Hi! I've been in Thailand for the last couple of months(4). US Passport.

 

Entered on VE. Extended 30 days.

Flew out of the country for 10 days. Entered VE.

Flew out of the country for 7 days. Entered VE. Am going to get an extension on this entry for +30.

 

This will allow me to stay till the middle of October(15th). If I wanted to stay till mid Jan, can I:

 

1. border run + extension (60 days). border run + extension(60 days). Will this cause any issues (I know 2 border runs per calendar year are permitted).

2. fly to either Laos, HCMC, Hanoi or HKG apply for an SETV. Return and extend once. (90 days).

3. just fly out once in October re-enter on VE and apply for extension? Then fly out again for the same.

 

Thanks a ton!

 

You have one issue in your plan. IMHO. When you fly Saigon or HK even if issued a setv, you have big chance of denied entry at bkk airports. Then you have world of pain. Read the threads about that. Thinking obtain that setv at consulate where you can enter via border. KL would be one suggestion. Better plan would be spend time outside los. I mean months. Guess depends how long you wish to stay.

Edited August 31, 20196 yr by DrJack54

I would try SETV at Vientiane if denied you can still do VE at Nong Khai land border. Then you can do a visa run to Myanmar from Bangkok for 2000 with a visa run agency. 

OP, the more I read you posted plan the more I have doubts. The visa exempt via air are best used up early. The visa exempt via border best saved till end. The setv in between best select countries with border crossing to Thailand. Certainly not HK or Vietnam.

Avoid entering by air, especially visa exempt. Flying out of Thailand is fine. Entering at most land crossings (even visa exempt) should be OK. As someone else suggested, I would probably go to Vientiane (by land or air) for a tourist visa (which you will almost certainly get) returning via the Friendship Bridge to Nong Khai, and flying (if that is your preference) from Udon Thani airport.

Got my extension today. Have a few questions.

 

1. Is it alright if I book my flight on the last day to Vientiane or should I book it a few days before my extension ends? I will return over the Friendship Bridge and then fly back.

 

2. Would there be any issue getting my visa? I have never applied for an SETV before.

 

3. How manny days is the turn around? Do I need to make a appointment in advance?

 

4. Any special documents I need to submit?

 

5. Can anyone recommend any nice hotels?

 

Thanks again!