Thailand Multi-Entry Tourist Visa Guide 2026: Rules, Benefits & How to Apply

 

Thailand Multi-Entry Tourist Visa 2026 guide

Thailand Multi-Entry Tourist Visa (METV): The Safest Way to Travel in 2026

Thailand’s Immigration Department is now enforcing stricter checks on frequent travelers, and thousands of visitors are facing questioning, delays, and even entry denials. If you travel to Thailand often, there is now one clear solution to avoid all this stress — the Multi-Entry Tourist Visa (METV).

This guide explains why visa runs have become risky, why the METV is a game-changer, the requirements you must prepare, and how to apply step-by-step.

Why Visa Runs Are Becoming Risky in 2026

In the past, visa runs were a normal routine for many repeat travelers:

• Bangkok → Laos → return

• Chiang Mai → Myanmar → return

• Phuket → Malaysia → return

You could exit and re-enter within hours. But now things have changed.

Thai Immigration is Targeting Frequent Entries

Immigration officers are closely checking passports for patterns such as:

• Tourist entry → exit → re-entry → exit → re-entry

• Multiple entries within short periods

• Suspicion of staying long-term on tourist stamps

If your passport shows continuous tourist entries without long breaks, officers may ask:

“Why are you entering Thailand so many times? What is your purpose?”

Many travelers have reported being sent to the questioning room, receiving warnings, and in some cases, being denied entry.

Why This Is Happening

Thailand wants genuine tourists, not people using tourist visas as a way to live long-term. This is why visa runs and back-to-back entries are now under heavy scrutiny.

Good News: There’s a Safe, Legal Alternative

If you love coming to Thailand several times a year, the Thailand Multi-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) gives you complete flexibility without the risks of visa runs.

Why the Thailand METV Is a Game-Changer

The METV offers unparalleled freedom for frequent travelers.

1. Unlimited Entries for Six Months

You can enter and exit Thailand as many times as you want during the 6-month validity period.

📌 Important:
The six-month validity starts from the date the visa is issued, not the date you first enter Thailand.

2. 60 Days Per Entry

Every entry allows you to stay up to 60 days.

If you need more time, you can extend your stay by 30 extra days at a local Immigration Office for 1,900 THB.

3. No More Risky Border Runs

No more:

• 4 a.m. buses

• Long border queues

• Officers questioning back-to-back entries

With an METV, your purpose is clear and legitimate.

4. Immigration Prefers It

Using an METV shows immigration that you are following the rules. Travelers with this visa generally experience smoother entry processing.

Who Should Apply for the METV?

You are a perfect candidate if:

• ✔ You visit Thailand 2–3 times a year

• ✔ You stay longer than 30 days

• ✔ You dislike doing visa runs

• ✔ You want safe, stress-free entry

For frequent travelers, the METV is the best long-term travel solut

Processing Time

The processing period typically takes 15 business days or more, depending on the Thai Embassy or Consulate.

Once approved, you will receive an e-Visa PDF by email. Print it and carry it with your passport during travel.

Mandatory: Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)

Starting May 1, 2025, all foreign travelers must fill out the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online within 72 hours before arrival.

Official site: tdac.immigration.go.th

Thailand METV Requirements (Updated for 2026)

1. Financial Proof

You must show a consistent bank balance of at least 200,000 THB (approx. ₹5–7 lakh or $5,000–$7,000 USD) maintained for the last 6 months.

2. Proof of Residence

If applying outside your home country, show legal residence documents such as:

• Resident card

• Valid visa

• Utility bill or lease agreement

3. Employment or Business Documents

Provide:

• Employer letter stating your job role, salary, and employment status

• OR business registration/license if self-employed

4. Confirmed Flight Booking

Provide a confirmed flight ticket showing your first entry and departure from Thailand within 60 days.

5. Accommodation Proof

Hotel booking or an invitation letter from a host for your first trip.

6. Passport Requirements

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months.

7. Recent Passport Photo

A clear passport-size photo taken within the last 6 months.

8. Apply Online

Submit your digital application at:

👉 thaievisa.go.th

9. Payment (India-Specific Instructions)

After submitting the application:

1. The system generates a payment document with:

   • Exact fee in INR

   • Beneficiary name for the Demand Draft

2. Get a Demand Draft payable to:
   “Royal Thai Consulate-General, [City]”
   (e.g., Mumbai, Chennai, New Delhi)

📌 Since 20 May 2025, cash deposits are not accepted.

How to Apply for the Thailand METV (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit Official Website

Go to thaievisa.go.th
Create an account and select Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry).

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Upload:

• Bank statements

• Passport copy

• Photo

• Flight ticket

• Accommodation proof

• Employment letter

• Residence proof

Step 3: Submit the Application

Review all documents and submit.

Step 4: Generate Payment Document

Download the PDF with the exact fee and payment instructions.

Step 5: Make Payment

Get a Demand Draft with the correct details.
(Or use an agency’s online payment system.)

Step 6: Wait for Approval

Processing takes about 15 working days or more.

Step 7: Receive Your e-Visa

You will receive it by email.
Print the PDF and carry it during travel.

Watch the video here: