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Will I face issues re-entering Thailand with a visa on arrival given my previous METV stay?

Thailand visa METV visa Non-Immigrant B visa Work permit Visa on arrival Immigration rules Expat advice

Sep 3, 2019

5 years ago

Gaël *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi, I'am in Thailand since 3rd January 2019 with a METV visa which ends on this 10th September. I wanted to start the process to get a non-migrant B visa and a work permit with my future employer. However the immigration in Surat Thani told me than actually I don't have enough days left on my actual visas to start this process (21 days minimum). They advised me to go out first and then come back with a visa on arrival (30 days) and then they will be able to start the process. So, I've booked a flight to Kuala Lumpur on the 10th September and come back on the 11th September. I've read a lot of posts than some people had trouble to get back to Thailand because they already stayed to long in the country under a tourist visa and I'am worry about if they will allow me to come back with out problems ?!. I have the THB 20'000, a return flight ticket, a valid swiss passport, etc... what do you think ? 

Thank you for your help and sorry for my english.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is currently in Thailand on a METV visa, which is set to expire soon. They plan to exit Thailand to get a visa on arrival and then apply for a Non-Immigrant B visa and work permit. However, they are concerned about potential re-entry issues after having overstayed under a tourist visa in the past. Community responses highlight the importance of having documentation from the future employer and suggest that the final decision lies with the Immigration Officer.

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Tod *********

you're being told a crock of shite :O You don't need ANY number of days left on the visa you need 21 days left on your current entry stamp.

When does you actual METV expire? (Not your current entry stamp but the actual visa?)

5 years ago

Gaël *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Tod ********

sure you are right ! it's 21 days on my current entry stamp ! I explained it wrongly, sorry !

I had a stamp the last time I went out and through my METV (which already ended on the 13th of June). Then I did a one-month extension and that is my actual stamp. It end on the 10th September !

Immigration also told me when I will be back I will be able to apply for the non migrant b and the work permit. And it would not be necessary for me to go out again to get the non migrant b and the work permit ! I was a bit surprise about I dont have to go out again... because most of my friends who work for others compagnies, they had to go out to get it. Do you know something about that ?

Thanks so much for your help !

5 years ago

Reply to

Gaël *********

Robert *******

What ever I or other members think does not going to help you. The decision to let you into the country is made by the Immigration Officer at the check point. Get some documents from your future employer to show the Immigration Officer that you like to come back to apply for the Non Immigrant Visa and Work Permit. OR check the website of the Thai Embassy in KL and apply there for the Non Immigrant B visa and than make your way back into Thailand.

5 years ago

Gaël *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Robert ******

thank you for your answer and advices !

5 years ago

Reply to

Gaël *********

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