Thai Visa A Crises That Wasn't

Last October, after 6 years of teaching English in Thailand I decided I needed a break. The 5 years teaching at university level were good but the final year at an elementary school was what motivated my decision. I would stop teaching at the end of my contract and do some other things.

I had met people who have lived in Thailand for 10 years or more with only visa exempt entry and tourist visas. No need to worry about being able to continue my life here in Thailand. Just had to make sure to keep track of expiration dates and plan my trek to the border.

It was past the point of no return for my job when I first heard the rumors. Visa rules had changed and you could only stay here 90 days on an entry and 180 days on tourist visas, which means if no other visa options would have to leave for 3 months. Suddenly I had no idea what I was going to do but I did have some time to explore my options. Rumors, gossip and assumptions were offering little hope as the time passed.

A two month tourist visa, a 30-day extension, another two month visa another 30-day extension. My time was running out and still no clear options seem to have emerged. Then one day by chance I read an interview with a high ranking official of Immigration and Customs. The crises was over. What had appeared to be a crises was clearly only disinformation and lack of information. It was true you couldn't live here indefinitely on visa exemptions, those are limited to 90 days within a years time, but you can, as long as you are in good standing, receive unlimited 60 day tourist visas.

I can live my life here and not worry too much about it being uprooted. Good information has relieved a bit of unnecessary stress. It is amazing what good and accurate information can do.