The unilateral demand you refer to is having a TM30 on file, a law that has existed since 1979. If you been here as long as you say, surely you would have had experience with it previously or at the very least read about it.

And as for "not required elsewhere," it has been in Chiang Mai for years - in fact, Ive just filed a 90 day report and it was the first thing they looked for, as with any transaction.

@David *************

would depend on your visa/entry history. Presuming you don't have one before now, it won't be a problem crossing into Laos at the Chiang Khong/Huay Xai border and coming straight back. If you have a history of COVID extensions or volunteer visas, different considerations.

Jo is right but only the if you've already done one or two bounces (including flying out and then coming back - there's a limit of two per year at a land border), then you really should take a break before returning.

You will only need the TM30 for when you do your extension - CM Immigration insists on it. Legally, the accommodation provider is meant to file one within 24 hours of your arrival but not all Airbnbs do.

Visa exempt entries at a land border are limited to 2 per year. There are no other limits but as Stuart says, eventually you will get pulled up.

@Paul ******

Correct, it's an IDP.

2014

The nearest land bordering crossing is Chiang Khong in Chiang Rai. Green Bus runs there from the Arcade Bus Station in Wat Ket or you can use a private van service.

Don-Laura Traub if flying south is an option, you could throw Singapore into the mix as well. Udon Thani flight then bus to the border should in theory be the cheapest option and the quickest.

They've got until April but where ever your friends go, remind them to book an appointment well in advance.

@Graham *****

The Thai Embassy is 22km from the border - you get to the border and then use transport to go to the embassy. Source - I've done it twice.

Fly to Udon Thani then get the bus to the border. There's no direct flight from CNX to Vientiane but there is to Udon Thani.