Multiple Entry Tourist Visa for Australian?

[danzer]

Im an Australian who has a flight to Thailand in 3 weeks time 14th of December. I had planned to stay till the 18th of January and return to Australia on that date.

Due to a change in circumstances, I would like to stay overseas now for around 5-6 months before returning back to Australia.

I would like to visit nearby countries such as Vietnam and Philippines and then return back to Thailand.

Should I apply for a Multiple entry tourist visa?

Does this need to be approved before my flight on the 14th of December? and what is the likelihood of having it approved in that time? Also, what is the process to apply, can this be lodged via email or post and is this done through through a Thai consulate here in Australia.

Or can I just travel to Thailand as originally planned, then extend my stay once Im there (how long can I stay firstly) and then do I need to do visa runs each time?

If you can shed some light on what the best options are I would greatly appreciate it.

[AYJAYDEE]

u need a triple entry tourist visa. get it from your local consulate. good for 3x2=6 months plus extensions if u need them

Edited November 24, 2013 by AYJAYDEE

[ubonjoe]

There is no multiple entry tourist visa they are issued by number of entries. Each entry gives you a 60 day entry that can be extended by 30 days at immigration. Each Entry will cost you 45 AUD.

Even your original travel plans were longer than the 30 day visa exempt entry you get when flying ( by land 15 days) into the country. Only a 7 day extension of this entry is possible. You also would need a return or onward ticket within 30 days for it.

A 3 entry visa would fit your posted travel plans. You have plenty of time to get your visa. The honorary consulates ( not Sydney) would be the best choice for getting your visa.

Contact info here. http://canberra.thaiembassy.org/consulate.html

Edited November 24, 2013 by ubonjoe

[danzer]

Thanks guys for the detailed info. Particularly Ubonjoe you really know your stuff.

Im relieved I have enough time to get a 3 entry visa.

Ive visited http://canberra.thai.../consulate.html and the Thai Melbourne consulate website http://www.thaiconsulatemelbourne.com/ as I live in Melbourne, unfortunately I cant access it. The whole site seems to down which is quite annoying.

Does anyone know what the process to obtain the visa is? Would I need to visit the consulate to provide the documentation or should I be able to scan and email through the necessary documents and information?

[ubonjoe]

You will have to mail in application or go in person. Perhaps website is down for maintenance. I suggest you give them a call first thing Monday for info.

You shouldn't need much more than the application form and a copy of your passport photo page.

[AYJAYDEE]

Thanks guys for the detailed info. Particularly Ubonjoe you really know your stuff.

Im relieved I have enough time to get a 3 entry visa.

Ive visited http://canberra.thai.../consulate.html and the Thai Melbourne consulate website http://www.thaiconsulatemelbourne.com/ as I live in Melbourne, unfortunately I cant access it. The whole site seems to down which is quite annoying.

Does anyone know what the process to obtain the visa is? Would I need to visit the consulate to provide the documentation or should I be able to scan and email through the necessary documents and information?

you shud be able to take in the completed application, 2 photos, cash and your passport and pick up the next day.

[danzer]

Ok great.

I will have to mail in the application as Im working full time currently and having seen some of the other consulates it seems most only operate for a few business hours per day.

Just thought it might have taken at least a few weeks to get processed.

But If i mail it in the next few days, then by the sounds of things it shouldnt take long to get processed.

I will give them a call tomorrow, especially if the website is down and hopefully they can send through an application form.

The cost would be $90 is that correct?

[ubonjoe]

That would be enough for a 2 entry visa. A 3 entry would be $135.

A walk in might get you a visa while you wait. Mail in maybe 3 days with overnight delivery.

[falconsforge]

Thai embassy in Canberra only offers dual entry now.

[danzer]

Got my visa all sorted now.

Really quick turnaround. 2 days after sending it in I got my passport back with visa approved.

Thankyou once again everyone for your advice, especially ubonjoe. Much appreciated

[ubonjoe]

Great

Enjoy your trip.

[Metapod]

Thai embassy in Canberra only offers dual entry now.

Melbourne only offers dual entry also.