The point of the matter is that many people do abuse the system and the IO is not wrong to question this. Repeat visits, especially within a short time frame is indicative of such abuse. Many seem to get away with border bounces and such, and many should not be surprised to be caught and given fair warning at some point. It is hardly difficult or expensive to apply for a visa... or to stay out of the country a bit longer.

@Samuel *******

oddly enough Samuel, I made my application from the UK, but still needed to apply via the same BKK office and send the ink prints... the agent was great, helpful and quick. We'll worth the small fee.

@Harry *****

I think he is talking about a CRC (Criminal Record Check). Can only be done via Special Branch in Bangkok, to my knowledge. It is a relatively simple process and takes perhaps a week. I did mine through an agent quite cheaply... getting the old style ink finger-printing done was an experience lol 😆. The form and detailed information is available online...

If I recall correctly, kids are actually exempt from overstay fees up to 14 or 16, but do need a valid visa for long-term stay... most often the education extension.