I just want to comment that it's most excellent that you reply to all comments. I always find this awesome that you tubers do this whilst understanding that when they get to 100K subscribers they may not be able to. Good luck with the channel sir.
Thank you very much for a Very informative and certainly one of the better videos on this subject.I have a friend arriving in a few weeks who has miscalculated 3 months as 90 days hence the 30 day extension is no use to him as it falls 3 days short.! Can he ? Exit Thailand and get a further 60 days visa exemption ? Idealy a border run ?
Hi Robert, yes, your friend will have no problem getting an additional 60 day visa exemption when he re-enters, particularly if he re-enters by air. To be absolutely certain, it could be good to spend 2 or 3 days in the country to which he makes the visa run. I like going to Penang, Malaysia. He can visit the Blue Mansion and Penang Hill. Or, Vientiane is also good place to visit. Don't miss Buddha Park and walk up the victory monument. All the best... Bob
Hello Robert. I'm leaving for Thailand for 5 months and 17 days in January. I have a round trip ticket. If I go the route of a visa exemption and extension will I be required to show a outbound ticket before the end of the 60 days when I suppose to leave Thailand? I was going to get a METV but I was told it's a waste of money since I will be staying less than 6 months. You think I will be okay with my round trip ticket showing a stay of 5 months 17 days. since I will be leaving in 60 days and returning back to thailand until my return flight in June?
Hi Rock, yes you should be fine using the visa exemptions. Normally, when you arrive in Thailand via air, you will be asked for your passport and the boarding pass for the ticket on which you just arrived. There are signs indicating this at the airport. You are normally NOT asked for an outbound ticket, hotel reservation, or anything else. The same is true when you re-enter Thailand on a visa exemption. You are allowed two visa exemptions per calendar year so you should have no problem. But, you say "will I be required to show a outbound ticket before the end of the 60 days when I suppose to leave Thailand?" You are NOT required to leave after 60 days. You can get a 30 day extension at any tourist office. ruclips.net/video/2Nz3GaUhaQM/видео.html That way, you can stay 90 days, leave Thailand and return on another visa exemption, and stay for another 2 months and 17 days (getting another extension). So, for your visit to Thailand, you would be using 2 visa exemptions, one when you arrive and another after 90 days. Let me know if you have questions about this... all the best... Bob
Hello repeat travels. It has always been the case that when you enter for a second time on a visa exemption, they MAY give you a warning not to use another exemption until the next calendar year. Sometimes you don't get this warning until you have used your 3rd or 4th exemption, but after you get the warning, you can't enter again on a visa exemption. Are you saying that the rule has changed with the new 60 day exemption? Are you saying that they are enforcing only 2 entries on visa exemptions per calendar year and they are not giving warnings? This would be a change. Because this is an important comment, I want to make sure that I understand what happened in your case. What do you mean by 'pulled out'? Did they deny you entry? Did they give you a warning? The scenario you describe isn't clear to me. You entered Thailand twice on visa exemptions, then you left Thailand for 3 months and re-entered Thailand on a visa exemption. You got 'pulled out' on this third entry? Did you get a warning when you entered on your second visa exemption? I'm very interested in your comment, so if you can clarify, that would be great. ...all the best ...Bob
Hi Repeat travels, I was hoping that you would post a clarification of your comment. What did you mean when you said that you were 'pulled out'? Were you given a warning? Were you not allowed in? Is it correct that this happened when you entered for a third time on a visa exemption during the calendar year? ...your comment is important for my viewers but a few more details are needed to understand exactly what your experience was... hoping to hear from you... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 I was pulled to back room and lady told me I can’t be entering on tourist stamp. I was let in but they verified my exit ticket. And told me get a visa. New rules is 2 entries per year on tourist stamp. You might get thru more but this is what’s posted on embassy websites now.
Hi 7KIslands, Interestingly, they use the Western Calendar for this, so the calendar year just started on Jan 1. There is no longer any proof of funds or salary required, and there is no place on the application where you can supply this. There are a few European countries, Italy for example, that do ask for proof if finances. It they want this, they'll email you separately. But, in general, they don't care about your finances or income for a tourist visa. ...good luck with your application... Bob
Thanks Bob, interesting info as always! My partner and children have just been accepted for a DTV visa so we will be heading out in 9 days :) unfortunately at this stage we are not married so as far as I know I am not eligible for a DTV on her account as the children are! I’ve just applied for the SEV just to get myself there and try to iron out any issues while there. Would you have any suggestions regarding being included on her DTV?
Hi Kohtime... My experience is really with tourist visas. I'd love to help with your question, but this is really outside my expertise. Would be great if you could get on your partner's DTV, but I have no idea about whether you can do this, or how to do it. Once you get to Thailand, you might want to talk to a real visa agent, because this is an unusual question. The visa agents have connections with immigration, so they are able to do things that we ordinary people can't do. I'd give that a try. I've used Thai visa centre in Bangkok grace@thaivisacentre.com and TMT visa in Phuket tmtservicephuket@outlook.com. Both are good. And I really wish you good luck with this, having the DTV is great... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thanks Bob, I understand it’s a new and complex situation. The plan with getting the SEV was for this very reason… to get my foot in the door then address the issue with an agent who may be able to put in a “favourable word”….. alternatively a Thai wedding on the beach, may be on the cards ;)
Thanks, Robert. Im curious: How long the 60-day on arrival visa exception will be offered ? How much notice do you think Thailand immigration will give if they decide to change it back to 30 days on arrival ? Reason for asking is simply the timing (how early) I can book my flight. Thanks for all you do !
Hi Sean, it's a good question. My impression was that the 60 day exemption is intended to be a permanent change. I suspect that might change if immigration has some problem with it, but I don't see it ending anytime soon. My understanding is that national revenue is down in the industrial sector and the government wants to make this up in tourism. The 60 day exemption is thought to be helping. So, I don't see this ending in the near future, but, of course, there's no way to be sure... I think it's reasonably safe to book a flight in advance... all the best.... Bob
Thanks for posting this video. I do have a question. How many times of tourist visa are allowed in calender year? 1 time only? Or 2 times? Or more. The further question is can we combine both vise exemption and tourist visa in a calender year? If so, how many combinations are allowed? Appreciate your help ❤
Hi Henry, As far as I know, you can get as many tourist visas as you're willing to pay for. There's no rule on the combination because (again, as far as I know) you can get as many tourist visas as you want. It's really just the exemptions that are limited. As far as I know there isn't a 'firm' rule on exemptions. You will always get at least two exemptions in a calendar year. If you get a warning with your second exemption not to use another in the calendar year, then your limit would be two. If you don't get a warning, then you can continue to use exemptions until you get a warning. So, the number is at least two, but it could be more. But you will know when to stop because you'll get the warning.... since, I believe, you can get as many visas as you want, I think the question of the combinations doesn't apply... hope that answers the question... Bob
@@henrywhite8202 Henry, there is a loose rule that you can get two visa exemptions per calendar year. The way it really works is that you can enter on visa exemptions until an immigration officer tells you not to enter again on a visa exemption during the current calendar year. But, you can certainly get two exemptions per year. You can't enter more than once on a single visa exemption. Each time you enter Thailand, you're getting a new visa exemption. Hope that helps... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 After two questions I wrote here, I think finally I come to know what is the right question to ask here. I entered Thai with SETV , and read the visa email again just a few minutes ago. It says: "Date of grant: 12 July 2022. Visa must be used by: 09 October 2022". It means I have a period of 90 days after SETV is granted. This is clear now. So, if it is METV, the visa should be issued within a 180 days? . So the visa email should write：“Date of grant 12 July 2022。 Visa must be used by 09 January 2023”？Appreciate and enjoy taking with you!
Hi! We entered on a visa exemption and were planning on staying 30 days but now (we like it) and would like to stay for 60 days. So we don’t do anything? Is that right? Thank you!
Hi Markle, if you arrived on a visa exemption, you got stamped in for 60 days, so you're fine as long as you leave on or before the date they stamped in your passport, which should be 60 days from the date you arrived... and OF COURSE you like it. If you want to stay longer, you can go to any immigration office, fill out a form TM.7, pay 1900 baht, and stay another 30 days... enjoy! ...Bob
Hi there, I'm returning to Thailand tomorrow: 23 December hoping to get another 60 tourists visa but i have just noticed my last tourist Visa expires tomorrow 23rd December I've been out of the country for a week , do you think this will be an issue as my previous visa will still be current for tomorrow the 23rd?
Hi Robert... I'm going to guess that what you're calling a visa is actually a 'visa exemption'. That is, when you entered Thailand you didn't have a visa that you applied for ahead of time, you just arrived and they stamped you in for 2 months... is that right? When you left Thailand, that visa exemption was cancelled. It's not still valid. When you re-enter, you can get another 60 day visa exemption (which you can extend by an additional 30 days at any immigration office). If this is only your second visa exemption for the calendar year, you shouldn't have any problem at all re-entering... no worries... all the best... Bob
Robert, Maybe you can help me please. My name is John I'm 75 years old, I have a few questions listed :- 1. I can get on a plane in Australia to depart to Thailand Arrive in Bangkok Airport and go through Customs / Immigration etc. and all I need to present to the Officers is my Current Australian Passport. 2. I have no need to produce documentation to the Officers regarding where I will be staying in my Tourism period. ( Please note been to Bangkok 8 times ) 3. Do not have to show my return Air Fare Ticket. 4. Do I have to pay any Fee to Enter Thailand ( Suvarnabhumi Airport ) 5. Do I need to apply in writing to someone about = Visa Exemption (60 Days)
Hi John, 1. Yes. All you need to do is arrive at the airport and show your passport and your boarding pass from your arriving flight. 2. They have not been asking people to provide any information about where they are staying. (They can theoretically ask this, but they have not been asking, and there are signs at immigration saying that you only need to show your passport and boarding pass). 3. They have not been asking for a return or onward ticket. 4. There is no fee to enter. 5. You don't need to do anything in advance of your arrival. So, you don't have to do anything except bring your passport and have the boarding pass from your flight. However, since you say that you have been to Bangkok 8 times, I should add that my answers assume that you have not had any previous immigration problem in the past. For example, if you overstayed a visa on one of your previous trips, they COULD ask for more information when you enter on the visa exemption. But, if all of your previous visits were normal, then you will have no problem entering on the visa exemption... so, enjoy your trip! ...Bob
Hi Henry, sure thing. I have used TMT Visa in Phuket tmtservicephuket@outlook.com and Thai Visa Centre in Bangkok grace@thaivisacentre.com . I had good experiences with both. Thai Visa Centre is a bit cheaper.... good luck... Bob
Is entering as Visa Exempt the same as VOA Visa On Arrival? If yes, then maybe an advantage to secure a single entry Tourist Visa online before leaving your country is a benifit, versus waiting in line at the airport to file for Visa Exempt? Or you do not wait in line to file, but rather just show your Passport? I am a 64 year-old American with a passport that has plenty of time available on it, and I wish to visit Thailand starting next month, for 90 days. Which, as you say, is doable after the first 60 days, you can file an extension for 30 days, for a total of 90 days. This is where I get confused as I would enter with a round-trip ticket with just under 90 days as the return. Will this raise a flag at the airport immigration, as I have not filed yet for the 30 day extension? Thanks
Hi Vandy, they are NOT the same. There is a set of countries for which visa exemption is supported and another set of countries for which visa on arrival is supported. The one that you get depends on what country you come from. If you come from a country for which visa exemption is supported, then visa on arrival is not an option for you. Here's a list of countries eligible for visa exemption: oslo.thaiembassy.org/en/page/visa-exemption Here's a list for visa on arrival: oslo.thaiembassy.org/en/page/visa-on-arrival-voa A visa exemption is much better.... generally countries for visa-on-arrival are countries for which it's difficult to get a single-entry tourist visa... generally, for visa exempt, you wait on a relatively short line at the airport... hope that helps... Bob
Hi Henry, yes, when you are in Thailand on an METV, you do need to be sure that a TM30 has been filed covering each day of your stay. If you stay at a hotel or hostel, this will normally be done by the hotel or hostel and you won't even know about it, but if you stay at a private home or an AirBnB, you must be sure that the owner files a TM30 for you. All the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Always grateful to your reply. I rented a condo via an property agent on a 12-month basis for last three years. The landlord is never seen, and the agent is always busy. Can I file TM30 by myself?
@@henrywhite8202 The TM.30 must be filled out by the 'housemaster' who is generally the owner of the property. You can bring the signed form to immigration, but you can't sign it for the housemaster. And you're going to need a TM.30 when you apply for visa extensions. So, I think you'll need to get the landlord or the agent to do this. BUT, you say you've rented this place for three years. How have you gotten visa extensions in the past? ...all the best ...Bob
Hi Robert, I wanted your advice on this situation... I came to Thailand in April on a multiple-entry-visa which I extended by 30 days after the first 60, I was then in other parts of Asia for 2-months before returning & continuing to use the METV which I will extend this month. By the end of the extension I would have been here around 180-days this year. If I leave then come back within a week (still 2024) after the next extension expires do you think it's likely to cause red flags? By this time my METV will have expired so I'll be re-entering but this time on an exemption. Maybe the fact that I was previously here on an METV and not exemptions may be favourable? If this goes well and I get another 90-days after this with the exemption+extension what do you recommend doing for visa options as I wanted to take out a contract on a condo for 6-months this time. Thanks for your advice.
Hi! Great question. When you re-enter Thailand on a visa exemption after your METV has expired, you should have no problem at all. This will be your first visa exemption of the calendar year and they won't give you any problem at all. After 90 days you will leave and re-enter on a second visa exemption. It is POSSIBLE that on this entry they will warn you not to use another exemption in the same calendar year. But, with the two exemptions together, you will have your 180 days. If you don't get a warning, you can continue to get visa exemptions until you do get a warning not to use another. So, you should be fine with the plan you describe. I have yet to hear of a case in which immigration has actually denied someone entry for using too many visa exemptions without first giving them a warning. Of course, the caveat is that any individual immigration officer can do whatever they want... but I think you're quite safe. Enjoy your continued travels. Btw... I currently have a six month lease on a condo in Bangkok and I'm really enjoying it ruclips.net/video/18y1Wvr45SQ/видео.html (I have a retirement visa)... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thanks for your reply & insight. So I guess if you wanted to stay long-term you could mix things up like get 2 SETV per year and 2 exemptions...it would be going over the 180-days but so is the above situation.
@@RD-om3nj Exactly. But the problem with using 2 SETVs is that you need to return to your home country for the second SETV if you want to get the SETV via evisa. That's why the METV is so good. You can get close to 270 days and then get at least 180 days via visa exemption. Some people claim that there is some sort of rule that you are not allowed to spend more than 180 days per year in Thailand on a tourist visa. I have never heard of such a rule being enforced and I don't believe this rule exists. So, I definitely wouldn't worry about this. Enjoy... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Oh ok, I thought it was just the METV that you could only do from your home country so I thought the SETV would be a good option going forward. Thanks for your help.
@@RD-om3nj It IS possible to get an SETV in a neighboring country, but you can't use the evisa process. You can use a visa agent in that country or go in person to the Thai embassy. I've never done this myself, but it can be done... my guess is that it would be a hassle.... Bob
Hello everyone, Thank you for replies in advance. I have a question regarding if I will be able to re enter thailand in late january regarding my prior visits in the past year. 1st trip- visa exempt I stayed from March 20th to April 17th (2024) roughly 29 days 2nd trip- visa exempt now with new rule allowing me to stay 60 days I stayed from August 19th to october 15th and that day I did my first border run to cambodia and returned the same day. I then stayed till november 16th. but was stamped until dec 16th (2024) (August 19 to October 15 around 60 days, border run, October 15 to november 16th around 32 days) Around roughly 120 Days total with visa exempt stays in thailand in 2024. Im planning on Flying in Around January 18th by air for another 56 Days visa exempt with a returning flight already booked. Will I have any issues with immigration with this travel history? Also i Am a Canadian passport holder if that matters. Thank you im just a bit worried because everything is booked and my anxiety is kicking in.
Hi Laylow, I don't think you should worry at all in your situation. In the past, the new calendar year clears your record, AND it has always been the case that you will be given a warning before actually being denied entry. I really don't think you should worry about being denied entry on this trip, particularly since you are arriving by air. Enjoy... Bob
@@LaylowMastery Yes, I definitely understand your concern, but I think you will be fine. I've never heard of a case where someone was actually denied re-entry without first being given a warning. You might get a warning not to enter again for a while, but I don't believe that you will be denied entry. And you've also got the calendar year reset working for you and you're entering by air. I really don't think you'll have a problem. In the worst case you'll get a warning.... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Again thank you for the quick response. Also i heard people say on reddit the calander year does not reset the exempts, and also 1 more concern is is there a way i would have gotten a warning and not being told, maybe they wrote it in the computer because I dont think i got a warning
@@LaylowMastery You know, I heard about this reddit thing so I looked at it a while back. I thought they were saying that the 'reset' didn't apply anymore because there was no longer a limit on entries. I couldn't verify this anywhere, but I know what you're talking about. But, I think you would know it if you got a warning. From the stories I've heard, it's pretty explicit... Bob
Hi Scottie. When you leave Thailand your visa exemption (or single entry tourist visa, whichever you have) becomes invalid. But, if this is the first visa exemption you've gotten this year, you will have no problem re-entering on another visa exemption. You should have no problem doing what you describe. But it is always a bit easier to do your re-entry by air rather than a land crossing (just my opinion).... enjoy... Bob
SETV 60 day + 30 extension = 90 + 1st Visa ex. 60 + 30 = 90 + 2nd Visa ex. 60 + 30 = 90 Total = 270 days assuming you don't get warning on the 1st re-entry. Right? So to prevent the warning if I enter in July, my 2nd visa ex. will be on the next calendar year, and after the 270 day I can try to get the 2nd visa ex. because I'm on on a new calendar year, and if I'm lucky that will give a total of 360 days in a row... am I right? 😵💫 Of course METV will be much simpler, I'm just curious if my SETV logic is correct.
Yes, 100%... but remember that immigration can, in the end, do whatever they want. So, for example, they might decide to ignore the rule that your count of visa exemptions resets with the new calendar year. But, what you're proposing should work. Not only is the METV simpler, it avoids the possibility that, when you re-enter on a visa exemption, you will be told to stay a few days in the neighboring country. But, your logic is definitely correct... all the best... Bob
Hi Bob, I'm looking too stay in Thailand just 2 days under 3 months, do I still need too get tourist visa? Or can i just get the 60 day on entry then get the 30 days extension? Also with the 2nd method is it guaranteed I get 60 days in entry and 30 days will most likely be granted?
Hi Trillz... First, I want to clarify that we're actually talking about 90 days rather than 3 months. Thai immigration assumes that a 'month' is always 30 days. So, you're talking about 90 days. And yes, with the second method you are guaranteed to get 90 days. So, if you want to stay for 88 days, that will work perfectly. You can apply for your extension when you have 45 days left on your 60 day visa exemption stamp, so you can apply for your extension fifteen days after you arrive in Thailand (or you could wait until closer to the expiration of the stamp if you want). When you get the 30 day extension, it doesn't matter what day you get the extension, it is always dated to expire 30 days after your 60 days visa exemption expires, so you always get the full 90 days no matter when you get the extension. I have several videos about getting the extension, it's very simple. It is rare that an extension would be denied. As long as you don't have some unusual situation, it will be granted. So, enjoy your 88 days in Thailand! ...all the best... Bob
If you used your exemption visa to get into Thailand from say october-december 2024. Would you have a fresh 2 more entrances from january-june? Since it's a new calender year?
Hi Zakakabai, yes. The immigration rules clearly state that the limitation on the number of exemptions is 'per calendar year'. So, you would start fresh in the new year. However, I have to add the disclaimer that an individual immigration officer can, and sometimes will, do whatever they want. They do get the final say. But yes, the count of exemptions starts fresh in the new calendar year... all the best... Bob
@@draiggochherp You may be correct. I was not aware of this change. I have not found this reported on any 'official' site, but I did find this unofficial reference aseannow.com/topic/1333235-60-day-visa-exemptions-are-now-unlimited-at-land-borders Did you find this change posted on any government website? If this is true, then land/sea arrivals will be treated the same as air arrivals. However, it is very important to note the following: "It's important to note that while the frequency of entries has become more flexible, travelers should be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of their visits and sufficient financial means, as Thai immigration officials may assess the legitimacy of repeated entries." For as long as I'm aware, the number of entries by air has always been 'officially' unlimited, however, immigration officials will often give warnings to those making repeated re-entries. Once a warning is given, you can no longer be guaranteed your next visa exemption. This is why I have always told people not to count on getting more than two exemptions without returning to their home country but that they can continue to re-enter until they get a warning. Anyway, if you can point to an official website with these new rules, that would be great. I haven't been able to find this. If I can find information on this, I'll make a video. Right now, the situation seems a bit unclear. I heard recently that at least one land crossing has enforced a requirement that you need to stay out of the country for 2 days before re-entering ruclips.net/video/a8crlU0Ctiw/видео.html. Anyway, it you have any links to official info on this, that would be great... thanks! Bob
Hello, I am very confused and I am having a hard time finding some easy answers to a few questions. Can you please help me? I live in Georgia United States. I have been to Thailand once without a visa. I was there to visit take an ESL course. I left and came back home. I met someone who is Thai online we plane to get married. I will be leaving after Thanksgiving. Once I am there we will register our marriage. We do not want to be apart after we get married. But I have to come back due to my mother’s health after a year or before. We want to apply for a visa for him to come back to the United States. Once my mother is doing better and I finish my degree we want to go back to live in Thailand. The visa process can be lengthy for him to come to the US. Should I get a visa to enter? If so which visa? We need a visa that will allow me to stay until the visa for the US goes through which we still are researching this too. I do not have 400,000 baht and neither does he which is a requirement for a spouse visa. Any suggestions which visa or no visa I should use? Any suggestions will help. Thank you so much for your help and advice. 😊
Hi Mel. Here's my suggestion. Get a Multi-Entry Tourist visa for $200. This will allow you to stay nearly 9 months in Thailand, making a couple of border runs (see ruclips.net/video/wpOLdgjF-2g/видео.html). Then you can get at least an additional 180 days by entering on two visa exemptions. This is more than a year and should be enough time for you to arrange the marriage visa to the US. You might need an agency to help with this. I have used Thai Visa Centre in Bangkok grace@thaivisacentre.com I think they are trustworthy and the prices are reasonable (but working with an agent IS expensive). Let me know how everything works out... and don't hesitate to ask more questions... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thank you so much for the advice. We were going to try to do it ourselves. But may keep that as an option if we can get help with finances from our families. I really appreciate the suggestions. I really enjoyed your video for the help with tones too. Have a wonderful week.
@@MelMoonWandee I think it's very reasonable to try to do it yourself. And I also wish you the best of luck with your Thai studies. Keep me posted on what you do... all the best... Bob
I infer from what you say that the length of time spent in the country on each visa exemption is not taken into consideration. So, for example, someone couldn’t have more than two vacations per year on visa exemptions. Is that correct ?
Hi Steve, that's right. If you arrive in Thailand from your home country, visit Cambodia three days later, stay in Cambodia for a week, and then return to Thailand, you've used two Thai visa exemptions. It doesn't matter how long you stay in Thailand on each exemption. Remember, it's POSSIBLE that you'll be allowed more than two visa exemptions in a calendar year. You'll know that you can't use any more exemptions when you get a warning on entry not to use any more exemptions in the current calendar year. I've never hard of a case where someone was actually denied entry to Thailand on a visa exemption without being first being given this warning on a previous entry. Immigration does record these warnings in your electronic file. ...all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 No it is not correct. The two Visa Exempt entries per calendar year by land border (note, not by air) was discontinued in July when the 60 days entryb came in. The calendar year now has no effect on Visa Exempt entries.
@@draiggochherp You may be correct. I was not aware of this change. I have not found this reported on any 'official' site, but I did find this unofficial reference aseannow.com/topic/1333235-60-day-visa-exemptions-are-now-unlimited-at-land-borders Did you find this change posted on any government website? If this is true, then land/sea arrivals will be treated the same as air arrivals. However, it is very important to note the following: "It's important to note that while the frequency of entries has become more flexible, travelers should be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of their visits and sufficient financial means, as Thai immigration officials may assess the legitimacy of repeated entries." For as long as I'm aware, the number of entries by air has always been 'officially' unlimited, however, immigration officials will often give warnings to those making repeated re-entries. Once a warning is given, you can no longer be guaranteed your next visa exemption. This is why I have always told people not to count on getting more than two exemptions without returning to their home country but that they can continue to re-enter until they get a warning. Anyway, if you can point to an official website with these new rules, that would be great. I haven't been able to find this. If I can find information on this, I'll make a video. Right now, the situation seems a bit unclear. I heard recently that at least one land crossing has enforced a requirement that you need to stay out of the country for 2 days before re-entering ruclips.net/video/a8crlU0Ctiw/видео.html. Anyway, it you have any links to official info on this, that would be great... thanks! Bob
I entered this time without having retirement visa. First, to board the plane, I wasn't asked for any return ticket, but I needed to show accomodation proof for the lenght of stay I answered. Luckily, I had my blue book of ownwership with me. On arrival, I saw the eyes of the officer rolling like slut machine when he entered my passport into the reader. In 20 years, I have unusual lenght of IN/OUT list. He asked me, Why are you here, I tend him the blue book already in hand. After long checking, he asked me if I have a visa!!! If people think they can stay all year long with 60 days visa renewed, know that after 180 days, you will be asked to pay yearly income tax which can be a month or two revenu.
Hi Hugues. Really interesting comment. A lot here so I'd like to break it down a bit. "I entered this time without having retirement visa." Can I ask how long you had the retirement visa? Was there a reason why you didn't renew it? (just curious, I think you may have mentioned this in a previous comment but I didn't remember) "First, to board the plane, I wasn't asked for any return ticket, but I needed to show accommodation proof for the length of stay I answered." Very unusual that the airline asked for proof of accommodation. Can I ask what airline this was and what airport you departed from? There's no question that Thai immigration needs to do a better job of communicating with the airlines as to what the visa rules are, particularly for the visa exemption since so many people are entering on exemptions now. "In 20 years, I have unusual length of IN/OUT list." So probably not surprising that the immigration officer wanted to take a closer look. It's probably unusual for someone with your history to be entering on a visa exemption (but perfectly legal, of course). You were trying to enter on a visa exemption, right? "I tend him the blue book already in hand. After long checking, he asked me if I have a visa!!!" Not so surprising. I doubt many people who enter on a visa exemption own property in Thailand. "If people think they can stay all year long with 60 days visa renewed, know that after 180 days, you will be asked to pay yearly income tax which can be a month or two revenue." Now here's where I'm confused. You talk about "60 days visa renewed". Were you trying to enter on a visa? I thought that you were trying to enter on a visa exemption. Can you clarify? It is not difficult to spend more than 180 days in Thailand on a combination of visa exemptions and visas. You can do this easily with a multi-entry tourist visa. And, of course, you can do this with a retirement visa. You are suggesting that if you spend more than 180 days per year in Thailand, "you will be asked to pay yearly income tax which can be a month or two revenue." I don't know of any case in which someone entering Thailand on a tourist visa or visa exemptions has been asked to pay Thai taxes. Did this happen to you? Do you know of someone who actually experienced this? I have simply not heard of this. Most countries have "double tax treaties" with Thailand so that visitors do not have to pay taxes in Thailand if they paid taxes in their home country. Even in the case of retirees, I have not heard of income being taxed in Thailand. The only case I know of where visitors are taxed is the case in which the visitor has a work visa and is generating income in Thailand. Many expats stay in Thailand year round and are not required to file taxes. Do you have information about cases in which visitors to Thailand who are not working in Thailand have been required to pay Thai taxes. Now, if someone spends the year in Thailand on a retirement visa or tourist visa AND they made money on foreign investments and didn't pay taxes on this in their home country, then the Thai revenue service would tax them. But, this is a very rare case. Or, if you ran an AirBnB in Thailand and made money on this in Thailand, you would probably be taxed, but, in that case, you might also be in trouble for working in Thailand without a work visa. I general, I have not heard of tourists or retirees who have been taxed for staying more than 180 days per year in Thailand. If you know of such cases, please let me know. Since Thailand closed the loophole on foreign investment this year (aimed at wealthy Thai citizens), there have been persistent rumors of visitors being taxed. I have not heard of cases where this has actually happened. I'd certainly be interested if you had more information on this, and I suspect that many of my viewers would be interested also... thanks for the comment! all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 I want to warn to those who think they can stay longer than 180 a year with 60 day visa exemption, the income tax man will be rejoiced to pull at least a month of revenue from you.
@@hugueslecorre4893 Hugues, I have a responsibility to my viewers to make sure that my channel contains no misinformation. You are saying that people who stay more than 180 days a year on visa exemptions will be taxed. I do not know of a single case in which this has occurred. I also don't know of a case in which someone on a tourist visa has been taxed. I asked in my reply to you if you could describe a case in which this has actually occurred, but you didn't supply this information. If you believe that people on visa exemptions (or even tourist visas) who stay more than 180 days in Thailand in a year are taxed by Thailand, then please let me know why you believe this to be true. Have you encountered any cases in which this has happened? I have never heard of such cases... all the best... Bob
Hi Sweatshirt... Normally you get a warning before you are actually denied entry. If you didn't get a warning on your previous border runs before April, then you might get a warning when you re-enter after 5 months, but you won't be denied entry.... all the best... Bob
What document's need to show on emigration to take VISA EXEMPTION IS for 60 DAYS. I change my passport already . But i was staying in Thailand from November 2023 to February 2024 and from April 2024 to July 2024 with tourist visa . Can i take exemption September 2024 or better to apply for new tourist visa . Thanks !
Hi, getting a new passport makes no difference. Immigration has a computer record of all your past entries and exits. The immigration officer sees all of this on his computer. Your past single entry tourist visas are not a problem. You will have no problem entering on a visa exemption. There's no reason for you to get a tourist visa. You will be fine with the visa exemption. all the best... Bob
Hi! My understanding is that the 'new' tax law just closes a loophole for wealthy Thais who were able to escape paying taxes on overseas investments by deferring payments one tax year. There are very few, if any, tourists who are affected. There might be a handful of expats affected. Most are protected by treaties that prevent 'double taxation'. As far as I'm aware, Thailand is not trying to tax ordinary tourists (in spite of some panicky videos I've seen)... all the best... Bob
Hi Mall, while you are in Thailand, you can go to any local immigration office, fill out a form TM.7, pay 1900 Baht, and get your 60 day stamp extended by 30 days. It's very easy and MANY people do this. ruclips.net/video/2Nz3GaUhaQM/видео.html ruclips.net/video/SdjYShd83QM/видео.html ruclips.net/video/eNU5yjAsSso/видео.html Let me know if you have more questions about this... all the best... Bob
@@henrywhite8202 Hi Henry, as far as I know, there is no limit. Maybe someone can let me know if they've heard of any limit, but I believe that as long as you're willing to pay, you can continue to get visas. Of course, if you do this using the eVisa process, you'd need to return to your home country each time... all the best... Bob
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I just want to comment that it's most excellent that you reply to all comments. I always find this awesome that you tubers do this whilst understanding that when they get to 100K subscribers they may not be able to. Good luck with the channel sir.
Thanks Ulbre! Much of what I know about visas comes from subscriber comments. Always fun to hear from people... all the best... Bob
Sound advice Bob. Thank you.
You're welcome Billybob... good to hear from you... Bob
Hi Bob, just got my METV 0 issues. Followed your video step by step! Roll on September 20!
Hey Connor, congrats! How long did they take to approve it? What consulate was it? thanks... Bob
How long did it take to get your metv approved?
@@robertsultan2550 Sorry Bob, never saw your reply ! It only took 4 days, London UK embassy.
@@cindybelsher4076 Hello! It took 4 days. UK London embassy.
@@Connor_In_SEA Thanks Connor... I think London has gotten faster... Bob
Thank you!
My pleasure Mr. Bond!
Thank you very much for a Very informative and certainly one of the better videos on this subject.I have a friend arriving in a few weeks who has miscalculated 3 months as 90 days hence the 30 day extension is no use to him as it falls 3 days short.! Can he ? Exit Thailand and get a further 60 days visa exemption ? Idealy a border run ?
Hi Robert, yes, your friend will have no problem getting an additional 60 day visa exemption when he re-enters, particularly if he re-enters by air. To be absolutely certain, it could be good to spend 2 or 3 days in the country to which he makes the visa run. I like going to Penang, Malaysia. He can visit the Blue Mansion and Penang Hill. Or, Vientiane is also good place to visit. Don't miss Buddha Park and walk up the victory monument. All the best... Bob
@robertsultan2550 sound advise I'm sure KAP
@@robertjames538 my pleasure!
@@robertsultan2550 No seriously it really is appreciated that you actually take the time to reply.A massive thumbs UP.
Hello Robert. I'm leaving for Thailand for 5 months and 17 days in January. I have a round trip ticket. If I go the route of a visa exemption and extension will I be required to show a outbound ticket before the end of the 60 days when I suppose to leave Thailand? I was going to get a METV but I was told it's a waste of money since I will be staying less than 6 months. You think I will be okay with my round trip ticket showing a stay of 5 months 17 days. since I will be leaving in 60 days and returning back to thailand until my return flight in June?
Hi Rock, yes you should be fine using the visa exemptions. Normally, when you arrive in Thailand via air, you will be asked for your passport and the boarding pass for the ticket on which you just arrived. There are signs indicating this at the airport. You are normally NOT asked for an outbound ticket, hotel reservation, or anything else. The same is true when you re-enter Thailand on a visa exemption. You are allowed two visa exemptions per calendar year so you should have no problem. But, you say "will I be required to show a outbound ticket before the end of the 60 days when I suppose to leave Thailand?" You are NOT required to leave after 60 days. You can get a 30 day extension at any tourist office. ruclips.net/video/2Nz3GaUhaQM/видео.html That way, you can stay 90 days, leave Thailand and return on another visa exemption, and stay for another 2 months and 17 days (getting another extension). So, for your visit to Thailand, you would be using 2 visa exemptions, one when you arrive and another after 90 days. Let me know if you have questions about this... all the best... Bob
Because you can only enter Thailand 2 times per year on new 60 day tourist stamp.
I got pulled out coming in when I was out of country for 3 months.
Hello repeat travels. It has always been the case that when you enter for a second time on a visa exemption, they MAY give you a warning not to use another exemption until the next calendar year. Sometimes you don't get this warning until you have used your 3rd or 4th exemption, but after you get the warning, you can't enter again on a visa exemption.
Are you saying that the rule has changed with the new 60 day exemption? Are you saying that they are enforcing only 2 entries on visa exemptions per calendar year and they are not giving warnings? This would be a change.
Because this is an important comment, I want to make sure that I understand what happened in your case. What do you mean by 'pulled out'? Did they deny you entry? Did they give you a warning?
The scenario you describe isn't clear to me. You entered Thailand twice on visa exemptions, then you left Thailand for 3 months and re-entered Thailand on a visa exemption. You got 'pulled out' on this third entry? Did you get a warning when you entered on your second visa exemption? I'm very interested in your comment, so if you can clarify, that would be great. ...all the best ...Bob
Hi Repeat travels, I was hoping that you would post a clarification of your comment. What did you mean when you said that you were 'pulled out'? Were you given a warning? Were you not allowed in? Is it correct that this happened when you entered for a third time on a visa exemption during the calendar year? ...your comment is important for my viewers but a few more details are needed to understand exactly what your experience was... hoping to hear from you... all the best... Bob
Hi, I'm still hoping to get more specific info on what happened to you... Thanks, Bob
@Male666chauvinist I suspect you're right! 😊
@@robertsultan2550 I was pulled to back room and lady told me I can’t be entering on tourist stamp. I was let in but they verified my exit ticket. And told me get a visa.
New rules is 2 entries per year on tourist stamp. You might get thru more but this is what’s posted on embassy websites now.
Hi Robert do they need proof of salary or funds to apply for a metv. And when does the calendar year start. To reset visa
Hi 7KIslands, Interestingly, they use the Western Calendar for this, so the calendar year just started on Jan 1. There is no longer any proof of funds or salary required, and there is no place on the application where you can supply this. There are a few European countries, Italy for example, that do ask for proof if finances. It they want this, they'll email you separately. But, in general, they don't care about your finances or income for a tourist visa. ...good luck with your application... Bob
Thanks Bob, interesting info as always! My partner and children have just been accepted for a DTV visa so we will be heading out in 9 days :) unfortunately at this stage we are not married so as far as I know I am not eligible for a DTV on her account as the children are! I’ve just applied for the SEV just to get myself there and try to iron out any issues while there. Would you have any suggestions regarding being included on her DTV?
Hi Kohtime... My experience is really with tourist visas. I'd love to help with your question, but this is really outside my expertise. Would be great if you could get on your partner's DTV, but I have no idea about whether you can do this, or how to do it. Once you get to Thailand, you might want to talk to a real visa agent, because this is an unusual question. The visa agents have connections with immigration, so they are able to do things that we ordinary people can't do. I'd give that a try. I've used Thai visa centre in Bangkok grace@thaivisacentre.com and TMT visa in Phuket tmtservicephuket@outlook.com. Both are good. And I really wish you good luck with this, having the DTV is great... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thanks Bob, I understand it’s a new and complex situation. The plan with getting the SEV was for this very reason… to get my foot in the door then address the issue with an agent who may be able to put in a “favourable word”….. alternatively a Thai wedding on the beach, may be on the cards ;)
@@kohtime Sounds like a good plan to me! Let me know what happens... Bob
Thanks, Robert. Im curious: How long the 60-day on arrival visa exception will be offered ? How much notice do you think Thailand immigration will give if they decide to change it back to 30 days on arrival ? Reason for asking is simply the timing (how early) I can book my flight. Thanks for all you do !
Hi Sean, it's a good question. My impression was that the 60 day exemption is intended to be a permanent change. I suspect that might change if immigration has some problem with it, but I don't see it ending anytime soon. My understanding is that national revenue is down in the industrial sector and the government wants to make this up in tourism. The 60 day exemption is thought to be helping. So, I don't see this ending in the near future, but, of course, there's no way to be sure... I think it's reasonably safe to book a flight in advance... all the best.... Bob
Thanks for posting this video. I do have a question. How many times of tourist visa are allowed in calender year? 1 time only? Or 2 times? Or more. The further question is can we combine both vise exemption and tourist visa in a calender year? If so, how many combinations are allowed? Appreciate your help ❤
Hi Henry, As far as I know, you can get as many tourist visas as you're willing to pay for. There's no rule on the combination because (again, as far as I know) you can get as many tourist visas as you want. It's really just the exemptions that are limited. As far as I know there isn't a 'firm' rule on exemptions. You will always get at least two exemptions in a calendar year. If you get a warning with your second exemption not to use another in the calendar year, then your limit would be two. If you don't get a warning, then you can continue to use exemptions until you get a warning. So, the number is at least two, but it could be more. But you will know when to stop because you'll get the warning.... since, I believe, you can get as many visas as you want, I think the question of the combinations doesn't apply... hope that answers the question... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 thank you very much for sharing your knowledge and view, which is of great help!
@@robertsultan2550 one more question, is vise-free can also be multiple entrance?
@@henrywhite8202 Henry, there is a loose rule that you can get two visa exemptions per calendar year. The way it really works is that you can enter on visa exemptions until an immigration officer tells you not to enter again on a visa exemption during the current calendar year. But, you can certainly get two exemptions per year.
You can't enter more than once on a single visa exemption. Each time you enter Thailand, you're getting a new visa exemption. Hope that helps... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 After two questions I wrote here, I think finally I come to know what is the right question to ask here. I entered Thai with SETV , and read the visa email again just a few minutes ago. It says: "Date of grant: 12 July 2022. Visa must be used by: 09 October 2022". It means I have a period of 90 days after SETV is granted. This is clear now. So, if it is METV, the visa should be issued within a 180 days? . So the visa email should write：“Date of grant 12 July 2022。 Visa must be used by 09 January 2023”？Appreciate and enjoy taking with you!
Hi! We entered on a visa exemption and were planning on staying 30 days but now (we like it) and would like to stay for 60 days. So we don’t do anything? Is that right? Thank you!
Hi Markle, if you arrived on a visa exemption, you got stamped in for 60 days, so you're fine as long as you leave on or before the date they stamped in your passport, which should be 60 days from the date you arrived... and OF COURSE you like it. If you want to stay longer, you can go to any immigration office, fill out a form TM.7, pay 1900 baht, and stay another 30 days... enjoy! ...Bob
@@robertsultan2550 thank you very much for your confirmation! greetings from Chiang Dao!
@@marklehmbaecker8899 You're welcome! Enjoy Chiang Dao, never been, but it looks like you're surrounded by nature... all the best... Bob
Hi there, I'm returning to Thailand tomorrow: 23 December hoping to get another 60 tourists visa but i have just noticed my last tourist Visa expires tomorrow 23rd December I've been out of the country for a week , do you think this will be an issue as my previous visa will still be current for tomorrow the 23rd?
Hi Robert... I'm going to guess that what you're calling a visa is actually a 'visa exemption'. That is, when you entered Thailand you didn't have a visa that you applied for ahead of time, you just arrived and they stamped you in for 2 months... is that right? When you left Thailand, that visa exemption was cancelled. It's not still valid. When you re-enter, you can get another 60 day visa exemption (which you can extend by an additional 30 days at any immigration office). If this is only your second visa exemption for the calendar year, you shouldn't have any problem at all re-entering... no worries... all the best... Bob
@robertsultan2550 great news, thanks very much for that, you have made my day. Thanks for talking the trouble to reply.
@@robertmaloney2255 You're very welcome... enjoy! ...Bob
Robert, Maybe you can help me please. My name is John I'm 75 years old, I have a few questions listed :- 1. I can get on a plane in Australia to depart to Thailand
Arrive in Bangkok Airport and go through Customs / Immigration etc.
and all I need to present to the Officers is my Current Australian Passport.
2. I have no need to produce documentation to the Officers regarding where
I will be staying in my Tourism period. ( Please note been to Bangkok 8 times )
3. Do not have to show my return Air Fare Ticket.
4. Do I have to pay any Fee to Enter Thailand ( Suvarnabhumi Airport )
5. Do I need to apply in writing to someone about = Visa Exemption (60 Days)
Hi John, 1. Yes. All you need to do is arrive at the airport and show your passport and your boarding pass from your arriving flight.
2. They have not been asking people to provide any information about where they are staying. (They can theoretically ask this, but they have not been asking, and there are signs at immigration saying that you only need to show your passport and boarding pass).
3. They have not been asking for a return or onward ticket.
4. There is no fee to enter.
5. You don't need to do anything in advance of your arrival.
So, you don't have to do anything except bring your passport and have the boarding pass from your flight.
However, since you say that you have been to Bangkok 8 times, I should add that my answers assume that you have not had any previous immigration problem in the past. For example, if you overstayed a visa on one of your previous trips, they COULD ask for more information when you enter on the visa exemption. But, if all of your previous visits were normal, then you will have no problem entering on the visa exemption... so, enjoy your trip! ...Bob
Good morning, Bob! Can you kindly post the visa agents you recommend here please? I remember you did one time in commentary area, but can not find it.
Hi Henry, sure thing. I have used TMT Visa in Phuket tmtservicephuket@outlook.com and Thai Visa Centre in Bangkok grace@thaivisacentre.com . I had good experiences with both. Thai Visa Centre is a bit cheaper.... good luck... Bob
@@robertsultan2550Appreciate 🎉
Is entering as Visa Exempt the same as VOA Visa On Arrival? If yes, then maybe an advantage to secure a single entry Tourist Visa online before leaving your country is a benifit, versus waiting in line at the airport to file for Visa Exempt? Or you do not wait in line to file, but rather just show your Passport?
I am a 64 year-old American with a passport that has plenty of time available on it, and I wish to visit Thailand starting next month, for 90 days.
Which, as you say, is doable after the first 60 days, you can file an extension for 30 days, for a total of 90 days.
This is where I get confused as I would enter with a round-trip ticket with just under 90 days as the return. Will this raise a flag at the airport immigration, as I have not filed yet for the 30 day extension?
Thanks
Hi Vandy, they are NOT the same. There is a set of countries for which visa exemption is supported and another set of countries for which visa on arrival is supported. The one that you get depends on what country you come from. If you come from a country for which visa exemption is supported, then visa on arrival is not an option for you. Here's a list of countries eligible for visa exemption: oslo.thaiembassy.org/en/page/visa-exemption Here's a list for visa on arrival: oslo.thaiembassy.org/en/page/visa-on-arrival-voa A visa exemption is much better.... generally countries for visa-on-arrival are countries for which it's difficult to get a single-entry tourist visa... generally, for visa exempt, you wait on a relatively short line at the airport... hope that helps... Bob
Hello, Bob, always very informative! One question, is TM 30 needed to be filed if METV is used?
Hi Henry, yes, when you are in Thailand on an METV, you do need to be sure that a TM30 has been filed covering each day of your stay. If you stay at a hotel or hostel, this will normally be done by the hotel or hostel and you won't even know about it, but if you stay at a private home or an AirBnB, you must be sure that the owner files a TM30 for you. All the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Always grateful to your reply. I rented a condo via an property agent on a 12-month basis for last three years. The landlord is never seen, and the agent is always busy. Can I file TM30 by myself?
@@henrywhite8202 The TM.30 must be filled out by the 'housemaster' who is generally the owner of the property. You can bring the signed form to immigration, but you can't sign it for the housemaster. And you're going to need a TM.30 when you apply for visa extensions. So, I think you'll need to get the landlord or the agent to do this. BUT, you say you've rented this place for three years. How have you gotten visa extensions in the past? ...all the best ...Bob
Hi Robert, I wanted your advice on this situation...
I came to Thailand in April on a multiple-entry-visa which I extended by 30 days after the first 60, I was then in other parts of Asia for 2-months before returning & continuing to use the METV which I will extend this month. By the end of the extension I would have been here around 180-days this year.
If I leave then come back within a week (still 2024) after the next extension expires do you think it's likely to cause red flags? By this time my METV will have expired so I'll be re-entering but this time on an exemption.
Maybe the fact that I was previously here on an METV and not exemptions may be favourable?
If this goes well and I get another 90-days after this with the exemption+extension what do you recommend doing for visa options as I wanted to take out a contract on a condo for 6-months this time.
Thanks for your advice.
Hi! Great question. When you re-enter Thailand on a visa exemption after your METV has expired, you should have no problem at all. This will be your first visa exemption of the calendar year and they won't give you any problem at all. After 90 days you will leave and re-enter on a second visa exemption. It is POSSIBLE that on this entry they will warn you not to use another exemption in the same calendar year. But, with the two exemptions together, you will have your 180 days. If you don't get a warning, you can continue to get visa exemptions until you do get a warning not to use another. So, you should be fine with the plan you describe.
I have yet to hear of a case in which immigration has actually denied someone entry for using too many visa exemptions without first giving them a warning.
Of course, the caveat is that any individual immigration officer can do whatever they want... but I think you're quite safe. Enjoy your continued travels.
Btw... I currently have a six month lease on a condo in Bangkok and I'm really enjoying it ruclips.net/video/18y1Wvr45SQ/видео.html (I have a retirement visa)... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thanks for your reply & insight. So I guess if you wanted to stay long-term you could mix things up like get 2 SETV per year and 2 exemptions...it would be going over the 180-days but so is the above situation.
@@RD-om3nj Exactly. But the problem with using 2 SETVs is that you need to return to your home country for the second SETV if you want to get the SETV via evisa. That's why the METV is so good. You can get close to 270 days and then get at least 180 days via visa exemption.
Some people claim that there is some sort of rule that you are not allowed to spend more than 180 days per year in Thailand on a tourist visa. I have never heard of such a rule being enforced and I don't believe this rule exists. So, I definitely wouldn't worry about this. Enjoy... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Oh ok, I thought it was just the METV that you could only do from your home country so I thought the SETV would be a good option going forward.
Thanks for your help.
@@RD-om3nj It IS possible to get an SETV in a neighboring country, but you can't use the evisa process. You can use a visa agent in that country or go in person to the Thai embassy. I've never done this myself, but it can be done... my guess is that it would be a hassle.... Bob
Hello everyone, Thank you for replies in advance. I have a question regarding if I will be able to re enter thailand in late january regarding my prior visits in the past year.
1st trip- visa exempt I stayed from March 20th to April 17th (2024) roughly 29 days
2nd trip- visa exempt now with new rule allowing me to stay 60 days I stayed from August 19th to october 15th and that day I did my first border run to cambodia and returned the same day. I then stayed till november 16th. but was stamped until dec 16th (2024)
(August 19 to October 15 around 60 days, border run, October 15 to november 16th around 32 days)
Around roughly 120 Days total with visa exempt stays in thailand in 2024.
Im planning on Flying in Around January 18th by air for another 56 Days visa exempt with a returning flight already booked. Will I have any issues with immigration with this travel history? Also i Am a Canadian passport holder if that matters. Thank you im just a bit worried because everything is booked and my anxiety is kicking in.
Hi Laylow, I don't think you should worry at all in your situation. In the past, the new calendar year clears your record, AND it has always been the case that you will be given a warning before actually being denied entry. I really don't think you should worry about being denied entry on this trip, particularly since you are arriving by air. Enjoy... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 So even with my 3 Visa exempt entrys and 120 spent in 2024 im gooing to be ok?
@@LaylowMastery Yes, I definitely understand your concern, but I think you will be fine. I've never heard of a case where someone was actually denied re-entry without first being given a warning. You might get a warning not to enter again for a while, but I don't believe that you will be denied entry. And you've also got the calendar year reset working for you and you're entering by air. I really don't think you'll have a problem. In the worst case you'll get a warning.... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Again thank you for the quick response. Also i heard people say on reddit the calander year does not reset the exempts, and also 1 more concern is is there a way i would have gotten a warning and not being told, maybe they wrote it in the computer because I dont think i got a warning
@@LaylowMastery You know, I heard about this reddit thing so I looked at it a while back. I thought they were saying that the 'reset' didn't apply anymore because there was no longer a limit on entries. I couldn't verify this anywhere, but I know what you're talking about. But, I think you would know it if you got a warning. From the stories I've heard, it's pretty explicit... Bob
Currently I am staying 68 days but I wanted to visit another country half way in. Can i do that with a visa Exemption?
Hi Scottie. When you leave Thailand your visa exemption (or single entry tourist visa, whichever you have) becomes invalid. But, if this is the first visa exemption you've gotten this year, you will have no problem re-entering on another visa exemption. You should have no problem doing what you describe. But it is always a bit easier to do your re-entry by air rather than a land crossing (just my opinion).... enjoy... Bob
@robertsultan2550 perfthanks Bob!
@@ScottieGMusic you're welcome, happy travels!
SETV 60 day + 30 extension = 90 + 1st Visa ex. 60 + 30 = 90 + 2nd Visa ex. 60 + 30 = 90
Total = 270 days assuming you don't get warning on the 1st re-entry. Right?
So to prevent the warning if I enter in July, my 2nd visa ex. will be on the next calendar year, and after the 270 day I can try to get the 2nd visa ex. because I'm on on a new calendar year, and if I'm lucky that will give a total of 360 days in a row... am I right? 😵💫 Of course METV will be much simpler, I'm just curious if my SETV logic is correct.
Yes, 100%... but remember that immigration can, in the end, do whatever they want. So, for example, they might decide to ignore the rule that your count of visa exemptions resets with the new calendar year. But, what you're proposing should work.
Not only is the METV simpler, it avoids the possibility that, when you re-enter on a visa exemption, you will be told to stay a few days in the neighboring country.
But, your logic is definitely correct... all the best... Bob
Hi Bob, I'm looking too stay in Thailand just 2 days under 3 months, do I still need too get tourist visa? Or can i just get the 60 day on entry then get the 30 days extension? Also with the 2nd method is it guaranteed I get 60 days in entry and 30 days will most likely be granted?
Hi Trillz... First, I want to clarify that we're actually talking about 90 days rather than 3 months. Thai immigration assumes that a 'month' is always 30 days. So, you're talking about 90 days. And yes, with the second method you are guaranteed to get 90 days. So, if you want to stay for 88 days, that will work perfectly. You can apply for your extension when you have 45 days left on your 60 day visa exemption stamp, so you can apply for your extension fifteen days after you arrive in Thailand (or you could wait until closer to the expiration of the stamp if you want). When you get the 30 day extension, it doesn't matter what day you get the extension, it is always dated to expire 30 days after your 60 days visa exemption expires, so you always get the full 90 days no matter when you get the extension. I have several videos about getting the extension, it's very simple. It is rare that an extension would be denied. As long as you don't have some unusual situation, it will be granted. So, enjoy your 88 days in Thailand! ...all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thank you for the information!
@@TrillzMMA You're welcome! enjoy...Bob
One plus is i cannot renew my driving licence with a visa exemption.
Hi Mythai, I hadn't heard of that one... makes sense.... thanks! ...Bob
If you used your exemption visa to get into Thailand from say october-december 2024. Would you have a fresh 2 more entrances from january-june? Since it's a new calender year?
Hi Zakakabai, yes. The immigration rules clearly state that the limitation on the number of exemptions is 'per calendar year'. So, you would start fresh in the new year. However, I have to add the disclaimer that an individual immigration officer can, and sometimes will, do whatever they want. They do get the final say. But yes, the count of exemptions starts fresh in the new calendar year... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 No they do not and the calendar year has no effect now on Visa Exempt entries.
@@draiggochherp You may be correct. I was not aware of this change. I have not found this reported on any 'official' site, but I did find this unofficial reference aseannow.com/topic/1333235-60-day-visa-exemptions-are-now-unlimited-at-land-borders Did you find this change posted on any government website?
If this is true, then land/sea arrivals will be treated the same as air arrivals. However, it is very important to note the following: "It's important to note that while the frequency of entries has become more flexible, travelers should be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of their visits and sufficient financial means, as Thai immigration officials may assess the legitimacy of repeated entries."
For as long as I'm aware, the number of entries by air has always been 'officially' unlimited, however, immigration officials will often give warnings to those making repeated re-entries. Once a warning is given, you can no longer be guaranteed your next visa exemption. This is why I have always told people not to count on getting more than two exemptions without returning to their home country but that they can continue to re-enter until they get a warning.
Anyway, if you can point to an official website with these new rules, that would be great. I haven't been able to find this. If I can find information on this, I'll make a video. Right now, the situation seems a bit unclear. I heard recently that at least one land crossing has enforced a requirement that you need to stay out of the country for 2 days before re-entering ruclips.net/video/a8crlU0Ctiw/видео.html. Anyway, it you have any links to official info on this, that would be great... thanks! Bob
Hello, I am very confused and I am having a hard time finding some easy answers to a few questions. Can you please help me? I live in Georgia United States. I have been to Thailand once without a visa. I was there to visit take an ESL course. I left and came back home. I met someone who is Thai online we plane to get married. I will be leaving after Thanksgiving. Once I am there we will register our marriage. We do not want to be apart after we get married. But I have to come back due to my mother’s health after a year or before. We want to apply for a visa for him to come back to the United States. Once my mother is doing better and I finish my degree we want to go back to live in Thailand. The visa process can be lengthy for him to come to the US. Should I get a visa to enter? If so which visa? We need a visa that will allow me to stay until the visa for the US goes through which we still are researching this too. I do not have 400,000 baht and neither does he which is a requirement for a spouse visa. Any suggestions which visa or no visa I should use? Any suggestions will help. Thank you so much for your help and advice. 😊
Hi Mel. Here's my suggestion. Get a Multi-Entry Tourist visa for $200. This will allow you to stay nearly 9 months in Thailand, making a couple of border runs (see ruclips.net/video/wpOLdgjF-2g/видео.html). Then you can get at least an additional 180 days by entering on two visa exemptions. This is more than a year and should be enough time for you to arrange the marriage visa to the US. You might need an agency to help with this. I have used Thai Visa Centre in Bangkok grace@thaivisacentre.com I think they are trustworthy and the prices are reasonable (but working with an agent IS expensive). Let me know how everything works out... and don't hesitate to ask more questions... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thank you so much for the advice. We were going to try to do it ourselves. But may keep that as an option if we can get help with finances from our families. I really appreciate the suggestions. I really enjoyed your video for the help with tones too. Have a wonderful week.
@@MelMoonWandee I think it's very reasonable to try to do it yourself. And I also wish you the best of luck with your Thai studies. Keep me posted on what you do... all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 Thank you so much.
I infer from what you say that the length of time spent in the country on each visa exemption is not taken into consideration. So, for example, someone couldn’t have more than two vacations per year on visa exemptions. Is that correct ?
Hi Steve, that's right. If you arrive in Thailand from your home country, visit Cambodia three days later, stay in Cambodia for a week, and then return to Thailand, you've used two Thai visa exemptions. It doesn't matter how long you stay in Thailand on each exemption.
Remember, it's POSSIBLE that you'll be allowed more than two visa exemptions in a calendar year. You'll know that you can't use any more exemptions when you get a warning on entry not to use any more exemptions in the current calendar year. I've never hard of a case where someone was actually denied entry to Thailand on a visa exemption without being first being given this warning on a previous entry. Immigration does record these warnings in your electronic file. ...all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 No it is not correct. The two Visa Exempt entries per calendar year by land border (note, not by air) was discontinued in July when the 60 days entryb came in. The calendar year now has no effect on Visa Exempt entries.
@@draiggochherp You may be correct. I was not aware of this change. I have not found this reported on any 'official' site, but I did find this unofficial reference aseannow.com/topic/1333235-60-day-visa-exemptions-are-now-unlimited-at-land-borders Did you find this change posted on any government website?
If this is true, then land/sea arrivals will be treated the same as air arrivals. However, it is very important to note the following: "It's important to note that while the frequency of entries has become more flexible, travelers should be prepared to demonstrate the purpose of their visits and sufficient financial means, as Thai immigration officials may assess the legitimacy of repeated entries."
For as long as I'm aware, the number of entries by air has always been 'officially' unlimited, however, immigration officials will often give warnings to those making repeated re-entries. Once a warning is given, you can no longer be guaranteed your next visa exemption. This is why I have always told people not to count on getting more than two exemptions without returning to their home country but that they can continue to re-enter until they get a warning.
Anyway, if you can point to an official website with these new rules, that would be great. I haven't been able to find this. If I can find information on this, I'll make a video. Right now, the situation seems a bit unclear. I heard recently that at least one land crossing has enforced a requirement that you need to stay out of the country for 2 days before re-entering ruclips.net/video/a8crlU0Ctiw/видео.html. Anyway, it you have any links to official info on this, that would be great... thanks! Bob
I entered this time without having retirement visa. First, to board the plane, I wasn't asked for any return ticket, but I needed to show accomodation proof for the lenght of stay I answered. Luckily, I had my blue book of ownwership with me. On arrival, I saw the eyes of the officer rolling like slut machine when he entered my passport into the reader. In 20 years, I have unusual lenght of IN/OUT list. He asked me, Why are you here, I tend him the blue book already in hand. After long checking, he asked me if I have a visa!!!
If people think they can stay all year long with 60 days visa renewed, know that after 180 days, you will be asked to pay yearly income tax which can be a month or two revenu.
Hi Hugues. Really interesting comment. A lot here so I'd like to break it down a bit.
"I entered this time without having retirement visa."
Can I ask how long you had the retirement visa? Was there a reason why you didn't renew it? (just curious, I think you may have mentioned this in a previous comment but I didn't remember)
"First, to board the plane, I wasn't asked for any return ticket, but I needed to show accommodation proof for the length of stay I answered."
Very unusual that the airline asked for proof of accommodation. Can I ask what airline this was and what airport you departed from? There's no question that Thai immigration needs to do a better job of communicating with the airlines as to what the visa rules are, particularly for the visa exemption since so many people are entering on exemptions now.
"In 20 years, I have unusual length of IN/OUT list."
So probably not surprising that the immigration officer wanted to take a closer look. It's probably unusual for someone with your history to be entering on a visa exemption (but perfectly legal, of course). You were trying to enter on a visa exemption, right?
"I tend him the blue book already in hand. After long checking, he asked me if I have a visa!!!"
Not so surprising. I doubt many people who enter on a visa exemption own property in Thailand.
"If people think they can stay all year long with 60 days visa renewed, know that after 180 days, you will be asked to pay yearly income tax which can be a month or two revenue."
Now here's where I'm confused. You talk about "60 days visa renewed". Were you trying to enter on a visa? I thought that you were trying to enter on a visa exemption. Can you clarify?
It is not difficult to spend more than 180 days in Thailand on a combination of visa exemptions and visas. You can do this easily with a multi-entry tourist visa. And, of course, you can do this with a retirement visa. You are suggesting that if you spend more than 180 days per year in Thailand, "you will be asked to pay yearly income tax which can be a month or two revenue."
I don't know of any case in which someone entering Thailand on a tourist visa or visa exemptions has been asked to pay Thai taxes. Did this happen to you? Do you know of someone who actually experienced this? I have simply not heard of this. Most countries have "double tax treaties" with Thailand so that visitors do not have to pay taxes in Thailand if they paid taxes in their home country. Even in the case of retirees, I have not heard of income being taxed in Thailand. The only case I know of where visitors are taxed is the case in which the visitor has a work visa and is generating income in Thailand. Many expats stay in Thailand year round and are not required to file taxes. Do you have information about cases in which visitors to Thailand who are not working in Thailand have been required to pay Thai taxes.
Now, if someone spends the year in Thailand on a retirement visa or tourist visa AND they made money on foreign investments and didn't pay taxes on this in their home country, then the Thai revenue service would tax them. But, this is a very rare case. Or, if you ran an AirBnB in Thailand and made money on this in Thailand, you would probably be taxed, but, in that case, you might also be in trouble for working in Thailand without a work visa.
I general, I have not heard of tourists or retirees who have been taxed for staying more than 180 days per year in Thailand. If you know of such cases, please let me know. Since Thailand closed the loophole on foreign investment this year (aimed at wealthy Thai citizens), there have been persistent rumors of visitors being taxed. I have not heard of cases where this has actually happened. I'd certainly be interested if you had more information on this, and I suspect that many of my viewers would be interested also... thanks for the comment! all the best... Bob
@@robertsultan2550 I want to warn to those who think they can stay longer than 180 a year with 60 day visa exemption, the income tax man will be rejoiced to pull at least a month of revenue from you.
@@hugueslecorre4893 Hugues, I have a responsibility to my viewers to make sure that my channel contains no misinformation. You are saying that people who stay more than 180 days a year on visa exemptions will be taxed. I do not know of a single case in which this has occurred. I also don't know of a case in which someone on a tourist visa has been taxed. I asked in my reply to you if you could describe a case in which this has actually occurred, but you didn't supply this information. If you believe that people on visa exemptions (or even tourist visas) who stay more than 180 days in Thailand in a year are taxed by Thailand, then please let me know why you believe this to be true. Have you encountered any cases in which this has happened? I have never heard of such cases... all the best... Bob
Visa exemption Likely to be denied if done two boarder runs before April. Leave the country for 5 months & return via airport ?
Hi Sweatshirt... Normally you get a warning before you are actually denied entry. If you didn't get a warning on your previous border runs before April, then you might get a warning when you re-enter after 5 months, but you won't be denied entry.... all the best... Bob
@robertsultan2550 landly safely in the Kingdom 🇹🇭. No warning. 60 days no questions asked. :)
@@djsweatshirtx Yep, I figured you'd be fine! Enjoy... Bob
What document's need to show on emigration to take VISA EXEMPTION IS for 60 DAYS. I change my passport already . But i was staying in Thailand from November 2023 to February 2024 and from April 2024 to July 2024 with tourist visa .
Can i take exemption September 2024 or better to apply for new tourist visa .
Thanks !
Hi, getting a new passport makes no difference. Immigration has a computer record of all your past entries and exits. The immigration officer sees all of this on his computer.
Your past single entry tourist visas are not a problem. You will have no problem entering on a visa exemption. There's no reason for you to get a tourist visa. You will be fine with the visa exemption. all the best... Bob
With the new 6 month tax law why stay more than 6 months?
Hi! My understanding is that the 'new' tax law just closes a loophole for wealthy Thais who were able to escape paying taxes on overseas investments by deferring payments one tax year. There are very few, if any, tourists who are affected. There might be a handful of expats affected. Most are protected by treaties that prevent 'double taxation'. As far as I'm aware, Thailand is not trying to tax ordinary tourists (in spite of some panicky videos I've seen)... all the best... Bob
Tourist visa is 60 days ? We're does the other 30 days come from to make it 90 days ?
Hi Mall, while you are in Thailand, you can go to any local immigration office, fill out a form TM.7, pay 1900 Baht, and get your 60 day stamp extended by 30 days. It's very easy and MANY people do this. ruclips.net/video/2Nz3GaUhaQM/видео.html ruclips.net/video/SdjYShd83QM/видео.html ruclips.net/video/eNU5yjAsSso/видео.html Let me know if you have more questions about this... all the best... Bob
Question on the same line. How many times of tourist visa one person can apply within one year ?
@@henrywhite8202 Hi Henry, as far as I know, there is no limit. Maybe someone can let me know if they've heard of any limit, but I believe that as long as you're willing to pay, you can continue to get visas. Of course, if you do this using the eVisa process, you'd need to return to your home country each time... all the best... Bob