For foreigners wishing to stay in Thailand longer than a typical holiday, many assume that visa exemption (free visa) is sufficient. However, planning ahead and applying for a Tourist Visa (TR) before arrival can make your stay more convenient and flexible.

Benefits of Applying for a Tourist Visa (Even with Free Visa)

✅Convenient Entry Process

• Applying for a Tourist Visa online (E-Visa) before arrival helps ensure smooth immigration clearance, showing that you are prepared with official documents instead of relying only on visa exemption.

✅Longer Stay

• Tourist Visa (TR) allows a stay of 60 days
• Can be extended for another 30 days at Immigration
• Total per round: 90 days

✅Additional Free Visa Entries

• After using a Tourist Visa and exiting Thailand, foreigners can re-enter with visa exemption (free visa) up to 2 more times per year
• This allows a combined stay of up to 270 days per year (90 days × 3 rounds)

✅Important Caution

• When leaving and re-entering Thailand, allow at least 4–7 days gap between entries to avoid suspicion from Immigration officers that you are residing long-term instead of traveling.

Key Takeaway

Applying for a Tourist Visa TR before arrival—even if you are eligible for a free visa—helps maximize your stay in Thailand legally and safely. By combining Tourist Visa + Free Visa entries, foreigners can enjoy a longer and more secure stay without complications.

In short: If your goal is to stay in Thailand longer, the smart choice is to apply for a Tourist Visa first, then use your free visa entries.