Thailand visa question: Trip to Laos and stay longer than 30 days.
Dear Ronnie,
Hopefully you can give a clear answer to the following question. From January 9 to February 18 we will go to Thailand (from the Netherlands) which is longer than the 30 day visa allows. We want to make a trip to Laos during that period, how do we arrange that with a visa? A 60 day visa with “one entry”? Or else?
Am really curious,
Thanks in advance,
Loam
Dear Margo,
You do not need to apply for a visa for Thailand for that period. You can enter Thailand on the basis of “Visa Exemption”. Upon arrival you will then receive a residence period of 30 days. Before those 30 days are up you have to make your trip to Laos. If you come back from Laos, you can re-enter Thailand on 30 days “Visa Exemption”.
The only problem you may encounter is when you leave at the airport. Airlines may request proof that you will be leaving Thailand within 30 days.
Also read this link regarding “Visa Exemption” and the note therein regarding the airlines
"Comments
1. When you leave for Thailand and then enter Thailand on the basis of “Visa Exemption”, it is good to take the following into account.
Airlines have the responsibility, at the risk of a fine, to check that their travelers have a valid passport and visa to enter the country. If you wish to enter Thailand on the basis of “Visa Exemption”, then of course you cannot show a visa. You may then be asked to prove that you are going to leave Thailand within 30 days.
The simplest proof is of course your return ticket, but you can also prove with another plane ticket that you will continue flying to another country within 30 days. Some airlines also accept a declaration from you that releases them from all costs and consequences in the event of a refusal. If you are going to leave Thailand by land, this is almost impossible to prove and an explanation can sometimes offer a solution.
Not all airlines require or monitor this yet. If in doubt, contact your airline and ask if you need to show proof and what, if any, they accept. Preferably ask this by email so that you have proof of their answer later at check-in.”
A visa is required for Laos, but you can get one at any border post.
If you are planning to travel by plane from Thailand to Laos, take your ticket before leaving the Netherlands. Do you immediately have proof that you are going to leave Thailand within 30 days.
Regards,
RonnyLatYa