Answered8 months ago
Why is it difficult to re-enter Thailand on a tourist visa after short trips abroad?
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I have just come back from a 5 night trip to Kuala Lumpur.
I am on a 6 month tourist visa having taken the advice of several expat sites, not to abuse the system.
After about 55 days of arriving in Thailand, I had been to Vietnam for 7 nights and came back into Don Meung no problem.
After 47 days in Thailand, I went to Kuala Lumpur for 5 nights, and was interrogated by a jumped up 12 year old who was convinced that I was not going to leave the country within the 6 month limit of my e-visa that had been bought and paid for, specifically to avoid this sort of situation, I am on holiday and want to relax.
Each of the 3 TDAC's that I have submitted since my first flight out from the UK has shown the date and flight number of my return to the UK in April 2026.
She told me that I must get a retirement visa if I want to come back within 6 months, and that basically, if I try to come back on an e-visa next winter, it will be carefully scrutinized because I might be using it to live in Thailand.
I am still working in the UK, but am fortunate enough to be able to escape the cold of winter in the UK, so to say that I am pee'd off with this is an understatement.
I am able to retire, and was seriously thinking of going for the Non O retirement Visa in November, but if this is the sort of way you get treated for following their rules, I am not convinced that it is right for me.
When I retire, I will want to be able to travel as I please, obviously respecting the Visa rules for Cash and reporting, but I don't want to be pulled up every time I come back into the country, I want to enjoy my retirement travelling around Asia.
Let me know what you think, but please don't be rude or offensive, I honestly thought that I had done the right thing by getting the METV and sticking to the rules, whereas I could have done it easier with visa exempt plus extension.
I am on a 6 month tourist visa having taken the advice of several expat sites, not to abuse the system.
After about 55 days of arriving in Thailand, I had been to Vietnam for 7 nights and came back into Don Meung no problem.
After 47 days in Thailand, I went to Kuala Lumpur for 5 nights, and was interrogated by a jumped up 12 year old who was convinced that I was not going to leave the country within the 6 month limit of my e-visa that had been bought and paid for, specifically to avoid this sort of situation, I am on holiday and want to relax.
Each of the 3 TDAC's that I have submitted since my first flight out from the UK has shown the date and flight number of my return to the UK in April 2026.
She told me that I must get a retirement visa if I want to come back within 6 months, and that basically, if I try to come back on an e-visa next winter, it will be carefully scrutinized because I might be using it to live in Thailand.
I am still working in the UK, but am fortunate enough to be able to escape the cold of winter in the UK, so to say that I am pee'd off with this is an understatement.
I am able to retire, and was seriously thinking of going for the Non O retirement Visa in November, but if this is the sort of way you get treated for following their rules, I am not convinced that it is right for me.
When I retire, I will want to be able to travel as I please, obviously respecting the Visa rules for Cash and reporting, but I don't want to be pulled up every time I come back into the country, I want to enjoy my retirement travelling around Asia.
Let me know what you think, but please don't be rude or offensive, I honestly thought that I had done the right thing by getting the METV and sticking to the rules, whereas I could have done it easier with visa exempt plus extension.
Answer summary
The original poster shared their frustrating experience with Thai immigration upon returning from a trip, despite having a Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV). They expressed concern about being questioned and treated rudely by an immigration officer. Several commenters suggested that moving to a retirement visa might offer better long-term options and fewer immigration issues. Others pointed out the importance of understanding and adhering to visa rules and suggested that the scrutiny might be due to the poster's travel patterns. Overall, the discussion highlights the challenges expats face with Thai immigration and the potential benefits of securing a more stable visa option.
154 repliesnewest first
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Martin ********
Suck it up, you are a visitor abusing the system. A visa gets you on the plane. The immigration officer decides if you are allowed in.
Greg ******
Philippines is hassle free 3 years on travel visa
Edward ******
I retired to SE Asia 3 years ago and initially intended to do the retirement visa in Thailand but as soon as o travelled to the neighbors I decided I prefer the variety over any one destination. I do 2 nearly 90 day stays in Vietnam with 2 nearly 90 day stays in Malaysia with a 60 - 90 day stay in Thailand mixed in. I have great accommodations in each place and I avoid visa issues entirely. I also plan my year to avoid the most extreme weather. Things can always change but for 3 years this has worked out great.
Ken ************
If you get a Retirement Visa you will have no problems going in and out as long as tou get re entry permits each time you leave.
Kevin *******
These thai immigration officers feel so entitled now there must be a policy for causing so much grief to long stay visitors !
Paul *********
It is very worrying now wondering if they will let you back in if you leave for short periods.
Paul *************
Roll on AI doing their job. Then it will be if you follow the rules you're let in and not turned away cuz the IO is power crazy or had a bad day. none of this IO discretion nonsense.
Peter *******
Mate with Thailand now you don't what tomorrow brings
Peter ***********
Their country, their rules.
Don’t like it, go and whinge elsewhere.
Don’t like it, go and whinge elsewhere.
Every ************
The truth is, if nothing goes wrong and regulations are followed, that's the agreement for traveling, whether in Thailand, Europe, America, or anywhere else: to follow and respect the rules and regulations of the country you're visiting.It's worthwhile and great to check that each country has its own different rules. I travel too, and I respect the rules of each country as well.
Lance ***********
Entry is left open to the personal judgement of the Immigration officer one deals with entering the country under any Visa one has or Visa exempt entry. Experiences vary. This is always the normal for many years already in Asia and many other countries as well.
Attitude portrayed, dress, and negative emotions, or even portrayal of "entitlement" are easily picked up on by trained officers so if one is "Off" about things it alerts a" red or caution flag" for the officer's acceptance of anyone.
Be nice, dress and act with normal human respect and most respond well to a person! 🙏❤😎
Attitude portrayed, dress, and negative emotions, or even portrayal of "entitlement" are easily picked up on by trained officers so if one is "Off" about things it alerts a" red or caution flag" for the officer's acceptance of anyone.
Be nice, dress and act with normal human respect and most respond well to a person! 🙏❤😎
Charlie ********
90 day NON O Visa is NOT a retirement visa and this was the statement by the Thai embassy in KL. If one wants to retire then he or she needs to place money so it was not the Thai immigration's fault
Wez ***********
Just a question about the re entry visa, is obtaining one only done at the local immigration office or at the airport??
Tong ***********
Imagine if a Thai person doing the same around Europe or the US. it would be the same by immigration officers. It is their job to ask questions and the travelers’ job to provide answers.
Peter **********
Referring to the Immigration Officer as a ‘jumped up 12 year old’ is both extremely rude and not at all helpful Ian Hojo.
👎👎👎👎
👎👎👎👎
Steven *******
@Peter *********
its also defamation, which is a crime.. be smart and erase this post ..
Julian *******
Your attitude stinks actually, and your entire diatribe screams western entitlement. You get 90 days in Malaysia, longer in the Philippines, suggest you go there
Robert *****
The take-away from this post:
12 year olds work at Immigration 😂😂
12 year olds work at Immigration 😂😂
Bruno ***********
The length of the visa is the time window to use the visa, not the length of stay.
Andreas *********
Bruno Vaglienti The lenght of the METV visa validity is 6 months and it starts on the day of issue. These 6 months are the window in which the METV can be used for an entry. On each entry within the validity period, you get stamped in for a 60 days admitted stay
Paul *******
You got a strict one that looked at your stamps I think,, you get the correct Visa to stay and you will be ok. People that are living there with the correct visa don't have problems.
Simon ******
I stopped reading after 'jumped up twelve year old'.
Gerry ********
I live and work in the Uk 7 months of the year then come to Thailand for 5 months ( avoiding the UK winter) For the last 4 years I’ve used a 6 month multi entry visa without any issues. I get my 60 day stamp then go travelling Lao , Vietnam etc. I normally go back to
The UK well before the end of my visa.
My question is, are people now finding this type of visa an issue now ?
The UK well before the end of my visa.
My question is, are people now finding this type of visa an issue now ?
Dan *******
They are looking for people working illegally, scam center employers , human traffickers and mercenaries ( Cambodia )
Hari ****
I am an expat … I use about 300.000 thb a month to have a happy healthy live … strange … AMI go home
Pompel ******
And you are one of many that destroyed it for evry one else
Destination visa or retirement visa or go vietnam
Destination visa or retirement visa or go vietnam
Donald ********
Your visa is good for 60 days then you can extend for another 30 and then you must leave and come back in again later, good for 6 months at a time, you are on a tourist visa, so you are a tourist so after 6 months you either renew or not ,your type of visa is unusual but obtainable from a Thai embassy in the UK.Tourists don't usually stay longer than 30 to 60 days so at the border they may think you are trying to stay longer than you are entitled too, go with the flow it will all work out in the end. Once you apply for and get a retirement visa it is much better.
David ******
Im pretty sure you have your answer, I haven't read all the comments just the first dozen answers, I'm on a retirement visa with the re-entry permit never an issue, I will add, I travel looking like I'm going to a meeting not the beach and I'm extremely polite at the immigration point.😀
Pat ***************
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Petrov ********
Many things in Thailand are strange. For example, today I was wondering why they turn the air conditioning up so high and then sit around wearing jackets. The road signs are often quite confusing. There are many dead-end streets, and to reach a place that is only 300 meters away, you sometimes have to go around 1–2 kilometers.
For the price of a two-bedroom apartment, you can rent two one-bedroom apartments. The logic here is quite different — or maybe there is no logic at all.
You enter on a tourist visa, you don’t work, you don’t steal, you stay in hotels and travel around — so what are you? For them, a tourist is someone who stays 10 days and spends a lot of money. If you stay longer, you learn how things work and you don’t spend as much, so they push you to put money in the bank for a retirement visa.
But since so many people choose to live in Thailand, the positive sides must outweigh the negatives. We have to respect their culture, way of thinking, and the rules they set if we want to stay.
For the price of a two-bedroom apartment, you can rent two one-bedroom apartments. The logic here is quite different — or maybe there is no logic at all.
You enter on a tourist visa, you don’t work, you don’t steal, you stay in hotels and travel around — so what are you? For them, a tourist is someone who stays 10 days and spends a lot of money. If you stay longer, you learn how things work and you don’t spend as much, so they push you to put money in the bank for a retirement visa.
But since so many people choose to live in Thailand, the positive sides must outweigh the negatives. We have to respect their culture, way of thinking, and the rules they set if we want to stay.
Kim *******
Thailand is getting absurd and it only seems to be getting worse. Remember that PM Anuntin hates foreigners. Consider Vietnam or the Philippines.
Hari ****
Are u crazy ? .. they now just check the cheaters … sooooooo many think they can do what they want here , don care of the laws … what ever ! Please leave one idiot less
Kim *******
Hari BO It's extremely obvious who the idiot here is. I've been living here with my Thai family longer than you have. I was just stating my opinion relevant to the topic. Don't like it? Move on old timer. Looks like life has passed you by, and what's left is not looking good 😊
Hari ****
Well then Move to Vietnam quickly…Dickhead … or just stop posting bullshit if u not able to get answer .. oh it does not support u.. or just move back to trumpyland
David *********
If you get a retirement visa in the future, you can come and go as you please, so long as to get a reentry visa before you leave.
Scott *********
Scare tactics. She's doing her job
Jm ******
This is their nice way of saying 'we dont want you here, go somewhere else'.
Jean **************
Avec le visa O non migrant un an renouvelable et un re-entry multiples, vous voyagez comme bon vous semble
Jay *******
Philippines!
Aidan ********
Jay Babin far more difficult and requires a larger 'investment'!!
Wayne *******
Jay Babin no that will be another target for China, Russia, Iran and North Korea anything that’s got American culture and base it’s a target do we care hell no
Peter **********
Ian Hojo
Just get a 90 day multi entry Visa from Thai Embassy in your own country
You will need to show 12 months income of over 65.000 per month , which as you are still working should be easy
Just get a 90 day multi entry Visa from Thai Embassy in your own country
You will need to show 12 months income of over 65.000 per month , which as you are still working should be easy
Andreas *********
Peter Beaumont there is nothing such any more as a 90 days multi entry visa. They discontinued it by October 2023. Only single entry 90 days non Imm visa types can be had
Peter **********
Andreas Mueller
I’m here on that exact visa until early May
Been doing same visa over 10 years
Although I’m carefull not to exceed 180 days
It may depend on your Nationality
I’m here on that exact visa until early May
Been doing same visa over 10 years
Although I’m carefull not to exceed 180 days
It may depend on your Nationality
Thomas *******
Sometimes it helps if you turn your point of view around.
do you have any idea what a thai person has to do to get a holiday visa for two weeks in GB or Europe? Everyone thinks he wants to stay and become illegal cool or massage therapist.
in my opinion the thai system is fair and square.
do you have any idea what a thai person has to do to get a holiday visa for two weeks in GB or Europe? Everyone thinks he wants to stay and become illegal cool or massage therapist.
in my opinion the thai system is fair and square.
Tiphany **********
Thomas Meyer I would have called thai system anything but fair and square... and I am not talking about the way to get a visa, which is indeed easiest than the europe visa. I am talking about the blury rules they aplied at immigration border. and as the autor mention, following the rules is no garantee which is not in fact not really fair :)
Thomas *******
Tiphany Andurand If something like that happens - okay your right. I can only talk about my personal experience - and i never had anything like that.
Ian ******
OPThomas Meyer the only reason we flew out of Bangkok was because my partner had to attend an interview for that very reason, so yes I do know, totally unreasonable in my opinion, we should at least have reciprocal agreement.
Probably find that the shareholders of the company that does the interviewing are all UK politicians.
Probably find that the shareholders of the company that does the interviewing are all UK politicians.
Thomas *******
Ian Hojo Maybe you can store it in memory as a bad luck moment - and not as a systematically failure.
Wayne *******
Here we go again all the so called experts who have no clue go to a visa agent for advice all it costs is your time.
But on this site there are the negative doubters who have no clue and state they are a rip off?
How can a visa agent be a rip off for advice?
I don’t feel for others that take it on themselves then blame immigration but it’s entirely the persons fault and using this site for advice you on a path to nowhere.
But on this site there are the negative doubters who have no clue and state they are a rip off?
How can a visa agent be a rip off for advice?
I don’t feel for others that take it on themselves then blame immigration but it’s entirely the persons fault and using this site for advice you on a path to nowhere.
Mark ******
Did you have the problem at Don Mueang airport?
Loïc ********
If you're going around for several months, you may indeed be questioned because they will want to know if it's really tourism. Either you retired which is why they're advising you the retirement visa or you're remote working which is illegal without proper visa (tourist status in any country completely forbid paid activity on its ground even if remote for a company in home country, that's why digital nomade visa exists). So yeah they might be suspicious about where you money comes from because circling in Tha same foreign countries on tourist status with a retirement pension without ever going home isn't really considered tourism anymore but living there with extra steps to abuse the visa system (it's kind of a Grey area). Just because a lot of country won't strictly enforce it doesn't mean it's legal. By telling you that it'll be a problem and giving you the solution rather than just refusing entry (immigration agents can refuse entry without having to motivate their choice), your agent was pretty nice 😉
Ian ******
OPLoïc Barret fair enough, but they had all the information that they asked for before giving me the visa, they knew I was travelling, nothing was hidden, they should not be presuming if they have not asked the question.
Cecille ********************
Well when you got a chance to comeback in thailand go personally to thai immigration to get for proper advice to your situation. They will guide you what the right way to do and you won’t get lost.
Same with the other country you want to jump .
Same with the other country you want to jump .
Warwick ******
You suffered an unfortunate experience with one immigration officer having a bad day. Past is the past and no one died. You have indicated Thailand is where you want to be and the majority living here would wholeheartedly agree with your sentiment. So now consign the past experience to history and start making steps to obtaining a non-immigrant O visa for residing here. Attach a multiple reentry stamp to it and you can come and go as you please as is your want. Look forward, forget about the rear vision mirror👍
Francis **********
Warwick Cook.. Best advice, for everything.
Look forward. . .
Look forward. . .
Charlie *********
You ask people not to be rude or offensive, yet you referred to what I can only assume to be the immigration officer as a "jumped up 12 year old", and seem to have the arrogance to feel that you are not to be questioned in any way while trying to enter a country that is not your own. Have I got that right?
Ian ******
OP@Charlie ********
the Thai government gave me the right to enter their country when they took my money in return for a visa that had conditions attached. As I stated earlier, this was my perception and opinion in relation to her behavior and that I behaved in a respectful manner.
So if you are questioning whether I have the right to express my own personal opinion, then yes I believe that I do, as do you.
I get the impression that you are trying to turn this into a slanging match, when anyone with a basic understanding of the English language would have recognized it for what it was. 🙏
John_*****
Ian Hojo a visa is not a guaranteed right to enter Thailand. It’s a very common misunderstanding.
Legally speaking, a visa only gives you the right to travel to a Thai border and request entry. The final decision always belongs to the immigration officer at the checkpoint.
Legally speaking, a visa only gives you the right to travel to a Thai border and request entry. The final decision always belongs to the immigration officer at the checkpoint.
Charlie *********
Ian Hojo you seem rude and entitled, and disrespectful towards immigration officers who dare question you. Look at your travel patterns, understand they are cracking down on people abusing the system. If you don’t like it, then sort out a proper visa. If you can’t do that, then Thailand is better off without you and your snotty entitled attitude. Have a nice day :)
Dan *******
The man applied for and received a METV. Please feel free argue with strangers on the internet. You’re hilarious 😆
Sylvester *********
You did not break any rules. A Multiple Entry Tourist Visa is valid for 6 months, but every entry is assessed separately. Immigration officers look at travel patterns, not just the visa.
Two long stays close together with short trips out can look like living in Thailand on a tourist visa. It is legal, but officers have discretion under Section 12 of the Immigration Act.
If you plan to spend winters in Thailand each year, a Non Immigrant O retirement visa aligns better with that pattern. Retirees on Non O visas report fewer questions at entry.
If you stay on a tourist visa, avoid using the full stay every time and keep proof of UK employment and residence. Thailand has increased scrutiny on repeated long tourist stays in 2025, especially at major Bangkok airports.
The issue is perceived residence, not whether the visa was valid.
Two long stays close together with short trips out can look like living in Thailand on a tourist visa. It is legal, but officers have discretion under Section 12 of the Immigration Act.
If you plan to spend winters in Thailand each year, a Non Immigrant O retirement visa aligns better with that pattern. Retirees on Non O visas report fewer questions at entry.
If you stay on a tourist visa, avoid using the full stay every time and keep proof of UK employment and residence. Thailand has increased scrutiny on repeated long tourist stays in 2025, especially at major Bangkok airports.
The issue is perceived residence, not whether the visa was valid.
Garry **********
Worst mistake you could have made is thinking about basing yourself in Thailand for your travels in SEA
You really should have looked at Cambodia.
Easiest country in SEA to be based in:
Retirement Visa’s start at 55, no proof of income from age 65
Multiple entry on 6 month or 1 year visa’s, “no questions asked”
No requirement to have ridiculous amounts of money locked in a Thai bank
1 year retirement visa cost US$295 at the moment
Big upside the Cambodian people enjoy having western friends here
Not like the Thai people who will fuck you over any time they can
You really should have looked at Cambodia.
Easiest country in SEA to be based in:
Retirement Visa’s start at 55, no proof of income from age 65
Multiple entry on 6 month or 1 year visa’s, “no questions asked”
No requirement to have ridiculous amounts of money locked in a Thai bank
1 year retirement visa cost US$295 at the moment
Big upside the Cambodian people enjoy having western friends here
Not like the Thai people who will fuck you over any time they can
Ian **********
It will almost certainly be your history of using visa-exempt entries to stay long-term in Thailand that has flagged your file. You have done the right thing this year getting an METV, but that didn't stop you from being marked as staying long-term in previous years. It's usually best to just smile and agree. I might have been inclined to softly say that I had contacted the Royal Thai Embassy in London and they suggested an METV is the correct visa for me as I'm not retired yet, but I will certainly look at getting a retirement visa next year. Then thank her for her advice, and smile. I'm on a DTV as I do a little work online. It lasts 5 years and I can come and go as I please and on each entry I get stamped in for 6 months. Might be worth looking at for your circumstances or the wealthy pensioner LTR is even better if you qualify.
John *********
You are exactly the kind of person no one wants as a tourist. You refer to an Immigration Official as "a jumped up 12 year old "
Liam *****
John Nielson Perhaps because they looked and acted like a jumped up 12 year old? Just a thought
Flemming ***********
You ask people to not be rude, yet you call the immigrations officer “a jumped up 12 year old”.
Why does the good manners not apply to yourself?
Why does the good manners not apply to yourself?
Alex *****
Flemming Rasmussen but thats a fact
Robert *********
Flemming Rasmussen my thoughts exactly
Ian ******
OPFlemming Rasmussen because she behaved like one, I showed her every respect, she was just a bully who knew there was nothing I could do but take it.
So, it does apply to me and if my description and personal opinion of her offends you, then I apologise. 🙏
So, it does apply to me and if my description and personal opinion of her offends you, then I apologise. 🙏
Larry *********
Ian Hojo it was a lame disrespectful comment on your part. Lots of expats will stick up for Thai people.
Markie ******
Ian Hojo so you say you gave respect but was respect with an Asian mindset or brit one? At the end of the day she's got the power and you don't just the same as myself when I enter heathrow. My wife who is Asian got the inquisition on a Australia passport in Luton. It happens but yeah calling the IO jumped up 12 year shows to me the classic British arrogance. Cheers
Paul *************
Mark Taylor Don't take anyone seriously who calls themselves markie mark
Mark ********
Markie Mark That was all good till the last sentence when it became obvious you are the usual fake profile troll...
Bob *****
I don't know what the rules are neither does anybody cuz really it seems it's up to the individual immigration officer. but here's the thought... you got a Visa visit Thailand for 6 months... one of the most sought after places to visit in the world and then you left it and went to Vietnam and somewhere else.. that shows the immigration people that you're not serious about really being here and maybe they should keep an eye out. it would have been better I think for you if you did your 6 months here left when you were supposed to went to Vietnam stayed there for a while then go to wherever else you went to then come back after the appropriate time has passed so and you would be admitted with no issues. All within the rules yes but as I said they have the right to do what they want to do with what they see at the time and you don't have any options so best to play it safe right?
good luck in your future travels
good luck in your future travels
Noel ********
Immigration are cracking down because so many people have abused the system, unfortunately thats why you got a hard time. On the bright side you can gwt a retirement visa next time or a DTV visa if you are still working. Both allow free travel.
Ian ******
OPBob Fom with the 6 month visa you are expected to leave the country every 60 days, that is presumably why they call it a multi entry tourist visa
Bob *****
Ian Hojo A multiple entry visa is a different entity. You can get that with almost any Visa I believe. cost extra. there's a single entry or multiple. or just stay and not worry about it
Barry ******
Choose somewhere else, where you're welcome. Thailand tolerates visitors but doesn't welcome them. I have lived here for nearly 30 years, often travelling in and out on business, and only twice have I received a smile from an IO and never, ever, a welcome. I remember it has been twice, as it was so unusual.
Kevin **********
Whilst you complied with the regulations, your travel pattern flagged up as someone who could be abusing the system.
They are now cracking down and if you want to stay for prolonged periods on a regular basis, you need to get an appropriate visa.
They are now cracking down and if you want to stay for prolonged periods on a regular basis, you need to get an appropriate visa.
Bonnie *******
Kevin O'Connor that is the right visa
Kevin **********
Bonnie Smith I wouldn’t try getting another 6 month visa straight away. A 6 month visa covers you for your trip of a lifetime and assumes you’re going back to your home country afterwards on a permanent basis.
If you intend longer term stays in Thailand on a regular basis, you’ll need a different visa, an Elite or retirement would be suitable.
Last year I had 12 entries into Thailand on visa exempt with no questions. Each entry was only for a few days and they were spaced a few weeks apart with a hotel as my address. Therefore I didn’t flag, up and travelling on a top tier passport with a well paid occupation, I’ve never been asked to show a return ticket or proof of funds in 30 years of visiting the country.
If you intend longer term stays in Thailand on a regular basis, you’ll need a different visa, an Elite or retirement would be suitable.
Last year I had 12 entries into Thailand on visa exempt with no questions. Each entry was only for a few days and they were spaced a few weeks apart with a hotel as my address. Therefore I didn’t flag, up and travelling on a top tier passport with a well paid occupation, I’ve never been asked to show a return ticket or proof of funds in 30 years of visiting the country.
David *********
Go to Cambodia no visa hassles there
Jeffrey *****
The 12 year old girl was giving you good advice. Yes, Thailand can be problematic but the benefits outweighs all the trips you have to make to the immigration office. That’s why it’s a popular destination for foreign retirees. Go to Singapore if you want efficiency and hassle-free immigration. But you will live like a poor bloke there.
Caroline ********
Get the right visa
Sisaket ********
I went for the DTV after getting a hard time at immigration, again with a female pitbull.. it’s not a big expense for 5 years worth of not needing to pay again, and I’ve had no hassles since.. you sound like you would qualify for the criteria.. and it’s a much cheaper option than the retirement visa
Adrian **********
Elite visa if you can afford it, can come and go as you please and never questioned.
Lina *******
Maybe look at Indonesia.
Bill ******
Nobody wants problems with immigration, it takes away any security the visas provide.
I am going to do a medical DTV and hope that in 5 years time the immigration issues are solved. I think Thailand and other SE Asian countries will realize each expat is worth $20,000 USD + a year.
I am going to do a medical DTV and hope that in 5 years time the immigration issues are solved. I think Thailand and other SE Asian countries will realize each expat is worth $20,000 USD + a year.
Robert *******
Bill Tait just wondering, what do you call an expat, from a tourist or an immigrant ? And how did you calculate $20,000 usd per expat?
Bill ******
Robert Ruesz I figured the average per person social security payment, obviously some spend less and some more. Thailand uses the 65,000 bht or about $25,000 USD per year, so I was being conservative perhaps?
Hari ****
Thanx ,, it shows U have no clue what u are talking about about … normally for me … … 20.000 ./. 12 is 1667 $ per month … it’s now 52. ooo thb … how you want to have a real live here …
David ********
? The entry allows 60 days apart from a few Nationalities so how did you get 6 months ?
Dan *******
He got the METV.
Andy **********
Before the banking nonsense, I had convinced myself that the DTV was the way to go or perhaps trying to squeeze back through the 3 year business visa.
DTV with 180 days, extend each entry by another 180 days, meant (technically) that you'd only need to jump a border every 360 days. You'd be surprised how inconvenient the 90 day business visa border jump can be.
Yes, I've heard all the naysayers that claim (without any evidence) that you can't extend or that immigration wants documents you cannot provide etc. but given the banking bullshit, which could extend to phones (there was a major clampdown a few years ago) and could get worse with banking, then doing the retirement thing legally, not with a fraudulent agent, would give certainty and guarantee being grandfathered into the current system if they change the financial requirements in the future.
So as much as I don't want to, I'm going to do the Bt800k and either park it or swap to the Bt65k a month but likely just park it. Then it would be 90 day reporting, hopefully online and Bt1900 annually for the extension and Bt3800 annually for the multiple re-entry permit.
DTV with 180 days, extend each entry by another 180 days, meant (technically) that you'd only need to jump a border every 360 days. You'd be surprised how inconvenient the 90 day business visa border jump can be.
Yes, I've heard all the naysayers that claim (without any evidence) that you can't extend or that immigration wants documents you cannot provide etc. but given the banking bullshit, which could extend to phones (there was a major clampdown a few years ago) and could get worse with banking, then doing the retirement thing legally, not with a fraudulent agent, would give certainty and guarantee being grandfathered into the current system if they change the financial requirements in the future.
So as much as I don't want to, I'm going to do the Bt800k and either park it or swap to the Bt65k a month but likely just park it. Then it would be 90 day reporting, hopefully online and Bt1900 annually for the extension and Bt3800 annually for the multiple re-entry permit.
Larry *********
Tourist visas are not 6 months. A tourist visa is 60 days that you can extend 30 days. Then you call it a METV after you leave and come back each time on a 60 day tourist visa. you can only game the system for so long.
Bryan *****
You are talking about the visa exempt 60 days which is not the same as getting an actual tourist visa. There are single entry and multi entry tourist visas to apply for. Multi entry is valid for 6 months with unlimited entry, no stated restrictions about how many times
Ian ******
OPBryan Lin METV still expects you to leave every 60 days according to the website
Rod *********
Ian Hojo - correct.
Language around visas and permits, and their differences, is not clear (and not just Thailand).
A visa essentially gives a level of confidence a traveller can depart home and travel to the country.
On arrival, and Immigration Officer will issue an entry permit and allowed duration of stay.
For a single entry tourist visa, the three months determines the window within which the visa must be ‘activated’ (to preserve the relevancy of the information).
On arrival at the border, an Immigration officer will issue an entry permit - and the period of allowed stay is usually aligned to the nature of the visa.
Language around visas and permits, and their differences, is not clear (and not just Thailand).
A visa essentially gives a level of confidence a traveller can depart home and travel to the country.
On arrival, and Immigration Officer will issue an entry permit and allowed duration of stay.
For a single entry tourist visa, the three months determines the window within which the visa must be ‘activated’ (to preserve the relevancy of the information).
On arrival at the border, an Immigration officer will issue an entry permit - and the period of allowed stay is usually aligned to the nature of the visa.
Ian ******
OPLarry Wheeler first METV visa
Larry *********
Ian Hojo okay i see the METV visa. i might apply for that one. or the Non-O.?
Tirthendu ********
Do 60 days Indonesia C1 visa + 60 days Thai+ 60 days Vietnam
Penne *******
New world. Ive heard this from multiple people.
Warren *********
Once you get the retirement visa you don't get any problems. In and out as you please
Mark ********
Ah,poor baby did they do something you didn't like😂
Mark ********
Man you are a clown🤡 You have to respond with memes as incapable of other interaction...
Dan *******
I’m not the one belittling strangers on the internet and carelessly insulting people who couldn’t care less about your mental stability. There how’s that pumpkin ? Please continue to argue with strangers on the internet. You’re hilarious.
What’s it like being a prison bride ? Were you paraded around the yard and traded for commissary snacks ?
What’s it like being a prison bride ? Were you paraded around the yard and traded for commissary snacks ?
Night *******
Why don't you make Singapore your base instead of Thailand?
Ian ******
OPNight Rider I like Thailand, I think that Singapore would be more expensive, I haven't been to Cambodia or Philippines yet so don't know what they are like, and Laos does not have a coastline.
Ramesh **************
Ian Hojo buddy, come to Malaysia. Food is great, people are friendly, its cheaper than Thailand (well our currency is appreciating…so that may change). We have tonnes of beaches and ecotourism. And its definitely not one dimensional like, our other neighbour..lol.
Unless, you want the “entertainment” like in Thailand…that you won’t get here.
Unless, you want the “entertainment” like in Thailand…that you won’t get here.
Barath *******
Ramesh Ruben Louis, unfortunately places like Penang, Malacca do not have swimmable beaches. Perhaps on the many islands where there may not be shopping malls and cinemas. Appreciate if you could direct me if any ☺️
Ian ******
OPRamesh Ruben Louis have just got back from there, love it. 👍
Barath *******
I as a Singaporean agree it's expensive to reside there. I left home in 2013 came back for a visit, prices of lodging, food and basic necessities has tripled.
I'm also escaping to Thailand, coming soon from Vancouver 🇨🇦
I'm also escaping to Thailand, coming soon from Vancouver 🇨🇦
Andy **********
Ian Hojo Singapore is fantastic but very one dimensional compared to Thailand, hardly surprising given its small size.
I have lived in Thailand for over a decade plus Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong and visited most of the other places and frankly, whatever the shortcomings of Thailand, and there are many, it has more positives than the other places and retains just about enough "edge" to keep things interesting.
Plus, looking at the decades ahead, it has very good medical care and should you require or desire it, your Thai "nursing home" is a far cry from the Uk equivalent !
I have lived in Thailand for over a decade plus Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong and visited most of the other places and frankly, whatever the shortcomings of Thailand, and there are many, it has more positives than the other places and retains just about enough "edge" to keep things interesting.
Plus, looking at the decades ahead, it has very good medical care and should you require or desire it, your Thai "nursing home" is a far cry from the Uk equivalent !
Roy *******
Ian Hojo Try Vietnam,very nice and much cheaper.45 days on arrival and can extend by 90 days online. Sorted.
Michael ********
They should do a snowbird visa its quite a big market, people i know who are getting away for the winter now limiting there stays to 90 days or going elsewhere
Donald **********
I got a Non O retirement extension in late November together with a multi re-entry permit. I’ve left and returned to Thailand on three separate occasions since with absolutely no issues from Immigration at Suvarnabhumi, other than a smile when I am handed back my passport and documents.
Nigel ********
I don’t think Thailand is the place for you.
Alex *****
Nigel Bunney exactly these idiotic things happen on a weekly basis. If you cant navigate entering properly probably better to go somewhere with a more well thought out immigration system.
Lynnette *******
As the IO suggested, a retirement visa might be better for this type of visiting. Don't think the TDAC is particularly relevant just because you put your UK flight on it.
Wannikea *********
Avoid female officers, was this at DMK or HKT?
Ian ******
OPWannikea Wanblee DMK
Nongnuch ********
Ian Hojo avoid female Immigration officers at all costs . .many make up their own rules. You got a multi entry Tourist Visa and you are elegible for a 60 days admitted stay stamp EVERY time you enter Thailand within the 6-months validity of the visa. THIS is what this visa allows
Inem *******
Nongnuch Kamdee this is true, when reentry at Suvannaphumi the female officer stop me and ask so many questions and so happen my TG capt friend pass by and ask มีปันหาเปาคุณแนมThen reply him mee nit noi khorab. The officer almost immediately stamp and released my passport. And whisper to the next counter officer ไอนี่มันไม่ใช่ทมดากูเล่นพิดคนแล้ว
You speak their language solved a lot of trouble
You speak their language solved a lot of trouble
Nongnuch ********
Ian Hojo it is your responsibility to immediately check if you get stamped in correctly while you are still standing at the entry booth. She obviously forgot to dial the 1 on her stamp. . .well, okay, as you were bound to fly back on April 4th anyways, you were right not making any more fuss
Ian ******
OPWannikea Wanblee stamp
Wannikea *********
Ian Hojo Yes it appears she F'd up and maybe on purpose, Dialed in a 7 and not a 17. Handwritten date or stamp?
Ian ******
OPNongnuch Kamdee 17 Feb to 7 April is roughly 49 days 🤔
Nongnuch ********
Ian Hojo she probably stamped you in correctly for 60 days, not until the expiry of the visa validity. Be aware - do not confuse the expiry of the visa validity with the expiry of the stamped stay permit! It is not the same
Mark ********
Ian Hojo You think they GAF😂😂😂😂
Ian ******
OPNongnuch Kamdee that is what I thought, but even though my METV runs until 17th April, she stamped my exit by 7th April.
I was going to make a fuss, but I am leaving on the 4th April, so I thought it best to avoid possible future confrontation, but I will email the London embassy to find out why why I was harassed, having paid 150 quid to the Thai government and abided by their rules.
I was going to make a fuss, but I am leaving on the 4th April, so I thought it best to avoid possible future confrontation, but I will email the London embassy to find out why why I was harassed, having paid 150 quid to the Thai government and abided by their rules.
Simon *****
I believe when you get the retirement visa and the re-entry permit, you won’t be questioned every time you leave and enter.
John **********
Simon Tan that's my experience.
Sylvester *********
Correct
Sebastian ********
Simon Tan absolutely correct.
John **********
The immigration officer is only doing their job. Best to remain polite and not take offence. I don't know the conversation you had but imagine it related to returning again on another Multiple Entry Tourist Visa. One is fine, more than one can be a problem
Wayne *******
@John *********
well stated John exactly they are enforcing the rules now and if they believe you are abusing then although you state I have done the right thing? You know as well as I do Thai immigration believes you are using the system to extend the stay in Thailand and immigration spell it get the correct long term visa don’t just assume what you are doing is correct because it’s called interpretation and it’s Thai immigration that dictates that.
Well stated John
Christian **********
I commiserate. The METV is a tourist visa. If it does not allow 180 days in Thailand then the description on the e-visa site ought to say as much and it should be named something else. It's ludicrous that posters and moderaters on Facebook should be offering the definition of a "tourist".
Ian ******
OPChristian Blessing it does state that you have to do a border run every 60 days, which is what I did, that is what annoyed me, I was only following their rules and it wasn't like I was crossing the border for a day, I was taking legit holidays to places I had never been before.
Ian ******
OPGraham Seal because it is presumed that you will come back again, otherwise, if you were not coming back you would save your money and go visa exempt
Graham ******
Ian Hojo it says you have to leave within the 60 days, not the same
Ian ******
OP@John *********
she was convinced that I was going to stay more than 6 months, totally ignoring the evidence that showed I would be gone before the 6 months were up. If they don't want people overwinter, they should not have the visa, I was only following advice from pages like this, otherwise I probably would have gone the visa exempt option, saved myself some money and form filling, and not been pulled up.
Dan *******
Your post is a bery to me. I’m sorry that this happened. I am coming back to Thailand later this year and want to apply for the METV. I’m not ready to retire and don’t want to apply for a retirement visa.
The situation you described doesn’t make any sense.
I’m currently in Vietnam because of how the government seems to be hostile to it’s visitors.
I too am a snowbird and come to Asia to escape the freezing cold weather in New England.
The situation you described doesn’t make any sense.
I’m currently in Vietnam because of how the government seems to be hostile to it’s visitors.
I too am a snowbird and come to Asia to escape the freezing cold weather in New England.
Jonathan ************
After 29 yrs living in thailand I can tell you the offensive assumptions are part of a deep seated xenophobia in the culture and attitudes of Thais. There is a lot of really great things to enjoy and experience in Thailand, but their legal system and attitude to foreigners sure isn’t one of them!
Steve ***********
Ian Hojo An immigration officer can ask as many questions and do as many investigations as they want to be satisfied your genuine there’s many overstayers and many scams to overstay or remain and when that officer stamps your passport it’s their stamp number or computer information that says they let you in and if you did something then it’s down to them .
Paul ******
Ian Hojo That was just one immigration officer out of thousands. I try not to take it personal when being interviewed in different countries, different immigration officers. 🙏🏼
Bob ******
Ian Hojo I would have asked for a supervisor. Next time get a immigration lawyers information and card. Preferablly a Thai one. Check what your rights are as a bonafide visa holder and pay for a letter from that lawyer to be written in Thai and in English. Addressed to Thai immigration. Singally your pretty powerless against a immigration officer. With legal back up your making their job a bit more difficult and they will think twice. The more facts you have and especially if your got certified copies noterised in Thailand the less you will get bothered. Also consider coming in through different airports. You have choices of many international airports and start your holiday there.
Paul ***********
@Bob *****
Australia is not cold mate, unless you are from Melbourne 🤣Bob ******
Ian Hojo By using a Thai lawyer its in their language and local. Makes a big difference. Also means you know your rights and have backup in Thailand. Also that you went to the trouble of doing that due to bad experiences in the past when all you wanted to do he was have a holiday and escape the cold. For me being here 31 years I have permanently escaped the cold - of Australia.
Ian ******
OP@Bob *****
I'm not brave or silly enough to attack them in their own country, hopefully, a letter to London will smooth it.Donald **********
Ian Hojo learn from your experiences and stop blaming everyone else for your situation. You didn’t pay for the advice you took. I’d advise a Non-O based on retirement for your next visit but be prepared to jump through some hoops to get a bank account and your 12 months retirement extension. If you are after a Yellow House Book, Pink ID card and driving licence too, be prepared to jump through some more. Land of Smiles so smiling gets you further than tantrums.
John **********
@Ian *****
overwinter and tourism are not the same thing
Jared **********
They’re not, but they do overlap.
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