Activating next entry on tourist visa early

[LionMG]

Hi - I just extended the first entry of my double-entry tourist visa on July 18th for 30 days. Is there any rule against activating my next entry early? With all this uncertainty, I'm considering doing it before the August 12th date, even though I'd lose a week on my extension. I don't know if I want to risk if they'll get more strict after August 12th.

Also, I'm debating between two options:

1. If I do it before August 12th, a border run at Mae Sai.

2. Fly to Malaysia for a couple days and fly back in, which is less risky I would think?

I'm low on money so I'd rather do the Mae Sai border run... but don't know if I want to risk it. There are decent flight deals for Chiang Mai - KL for 3,000B return. But then there's the hotel cost for a few days.

I'm from Canada and got my double entry tourist visa in Canada. I have had only 1 other tourist visa (triple entry) in the past.

Any advice? Thanks!

[happysanook]

You can use the 2nd entry any time you want prior to the visa validity date expiration (and assuming they allow it due to the clamp down)

[ubonjoe]

I don't think there will be any significant changes on the 12th from what is already being done now at most border crossings,. I have seen no reports of Mae Sai being any problem for using a tourist visa for entry. Plus your history does not fit the profile of a visa runner.

[slipperylobster]

I did that very thing, 3 days ago. Flew into Kuala Lumpur, stayed a few days, and flew back into Chiang Mai. I got a good deal on Air Asia, as I booked early and they had a promotion of only about 2500 baht R/T. By the way, KL Airport has alot of amenities. I was able to get a Cubical Room for six hours, as I was too early for my departure flight. They are on the bottom floor...at the end. 700 baht. Stayed in Kuala Lumpur and did some shopping...not bad. I was not asked for supporting evidence, but brought the lot of it. Bank Statements, Hotel Reservations, Itinerary, Onward Ticket with sixty days, etc. None was required..in my case.