No more „Visa Runs“ and long stays without proper Visas

Table of Contents

Important Change in Thailand! No more „Visa Runs“ and long stays without proper Visas (Overview for Slovaks and Czechs as of 21.11.2025)

Thailand's immigration police are tightening controls. From now on, they will more strictly screen anyone who flies to Thailand repeatedly, stays here for almost the maximum allowed time (60/90 days) and only travels to a neighbouring country for a short time, only to return immediately. This is called „visa run“ or „border run“.

Objective: Stop the abuse of tourist visa-free entry for long-term housing or illegal work.

Good news: Ordinary tourists going on holiday (1-3 weeks) with a return ticket are still welcome and are not affected by the change!

I. What exactly has changed?

Rule 60 days without visa + possible extension of 30 days Remains. However, the way the immigration officer assesses you and your travel history has changed:

  • Focus on Pattern: Officials have been instructed to check pattern of repeated entries. If you have already been here more than twice (3 or more entries) in a short time and each time you stayed almost the maximum (e.g. 60-90 days), you are considered risk.

  • Refusal of Entry: If the immigration officer doesn't like your history and suspects you are living or working in the country illegally, may refuse you entry and send you on the next flight home (or back to wherever you flew from).

  • Cross Checks: Immigration will more closely compare the data you enter (e.g. on the TDAC - Digital Arrival Card) with where you actually live (the TM30 application form that your landlord does).

II. Who is most affected by these changes?

You are in RISK if...

  • You have 3+ visa-free entries (or tourist visa) at short notice
  • At each entry you stay almost the maximum time (close to 60 days).
  • You're just crossing the border (to Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia) and then immediately return instead of returning home.
  • You're just crossing the border (to Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia) and then immediately return instead of returning home.

You are in POHODA if...

  • You are in Thailand on one-off leave (1-3 weeks).
  • You have return ticket, booked accommodation and a clear travel plan.
  • You have come to relax and you don't plan to stay longer than 3 months (with one extension).

III. Practical recommendations and solutions

If you are planning to spend a long time in Thailand (more than 3-4 months per year), stop relying on „visa runes“ and choose the legal route.

Any foreign business operating in Thailand, especially in the tourism sectors, must immediately review its legal structure. Cooperation between DBD, police and immigration signals zero tolerance. It is no longer just fines that pose a risk, but also deportation, prosecution a loss of control over investments.

Don't hesitate. If your business setup does not match your actual control and profit, act now. Our firm provides a comprehensive FBA and employment law compliance review to ensure the legal sustainability of your business in Thailand.

Stay for 2-3 months

Take advantage of 60 days visa-free stay + apply for one 30-day extension in Thailand. Don't plan then a quick exit and return!

Stay for more than 4 months

Get the right type of visa FIRST (e.g. Retiree, Student ED, or NON-B Business Visa).

You already have a lot of visa runes

Prepare strong evidence, that you are just a tourist (booking, bank statement). Well seriously consider arranging a visa before travelling, to avoid rejection on entry.

IV. How our office can help you

Our comprehensive services include:

  • Visa Services: Assistance with NON-B (Business), LTR, Retiree and Student visas.

  • Work Permits: Complete processing of all necessary permits for legal work.

  • Company Formation: We will take care of all the administration, including company headquarters a complex accounting and taxation.

  • Real Estate: Legal assistance in the purchase and lease of real estate.

  • Crisis Help: Assistance with immigration problems (overstay).

Need to change your status in Thailand? Contact us discreetly:

Email: [email protected]

WhatsApp/LINE: +66 9871 55 201