Be prepared, don't be caught out by the new visa rules

As of the 1st October 2006 new rules regarding the use of the
30 day visa exemption stamp came into force

The new rules state that the 30 day stamp can only be used back to back for a maximum of 90 days, after which no more will be issued for another 90 days.

This means anyone using the 30 day visa exemption , and therefore doing the visa run every 30 days, to stay long term in Thailand, now need to find another way to stay long term.

It seems so far that a person can leave and enter as many times as they like within that 90 day period, but after 90 days of getting back to back entries using this method, people will be refused another 30 day visa exemption .

So, what to do ?

The rules only apply to those using the 30 day stamp to stay long term. Anyone who has a visa issued at an embassy or consulate outside of Thailand will not be affected.

So the answer is clear, If you are staying or plan to stay in Thailand long term, or an extended time, you will need to apply for the appropriate visa in your home country before travelling. Tourist visas can easily be obtained in countries neighbouring Thailand, but the consulates seem to be only issuing the single entry type, but for those with no other choice it's a good option.

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