Getting Music Gear Past Immigration On Toursit Visa.

[tmanran]

Hello

I am a US citizen going to Thailand on a tourist visa next month. I have a guitar, microphone, 20 pound amplifier, and wires. In Australian immigration they hassle me a little - and want to know if I plan on working in a bar or playing on the street for money. I just lie and say no and they let me through eventually. But in actuality, I wouldnt mind picking up the occasional bar gig for some free beers and a few extra bucks.

Do you think Thai immigration will have similar complaints when I get off the plane in Bangkok?

I could always mail the equipment to myself for 100 bucks - kind of a hassle though.

My biggest fear is that they will start asking a lot of questions and then refuse entrance AND SEND ME BACK TO LOS ANGELES! - thinking I plan to make money with my gear.

Ideas? Thanks!

[dr_Pat_Pong]

Hello

I am a US citizen going to Thailand on a tourist visa next month. I have a guitar, microphone, 20 pound amplifier, and wires. In Australian immigration they hassle me a little - and want to know if I plan on working in a bar or playing on the street for money. I just lie and say no and they let me through eventually. But in actuality, I wouldnt mind picking up the occasional bar gig for some free beers and a few extra bucks.

Do you think Thai immigration will have similar complaints when I get off the plane in Bangkok?

I could always mail the equipment to myself for 100 bucks - kind of a hassle though.

My biggest fear is that they will start asking a lot of questions and then refuse entrance AND SEND ME BACK TO LOS ANGELES! - thinking I plan to make money with my gear.

Ideas? Thanks!

I don't like your chances in Thailand. Your gear screams unlawful work, and I'd reckon Immigration and/or Customs will see it that way too.

[cdnvic]

A lot of backpackers arrive with acoustic insturments and such without trouble but the amp and everything just looks too professional.

Why not go "unplugged" for your holiday?

[jdinasia]

since you say you plan on working illegally if you get the chance .......

remember too ... the US uses different power than Thailand

Edited June 11, 2007 by jdinasia

[puuchai299]

I would think if your amp and wires are packed in suitcases,seperate from your guitar then there would be less chance of them thinking your up to something,you could always tell the authorities you brought them to sell to a thai,or give as a gift.As regards working in a bar/club,i wouldnt evn think about it .with no work permit you'd be deported if caught and would never be able to return . Even when foreigners perform here for charity they have to ask immigration for permission.RISKY BUSINESS.

[retiredusn]

I would think if your amp and wires are packed in suitcases,seperate from your guitar then there would be less chance of them thinking your up to something,you could always tell the authorities you brought them to sell to a thai,or give as a gift.As regards working in a bar/club,i wouldnt evn think about it .with no work permit you'd be deported if caught and would never be able to return . Even when foreigners perform here for charity they have to ask immigration for permission.RISKY BUSINESS.

[b]Let him bring the amp (ect) in then let them take it away, the law is the law and he is one of them that make it hard for the rest of us. Either arrive with a work visa or do not bother to come[/b].

[lopburi3]

From first post it is very difficult not be believe the thread is in violation of forum rule 1 - thread is closed.

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