Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

A Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) used to be a popular way for visitors to make several visits to Thailand over a single visa validity period. Since 2023–2025 Thailand’s visa landscape has changed a lot (longer visa-exempt stays for many nationals, new visas such as the DTV/digital-nomad routes, and differing embassy practices). Still, where available the METV can be the most convenient option if you plan repeated short stays over several months. This guide covers what the METV is, how it commonly works in practice, application mechanics, typical conditions and limits, key risks and practical tips to get it done without headaches.

What the METV is (practical definition)

The METV is a tourist visa that permits multiple entries into Thailand during the visa’s overall validity. Each arrival gives you an authorized period of stay (usually up to 60 days per entry for tourist visas) which you can normally extend once in Thailand for a further 30 days at Immigration — so a single visit can commonly run 60 + 30 days if you meet the extension rules. The overall visa validity and the permitted length of each stay are set by the issuing embassy/consulate and printed on the visa sticker. Always check the visa sticker on issue.

Who issues METVs and where you must apply

METVs are issued by Thai embassies and consulates abroad (or via the official e-visa system where supported). You normally apply in your country of residence (not from inside Thailand). Some embassies have tightened or changed METV policy, and not all posts issue METVs routinely in 2024–2025 — many prefer single-entry tourist visas (SETV) or digital alternatives. Check the website of the Thai embassy/consulate that serves your jurisdiction or use the official Thai e-visa portal before applying.

Typical validity, entries and per-visit stay (what to expect)

• Validity: Many METVs are valid for 6 months from the issue date, though certain posts or special programs may issue METVs with different validity windows (some diplomatic/long-term packages in some missions have offered longer validity in special cases).
• Per-entry stay: Each entry normally allows up to 60 days (single entry tourist visas often follow the same 60-day standard), with the usual option to extend for 30 days at Immigration in Thailand. The 60/30 pattern is the working norm your travel planning should assume unless your visa states otherwise.

Documents & proof commonly required (be prepared)

Embassies set their own document lists, but common METV requirements include:

• Completed visa application form and passport (≥6 months validity and blank pages).
• Passport photo(s) meeting the embassy’s specs.
• Proof of onward/return travel (tickets showing exit from Thailand).
• Proof of accommodation (hotel bookings or address of where you’ll stay).
• Proof of funds / financial solvency — many missions now require bank statements or solvency certificates; the required amounts and format vary by post (some posts ask for the equivalent of a few thousand USD, others for higher balances or sustained six-month statements). Check the local embassy’s published minima.
• Any additional embassy-specific documents (employment letter, previous Thailand visas, invitation letters).

Because requirements vary materially by post, treat the local embassy checklist as authoritative — save time by assembling certified bank statements and an employment letter in advance.

Fees, processing times and where to apply

• Fees vary by embassy and your nationality; expect an application fee in the range charged by the issuing mission (embassy websites publish fees). Some missions allow e-visa applications via the official Thai e-visa portal.
• Processing times typically range from a few business days to a couple of weeks depending on the mission and whether additional checks are needed. If you need urgent travel, apply well ahead and/or pay rush fees if offered.

How to use a METV in practice — entry stamps, extensions and re-entries

• Entry stamp matters: even with an METV, your stay per visit is controlled by the immigration officer’s stamp (the stamp shows the permitted days on arrival). Always check the stamp and calculate any possible extension dates carefully.
• Extension in Thailand: you can usually extend by 30 days at Immigration by applying in person — bring passport, departure card and evidence of onward travel. Extensions are discretionary and can be refused, so maintain clear proof of funds and a credible travel plan.
• Re-entry/visa runs: METV holders can exit and re-enter multiple times within the visa validity. Keep return/onward tickets and evidence of accommodation for each re-entry. Note that frequent border hopping to “reset” stays can draw scrutiny from immigration.

Risks, recent policy trends & why to be cautious

• Embassy policy variation: some embassies rarely issue METVs now and prioritize SETVs or other visas; check your local embassy’s guidance. In 2024–2025 several missions changed documentary thresholds and reinstated financial-proof requirements. Rely on the embassy page, not third-party blogs.
• Immigration discretion: extensions and even entry decisions are at the discretion of immigration officers — have strong paperwork and avoid signs of intending to work (job-seeking or informal work can lead to refusal or deportation).
• Overstay penalties: thailand imposes daily fines for overstays and possible deportation/bans for serious breaches. Always monitor dates and apply for extensions in time.
• Alternatives may be better: depending on your plans (long single stay, remote work, frequent multi-month stays) consider other visas (long-term tourist/retirement/digital nomad) that better match the intended stay.

Practical tips that save you time and stress

1. Start at the embassy website — assemble exactly the documents listed (don’t rely on forums). Use the official Thai e-visa portal if your mission supports it.
2. Proof of funds: provide 6 months of bank statements where requested and a solvency letter if your mission asks for it. If you have prior Thailand visas, include them — they improve the chances of success.
3. Plan for extensions: assume each stay will be 60 days and budget time to visit Immigration for a 30-day extension if needed. Don’t rely on indefinite re-entry.
4. Keep originals handy for each re-entry: passport, visa sticker, onward ticket and accommodation proof. Immigration frequently asks for onward travel evidence.
5. If in doubt, call the embassy or use a visa specialist to confirm quirky local requirements (some missions want higher balances or different supporting letters).

Final practical checklist (ready to use)

• Check your local Thai embassy/consulate page for METV availability and document list.
• Passport (≥6 months) + 2 blank pages; recent passport photo.
• Completed application form and visa fee.
• Bank statements (6 months) + solvency letter if requested.
• Onward/return tickets and accommodation bookings.
• Copies of previous Thailand visas (if any) and employment proof.
• Plan to extend each visit by 30 days at Immigration if you need the extra time.

Bottom line

The METV remains a useful instrument for repeat visitors — but it’s less universally available than it once was and embassies now exercise more discretion (and require stronger evidence of funds and intent). For multi-visit travel, start with the issuing mission’s instructions, assume 60 days per visit, be prepared to extend in-country, and have clear onward plans and financial proof. If your travel plans involve longer continuous stays, look at the newer long-stay or digital-nomad options as a more secure alternative.