I still can't believe how few people are using this visa run option.
It can be done from any airport where Nok Air has a flight into Udon Thani, which includes Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket.
I first used this method because my 90-day stay was up on my Non-Immigrant O Visa and I wanted another 90 days, but this is applicable to anyone who needs to stamp in and out on any visa.
On my most recent trip, I was the only foreigner on the last leg of the trip into Laos. This meant I had the VIP treatment of being the only rider in a brand new minivan, which dropped me to the doorstep of my hotel.
In this updated version for 2021, I'll give you the additional option of staying over a night in Vientiane.
But let's start with the fastest version first:
Please Note: The borders are currently closed due to Covid-19. Check with immigration regarding extensions and amnesty.
Fastest Thai Visa Run in 10 Easy Steps
Option 1: Same Day Return
Not only is the fastest visa run possible, it is also the most comfortable and one of the cheapest.
It costs less than 3,000 Baht, and you don't have to sit cooped up in a minivan with a mad driver risking your life for 10-12 hours of the day.
Documents, Money, Tools Required:
- Departure card (filled in).
- 30 Baht for bus ticket across the bridge (15 Baht each way).
- 1x photo for Laos immigration.
- $35 for Laos immigration (you can change your money up at the airport, but best to be organized and have it beforehand).
- Pen.
- Lunch (box).
- Snacks for journey.
Step 1:
Book a fly n' ride ticket to Udon Thani with Nok Air.
If you want to do this trip in a day then the latest flight you can book is the 12.20 PM flight.
If you go for the 6 AM flight, you could even be back in Bangkok, or wherever you flew in from, before lunch time.
I'm going to explain this from the point of view of the 12.20 PM.
Step 2:
Take a taxi to Don Muang airport, or, if outside of Bangkok, to wherever your local airport is.
It's a domestic flight, so you can check in one hour before. I always do it two hours before, regardless. No risks taken.
Step 3:
You won't need an over night bag, so you'll have no luggage to check-in.
You'll be given a fly n' ride sticker that tells the staff when you land that you are transferring to Vientiane (see the image below).
Go straight to the departure lounge and take advantage of the free WIFI while you wait. Connect to “Nok Wifi” and enter your Nok Air booking ID to login.

You'll get one of these transfer stickers when you check in at Don Muang airport.
Step 4:
You'll land in Udon Thani at 13.25 PM.
As you make your way to arrivals, you'll see a toilet on the right-hand side before you go down the stairs. Use this toilet to go for a wee. You'll be in the mini-van for 45 minutes and the driver won't be making a gas station stop on the way.
Step 5:
Go down the stairs and look for the Nok Air rep with the clipboard. He/she will be waiting for you by the door. Follow the staff member to the minivan.
The van they use is usually a modern one. It has seat belts and air-con vents throughout. The driver tends to drive safely because he is representing the airline.
Step 6:
If you haven't already done so, make sure you have filled out your departure card. This will save you time when you get to Thai immigration. Also use this opportunity to eat your packed lunch.
Be careful not to get out of the van too early. The van usually stops at a travel agents and at a shopping mall fairly near the border. A few people depart here. Your stop is the final stop, as pictured below:

I didn't want to get too close while taking pictures at Thai immigration because you're not allowed.
Step 7.
Jump out at the checkpoint and make your way straight to immigration.
Collect a new arrival card to fill in while you are in Laos.
Once through, buy your 15 Baht bus ticket from the nice lady. This bus will take you across the Friendship Bridge to Laos.
Ask if it’s the correct bus before you get on! Don’t bother sitting if you don’t have to; it’s only a few minute’s ride.

The buses across the bridge tend to be old and full.
Step 8:
Jump off the bus and walk straight to ‘window 1' to get your forms.
Don’t bother downloading your form from a site to fill in before your journey. I did this last time and it was refused. Gutted!
Refuse all touts offering you a taxi or to help you fill in your forms.
Sit down on the bench and fill in your forms. Watch your bag at all times!
Go back to ‘window 1' and give in your forms, passport, photo and $35. (Never pay in Baht, you will pay more that way). Now go and wait by ‘window 3' to get your passport back.
Step 9:
Collect your passport and walk through to show it at the immigration check.
On the other side, a member of Nok Air staff will be waiting to meet you. There's a big Nok Air sign; you can't miss it.
If you have booked a flight back to Bangkok on the same day, you will need to sign to refuse the transfer to Vientiane and let the person know you are going back straight away.
Step 10:
Simply turn around and go back through immigration. Buy a bus ticket for 15 Baht (or 4,000 Kip) and repeat the process in reverse.
Depending on the time you are doing this, you may be too late to get the fly n' ride minivan back to the airport, so you'll have to get another minivan.
I jumped in one for 200 Baht last time I did this in one day.
If you caught the 6 AM flight from BKK, you'll probably be going back on the 16.45 PM flight and will be able to catch the Nok Air minivan on the other side.
If you caught the 12.20 PM flight, then you will have missed the Nok Air van when you turn around and go back into Thailand. The van leaves at 3.15 PM.
You will have to find another minivan to take you or take one of the taxi touts up on their offer.
Alternatively, go with the Nok Air minivan, relax and stay a night in Vientiane. It's a lovely little city. This is the second option.
Option 2: Stay Overnight in Vientiane
I really prefer this option because it means less traveling in one day, and I get to see the sunset over the Mekong, have dinner in Laos and do some shopping at the night market. Oh, and grab a foot massage if I have time.
So, it's all the same steps as above, except at ‘Step 9' you jump in the Nok Air minivan and go to Vientiane.
If your hotel is on the way, they will happily drop you off. If not, you will be taken to a travel agents in town named Trans-Express.
This is the official Nok Air drop off and pick-up point. You then have to make your way to your hotel, which will be walkable if you use one of my hotel recommendations below.
Hotel Recommendation 1: IBIS Nam Phu
I’ve stayed at the Ibis Nam Phu three times. I go back because it’s so reliable. I know what I’m getting and it has been a wonderful experience every time.
The staff all speak English (front desk) and are super-helpful.
Here’s a quick pros and cons breakdown for you:
Pros:
- Centrally located.
- Can walk to and from the Nok Air drop-off/pick-up point.
- Very clean (international chain hotels have standards to adhere to).
- 15-minute problem solving policy (they solve any issue within 15 minutes).
- Wonderful lobby for relaxing/working.
- Close to the night market.
- Next door to Nam Phu (music, restaurant and bar).
- Close to everything: temples, shops, restaurants, etc.
- Comfortable bed.
- Flat screen TV with international news channels.
- Work desk in room.
- Great WIFI.
- Good breakfast options.
- Bar and restaurant open all day.
Cons:
- Not that cheap at around $70 per night, but for the location and the quality you can’t go wrong – there won’t be any unwanted surprises!
- Some rooms are smaller than others.
- Breakfast is not usually included in the price. You can get a full breakfast for $8, or the smaller cereal, fruit, coffee breakfast for $5. Don’t sweat this, though; there’s three cafés, all serving great food, within walking distance.

The lobby and restaurant are open plan. There's a long desk for working and sofas to chill out. There's also a bar (not pictured).
✓ Check out prices for the Ibis here
Hotel Recommendation 2: Lao Orchid
My second recommendation is the Lao Orchid Hotel. I’ve stayed here twice and you won’t be disappointed with this choice either.
Pros:
- Fantastic location, opposite a lovely temple and right next to the night market.
- Lovely staff.
- Wonderful lobby for chilling.
- Great restaurant: Open-plan means you can chill there in the daytime.
- Has parking if you want to hire a car.
- Great breakfast buffet.
- Bar and restaurant open all day.
- Clean, spacious rooms.
- Good WIFI.
Cons:
- Can be a tad noisy, though good sleepers won't be affected. On my first visit I experienced dogs barking until 2 AM. I assume they were in the temple grounds.
- The night market goes on until 9/10 PM, so it's a solid 11 PM before everyone has gone home to bed. It's a pretty sleepy town though, and there isn't much road noise at all after 11 PM.
- Not cheap in comparison to “backpacker” hostels, but mid-priced compared to the Salana and the Dhavara.
✓ Check out prices for the Laos Orchid here
Last Steps – Back to Thailand
Step 11:
Okay, this brings us to the last step in this Thai visa run process.
Remember, you need to meet at the Nok Air meeting point, which as I mentioned previously is currently the Trans-Express travel agents.
Arrive here a solid 15 minutes before departure time.
Go inside and sit down on the bench provided. The driver will arrive on-time, with a clip-board on-time, and leave sharply!

You'll know you're at the right place because the office looks like something out of the 1970s. They still had a Golf Tour brochure on display from 1995!
Step 12:
If you haven't done so already, fill out your Laos departure card before you leave to save time when going through immigration.
If you remembered to pick one up on the way in, fill out your Thai immigration arrival card too.
Step 13:
You will be dropped off by the minivan at immigration (border control).
Once through, you need the bus ticket to cross the bridge. This costs 4,000 Kip, so make sure you save some kip. You can pay in Baht, but having Kip saves time.
*NOTE: Don’t change up too much Kip. You can’t change it back to Baht in Thailand or anywhere else for that matter. No one wants this currency!
+ Read my Laos money guide here
Don’t sit down on the bus. Stand at the front so that you can be one of the first to get off.
Once you’ve arrived at Thai immigration, get straight into the queue; the last thing you want is a bus-load of border runners getting in front of you – this could cost you 45 mins or more.
Step 14:
On the other side, walk straight ahead until you see a bench next to a Nok Air sign.
Now, PAY ATTENTION!
DO NOT listen to the touts telling you that you have missed the Nok Air bus.
It arrives at 3.15 PM. If in doubt, call the number provided on the sign. These touts are trying to trick you into taking a taxi/van with them, which will set you back in excess of 300 Baht.
The minivan will arrive. Sign your name and seat belt up for the ride.
You’ll have two hours to kill at Udon Thani airport. There’s a restaurant on the second floor, before you clear security to go into the waiting lounge. There’s also a coffee shop and gift shops on the first floor.
Inside the lounge is a Black Canyon Coffee shop and some snack shops. Being an airport, expect to pay premium prices for snacks.
That’s it! You’re done.
Get on the flight and return to Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket or wherever you came from or are going to.

Boarding the plane at 6.35 PM Udon Thani Airport
Need a Tourist / Non O Visa From the Vientiane Thai Embassy?
It may be the case that you want to go over the border and visit the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane.
To do that, you can apply the same steps using the information above, but bear in mind that you will most likely need to stay overnight, unless you take a very early morning flight.
Also note that as of February 2019, you have to make an appointment to visit the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane to obtain a Tourist Visa or Non Immigrant Visa. You can't just turn up anymore like the good old days.
Before submitting the visa application in person at the Embassy, you will first need to schedule an online appointment.
Recently, there have been reports of no available appointments for 2 weeks, so if this is your plan, get onto it quick time.
The online booking platform can be found here.
If you're in a pickle and need that visa much faster, you'll need to think about another embassy – perhaps consider Vietnam (Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh).
You can usually get one done in a day there. Or try Penang, Malaysia; though get there early as they only accept 100 applicants per day.
More Tips for a Better Life in Thailand
Send Money to Thailand:
Use Transferwise. It is fast, cheap, and gives you the market exchange rate. Me and the majority of my readers are using it.
Get Good Health Insurance:
Start with a quick quote from Cigna. Then compare my other recommendations here.
Improve Your Thai Skills:
Learning Thai makes life here easier and more fun. I use Thaipod101. It is free to get started & easy to use.
Protect Your Online Privacy:
A VPN protects you against hackers and government snooping. I always use one. You should too. Read why here.
Last Updated on
Dave says
I have a student arrived on her USA passport and got 30 day entry. She wants to stay 90 days. With the pandemic what options are there for her to get 60 more days a the end of her 30 day stay? Thanks! Dave
Jan 17, 2022 at 1:14 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 17, 2022 at 4:42 am
Cal says
I hope you're well,
I am a student in the UK hoping to move to Bangkok on a tourist visa and stay as long as I can. This year, many of the students on my course are working remotely and the lectures are all uploaded online - so I realised I don't need to be in the UK, I could spend time in SE Asia and pay a fraction of what I am paying here in the UK for my accommodation and food whilst doing all of my uni work and exams online.
Do you know if this tourist run is working currently or will be soon? I am hoping to move on the 6th of January. I am hoping to spend all of my time in Bangkok but would Your opinion on how long I might realistically be able to stay would be invaluable to me as there is so much information online at the moment which is incredibly complicated.
Many thanks in advance,
Cal
Nov 29, 2021 at 5:54 am
Cal says
Nov 29, 2021 at 6:00 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 29, 2021 at 5:10 pm
JamesE says
Nov 29, 2021 at 10:42 pm
Cal says
Nov 30, 2021 at 10:06 am
Rasmus says
Hope you are well and safe. Thanks for sharing this great guide. Very helpful!
We are a family of four travelling Thailand for half a year on a multiple entry visa. The time for a border run is fast approaching, and we are considering how to best do this. We are currently in Phuket.
Do you know whether the fly n' ride approach is viable again, i.e. if the border to Laos is open? I looked at the Nok Air web site but was unable to find the option.
Alternatively, we were considering a quick return flight to Kuala Lumpur, i.e. fly out from Phuket on day 1, stay at a transit hotel at Kuala Lumpur airport for a night, and then fly back the next day. We would do this after the quarantine requirements for Thailand are lifted on November 1, hopefully. What would be your thoughts on this approach?
Any additional approaches you can recommend?
Hoping to hear from you. Any input would be highly appreciated.
Thanks.
BR, Rasmus
Oct 21, 2021 at 12:54 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 21, 2021 at 4:00 pm
Rasmus says
Thanks for the quick reply, and confirming that Laos is not an option at this point.
I actually went to the immigration a couple of days back to get some advice on the best approach, given that we would be staying for a total 153 days (yes, I know now 150 days (60+30+60) would have been ideal but I missed that when planning the trip). A very friendly man at the info counter told me that I would need to register my address with the government to be eligible for the 60-day COVID extension that runs until November 26. Since we are living a month at a time in places rented through Airbnb, this seemed like too much paperwork for our landlords to get involved in when we are only staying short-term. Please let me know if you believe the address requirement is false. I will then check again with them.
Another question, if you can please bear with me; I saw in one of your other posts that you can only do the 30-day extension on multiple entry tourist visas once. I was hoping to get to the 153 days mentioned above through two extensions and one border run, i.e. 60+30+60+30 days. Have I understood it correctly that I can actually only do 60+30+60 days, meaning I need to leave three days earlier than originally planned? Should I consider "intentional overstay" and pay the fine, or is that just poor form?
Again, thanks for your help. Invaluable for someone without experience with Thai visa system!
BR, Rasmus
Oct 21, 2021 at 8:09 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 21, 2021 at 8:26 pm
JamesE says
Oct 21, 2021 at 9:14 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 21, 2021 at 10:33 pm
Rasmus says
I am really learning here, thanks! Too bad about the extension only being available once, but your post on TM30 on the other hand made me realize how simple the address thing is. I will check with the landlord again to get it done. I see that Airbnb has an article on Responsible Hosting in Thailand, also mentioning the requirement so I can refer to that too.
Final question (hopefully); We are moving to a new place a couple of days after the end of our initial 60 day visa period but before the deadline on November 26 for the 60 day COVID extension. If my landlord ends up being awkward about the TM30 and I decide to avoid the conflict, could I then instead extend the initial 60 days with the regular 30 days to get me to the new place AND THEN go for the COVID extension after securing the TM30, thus getting 60+30+60 days in total? Or does the COVID extension "overrule" the regular 30 day extension, meaning I end up with something like 60+10+60 days in total?
The 60+30+"60 COVID days" approach would get me to 150 days without a border run, meaning a substantial saving if I indeed otherwise had to go to Kuala Lumpur and back by air. I might just shorten our trip by a handful of days to stay within the 150 days and avoid the overstay.
BR, Rasmus
Oct 21, 2021 at 9:59 pm
Jerry Scanlon says
Even when Laos opens the border there will ( I have been informed, quarantine procedures to follow and you may well have to book a quarantine hotel and stay there two weeks before you can move around ( yes even to the embassy).
Just saying, check requirements for both Countries before you set off.
Oct 21, 2021 at 7:37 pm
Rasmus says
That is an excellent point, thanks!
Do you think the same would apply to a border run vs. a visa run? We have multiple entry visas, so from my understanding we would cross the border, turn around immediately and go back to Thailand. We would not have to visit the embassy.
If that is the case even for border run, we would probably be better off doing the quick return flight to Kuala Lumpur without leaving the transit area.
BR, Rasmus
Oct 21, 2021 at 8:12 pm
Jerry says
If you arrive at the Laos end of the Bridge without everything in order you will be denied entry, so back on the bus and enter Thailand again.
I know, pre COVID I (my own fault) crossed the bridge 5 times before getting back into Thailand.
So do you homework and be sure you are in compliance for both Countries.
See this site for latest info on Laos.
http://www.mofa.gov.la/index.php/statements/notices/3587-travel-advisory-for-entry-and-exit-of-lao-pdr-during-the-implementation-of-measures-to-prevent,-control-and-respond-to-the-covid-19-pandemic
Oct 21, 2021 at 11:12 pm
Michael Ryan says
May 06, 2021 at 12:02 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 06, 2021 at 4:15 pm
John Alderman says
For your update. I am stuck on the Penal Colony down under since 14 January 2020. My new family are in Kathu. Missing them so much. I tried for an Aussie exemption to no avail. The Foreign Affairs delegate believes that Health Risk comes before Family Matters. I would like to put delegate in the same lonely position I and many others are in. Cheers John
Nov 05, 2020 at 8:55 am
Jeremiah Scanlon says
Oct 30, 2020 at 8:25 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 30, 2020 at 8:43 pm
Hugh says
Nov 22, 2020 at 2:41 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 22, 2020 at 6:20 am
Hugh says
I get the Thai restrictions via the HM Government website thanks.
My question was :- is there any credible news in Thailand about the current thailand entry restrictions being lifted?
Also the "edited" version of my original quote came from the official Thai Health Minister concerning Westerners being responsible for the spread of Covid, and his comments were well documented in UK and other Western newspapers.
Nov 23, 2020 at 12:16 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 23, 2020 at 3:16 am
Hugh says
The G.F and the boys were booked on a B.A flight to here for next month. Cancelled. Trying now for January. I'd like to come back and help her move, but £2k to sit in a hotel under Stazi conditions is not a viable option. Plus 72 hour tests. You can't get a test in UK don't believe the hype. Plus grovel to the Thai UK Embassy for "permission" to fly, I'm sure that would include a brown envelope or 4. I hear there is more Covid cases in Bkk but just not getting reported. Perhaps the pollution kills Covid. Perhaps the vaccine is all in vain, it's pollution we need. Anyway UK signed a deal with Thailand to supply vaccines last month.
Rant Over. Mwahs
Nov 23, 2020 at 9:18 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 23, 2020 at 9:48 pm
Hugh says
Nov 23, 2020 at 10:44 pm
Hugh says
Re:- my g.f's flight etc I booked with B.A to bring her +2 sons over coz B.A were saying they had resumed regular LHR - BKK - LHR services from December ? 1st ? onwards. So I booked. Went into lockdown here and flight gets cancelled. B.A now saying the service will resume on Jan 11th 2021. I'm assuming they were talking to the Thai Junta / government. So we will need to see what happens. But I feel they do now want to resurrect their doomed tourist industry. However, their offensive comments about us might have done more damage than covid.
Nov 23, 2020 at 10:55 pm
geoff sloman says
Oct 30, 2020 at 10:33 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 30, 2020 at 5:42 pm
Geoff sloman says
Oct 30, 2020 at 7:00 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 30, 2020 at 7:03 pm
Dino says
I'm a teacher in Thailand and I am starting a new job/employer in May. I need to leave the country after cancelling my work permit and Non-B and return as a tourist (60 days ideally) so I can then upgrade it back to the Non-B and new work permit.
Is this still possible anywhere with the new restrictions with visa on arrivals because of the coronavirus?
Thanks in advance!
Mar 18, 2020 at 5:50 pm
Louise says
Mar 19, 2020 at 10:52 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 19, 2020 at 11:00 pm
Moonlight says
Mar 16, 2020 at 10:33 pm
Max H says
After much research, Ive come to the same conclusion as you, but yet to test the trip.
I will go for a return same day. I just need the stamp in my passport, thats all.
Question: The picture of the air-ticket in the beginnig of the article is Bkk-Vientiane, but the trip is to Udon Thani...?
(with the rest by land)
Im just wondering if im missing something here?
Cheers
Max
Mar 08, 2020 at 12:58 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 09, 2020 at 4:54 pm
John says
Feb 07, 2020 at 11:05 am
rd says
Jan 13, 2020 at 1:58 am
Jos Muijtjens says
My 90 days end on 23 december. Now I am only able to this trip on 19 or 22 december and need that to be done in one (the same) day. I prefer to fly out in the early morning and be back in the early afternoon (as soon as possible).
Is this possible in one day, and can you help me in this?
Ps. I attached 2 files for you to see.
I am from the Netherlands
Dec 13, 2019 at 8:47 am
Michael Trott says
Nov 25, 2019 at 10:58 am
James E says
Nov 26, 2019 at 9:03 am
Michael Trott says
Nov 26, 2019 at 6:20 pm
Ash Gibson says
Nov 20, 2019 at 10:17 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 21, 2019 at 1:59 am
Ash Gibson says
Nov 21, 2019 at 8:31 am
Barbara says
Do you have to make an appointment in Vientiane embassy for another tourist 60days visa? I am on my first 60days+30 days extension ..ending in mid January
Thanks
Jan 04, 2020 at 4:22 pm
Hugh says
Yesterday my Thai g.f, our 2 young sons and I spent most of the day at the immigration office in BKK. Again.
I entered Thailand at the end of last August on a 90 day Visa obtained from their Embassy in London.
I re-arranged my inbound flight for a few weeks early due to the G.F being heavily pregnant with the 2nd son and struggling with keeping things together here. As a result my return flight is now outside the 90 days by about 3 to 4 days.
Rather than get "Overstayer" stamped in my passport (again, but another story of f*****g immigration twats), I thought it best to stand by and support the Thai ways and obtain and pay for a 30 day extension.
Long story short, I paid the 1900 thb and got an extended stay, not for 30 days, but for 4 days only.
If I wanted to stay for the 30 days I was told (via my G.F) that I needed to produce the birth certificates for our sons. Also, (not heard of this one before) for a 60 day extension, it would be birth certificates and the original house book from the g.f's mother. !!!!!!
Have you ever heard such shit? even from Bkk's finest immigration officers?
We spent nearly 5 hours trying to get this 4 / 30 day extension sorted out. Our oldest son, who's just turned 2 and is under various Thai doctors for behavioral issues, threw a few tantrums, big time, probably due to all the waiting around and getting hungry. The G.F was warned to keep him quiet or leave by the immigration staff as 1 officer was trying to work. I really don't see why we tolerate being treated in such a sickening and derogatory way by this country. I'm proud that although my country is useless at many things, and far from perfect, and is regularly accused of being racist, but we never treat guests to the U.K as unfriendly or as poorly as Thailand treats us. With the 90 day address reporting, address reporting by the home owner as to when you leave and again on your return, and our reporting to the Police within 24 hours if you leave the area you said you were staying in, to stay within the Thai laws we would be spending our entire stay queuing up every day in one government building or another. Failure to comply would result in being retained in another sort of Government building I guess. I'm afraid that all the per-sieved attractions of Thailand prior to my actual experiences were so very different. Thailand is fast becoming a Chinese style state run existence, where foreigners are treated as criminals rather than guests but who are seriously paying big bucks for the privilege of being here. Perhaps the Thai authorities may wish to see the positives of providing a genuinely warm welcome to the millions who flock here, spending money but who always have the option not to stay or return.
Nov 21, 2019 at 1:38 pm
Hailey says
Oct 02, 2019 at 10:16 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 02, 2019 at 4:59 pm
George Allison says
Aug 11, 2019 at 12:01 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 12, 2019 at 3:41 am
Jeremiah Scanlon says
Take cash and remember Thai immigration can ask for proof of 20,000 when you come back in also.
I've been in Sakon Nakhon 22 years and have made countless trips to Savannakhet for marriage visas and visa runs.
Jerry Scanlon
Oct 29, 2019 at 7:25 pm
Thomas Connell says
I plan to try to extend this visa for an additional 30 days.
I would like to spend a total of 6 months in Thailand so plan to go out of Thailand and get a new 60 day visa and try to renew that 2nd visa for 30 days.
A friend here in Thailand has told me today that back to back visa runs are getting difficult and that I might be denied another 60 day Tourist visa.
Could you please let me know which Thai Embassy / Consulate would be a good place for success ?
Thank you.
Tom
Jun 14, 2019 at 8:51 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 14, 2019 at 10:30 pm
david wood says
They do no longer issue multi entrance visas
Would I still be able to follow your procedure in December before my visa expires to get another 3 / 6 month visa from Loas
Cheers
Dave
Aug 05, 2019 at 11:31 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 05, 2019 at 7:32 pm
Alex says
Jan 07, 2019 at 12:15 pm
Alex says
It is a border run.
You can't do a visa run in one day.
I got the hope there was a way when I saw your title but it's actually just wrong information.
Of course it is possible to do a border run in one day.
I do it in a few hours by going to Cambodia. You don't even have to go in Cambodia because the Cambodian immigration is on the Thai side. Immigration stuff is done in a few minutes then you are immediately on the way back to Pattaya or Bangkok.
Nov 29, 2018 at 7:27 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 29, 2018 at 7:38 pm
Kyle says
Jan 02, 2019 at 11:18 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 03, 2019 at 12:13 am
Johannes says
Best wishes!
Nov 21, 2018 at 9:49 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 21, 2018 at 6:49 pm
Hailey says
Oct 02, 2019 at 10:14 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 02, 2019 at 4:59 pm
Jon says
Nov 06, 2018 at 11:38 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 06, 2018 at 6:18 pm
Jon says
I think I will take this option and stay 2 nights in Vientianne just to be sure. As you I also enjoy to see a new place, it will be cool. I found another option that is cheaper, but it includes a bus from Bkk to Mukdahan and then on to Savannakhet, and that is just a loooong bus ride.
Nov 06, 2018 at 7:04 pm
Jon says
Nov 07, 2018 at 7:50 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 07, 2018 at 7:55 pm
Amy says
Jun 21, 2019 at 11:14 pm
James E says
Jun 24, 2019 at 6:44 am
brian says
Oct 10, 2018 at 3:50 pm
Matt says
Oct 20, 2018 at 1:43 pm
Ryan says
Oct 04, 2018 at 8:20 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 05, 2018 at 6:11 pm
Hugh says
I'm on a U,K passport & don't know if this applies to other countries, but with regards the 30 day visa waiver deal, I can only enter Thailand 3 times in a 6 month period using that method.
I had to get a longer lasting visa (from U.K in my case) to get back in and stay legal after that.
Nov 05, 2018 at 6:27 pm
KIC says
Oct 04, 2018 at 12:42 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 04, 2018 at 6:36 pm
Tan says
Nov 05, 2018 at 5:16 pm
Tony says
Sep 24, 2018 at 8:53 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 24, 2018 at 9:05 pm
Carina Steyl says
Just a few things to note:
The friendship bridge bus was 20THB, because they charged 5THB overtime for a Sunday 😁 But Laos side gave me a free 1$ coupon for my return ride.
For my visa on arrival at Laos side, I didn't have time to change money to US dollar, but I only paid 1300Thb, not 1500. (Maybe because I'm on a South African passport?). This was great, because I used the 200THB that I saved for a tuk-tuk to my hotel. I didn't want to wait for the Nok Air shuttle, which was only arriving at 4pm, because I cleared the border at 1:30pm already. There is no big NokAir sign anymore, but just go to the transport desk / Taxi boss and he will tell you where to wait. Make sure you have your Nokair fly'n'ride sticker on you.
I stayed at Mali Namphu hotel, which is really just one step up from the hostels, but it was affordable and it has a pool!
Last thing to note, for a Non-b, the embassy requires you to hand in copies of your Laos visa and entry stamp along with all your other documents, so I had to leave the queue and come back. So make those copies at your hotel before you go to the Thai embassy. Also, the 2 required photos must be on a white background, not blue.
Download and complete your visa form from the Thai Embassy Vientiane website beforehand.
Thanks again for your help.
Sep 24, 2018 at 3:21 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 24, 2018 at 4:19 pm
Carina Steyl says
My flight times were different than yours (10:00am from Bangkok) and it also shows on my itinerary that the van was only arriving at 16;00. The Nok Air rep did arrive at around 14:00 with his clipboard and my name was on the list, but he said that he was waiting for 2 other people arriving from Surat Thani. As it was a Sunday and just the 3 of us, it made sense that they would wait for the other guests, so I opted for the tuk-tuk at my own expense.
Just another thing, today when I was at Laos departures, they made me buy a border pass for 50 Bhat. I think it could be because I'm South African as I had to pay a border fee when I went to Penang earlier this year.
The immigration officer at the Thai side stamped my passport incorrectly as a Non-Ed and I had to go back and get him to fix it to Non-B. I guess it is not a problem if you just want a tourist visa, but if you want to work, make sure they stamp it correctly.
Sep 26, 2018 at 8:48 am
TheThailandLife says
Sep 26, 2018 at 4:33 pm
Alastair KMF says
Aug 29, 2018 at 5:27 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 30, 2018 at 3:18 am
Alastair KMF says
Thanks in advance
Aug 29, 2018 at 8:23 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 29, 2018 at 4:27 pm
John says
Aug 19, 2018 at 9:36 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 19, 2018 at 5:13 pm
John says
Aug 19, 2018 at 9:24 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 19, 2018 at 5:11 pm
Chris says
So far I’ve been flying to visit other countries, getting my 30 days, extending at immigration for another 30. By 08/09/18 I’ll need to do my first visa run, and don’t fancy 9 hours in a van.
Jul 27, 2018 at 2:47 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 27, 2018 at 3:35 pm
James E says
Perhaps the more relevant question is why you spend your time reading all these posts about people who are able and willing to venture out into the real world and experience the rich variety that still exists. You trash-talk your way onto these pages and serve as a potent reminder of why people choose to live elsewhere; even though you're not. C'mon. Lighten up a bit and spend your time on one of the many InCel online communities where your social myopia would be appreciated by other people like you who still live in the same dank, stain-sheeted bedrooms they did when they were 12.
Or, better yet, maybe it's time to leave said bedroom, kiss your mom goodbye, and venture out into the world. Not that you have what it takes to do that, mind you.
Just sayin'.
G
Jul 11, 2018 at 10:44 pm
CJ says
Jul 11, 2018 at 5:07 am
TheThailandLife says
Jul 11, 2018 at 3:06 pm
keanu says
i am from Canada and i would like to get a 60 day tourist visa. So is it possible to get that and is that what you applied for also
my current non b visa expire in 3 days so i need to do this visa run fast.
thanks
Jul 10, 2018 at 9:44 am
TheThailandLife says
Jul 10, 2018 at 3:17 pm
Jeff says
Jul 06, 2018 at 8:27 am
TheThailandLife says
Jul 06, 2018 at 3:45 pm
Jeff says
Jul 10, 2018 at 11:21 am
Colleen Geddis says
I have heard that South Africans have problems going to Ventiane for a tourist visa. Have you had any feedback in this regard, or do you know anything about this?
Thanks!
Jun 22, 2018 at 4:32 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 22, 2018 at 4:56 pm
gerard says
You have to come back the next day.
Jun 16, 2018 at 10:07 pm
Colleen Geddis says
Can you apply for the single entry Non-Immigrant B visa this way, by doing the one day trip?
Thanks
Jun 16, 2018 at 4:00 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 16, 2018 at 4:14 pm
John says
May 31, 2018 at 10:50 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 01, 2018 at 9:05 pm
Rsgu says
Or had problems. Does this count as a border run or fly out and into Thailand ???
Mar 16, 2018 at 6:51 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 17, 2018 at 1:02 am
Samuel D. Wright says
Mar 05, 2018 at 12:13 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 05, 2018 at 5:12 pm
Nick says
Feb 27, 2018 at 5:15 pm
James E says
Feb 27, 2018 at 10:40 pm
Nick says
Feb 28, 2018 at 5:42 pm
Nick says
Feb 26, 2018 at 10:34 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 26, 2018 at 4:28 pm
Steve says
Feb 19, 2018 at 2:28 pm
TheThailandLife says
Feb 19, 2018 at 4:23 pm
Lawrence says
There is no fly and ride ticket to Udon Thani, only to Vientiane on the Nok Air website, and the flight is direct to Vientiane, so it seems you cannot stop at Udon Thani and cross the friendship bridge and back. Is this option now dead?
Please inform.
Jan 26, 2018 at 5:01 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 26, 2018 at 8:26 pm
Charlie says
Could you help me out though as I'm doing this slightly differently?
I fly tomorrow morning to Udon thani with Thai lion air. I arrive at 7am.
Looking to take the bus to Nonckhai and then to Vientiane and go to the Thai consultant/Embassy and apply for a new Thai visa. Will i need to stay ovwrnight?
Do i still cross the friendship bridge?
First time doing this and doing it alone so I'm a little worried.
Much appreciated!
Jan 16, 2018 at 7:06 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 16, 2018 at 9:03 pm
Steve says
Good info but there is now a Nok Air direct flight into Vientiane for same pricing so perhaps you might want to update?
Thanks.
Steve
Jan 22, 2018 at 10:37 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 22, 2018 at 2:24 pm
Lola says
I have too many questions...
1: I did not know my departure card was important...it only slipped out. What do I do?
2. I have a Swedish and a USA passport..which one is better to use for entering Thailand to get the longest times and extensions..
3. Are you saying that every single person here has to do a visa run every thirty days if they r staying here?
4. Please tell me exactly what to do with this visa situation... I want to stay in Thailand long term and I am here now in the Swedish visa with exempt for thirty days...can I get a sixth day tourist visa at any embassy or does it have to be my home country?
5. So should I just extend it for thirty days now at the immigration and then after thirty days fly out...i want to maximize the time I spend here..
6- how can this be done to be sure that you are not denied entry one fine day???
Jan 11, 2018 at 11:28 pm
James E says
2) USA will get you a 30-day Visa on arrival at both air and land entries (land entries are limited to 2/year, airport is unlimited). Check the Swedish embassy for any visa treaties they may participate in with Thailand.
3) Depends on if you arrive with a Visa exemption or on an actual Visa. If the first then yes, if the second then it depends on what type of Visa you're traveling under. Check the Thai Embassy websites to see what would work best for you.
4) In most cases you will have to be out of the country to get a new Visa. But it doesn't have to be your home country. Overusing the Visa on arrival program may be frowned upon by the authorities.
5) Define "maximize". Are you planning on a long-term visit or planning on livin in Thailand?
6) Read, learn, and follow all the rules.
Jan 12, 2018 at 11:43 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 13, 2018 at 10:13 am
Lola says
Does it depend on your nationality how long you get?
I'm here on my Swedish visa but I'm also renewing my American passport.. How can I get a 60 day visa?? To do a visa run at a border means you only get 30DAYS???
I can't believe they are making it hard for us to stay...in other Asian countries we can stay so long...
Please advise all my questions.. Thanks..
Jan 11, 2018 at 11:05 pm
John says
I stay 5 mins from largest immigration centre in changeattana, where I had to return to obtain 30 day extension (1800 baht), I could have just done this but was planning a stay in phayo and Chiangmai, I also had to pay 500 baht for my overstay
Hey I'm only here to waist my time ,( Thailand not forum)
So although the option is at immigration for 1800 baht I'm going to nam Som for new year, and enjoy the little bit of shopping at border,
So ,,,,,,, can I do this still,,, thanks in advance,,,
Dec 29, 2017 at 12:42 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 29, 2017 at 6:17 pm
John says
Thank you again. John
Dec 29, 2017 at 7:39 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 29, 2017 at 8:24 pm
Rob says
I arrived in Thailand on a 60 day tourist visa, then extended for another 30 days at immigration. Can I do a visa run to Mae Sai to get another 30 days? I am from South Africa.
I know the rules have changed recently so I’m not sure.
Thanks.
Dec 06, 2017 at 3:46 pm
John says
Dec 29, 2017 at 1:15 pm
Marilyn says
Nov 21, 2017 at 12:34 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 21, 2017 at 5:05 pm
Alex says
Please can you confirm how long the visa is for from Vientiane. I have been told obtaining 60 days is possible. I have already had a 30 day visa and my visa extension is due to expire on December 4th.
Nov 16, 2017 at 2:41 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 16, 2017 at 3:57 pm
Gillian says
Oct 21, 2017 at 11:24 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 23, 2017 at 2:38 am
JP says
Oct 04, 2017 at 1:14 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 04, 2017 at 4:30 pm
Hugh says
Did I really have to keep coming and going each 90 days? and he told me not to bother any more. They wern't worried. I got the impression that the scheme had died a natural common sense death.
I took that advice as being official, but is it?
Having just read this forum there appears to be a lot of individuals who are bothered.
Nothing was said of it either when I applied for my visa or when collecting it. There's nothing on the visa to suggest such shananaguns either.
Whats the real deal here?
Sep 19, 2017 at 3:41 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 19, 2017 at 8:36 pm
Raoul Duarte says
No need to cross Malaysian Immigration and no need a hotel; just wait at the airport to fly back with the same plane at 10:10 pm to Bangkok (arriving at 11:20 pm). Wait 10 or 15 minutes before go to Thai immigration; so you will get your stamp with the date next day (for a new stay 30 days).
Royal Jordanian offers this Return Flights for ~120 Euro (booked short time before flying); sometimes cheaper. So I think it's the most comfortable way to get an extension of 30 days at the airport - but I don't know you will get 60 or 90 days (with your existing visa).
Thank you for your helpful answers.
Aug 09, 2017 at 12:10 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 09, 2017 at 4:25 pm
Raoul Duarte says
Aug 10, 2017 at 12:31 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 10, 2017 at 7:05 pm
Valmont Davis Moore says
Aug 08, 2017 at 3:30 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 08, 2017 at 3:39 pm
Tuba says
Aug 07, 2017 at 9:32 am
TheThailandLife says
Aug 07, 2017 at 4:58 pm
Jonhy says
I'm on a visa exemption for 30 days (which I already extended in Chiang Mai for another 30 days) and now I need to do a visa run to get 30 more days. It's the first time I do that so I don't think I will have problems getting back in Thailand.
But I wanted to ask you if after going through the Laos inmigration i can just go back there to get back to Thailand or first i had to go to the Thai Embassy to get the visa. I ask you because there are a few websites that mention it and others that don't.
Thanks
Jul 22, 2017 at 1:59 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 24, 2017 at 4:53 am
Jonhy says
If I get back by plain, I think they would ask to show a ticket that will show when will I leave. They asked me that the first time I got here to board the plain.
Jul 24, 2017 at 2:45 pm
TheThailandLife says
If you are concerned about the return ticket when you arrive by plane, you can just pre-book a cheap ticket somewhere without paying upfront and then cancel it when inside Thailand.
Jul 24, 2017 at 4:40 pm
GA says
Aug 06, 2017 at 7:35 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 07, 2017 at 3:04 am
James says
If you’re using the 30 day visa exemption you can only enter Thailand through a land border twice per calendar year. To cross more frequently, you’ll need to get a visa in advance of travelling. This doesn’t apply to entry by air into Thailand. "
Aug 08, 2017 at 11:44 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 09, 2017 at 4:34 pm
James says
http://www.consular.go.th/main/th/customize/62281-Summary-of-Countries-and-Territories-entitled-for.html
It has 2015 and 2016 dates at the bottom so it's fairly recent. Check the ** footnote at the bottom: "** If such nationals enter the Kingdom at the immigration checkpoints which border neighboring countries, they will be allowed to stay for 15 days each time, except (1) Malaysian nationals who cross the borderline from Malaysia, (2) Nationals of the G7 countries: USA, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan, whose granted period of stay will not exceed 30 days each time. In addition, such nationals who hold diplomatic and official passports are also practically exempted from visa for tourism.
Aug 09, 2017 at 9:44 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 10, 2017 at 7:09 pm
James says
Aug 11, 2017 at 12:53 am
Jusa says
Thanks for great info from these websites.
I have a question about tourist visa,I'm going to Thailand without visa because my flight tickets are only 2 weeks period.In plane I fill arrival and departure cards and put my flight dates in cards.
Im going to apply 60+30 days tourist visa from Laos and you instruction says that :
Departure card (filled in)
Do you mean that same departure card that i filled in the plane when I was arriving to Thailand?
Do I have to go to Laos before that leaving date expires in my departure card?
Or are you talking about different departure card?
This is new to me so I have lot of questions.
Thanks if you can answer.
Jun 11, 2017 at 12:48 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 12, 2017 at 4:03 am
Ron says
Jun 01, 2017 at 8:38 am
TheThailandLife says
Jun 01, 2017 at 5:58 pm
Debbie says
Aug 02, 2017 at 2:16 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 02, 2017 at 3:42 pm
Jen says
Aug 03, 2017 at 9:12 pm
Adam says
So I came back in late March. I wrongly assumed that I can come in on just passport and get an 30 days extension for an 60 days. Then I'd have to leave Thailand for a bit then come back and get 30 days extension.
After that 30 days, I have to leave then I can come back and start over.
Am I doing this wrong?
Would I be better off just go to Lao at end of current 30 days to get a tourist visa?
Also how many times can this be repeated?
Thanks for help in advacne.
Apr 11, 2017 at 9:56 pm
Mal Esfandiarinia says
Also i have visa Run furms in BKK do by land to cambodia and stay 3 nights ans get a tourist 60day visa which can be extended for another 30days making it 90days in total. Also is it true you have to prove you have 20k THB.
Thanks
Apr 08, 2017 at 10:59 am
TheThailandLife says
Apr 08, 2017 at 3:47 pm
lee says
Mar 10, 2017 at 10:11 am
TheThailandLife says
Mar 10, 2017 at 3:37 pm
Christina says
Mar 07, 2017 at 6:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 07, 2017 at 11:51 pm
Christina Calhoun says
Mar 07, 2017 at 6:35 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 07, 2017 at 11:49 pm
Chris says
Feb 23, 2017 at 6:52 pm
Mike says
Feb 25, 2017 at 6:59 pm
Che says
Thanx for the post.
Just to make sure I fully understand it, this option is also valid for 1st time Tourist visa application right?
Thanx.
Feb 15, 2017 at 10:01 am
TheThailandLife says
Feb 16, 2017 at 5:39 pm
Justin says
Jan 24, 2017 at 9:04 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 25, 2017 at 6:31 pm
Fiona says
Jun 03, 2017 at 4:45 pm
David Silverman says
Two questions:
How would you suggest I hook up with other expats to join together for a visa run? Could be more fun with a small group.
Could there be any problem having my Thai gf join me? She will be getting her first passport ever.
Thanxalot
Jan 24, 2017 at 7:26 pm
Mikey says
If you book a visa run with an agent to Laos with a pickup from victory monument in Bangkok there are normally a group of expats waiting for the same trip, you can certainly meet up there before the trip. There is no problem taking your Thai partner on the trip but of course without a passport she is unable to cross the border into Laos. She would need to wait on the Thailand side of the border for you to return from the embassy
Jan 24, 2017 at 7:30 pm
David Silverman says
Many thanks,
Dave
Jan 24, 2017 at 7:12 pm
Mikey says
have you considered applying for an education visa ? I got one very easily after registering with a Thai language school and learning Thai for one hour per day, 3 days per week ( and hours and days of attendance is at my choosing ) I received a one year education visa. It still requires 90 day reporting but no need for visa runs. Hope that helps
Jan 24, 2017 at 7:19 pm
Luke says
Feb 27, 2017 at 3:55 pm
Mikey says
Mar 01, 2017 at 4:08 pm
Kevin says
Jan 19, 2017 at 1:03 am
gerard says
you can do it in one day.
Maybe depends on type of visa.
I'll be going Sunday or Monday bkk to Vientiane.
For a educational visa.
Everything I have read is you have to wait till the next
day to get your passport back.
Jan 18, 2017 at 10:46 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 19, 2017 at 12:50 am
Mikey says
Jan 19, 2017 at 12:55 am
Kevin says
Jan 15, 2017 at 5:47 am
TheThailandLife says
Jan 15, 2017 at 6:10 am
Mikey says
I had the same issue, I couldn't see the option for fly drive. If you are using a mobile or tablet device then try using a PC or don't select " use mobile site " use full site when accessing the nokair website. Hope that helps
Jan 19, 2017 at 12:58 am
Mikey says
Jan 10, 2017 at 7:57 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jan 10, 2017 at 9:40 pm
Mikey says
Jan 10, 2017 at 10:58 pm
Wordi says
Jan 02, 2017 at 1:46 pm
Wordi says
Jan 03, 2017 at 2:29 pm
Tony says
Dec 22, 2016 at 7:23 am
Tony says
Dec 22, 2016 at 7:16 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 22, 2016 at 5:28 pm
Tony says
Dec 23, 2016 at 2:43 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 23, 2016 at 3:50 am
Tony says
Jan 02, 2017 at 7:20 am
Wordi says
Jan 02, 2017 at 1:49 pm
pat says
Thanks in advance
Dec 21, 2016 at 1:27 pm
TheThailandLife says
BTW: If you can, please confirm you received my reply. I'm having some issues with readers not getting the replies to their comments and trying to resolve it. Thanks.
Dec 21, 2016 at 5:32 pm
Mike says
I read thru a couple of times - hope I did not miss seeing it !
I am filling in a Visa Application Form
Thanks
Dec 14, 2016 at 12:38 am
TheThailandLife says
Dec 14, 2016 at 3:34 am
Jeansandro says
I'll be doing this in less than a week, I'm on a tourist single entry visa that's at the end of its maximum 90 days. If I want 90 more days, do I have to spend the night in Vientiane ?
Also, do you know if I can ask for another kind of visa (one I would be allowed to work with) if I don't have the 5000$ on my account and don't possess an employer's letter ? Is there really only the tourist visa that I can ask for if I have little money?
Thanks for your great site,
Js
Nov 28, 2016 at 7:55 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 28, 2016 at 4:23 pm
Adam says
Dec 18, 2016 at 9:58 pm
TheThailandLife says
Dec 19, 2016 at 3:20 am
Jerry says
In my experience, Hanoi is typically the cheapest route you can take from BKK. The airfare is usually quite inexpensive, as well as the hotels and food. The Thai Embassy is usually very quiet, which means no wait lines. You can drop off your passport in the morning, and pick it up the following day.
I used to do the Vientiane route and each time, I found myself paying much more than what I would spend in Hanoi, and the Thai Embassy...always super busy. My longest wait was around 4 hours compared to Hanoi, which was 1 minute.
I find Hanoi more convenient, and definitely cheaper than traveling to Vientiane.
I hope this helps.
Nov 24, 2016 at 4:12 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 26, 2016 at 11:17 pm
Wilde at Heart says
Dec 29, 2016 at 9:01 pm
Aaron says
This site is extremely helpful and constantly revert back to it for assistance.
I need to do a run at the end of novegebr as my 30 day extension on a 30 day visa exempt will have expired. I plane to do the above mentioned trip in a day. (Kinda over and done with attitude).
Will i be able to receive a 60 day tourist visa upon entry doing it this way. I have a South African passport.
Thank you for the endless supply of information
Nov 14, 2016 at 5:48 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 14, 2016 at 8:24 pm
Guillaume says
Currently in Thailand coming to the end of my 30 days visa (up on arrival)... I would like to know if that technique can still be done considering the situation in thailand?
Otherwize I'll have to go to Vientiane which is less practical for me.
Thanks in advance.
Guillaume
Nov 02, 2016 at 9:34 am
TheThailandLife says
Nov 02, 2016 at 11:43 am
Sarah says
Currently in Thailand coming to the end of my 30 day visa... Can I get a 60 day renewal in Lao.?
I've also looked into getting my ED visa but don't need it til next May. Will my run to Lao have a negative effect?
Thanks
Sarah
Oct 22, 2016 at 11:28 pm
TheThailandLife says
Oct 23, 2016 at 8:40 pm
Sha-Sun Nashida says
Thank you for all the information. I recently arrived in Chiang Mai on August 24th. I was issued the 30 day tourist visa upon arrival. I am here to study the Thai language, and my return ticket to America is December23rd. I have booked a flight through Air Asia on September 23rd to Ho Chi Minh City. Once I get there I plant to stay for a couple days to see the city, then take a bus to Cambodia, hang out there for a couple days, continue on to Vientiane and fly back into Chiang Mai from there. Can I apply for a 60 or 90 day Thai visa once in Laos? Or will I be issued another 30 day tourist visa? I'm starting to stress out a little and would really appreciate any information to can share. Thank you very much for your time and help.
Aug 31, 2016 at 3:17 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 01, 2016 at 4:06 am
Sha-Sun Nashida says
Sep 01, 2016 at 5:41 pm
Tommy says
Sep 17, 2016 at 11:04 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 18, 2016 at 10:00 am
Tony says
Oct 03, 2016 at 7:24 am
TheThailandLife says
Oct 03, 2016 at 10:21 am
Stephen says
I have a question about a visa run to Laos as you describe but Just want to make sure nothing has changed recently.
Initially I travelled to Thailand from USA on a 60 day Tourist visa and just recently extended the visa for 30 more days.
If I travel across to Laos (via Friendship Bridge) before my 30 day extension is up, stay overnight and return to Thailand the next day will I get another 30 days or less. Seems like I read at some land crossings you get only two weeks.
I also choose to take this route via train from BKK since my GF and her sis & BF made the trip before and they are knowledgable about the area.
Thanks in advance for any info!!
Stephen
Aug 29, 2016 at 7:00 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 30, 2016 at 4:04 pm
JS says
how do you get this 6 month visa ? I'll have to do a run around mid-november, and I'd like to not abuse of this practice - I want my passport to look clean in case I apply for a work or ED visa.
Your site is a gold mine btw. You just convinced me to get a VPN, which I thought I didn't need before.
Sep 17, 2016 at 4:36 pm
TheThailandLife says
Sep 17, 2016 at 8:48 pm
Amber Garsee says
Will we (four Americans and a Thai) need a visa to get into Laos? How much is that, if it's needed?
Aug 20, 2016 at 3:13 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 21, 2016 at 4:32 am
Tommy says
Booked an Air Asia return flight from BKK to Vientiane. Total paid: 2390.00 THB. Flying on a Tuesday, coming back on Wednesday.
Booked a decent hotel room through Agoda in Vientiane City Center : 20 USD (700 THB)
Visa on arrival cost : 35 USD (1200 THB)
Taxi cost from BKK city center to Don Mueang and back : 600 THB
Total : +/- 5000 THB, around $140 USD.
What do you think ?
Jul 29, 2016 at 8:01 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 30, 2016 at 4:42 pm
Ivan says
thank a lot and continue !!!
Jul 20, 2016 at 4:54 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 21, 2016 at 7:03 pm
Pete says
Jul 24, 2016 at 10:19 am
TheThailandLife says
Jul 28, 2016 at 6:05 pm
Pete says
Thanks again for the advice, I will definately be following your guide from when i get there.
Jul 29, 2016 at 11:07 am
Louis says
Jul 18, 2016 at 10:42 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jul 19, 2016 at 2:30 pm
simon says
Jun 28, 2016 at 2:05 pm
simon says
my work has stoped for a bit due to the global oil price due to start again end of this year .
i went to Mae Sai yesturday to get a 7 day extention which has me leaving on the 05 /Jul / 2016 . i have a work frend in UDON and i was thinking that i could go stay with him and then could do as you say to cross into Laos and back . can i re enter the same way or do i need to fly back to bangkok to re enter ?
Jun 25, 2016 at 10:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 26, 2016 at 10:46 pm
Dave says
How would you do it the quickest way?
Dave
Jun 23, 2016 at 7:16 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 24, 2016 at 4:32 pm
Ashby says
Jun 26, 2016 at 3:08 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 26, 2016 at 10:41 pm
Cari says
Is it okay to just get a ticket to Vietnam as my proof of onward travel when I leave Kuala Lumpur and come back to Thailand? If the airline asks me for proof of onward travel when I leave Thailand to go to Malaysia, it'll be strange because my onward ticket is a return to Thailand the same day. I've never done this before so I'm just worried about getting stranded in Kuala Lumpur. Please let me know if this seems like it will work. :)
Jun 18, 2016 at 2:31 am
TheThailandLife says
Jun 18, 2016 at 10:52 pm
Cari says
Jun 19, 2016 at 12:35 am
adrian says
May 30, 2016 at 3:26 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 30, 2016 at 3:40 pm
Kayla says
Kayla
May 20, 2016 at 4:21 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 20, 2016 at 9:36 pm
Mark says
May 16, 2016 at 9:15 am
TheThailandLife says
May 16, 2016 at 10:53 am
Mark says
May 16, 2016 at 11:04 am
TheThailandLife says
May 16, 2016 at 11:11 am
Mark says
May 16, 2016 at 11:25 am
TheThailandLife says
May 16, 2016 at 2:26 pm
Gene H says
May 01, 2016 at 6:45 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 02, 2016 at 2:00 pm
Gene H says
May 02, 2016 at 9:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
May 05, 2016 at 3:44 pm
Marcus says
Apr 22, 2016 at 1:04 pm
TheThailandLife says
Apr 23, 2016 at 1:09 pm
Blorg says
The only advantage of Vientiane is that there's an embassy there with next day processing if you need a new visa. The visa into Cambodia IS $20 which is under 600B, I sometimes give them an extra $1 but as ever if you pay in baht you'll be ripped off.
If you're looking at flights, budget airline domestic to Hat Yai (for Malaysia, free entry) or Chiang Rai or Mae Sot (for Myanmar, $10) are good options, the airport at the latter is literally 2km from the border. Or sometimes you can find a cheap flight to Penang or KL and just turn around and come straight back.
Sep 21, 2013 at 10:14 pm
Melissa H. Pucci says
Aug 26, 2013 at 1:19 pm
brandon says
Mar 09, 2013 at 8:51 pm
TheThailandLife says
Mar 09, 2013 at 9:06 pm
Bangkok Ben says
Nov 26, 2012 at 7:34 pm
TheThailandLife says
Nov 27, 2012 at 12:47 am
dave says
Leave from suvarabumi bus station to poi pet at 1:00 (200) bus goes right to border. walk out of Thailand. (do this on a thursday and no lines). Go get Cambodian Visa (800). Go into Cambodia. Hang out for 10 15 min. Leave Cambodia. Go back into Thailand. (still no lines) Go get bus (green one leaves about 6:15) in front of 7-11 (300 or 200 if they know you, or you speak a bit of Thai). Get off at Homepro Bangpli about 9:15. back home on my motorbike in 5 min. total about 1200.
Aug 19, 2012 at 12:17 pm
TheThailandLife says
Aug 22, 2012 at 6:34 pm
dave says
Also to clarify the original posters visa (for Ben). He already had a multi-entry Visa (valid for 6 months) and was just doing an exit/re-entry and getting another 60 days. He also could have spent 1900 at local Immigration office and gotten an extension (probably 30 days).
Nov 27, 2012 at 1:56 am
Peter Jay says
Jun 28, 2012 at 4:22 pm
TheThailandLife says
Jun 28, 2012 at 10:26 pm
Martyn says
Jun 26, 2012 at 3:05 am
TheThailandLife says
Jun 28, 2012 at 10:28 pm