Will I need to provide proof of onward travel when entering Thailand with a METV?

Dec 4, 2017
7 years ago
Danny **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi Guys, I have a 6 month METV, which the last day to enter is before Dec. 22. I'm coming back into the country in a couple of days. Will I be asked by the airline or immigration to show proof of onward travel? Or, any other concerns?

US passport, and have been on Non-imm O's and about 4 METV's over the last 7 or so years. I have 20k baht on hand and am prepared to get an onward travel ticket (via BestOnwardTravel) if needed.

Thanks in advance for any advice. Cheers! :)
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user seeks advice on whether they will be required to show proof of onward travel when entering Thailand on a 6-month METV, given their history with Non-imm O visas and METVs. Comments highlight varying experiences with immigration, with some users noting that while it’s not common to be asked, it’s advisable to be prepared with proof of funds and onward travel, as regulations can change and scrutiny at immigration may vary, especially with a complicated passport history.
Danny **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Noteworthy Update:

Was asked what I was doing in Thailand. Asked if I had a GF here. Asked how long am I going to stay. First time being asked any questions out of all my entries. I had not been asked for any of the proofs: neither cash, nor ticket, nor hotel reservations (though I had legitimate proofs of all at the ready). Dressed smartly, not like a backpacker.

I was however verbally interviewed with suspicious tones. Three different officers were involved. Changed desks once. I'm not sure if it's because I have been here over 5 years & often, or the dozens of stamps in my passport from other countries here in Asia, the US, and Europe.. not sure what specifically would raise their concerns. Perhaps others have experienced the same recently. It just seems like in the last two years, going through this process has gone from slightly anxious, to very worrisome.

I made it through. Standard 60 day stamp. But I have a feeling I was lucky because I was traveling with friends who are enrolled in the expensive Thai Elite visa program, which includes 2 gold uniformed staff that shuttled us through the airport walkways and ushered us into the VIP line. They went ahead of me, and, of coarse, proceeded instantly with no problems. Had I not told the immigration officers I was here to visit them (pointing to the Thai Elite VIPs that had just passed through their desks), I might possibly not have received the standard stamp.
Jason ******
You have absolutely nothing to worry about.
Danny **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Unfortunately, that statement was incorrect.
Danny **********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Cool, just checking. I have a lot of history in my passport (lots of Thailand, but also tons of stamps from other regions) and last time I came through a month ago, the immigration officer stared at my passport, flipping through all the pages for a full 5 minutes, seemingly making notes in the computer, before finally letting me pass.
Ginny *********
Always good to be prepared! They are often changing things or could pick any moment to scrutinize
Ginny *********
I entered recently on the same and was given 60d from my date of entry, past the expiry of my visa. No questions asked.
Tod *********
Anyone could be asked to show the 3 proof ofz (onward travel, adequate funds and a hotel booking). That people will post they weren't asked doesn't mean you won't be asked.

I'd say the chances are small you would be asked BUT I'd have the 20K baht in cash just in case.
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