Double Entry Tourist Visa Question

[wave21]

I am an American and I got a double entry tourist visa at the Thai consulate in the USA. I have looked over the boards a bit but I am still a little confused about some stuff.

My first entry into Thailand was March 11. So I believe that would mean I must leave the country or extend the visa 30 days by May 9th. I want to stay in Thailand for 5 months so I will definitely have to do the 30 day extension at some point.

*If I leave the country sometime next week will I get the 2nd entry for 60 days regardless of whether I re-enter by land or air?

*Can I apply for the 30 day tourist visa extension and use that after my first entry and then use my 2nd entry of 60 days after the 30 day extension is up or can I only apply for the 30 day extension after both entries are used up?

Also, I am thinking of going to either Laos or Cambodia and spending a few days to a week there. I can get a visa upon arrival for both of those countries, right? If so, what is the advantage of getting the visa for either of these countries ahead of time in Bangkok?

Thanks.

[lopburi3]

You received a stamp on entry with a permitted to stay until date - go to Immigration next week and extend for 30 days. You will need 1,900 baht and photo. You lose no days by doing early.

Then check your visa expiration date and before that date make a trip out/back to obtain the second 60 day stay (you enter visa information on the arrival card). You then have the second 30 days extension available if you decide to stay longer.

[mexxx]

there is a time limit to activate your second entry...i think its 90 days from the date of your tourist visa stamping.

dont forget, the visa was probably stamped in some days prior to arrival so you have to include that + your time in kindom + your extension.........

[lopburi3]

The second entry must be made while the visa is valid - that is the only restriction. As I said check the visa expiration date.

[thaiphoon]

there is a time limit to activate your second entry...i think its 90 days from the date of your tourist visa stamping.

It will depend where the visa was issued. Some consulates will issue double entry tourist visa with 90 day expiry, others 180 days expiry. Within the region is usually 90 days.