Hi,

 

I'm planning to spend a month or two in Thailand but I'm confused about a few details. Does my time allowed start upon issuance from consulate or upon entering the country? I'll be doing it by mail from Midwest to DC location, if they're referring to date issued from consulate, is the 15 days estimation a safe bet or should I give it more time before the flight?

 

Sorry if it's a silly question. Just trying to get things in order so I can get the most out of the visa and not waste time/ticket.

I take it you are planning to apply for a single-entry tourist visa. This visa will be valid for travel to Thailand within the date shown on the visa, which usually is three months from the issue date. Some consulates make it 90 days. Therefore, you can apply for the visa as early as 90 days before your travel date. Personally, I usually apply at least 30 days in advance.

 

The permission to stay you get when you arrive in Thailand starts with the date of your arrival.