BTW, I was flying in from Singapore, 3rd trip ever, after being away for almost 6 months! Ok, so they don't want me to spend my money there? Fine by me! Am enjoying Malaysia and Vietnam instead!
Dennis *********
So many have got used to relaxed regulations, and endless border bounces,.. Thailand has announced for many months they're cracking down, then someone gets questioned, and "Oh my! The sky is falling".
Uri *********
So one person didn’t smile at you and you’re having a cry
Dave **********
OP@Uri ********
you're obviously contributing to society. A DJ!! JokeDave **********
OP@Uri ********
nothing to do with smiles you pr**k
Shan ******
Get the actual visa!
Marcels *********
times are over
Johan ********
How much more weight does it seem to weigh today to enter with a tourist visa issued by the embassy in your home country compared to entering on a Visa Exempt basis?
Dave **********
OP@Johan *******
0.they can still refuse you!Andy ************
@Dave *********
They can refuse anyone, but more likely on visa-exempt than with a visaDave **********
OP@Kevin *********
why am I misogynist?
Kevin **********
@Dave *********
maybe they are anti-misogynist? 😂Dave **********
OP@Andy ***********
agreed. I merely said on a visa, they can still refuse you. Especially female IO, thankfully a male supervisor burst her bubble and saw I am merely a tourist.Johan ********
@Dave *********
Why do you hear so often that immigration tells people to apply for a Visa next time then?
Yoshi **********
I believe when the female office says 'typical tourist' she is thinking that typical tourists statically spend much shorter time all together in Thailand. Even you don't intend to live there, your stats don't look very typical in that sense.
Dwayne ********
Still believe they should get rid of the exempt policy & rid the system of all these people looking only to exploit that policy. So, so ridiculously easy to just get a visa.
Dave **********
OP@Dwayne *******
tell that to the Russians, thousands of them. And Thai government don't do anything to stop the abuse. I was talking to 2 in jomtien..been here 3 years doing crypto and border bounce every 2 months. It's a joke.Dwayne ********
@Dave *********
that’s in every country, not the ‘exempt’ abuse, but scammers. But seriously, those scammers you mention don’t need be in country to con people. ‘Exempt’ people probably have more privacy to commit crimes with little notice.
John *********
That was your final warning, get a DTV if you are planning further visits, then enjoy 5 yrs of hassle free entries into Thailand.🤷🏾♀️
Dave **********
OP@John ********
I've never had a warning before. Never border bounced. I just got a bad IO.Dave **********
OP@John ********
it's easier than that. Avoid Thailand and move to VietnamJohn *********
@Dave *********
yes choices and decisions in life, each country goes through the good times and bad timesAndy ************
@Dave *********
But what about those who want to come to Thailand? There's a hundred other countries but it's Thailand we wantDave **********
OP@Andy ***********
I love the people. Loathe the bureaucracy and how the Thai government treat farangs differently to Russians, Chinese, Indians.
Craig *********
Stay away from female IOs
Dave **********
OP@Craig ********
I saw she virtually waved the Chinese in front of me through. So I wrongly chose her laneCraig *********
@Dave *********
it happens
Jeff ********
The bigger picture is every moment a tourist is in Thailand, they are spending money in Thailand. Not somewhere else. To alienate tourists who have never overstayed is financially stupid.
Adam *****
@Jeff *******
unfortunately immigration (under Royal Thai Police) and Tourism Authority of Thailand (under Ministry of Foreign Affairs) have differing prioritiesDave **********
OP@Jeff *******
totally agree
Jacob *****
100% it's the ones cheating the system that are ruining it for the legitimate tourist.
Dave **********
OP@Jacob ****
totally agreed. Who use agents and IO turns a blind eyeKevin **********
Roll the dice and take your chances. Seems you got visas for Vietnam and Cambodia….. the Thai evisa system is relatively easy to use, give it a go….
Dave **********
OP@Kevin *********
yet you walk around Jomtien and 100s of Russians who live on crypto currency and border bounce every 60 day. System is a JokeDave **********
OP@Kevin *********
are you serious? Why does visa exempt exist then? All these keyboard warriors who I'm sure have border bounced, used agents before.Kevin **********
@Dave *********
I agree. It clearly needs clear limits and guidelines around use. 60 days plus the ability to extend 30 opens it up to abuse. You’ve been coming here enough to know it’s a bit risky. You were not here for 2 weeks at a hotel previously, you maxed out your visa exempt…. And you got in. If VE was say max of 30 days and no extensions and say 2 per year then that would solve many of the problems/abuses you mentioned.
And you’d have clarity on your choice in this case.
David ********
@Kevin *********
not so. Applied for multiple entry visa at a cost of £150, didn't get it, they didn't answer phone calls or reply to emails but took the money. London embassy is a scam.Kevin **********
@David *******
that sucks. Canberra worked well for me.
Wayne *********
@Kevin *********
cheers mate, thanks for sharing, good to know
Etincelle **********
This won't be a popular opinion but I understand why the original IO's came to her decision: you wrote yourself that you stayed 90 days in 2023. You stayed 60 days in 2024. You already stayed 90 days in 2025. And now you come back for another round for 2025? Add to the mix that flights can be changed easily or 'faked'...
Let's be honest: a typical tourist stays up to a few weeks w/ their next visit to another country. IO once shared w/ me 'a tourist stays 6 to 7 days and in that time travels all over the country'. Take not that this number is also mentioned by Eurostat: on average tourists stay 7.7 nights outbound for 2018. Just do a Grok search yourself to get sme actual data (most responding here seem wishful thinkers, including some of the 'experts').
So, I say you're in luck to have been allowed to enter. I'd take note of the remark given regarding getting a suitable visa.
Let's be honest: a typical tourist stays up to a few weeks w/ their next visit to another country. IO once shared w/ me 'a tourist stays 6 to 7 days and in that time travels all over the country'. Take not that this number is also mentioned by Eurostat: on average tourists stay 7.7 nights outbound for 2018. Just do a Grok search yourself to get sme actual data (most responding here seem wishful thinkers, including some of the 'experts').
So, I say you're in luck to have been allowed to enter. I'd take note of the remark given regarding getting a suitable visa.
Michael *******
@Etincelle *********
Tourists don't fly for 10-20 hours each way to only come for a week. It's an outdated view of your average Western tourist.Dave **********
OP@Michael ******
exactly
Brian *********
@Etincelle *********
your having a laugh I went to Thailand 5 times in the last year shortest stay 4 weeks longest 6 weeks last visit was March this year and I am going back on Saturday for 4 weeks and believe it or not I am just a touristDave **********
OP@Etincelle *********
I also stayed deliberately longer in order to experience every day life and not just a holiday feeling /euphoria. To see which town I'd like to live in, rather than Pattaya or Phuket.Etincelle **********
@Dave *********
Sure mate, no doubt about the good intentions. But I think the point to keep in mind is that "tourism" has a specific definition for Thai IO - regardless y/our intentions (not to mention all of those abusers of the system). You now ran into an alert IO officer and like I said I believe she was not wrong. Researching a place to live might be seen as a giveaway that another type of visa could be better as you'll need it anyway.In comparison, various EU countries even require you to register w/ the municipality when (intending to) stay for 90 days or longer in the country. The US visa waiver is up to 90 days after which you can return but need proper argumentation you're not trying to live in the country (I can't blame TH for taking a similar approach).
Dave **********
OP@Etincelle *********
I agree to a certain amount. However Thailand will lose genuine tourists. Other Asian countries will profit from it. Thailand will be left with the dross from certain nations. More like benidorm every year. Enjoy your day buddyDave **********
OP@Etincelle *********
you think you can visit a lot of Thailand in 7 days? You're having a laugh surely.Michael ********
I think its harsh ! But I wish that the immigration rules for the UK were the same !!!!!
Oliver *******
@Michael *******
same in germany! Throw away your passport and shout "Asyl". You will have the time of your life then.
Terry *******
"Loss of face" big time for her.
Noam *****
@Terry ******
Which she'll probably take out on someone else.
Brett *****
Get correct visa don't abuse the system
Stephen *****************
We are on a DTV visa and heard horror stories about BKK. We always use Don Mueang as far more friendly and had have no problems.
Nigel **************
@Stephen ****************
Difficult to fly to DM from Europe or the USStephen *****************
@Nigel *************
v true.....alot easier when in AsiaNigel **************
@Stephen ****************
yep accept that 😉😉
Claude *******
Period day 😏
Mma *******
Immagine refusing this guy with money in his pocket - doesn’t make a lot of sense.
Todd *********
@Mma ******
they didn’t refuse him
Jay ********
@Todd ********
they want Tourists Come stay 2 weeks
Spend
Spend
Go save money
Come back again
Or get a visa that applies to your situation
Todd *********
@Graham *****
they sure aren’t wasting their time applying for visas they don’t need
Graham ******
@Todd ********
A big spender would not be skimping by risking free entriesTodd *********
@Jay *******
wrong. They want big spenders to come and do what they do best. And the precise ‘visa’ for his situation is visa exempt
Todd *********
At the end of the day, you were granted entry as per normal. Questioning with an extensive history isn’t unusual, they are just doing their jobs. And as always - it was referred at least one level up. If you can prove yourself a genuine tourist, great. Just carry on.
Zoe ******
So you got scolded by an immigration officer, big deal. Welcome to the real world, do you even have any idea what a Thai citizen has to go through just to visit a Western country.
Stephen **********
@Zoe *****
I think you may have missed the point of the OPs post and instead of reading for understanding you read hoping you could make a sarcastic comment. If you're a genuine tourist and you get turned away unexpectedly, it can be a significant problem. Especially if they decide to send you to your home country which may be on the other side of the world.
I think the recount of the story was much more of a warning to other travelers in similar circumstances vs whining about the immigration officer. I'm sure you are aware that like Europe, SE Asia can be a popular place to country hop. With the recent changes in Thailand people seem to be facing more risk of being denied.
It seems for those planning on coming multiple times in a short period or doing extensions, a proper tourist visa may be a better approach compared with the 60 day stamp on arrival.
What other people go through in other countries is irrelevant to what the OP was discussing. For one, it doesn't take into account the reasons behind the differences.....
Dave **********
OP@Zoe *****
I'm a tourist, not one of the 100s that abuse the system. I was simply recounting a situation. And yes, I know how difficult it is for thais to get into Europe. Unless they arrive on a small boat. Then everything's free!Bobby *********
@Dave *********
oofZoe ******
@Dave *********
knowing how many foreigners do abuse the system you should understand sometimes immigration officers are more suspicious and might give you a hard time. It’s nothing personal. Everyone has a bad day here and there, especially immigration officers. Nothing bad happened in the end, the post just sounds like a petty complaint.Dave **********
OP@Zoe *****
nothing bad? If I hadn't objected and a supervisor not called. I was on a plane back to Vietnam.
Simon ********
Extensions seem to be the red flag these days
Andy ************
You don't have a face full of tattoos do you? 😆😆😆
Gerg **********
She lost face when the senior officer overruled her. Probably why she was angry.
Dave **********
OP@Gerg *********
possibly so. Utrinque Paratus my friend.
Mark *****
And they wonder why the tourist numbers are down !⛔
Graham ******
You maxed out a Visa Exempt stamp and got 90 days which many Immigration Offices so not see as typical tourist behaviour
Nate ***********
@Graham *****
then why do they allow you to extend? Countries immigration is becoming a literal scam. They will allow you to do it and do it anyway and then try to throw you in jail for it? Mind you some people coming to this country before everyone start bolstering all about this border crossing nonsense and this actual Visa group helped and assisted people doing border runs. Yes it is tourist Behavior if you're staying within the legal time better to you for each stamp if they don't like it then they need to change their laws and be more public about it rather than getting hostile with their neighbors and acting like they're going to do something dangerous because they want to seem bigGraham ******
@Nate **********
That is not how Immigration now see the use of the Visa Exempt entry especially if you max out your stay, that could be all you'll get for quite a while, it's now risky to try to repeat.Nate ***********
Indeed I think people need to give Thailand a break for a while probably start shifting tourism toward Cambodia they seem friendly like the Philippines but be careful arse kissing is one of the oldest cheepest tricks in the book.
Garrett ***********
@Graham *****
There is no "maxing out" and visa exempt stamp.Graham ******
@Garrett **********
What is this then "2025- decide to travel around Asia for 6 months. Arrive BKK ****
. 2 months visa exempt and 1 month extension. "
Reed **********
@Graham *****
then uh the extension just simply should not be offered at allReed **********
It should just be either you get 2 months on arrival or you don't it shouldn't be this whole extended for one month I just don't think that a system should be in place where you have to spend sometimes 9 hours to extend your stay they have all your information and they make you just show up with passport photos and stuff that they have all of this information like your hotel all of this is in their wreck records so i've never understood why they want you to spend 9 hours downtown
Graham ******
@Reed *********
I was surprised they kept itReed **********
Some ppl this year have spent the whole last 365 days here Maxing each visa and extension se say without even a single agency trip yet.
Dave **********
OP@Graham *****
once in 3 years? First ever extension. Yet many abuse the situation and nothing is ever done about them. Bounce, after bounce.
John **********
@Dave *********
not the case any more. They've been seriously clamping down on visa exempt entriesJohn **********
@Dave *********
nominally yes, but many are now getting pulled up one their very first bounce and refused entryDave **********
OP@John *********
because of abuse? ie. Border bounce same day in Laos or Cambodia every 2 monthsGraham ******
@Dave *********
Yes, things changed last July when Visa Exempt went to 60 days and the availability of the DTV hasn't helpedMaxim ***********
They want people to use agent, if not, she don't get a cut.
Andy ************
@Maxim **********
An agent for visa exempt? That's a new oneReed **********
So why doesn't the government here care that this is going on so prevalently there's companies on a lot of the islands for instance that even have the name order run in the name of the business that's registered with the government I mean the agents at the airport and stuff try to act like they've never heard of this
Maxim ***********
@Andy ***********
It's been going on for decades. An agent will secure safe passage at airport and border. What we call VIP, or Fast track services. This is needed for repeat visa runners. The agent and the immigration officer both take a cut. There are thousand if not tens of thousands of foreigners using such services every year.Maxim ***********
@Doug ******
Yeah, that Andy dude is gone-gone, mentally, he's checked-out. He's what we call a "NPC". A lot of older folks in this group sadly have reduced brain capacity and are unable to learn anything new. I will likely be them one day, that's the nature of aging.He doesn't understand the difference between a scam and a bribe. A scam imply that you lose something while not receiving what was promised in return.
For example, it would be a scam if you pay an agent to receive a fake stamp, or to get into Thailand with again, a fake stamp. You would then get in trouble upon getting an extension, or trying to leave the country. Your name would not show up in their computer in regard to the stamp in your passport.
But if you have no issue getting an extension, or leaving Thailand, it mean that the stamp received, even tho you paid an agent to get it, was legitimately obtained. The distinction is important, but not everyone have the brain capacity to understand nuance.
Andy ************
@Jim *******
"They may not want to do" - but that's their choice isn't it? Depends how keen they are to get a longer term visa, or whether they want to keep milking the visa exempt/extension/border scamper, and then complain when they're questioned and potentially denied. Comes down to choice
Jim ********
@Andy ***********
well you have to have a remote working job or use a soft power option which some people may not want to do. Therefore it wouldn’t be a “proper” visa for everyone
Doug *******
@Maxim **********
I suggest ignoring the boy. He shows up regularly with nothing positive nor informative to offer.Andy ************
@Maxim **********
A real stamp from a real immigration officer obtained with a bribe is a scam. But you're totally correct. English is certainly not your first languageAndy ************
@Jim *******
Anyone and everyone can get a DTV. Easiest visa everJim ********
Maxim ***********
@Ni**
Yes, I was okay for over a decade (by avoiding Bangkok airport), but when crackdown in Nong Khai happened, I was cooked (got denied entry December 2024). Too risky to try anywhere now. It's literally 4k baht to get in at BKK airport with an agent. I wasn't gonna use the service unless forced to. That service will always exist, just like the hundreds of van doing border run. Although now I'm not sure if they still can in Cambodia.Maxim ***********
@Andy ***********
You are very confused with terminolology. Is English your first language? It's not mine, but you should not be this confused. If you pay money to a scam agent you will be deported and blacklisted upon leaving Thailand because the stamp would be fake. So it would not be in their system. A real agent give you a real stamp from an immigration officer.Maxim ***********
@Pablo *******
One of them own this FB group. Name on the banner at top of the page.
Ni**
@Da**
: agent services are great for anyone who doesn't want to run the risk of being denied for any reason, which can just as easily happen with DTV or SETV/METV depending on the IO of the day. Random enforcement of rules creates a sense of uncertainty that people can buy insurance for. Business.Dave **********
OP@Ni**
what?Ni**
@Maxim **********
you're spot on about the visa market. This is why anyone could do border runs and fast track for years without a single denial (to essentially live in Thailand non-stop), as long as they respect the trial/upgrade business model.The 'rules are rules, get valid visa' NPC brain people with laminated DTVs can't possibly understand this, or why anyone would pay to be let in every time without worries.
No crackdown. Just business.
Andy ************
@Maxim **********
Good. If they want to live here let them pay! I'm happy with my 2000baht/year, multi-entry visa! Never paid a single baht to a scam agent!
Pablo ********
@Maxim **********
can you link me to some of these reputable servicesMaxim ***********
@Andy ***********
Incorrect. People are not avoiding a proper visa, they are ensuring to not get denied due to their extensive history.It doesn't matter if you are on visa exempt or tourist visa, people get denied entry as much on tourist visa as visa exempt. It's at the officer discretion if he consider that 3 months or 9 months in Thailand is too long to be considered a tourist anymore.
Maxim ***********
@Janin *****
Scammers would be a better word. If the service is delivered, then there nothing to complain about. The black market for Lotto tickets is huge in Thailand. But if you win, you get paid. It would be a scam if you win and don't get paid. The nuance is important, but most are failing to understand that.Andy ************
@Maxim **********
But visa runners wouldn't need this service as they have a proper visa, not a free entry stampAndy ************
@Maxim **********
Amazing what lengths people go to in order to avoid just getting a proper visa!
Janin ******
@Maxim **********
…and a lot of these agents are illigal!Maxim ***********
And it's not illegal per se to use an agent for VIP-Fast track. Basically, it's at the officer discretion. But by using an agent, the discretion will always be to let you in due to bribery :). Nobody but the officers knows who in the VIP-Fast track did vs didn't use an agent.
Maxim ***********
And for everyone reading about why there no care in general. Well, Thailand is a country where bribery, etc, is illegal, but rarely enforced. As long as the people who matter get their cuts, it's fine. They could shut down 100% of agents within a day if they wanted. But it profit too many people with deep pockets. The airport that are stricter are the ones where agents and officers work hand in hand. Smaller airport like Hat Yai are less strict with repeat visa runners because they have nothing to gain.
Maxim ***********
@Reed *********
Because 3 billionaire family run the visa market in Thailand. Agents answer to them, not the government. Except in Chonburi, they are independent over there. A few years ago, volunteer visa had a crackdown due to Khon Kaen officers ignoring the chain of command and taking larger cuts. So they had to restructure the whole market to make it less likely for officers to neglect to pass down the money.Maxim ***********
@Dave *********
Nope. It's always been like this. You are acting like in new development. It's just stricter because visa exempt when from 30 days to 60 days.Dave **********
OP@Maxim **********
which is why genuine tourists are more and more likely to be refused.
Julian *******
File a complaint, you did take her name etc didn’t you ?
Todd *********
Koh Samui on Chaweng (the busiest of the 30 beaches) yesterday. It’s not ever gonna be Benidorm. And Phu Quoc is far, far worse than Samui for bad development. Add in the Chinese over influence, fake Venice and it’s a mess.
I can understand the BKK experience being annoying. But getting the right visa is easy enough. And that is not possible in Vietnam. And oversaturation of Russians and Chinese in places like Nha Trang is much more like Benidorm.
Vietnam is great, but miles behind in infrastructure, high quality, tourism medical care, visas, beaches, weather, tranquility and fun.
But give it a run. It will become more clear as you go.
I can understand the BKK experience being annoying. But getting the right visa is easy enough. And that is not possible in Vietnam. And oversaturation of Russians and Chinese in places like Nha Trang is much more like Benidorm.
Vietnam is great, but miles behind in infrastructure, high quality, tourism medical care, visas, beaches, weather, tranquility and fun.
But give it a run. It will become more clear as you go.
Thaimer ******
@Todd ********
well take video in January during high season. Besides way more people you’ll have way bigger waves.Todd *********
@Thaimer *****
even high season you have to be in central Chaweng for crowds. And with about 25 beaches on the island, you will ALWAYS find tranquility. And about six months of the year it’s wavy on each side with high tide. While the other side is calm and low tide. Tough to beat anywhere
Keith *******
@Todd ********
Generally, you have a bit better chance of getting a good coffee in Vietnam, but you're right, other than that Vietnam is a bit of a shithole compared to ThailandTodd *********
@Keith ******
and definitely better pho and banh mi!! But agreed, it’s pretty clear that there is a large gap between the twoDave **********
OPI was in vietnam this week. It's on local news, about government wanting to introduce it imminently. Hope it's true.
Todd *********
@Dave *********
I go often. It’s been ‘imminent’ for the last few years. Dont hold your breath. Thailand has a 10 year LTR, 10 year O/X, Thai privilege and a variety of annually renewable retirement visas for decades. Vietnam has nothing. It’s pretty clear who the winner is
Andy *********
@Dave *********
Best of luck to you too! Hope you get to retirement thereDave **********
OP@Andy ********
everyone likes something different. Good luck buddyAndy *********
@Dave *********
My wife is from Saigon, over the last 20 years we've spent much time there. I admit Danang is nice, we were there March & April. I was bored witless after a week or two. For our money, we prefer Thailand, Bangkok specifically.
Ian ********
@Todd ********
ok cheers mate, will check it out 👍🙂Ian ********
@Todd ********
Hi Todd, just out of interest, what are these dirt cheap 10 yr visas! I’m about to go for a Non O visa then change to a retirement visa once in country! Am I missing something?Julian *******
@Dave *********
private healthcare in Vietnam is woefully inadequate compared to Thailand. Virtually zero international training of doctors- I spent six months in Saigon , even dentistry is way behind ThailandDave **********
OP@Todd ********
we will beg to differ. We all like different things for different reasons. My experience at Suvarnabhumi has soured my love for Thailand unfortunatelyDave **********
OP@Todd ********
I correct my post, thank you for pointing it out. Pattaya and Phuket, Koh Samui, etc are the new Benidorm. Not the whole of Thailand. Phayao, Hat Yai, Chumphon, Kanchanaburi, Sattahip areas are beautiful places I've visited.Todd *********
@Dave *********
me neither. But you compared Thailand to Benidorm and Ibiza. Which, as you know, is beyond ludicrous. Naive at best. Lots to like about Vietnam, Philippines, Indonesia and Malaysia for retirement. But none are as good as Thailand. Thailand is the clear winner. Even Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos have potential. But miles to go.
Dave **********
OP@Julian ******
some people like that. Private Health care in vietnam is fine. You have your opinion. Having travelled around cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam for last 5 months, Vietnam wins hands down. As for pattaya and phuket. No different to benidorm except more Russian draft dodgersDave **********
OP@Todd ********
I don't like pattaya or phuket. But thanks for your assumptions and patronising commentTodd *********
@Julian ******
that’s an absolute factJulian *******
@Dave *********
healthcare and infrastructure is way behind ThailandTodd *********
@Dave *********
if Vietnam were nicer, I would live there. Unfortunately it’s far from it. And immigration isn’t even close. The only way you can stay is border bounces every 90 days to Cambodia or China. Sounds fun. Meanwhile Thailand has easy access 10 year visas for dirt cheap. Thailand is never turning into Benidorm or Ibiza lol. But do try to get out past Pattaya and Phuket.
Dave **********
OP@Todd ********
thanks for your reply. Vietnam is nicer. And immigration is far better. Parts of Thailand, Pattaya and Phuket for example are turning into new Benidorm or IbizaDave **********
OP@Julian ******
no name taken. To be fair, I was shattered after 5 hour bus ride in vietnam, then airport and flight to BKK. At end of the day, I was allowed in, but now I'm worried my name is marked and next V.E I do, I'll be refused. Complaining will only cause a further black mark against my name.
Greg ***********
@Dave *********
you might have been "flagged" in the Central Computer system, so by the next time you enter, every officer will see that you have been warned to use a visa for the next entryJohn **********
@Dave *********
I wouldn't try another visa exempt entry for some time. Even a tourist visa could be an issue, assuming of course she did flag you in the databaseJohn **********
@Dave *********
unfortunately its not how you feel, it's about how the immigration officer feels but given you are where you are I'd suggest a 90 day Non-O based on being over 50 next trip. You won't have any problems with thatDave **********
OP@John *********
that's what I'm worried about. I honestly don't feel I've abused the system at all. 1000s do and nothings said.
Frank *****
@Dave *********
get a visa, problem solved.Frank *****
Cannot find bahn mi in hua hin, dammit.
Frank *****
@Dave *********
this is Thailand, guess you haven't learned that. You can bitch and moan all you want, I prefer another approach, and while I understand your complaint, and it's valid, I'll say it again... this is Thailand.Frank *****
@Dave *********
not stupid, no need to be insulting. there are 90 day tourist visas, getting one would insure no issues.Dave **********
OP@Frank ****
stupid comment. Why when I can use visa exempt. I'm not living here, not working here.Julian *******
@Dave *********
I guess Thailand has lost yet another tourist then
Sue **********
Andy *********
@Todd ********
Thanks. Last I remember, there was a 3 month tourist e visaTodd *********
@Andy ********
no, Vietnam does not have a retirement visa.Dave **********
OP@Eric *********
90 day reporting. I wasn't retiring. I was visiting. The fact that I'm retired and living in Europe, means I'm not limited to 7 /14 days like the dope/ trance party crowd. But if thats what Thailand wants? It's already going downhillAndy *********
@Dave *********
My wife is Viet, and I've had a exemption for almost 20 years, so I don't keep up with what's happening on the visa front so much. Thanks for the information!Dave **********
OP@Andy ********
I believe their bringing one out soon. New law just passed, if you're married to Vietnam citizen, you can stay in vietnam without hassle unlike Thailand. Though I didn't read the whole article, so don't quote me! LolAndy *********
@Dave *********
Does Vietnam have a retirement visa now?
Eric **********
@Dave *********
not true.. very easy to retire in Thailand, if you are not one of those groups you mentioned. Many of us have.Dave **********
OP@Julian ******
. I was torn between retiring in Thailand or Vietnam. This incident has made situation easier. Thailand is making life harder for people unless you're Russian,Indian or Chinese
Tony *********
So she just didn't have her coffee fix for the day .
Ian *****
Always IO decision, in this case good job her supervisor had some sense !
Cruise ******
@Ian ****
does this IO have any impact on next trip? If another officer takes it up the next trip, it's brand new slate or there is some form of record? Even if there's record, can you then proof that you are genuine tourist?Greg ***********
@Cruise *****
he might have been "flagged" in the Central Computer system, so by the next time he enters, every officer will see that he has been warned to use a visa next time
Pe ****
@Dave *********
Yeah, I don’t think agents are paying for hospitals, traffic lights, fire fighting or social services.Todd *********
@Dave *********
sad isn’t it? Happy to support free enterprise over nanny state govt any dayDave **********
OP@Todd ********
except taxation oes to the government not into agencies pockets?Todd *********
@Dave *********
it’s basically paying money for the services you need. In the west, we call it taxation and tell us it makes a better country. In most of the world, it’s how business gets done without onerous nanny state government intervention.Dave **********
OP@Todd ********
so basically, it's money orientated corruption?Todd *********
@Ross *********
fasttrack ensures hassle free entry if you arrange with an agent
Ross **********
@Todd ********
does fast track get rid of any problems as far as visa free goes?Todd *********
@Dave *********
always takes a senior person to denyDave **********
OP@Todd ********
thanks for your optimism. She wanted me refused entry. Only a reasonable senior officer with common sense saved the day.
Andy ********
@Greg **********
there is no doubt that this episode was recorded on the immigration computer system.Todd *********
@Dave *********
Vietnam only wants them for 90 days. And Cambodia requires using an agent also. If you are concerned about your next entry (i wouldn't be) just get FastTrack services. But for legit tourism, you are fine. All they did was ask questions.Dave **********
OP@Greg **********
it's thailands loss if they don't want genuine tourists. Vietnam and Cambodia do.Dave **********
OP@Ian ****
thank you. I agreeDave **********
OPSorry, should read arrived BKK
****
/25
Braulio *********
@Dave *********
You asked for comments and criticized "by abusers"...... Why not get a proper Visa as you did in Vietnam and Cambodia? Then you avoid the abuser tagMma *******
@Dave *********
you can Edit your original post mate-Activity
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