This is all so confusing! I stayed in Thailand from June 2nd 2024 until 10th February 2025. A total of 254 days if my maths is correct! I visited Jomtien Immigration for an extra 60 days in early July, did three border runs end of August,October,and December,obtaining 60 days on each occasion. This being a total of 254 days. All achieved on visa exemption. I had no difficulty whatsoever. I was told by Thai Visa Service whom I booked with,that one is permitted 3 border runs a year. And I do know there is no limitations if travelling by air. I really do wish an actual expert whom is schooled in Immigration law would clarify the rules once and for all. Not just those whom are not experts,and only judge on their own experiences. I dearly love Thailand and I know the country values it's tourism industry very valuably. Since it receives a vast income from tourism. But this ambiguity could put potential tourists off,and tempt visitors to Cambodia,Laos,and the Philippines. All which are far more welcoming,less bureaucratic,and easier to enter. It never used to be this way,and a report I read recently by the TAT,cited that due to a decrease in tourists to Thailand already,many were looking elsewhere. I want/intend to visit Thailand again shortly,but confess I'm looking elsewhere. Morroco seems enticingly welcoming and attractive!

Not entirely,as they have to follow rules!

As I have been stating on this site on many occasions! Tourism is absolutely vital for it's contribution to the Thai economy! They will not want to harm that in any way!

All I can advise Ian is be very careful! Even if all intentions are honorable; remember the different cultures between you.

I speak from personal experience! I was married to my Thai wife for 10 years,now divorced for 12. I got a house built up in her village not far from Udon Thani,a beautiful bungalow. This was around . Unbeknown to me, the house was in her mum's name,a compulsive gambler. Even after our divorce I advised very strongly she return to Thailand to put in her name. We both lived in the UK at the time. Not realizing again at the time,that because my wife was married to a falang she couldn't actually own it! Archaic or what!? Thankfully she took my advice,returning to Thailand and put in her name. She now owns two houses,one in the UK as a result of our divorce. We have a beautiful mixed race daughter of 22 years studying at Newcastle University,so that is a ray of delight from a unfortunate situation. I made my decisions at the time so no room for regret or bitterness,and I love my daughter dearly!

Am retired now at 66,and do intend to head to the far east to live,most likely very soon; the UK is too expensive. Rather long-winded but I hope it helps! Good luck Ian!

I don't agree you are dealing with Professionals,and mood shouldn't enter into the equation; or are you doubting their professionalism? 😊 I worked for the government in the UK through the Armed forces and the Civil service for 35 years,and personal opinions/ feelings didn't come into it. And I'm sure the Thai authorities are just as professional! As for three entries, from June 2024 to February 2025, I received an extension at Jomtien once,and did three border runs,receiving 60 days on each occasion! Didn't have any issue at all,but obviously cost me money!

No one honestly has an idea of how things will " progress," including the Thai authorities,with the greatest of respect! But I'll keep repeating the mantra of how absolutely vital the tourism industry is to Thailand! Inshallah!

Absolutely! But within the law! And how important is Tourism to Thailand? I do love the country,and was married to a Thai lady for 12 years,with a mixed race daughter of 22 years old. But I have this strong sentiment, that the potential of Thai protectionism is heading in the wrong direction! I certainly hope not! But neighbouring countries Cambodia and Laos(both with cheaper standards of living) will be observing in the wings, and neither are as potentially restrictive upon entry. Though it is interesting to note that a lot,but not all,of chatter on this site is very speculative. Apart from those whom work in immigration. Of which I have a few contacts also, involved in the Pattaya Expats' club!

No they're not,they just represent the law,which is slightly different! And as I mentioned there is no law about the amount of times one can enter Thailand by air. So that is the law! And do the Thai authorities want tourism,I suggest so with the income it generates! Never had an issue, possibly always a first time; but then I take care,but don't worry about accidents,car or plane, or getting out of bed in the morning! Life is a risk,endex!

It is not getting away with anything! Entering Thailand by air on a visa exemption is perfectly legal. There are no limits enshrined in law. And Immigration Officers working for the government have to adhere to rules; the only discretion they have is to work within the law.

Stop panicking folks please! It is only the same details required as on the paper form,now digital! And the Thai authorities have said they'll assist people at the airport literally just before going through immigration if necessary! They want to try and make it easier for genuine tourists/ visitors! They need and want your dosh!

Plus I've noticed that several folks have commented that they'll visit neighbouring countries, if Thailand's bureaucracy makes entry too complicated! The Thais will not want that!

Absolutely! Hence I refuse to believe/accept all the doomsaying on this site,re restrictions on entry to Thailand! Though I would suggest Thailand's share of importance/ income is a lot more vital then say more advanced economies. Contributing to a far higher percentage to the economy,than say the UK and Germany. The latter having the 4th largest economy,and the former being the 6th largest. Thailand is well behind that.