Tourist Visa & METV
Longer, flexible visits before you commit
British and Chinese nationals now get 30 days visa-free (cut from 60 in 2026), but the 6-month Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) is ideal if you want to come and go while you decide on a long-stay route.
Key facts
- Visa-free
- 30 days on arrival (2026)
- METV validity
- 6 months, multiple entry
- Stay per entry
- 60 days (+30 extension)
- Processing
- ~5-10 working days
Best for
- Visitors wanting more than the 30-day exemption at a time
- People scouting Thailand before a long-stay visa
- Frequent travellers in and out of the region
Main requirements
- Proof of funds and travel/accommodation plans
- Passport valid 6+ months
- Photos and completed application
How we run your case
The repeatable workflow behind this route, with the checkpoint and risk we watch.
- 1
Advise the route
The 30-day visa exemption vs the 6-month multiple-entry METV, matched to your actual travel.
- 2
Prepare & file METV
Compile funds and travel evidence and submit the METV application.
- 3
Approval
Visa granted; we brief you on entry/exit and the in-country extension option.
- 4
In-country extension
Handle the 30-day extension at immigration when you need it.
- 5
Transition planning
Plan your move to a long-stay route before the clock runs out.
How we help
Frequently asked questions
Who is the Tourist Visa or METV really for?
It suits visitors who want to stay longer than the 30-day visa-free exemption allows at one time, people scouting Thailand before committing to a long-stay visa, and frequent travellers moving in and out of the region. If a single 30-day entry isn't enough, the 6-month Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV) gives you the flexibility to come and go while you decide.
How long can I actually stay on the METV?
The METV is valid for 6 months and lets you enter multiple times. Each entry allows a stay of 60 days, which can be extended by a further 30 days inside Thailand, so you can plan longer visits without leaving for good each time.
What do I need to apply, and how long does it take?
You'll need proof of funds along with your travel and accommodation plans, a passport valid for at least 6 more months, photos, and a completed application. Processing typically takes around 5 to 10 working days once everything is in order.
Should I just use the 30-day visa-free entry or apply for the METV?
It depends on how long and how often you want to be in Thailand. From 2026 British and Chinese nationals get 30 days visa-free on arrival (down from 60), while the METV is built for longer, repeat visits. We'll advise which route fits your trip, prepare and file the METV, arrange in-country extensions, and plan your transition to a long-stay visa if you decide to settle. Ask us for a quick assessment and we'll tell you honestly which one you actually need.
Other visa routes
Ready to make Thailand home?
Start with a free, no-obligation assessment. We will tell you exactly which visa fits and what it takes.