Any SETV experiences from Colombo?

[atecom]

Hi all,

 

In a few months time when my current METV expires and I am on its last entry, I will need to get a SETV. I've been looking at a holiday to Sri Lanka for a while now and am hoping I can kill 2 birds with 1 stone and apply for a SETV while I am there. Has anyone had any recent experiences with the application process in Colombo? There is some information on the website, but I can't always trust it's up to date. Some things I just want to make sure:

- I can apply for a SETV as a non Sri Lankan Citizen

- They will have no problem giving me a SETV on the back of an METV (Which is the only thai Visa I have ever had)

- If the information on the website is correct, with what I need to supply... etc.. (http://www.thaiembassy.org/colombo/contents/files/services-20170127-110512-909343.pdf)

 

 

I am fine with the 5 day wait they mention on their consular website.

 

I notice their METV requirements don't mention requiring being Sri Lankan (http://www.thaiembassy.org/colombo/contents/files/services-20170127-110701-793070.pdf) but I am probably hoping against hope that I could apply for an METV there.

 

Thanks in advance.

~Atecom 

[BritTim]

See https://www.thaivisa.com/forum/topic/712335-thai-embassy-in-colombo-sri-lanka-has-changed-the-rules-for-tourist-visas/. Although that post is about four years old, it is very likely to be the current situation.

[ubonjoe]

I suspect they will deny your visa application. If you look at the checklist closely it basically shows you must be living in Sri Lanka.

 

Quote

⃝Original 6 months updated bank statements/EPF Slips with photocopies

Confirmed return air ticket (date on the ticket must be after the date of visa collection)

⃝Official letter from workplace to prove applicant’s occupation

At one time they had a sign at the embassy stating you had to be a citizen or a legal resident to apply.

[atecom]

Rats, Ahh well, back to the drawing board.

[raysunshineray]

Another way might be to travel to / back from Colombo via India and try getting an SETV in Delhi, - though you'd need to research that - anyone know anything at all about SETVs in Delhi?

I was planning to do a couple of months in India & Sri Lanka at the end of current SETV - does anyone know if there are similar restrictions as those described in Colombo?

UK national BTW.

[ubonjoe]

37 minutes ago, raysunshineray said:

Another way might be to travel to / back from Colombo via India and try getting an SETV in Delhi, - though you'd need to research that - anyone know anything at all about SETVs in Delhi?

I was planning to do a couple of months in India & Sri Lanka at the end of current SETV - does anyone know if there are similar restrictions as those described in Colombo?

UK national BTW.

You have to be a resident in India to apply for a tourist visa.

"Evidence of permanent residence in India (non-Indian passport holder)"

Source: http://www.vfs-thailand.co.in/Delhi/tourist.html

[raysunshineray]

Thanks Ubonjoe - almost inevitable really.... so it's either back to country of origin, or return to Thailand via one of the well-documented neighbouring countries, - and more planning....

[ubonjoe]

24 minutes ago, raysunshineray said:

Thanks Ubonjoe - almost inevitable really.... so it's either back to country of origin, or return to Thailand via one of the well-documented neighbouring countries, - and more planning....

Or on your way to one of those countries. Perhaps Thailand to Kuala Lumpur, get the visa at the embassy there and then finish your trip. The visa is valid for 3 months from the date of issue.

[raysunshineray]

Thanks for that idea - I'll certainly look into it... it might just be the best way and possibly cheapest route - Kuala Lumpur to Chennai.

Many years ago (70s / 80s !) there used to be a cheap - and rickety - old ferry between Penang and Chennai - that disappeared long ago unfortunately!

And when I first embarked on my travels in India - over 10 years duration in total - UK nationals needed no visa and could stay indefinitely - how times have changed!!!!!